Responsible Viewing

Ocean Ecoventures is committed to responsible and ethical wildlife viewing. We believe it is a priviledge to witness marine wildlife in their natural habitat, and as such these animals must be protected from human harrassment and above all they must be respected.

Ocean Ecoventures is a member of the Pacific Whale Watch Association formerly the Whale Watch Operators Association Northwest, a group of 31 companies who are dedicated to responsible wildlife viewing.

This dynamic organization, with the assistance of marine researchers and biologists, has developed a set of guidelines for operating vessels around Orca Whales and other marine wildlife. The PWWA has created a cohesive network within the whale watching industry which operates in the Pacific waters of Washington state and British Columbia.

One primary objective of this proactive organization is to support local educators and scientists who significantly contribute to the conservation of the Southern Resident Killer Whale population.

For example in October, 2005, the PWWA unanimously voted to support local orca whale research and public education programs.orca fin The Canadian Marine Mammal Monitoring Program (M3) in Victoria B.C., received a $3,000 grant, The Center for Whale Research on San Juan Island received a $4,000 grant, and the Soundwatch Boater Education Program based out of Friday Harbour received a $3,000 grant.

We believe that it is vital to the safety and well-being of the Southern Resident Orca Whales that wildlife viewing companies cooperate and collaborate with scientists and researchers. The daily marine wildlife observations made by Whale Watching operators, combined with scientifically-based information can only result in a positive outcome for the Orca Whales.