Whale watching

Whale watching is the observation of whales in their natural habitats, usually from boats or shore. It combines wildlife tourism with opportunities to study and appreciate cetaceans.

Responsible whale watching: Wildlife viewing practices designed to reduce disturbance to whales and other cetaceans. Guidelines shape how tours approach whales without disrupting their behavior.
Whale migration: Seasonal movement of whale populations between feeding and breeding areas. Migration routes and timing shape where and when whale watching is possible.
Vessel strike: A collision between a vessel and a marine animal, sometimes causing injury or death. Close approaches and crowded routes can increase collision risks for whales.
Land-based whale watching: Observation of whales from shore or elevated coastal viewpoints rather than from vessels. Shore viewing avoids vessel approaches but depends on whales passing within sight.
Cetacean research: Scientific study of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural and captive environments. Tour vessels and sightings can contribute observations to research programs.
Cetacean communication: Sound-based and visual signaling among whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Vessel noise can mask sounds whales use to communicate and navigate.
Underwater noise: Sound in aquatic environments produced by natural sources and human activities. Engines and propellers add noise that may interfere with whale communication.
Whale watching from boats: Observation of whales from vessels operating in their marine habitat. Boat tours can reach whales offshore but bring vessels into their environment.
Citizen science: Scientific research conducted partly or wholly by members of the public. Passengers can record sightings and photographs that help identify individual whales.
Hydrophone: A microphone designed to detect underwater sound. Hydrophones let observers hear whale vocalizations without relying on visual sightings.

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