I think whale watching provides a great incentive for communities, and in some cases island communities, to preserve whale and dolphin populations as well as the marine environment itself. Conservation at a community level is absolutely vital for whale conservation, or any other maritime conservation, especially when it fuels the economy. |
There are 83 species of whales and dolphins (and porpoises) we know almost nothing about. |
We've seen phenomenal growth over the world since whale watching began in California in 1955 to the late 1980s when it exploded. Growth averages 12 percent a year, compared to overall world tourism of 3 to 4 percent. |