Two new Whale Heritage Sites awarded for wildlife protection

Whale Heritage Sites are a global accreditation scheme developed by the World Cetacean Alliance and supported by World Animal Protection, that recognises outstanding destinations that offer and celebrate responsible and sustainable wild whale and dolphin watching.

The scheme offers the travel industry a way to protect marine wildlife and support sustainable practices.

Opportunity to witness a variety of whale and dolphin species

The site in Tenerife has long been a popular spot to see whales and dolphins in the wild and this accreditation recognises the community’s commitment to respecting and celebrating these animals.

There are 28 cetacean species (whales, dolphins or porpoises) found in the island’s waters, most of which are migrant or seasonal. Local residents of the island include short-finned pilot whales, sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins.

Dana Point, named the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®, is one of the best places to view the magnificent blue whale. It also has a variety of year-round whales and more dolphins per square mile than anywhere in the world.

Ben Williamson, US Programs Director visiting the newly accredited Dana Point Whale Heritage Site to see dolphins in the wild. Credit: World Animal Protection

Accreditation requirements

To qualify for this global accreditation, candidate destinations must meet set criteria which recognises their commitment to cetacean conservation through responsible wildlife interactions and sustainability. These include:

• Encouraging respectful human-cetacean coexistence
• Celebrating cetaceans
• Environmental, social and economic sustainability
• Research, education and awareness

A good guide for tourists

Whale Heritage Site status provides tourists with an easy way to select responsible whale and dolphin watching destinations; places where people can experience cetaceans in their natural habitat and in an authentic and respectful way.

There are only two other Whale Heritage Sites in the world: The Bluff, South Africa, and Hervey Bay, Australia.

Elizabeth Cuevas, Whale Heritage Sites Manager at World Cetacean Alliance, said:

“The designation of Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site is a wonderful step forward for responsible tourism. We believe the site is fast becoming a world leader in sustainable whale and dolphin watching and this certification will help the local community by recognising responsible whale watching practices supported by the latest research and conservation efforts.”

Protecting wildlife and the natural world

Becoming a Whale Heritage Site will ensure that visitors to Tenerife-La Gomera marine area (and Dana Point) are contributing to destinations that celebrate their natural heritage, protect marine wildlife and build a connection between local residents and sea life.

In addition to the opportunity to observe cetaceans, vibrant festivals and other events celebrate the marine environment and provide education and inspiration for tourists and locals alike.

Nick Stewart, Global Head of Campaigns at World Animal Protection, said:

“These new Whale Heritage Sites are immensely important in the protection of wildlife because they showcase a viable, sustainable alternative to wildlife entertainment activities. The sites will also help to spotlight tour operators who offer tourists a wonderful experience seeing whales in the wild while protecting the welfare of marine wildlife. In the 21st century, as the world builds back from Covid-19, the tourism industry should strive towards offering activities that are wildlife-friendly and protect the environment.”

Close-up of submerged adult sperm whale. Credit: iStock.com/Sergio Hanquet

A new future for tourism

Tenerife-La Gomera marine area’s location in tourist hot-spot Tenerife is popular with the island’s 6 million annual visitors.

The importance of the tourist industry to the local area is reflected in the local and national regulatory frameworks, which provide formal protection of the marine ecosystem, with two Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and a strong legislative framework protecting cetaceans.

Once travel is resumed, tourists visiting the site in southwest Tenerife or Dana Point will know they are taking part in a unique activity that respects and protects whales and dolphins. It’s an opportunity to experience these amazing creatures in the wild, where they belong.

Headline image credit: Wild Orcas surface at sunset. Bart Van Meele.