It’s misleading to characterise orca-boat interactions in the Strait of Gibraltar as ‘attacks’. Instead, here’s our advice on how boat operators can reduce the chances of an interaction that could cause damage.
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Golfo Dulce awarded Whale Heritage Site status
Golfo Dulce has been awarded Whale Heritage Site status, making it the first Whale Heritage Site in Latin America and one of only eight worldwide!
Cruel, costly and corrupt: time is up for whaling in Iceland
The temporary ban on commercial whaling in Iceland must be made permanent. There can be no future for this cruel and unnecessary industry.
Celebrating cetaceans in Indigenous cultures
On the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we’re celebrating the importance of cetaceans in Indigenous cultures!
Q&A: Watching Whales with Richard Baines, Yorkshire Coast Nature
Researcher Sophia Nicolov talks to Richard Baines of Yorkshire Coast Nature about whale watching off the coast of Staithes in North Yorkshire.
UK government must do more to protect whales and dolphins from bycatch
A new parliamentary committee report has confirmed that the UK government is failing to protect marine mammals and needs to improve monitoring of bycatch.
Celebrating 10 years of the WCA!
The World Cetacean Alliance was founded on World Oceans Day 2013 to act as a global voice for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
Plettenberg Bay awarded Whale Heritage Site status
The World Cetacean Alliance is delighted to announce that Plettenberg Bay has been awarded Whale Heritage Site status, making it one of only seven fully accredited Whale Heritage Sites worldwide!
The Power of Dolphins: aquatic adventures in Zanzibar
Will-Dewar Cutts writes about unforgettable dolphin encounters while volunteering in Zanzibar – as well as the dark side of wildlife tourism.
Q&A with Bex Lynam, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust
Researcher Sophia Nicolov talks to Bex Lynam of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust about whales and dolphins off the Yorkshire coast.
Whale and dolphin abuse ignored by Marine Stewardship Council
Observer reports of whale and dolphin abuse on MSC-certified fishing vessels are routinely ignored, a new Shark Guardian report has revealed.
WCA partners with Seably to protect whales from ship strikes
More maritime professionals will learn how to minimise the threat of ship strikes by taking our training on the Seably platform!
A history of whaling in the Basque country
Basque sailors led the commercial whaling trade for centuries, but what impact did this have on the Basque coast’s maritime heritage and whale populations?
The Azores awarded Whale Heritage Site status
The Azores is now the second fully certified Whale Heritage Site in Europe, and one of only six Whale Heritage Sites worldwide.
Japan’s new whaling ‘mother ship’ is the mother of all mistakes
The WCA condemns Japan’s new commercial whaling ‘mother ship’, which is inhumane and unjustifiable.
Lindblad Expeditions becomes first ‘Whale Aware’ cruise line
Lindblad Expeditions will be the first cruise company to use the WCA’s ‘Becoming ‘Whale Aware” course to train their bridge crew to minimise ship strikes.
WCA collaborates with the Azores Delphis Project
The WCA has collaborated with the Azores Delphis Project, a research project looking at how swim-with activities affect the behaviour of common dolphins.
WCA partners with Ocean Technologies Group to reduce ship strikes
Our ‘Becoming ‘Whale Aware” online course will now be available to more than a million seafarers, thanks to a new partnership with OTG!
Arctic Whaling at Hull Maritime Museum
Hull Maritime Museum’s collection offers unique insight into the historic Arctic whaling industry of Hull.
UK must tackle bycatch in practice, not just on paper
Despite publishing its much-delayed Bycatch Mitigation Initiative, the UK seems no closer to taking meaningful action on cetacean bycatch.
An Arctic Adventure of Whales and Ice: ‘Scoresby’s Arctic’ at Whitby Museum
Researcher Sophia Nicolov introduces us to the ‘Scoresby’s Arctic’ exhibition at Whitby Museum.
Solving the climate crisis by saving whales
Global leaders must recognise how vital whales are – for the climate and our future.
Fisheries that deliberately kill marine mammals will still be MSC-certified
The WCA is deeply disappointed that the Marine Stewardship Council will continue to certify fisheries that deliberately kill and harass marine mammals.
Freshwater Dolphin Day
Refresh your knowledge of freshwater dolphins here!
Cetaceans on the Yorkshire coast
Researcher Sophia Nicolov explains where and when to see cetaceans off the coast of Northern England.
Faroe Islands remain committed to dolphin slaughter
The WCA is deeply disappointed that the Faroe Islands will not be banning their dolphin hunts after reviewing the cruel practice.
Cruel experiments on minke whales in Norway
The WCA is horrified that inhumane experiments on minke whales in Norway, which we opposed last year, have now restarted for a second season
Sparkly eyes and faces beaming with joy
WCA Trustee Titia tells us about her visit to Tenerife-La Gomera Whale Heritage Site and reflects on the magic of responsible whale watching.
Update from Raggy Charters on tackling fuel transfers in Algoa Bay
WCA Partner Raggy Charters celebrate a recent success protecting Algoa Bay Whale Heritage Site from dangerous ship-to-ship fuel transfers.
Pressure on UK and EU to tackle destructive fishing
Recent news confirms that the UK and EU must take urgent action to tackle the issue of destructive fishing and protect marine life.
Update from Futurismo on measuring sperm whales in the Azores
WCA Partner Futurismo tells us about how they’ve used acoustics to measure the length of sperm whales from their whale watching boats.
Hauling Up Solutions: working together to reduce bycatch
Thea Taylor, Sussex Dolphin Project Lead, shares her experience of attending a workshop on bycatch solutions.
Update from Eagle Wing Tours on their innovative ocean education program
WCA Partner Eagle Wing Tours tells us about their ‘Exploring the Salish Sea’ education program.
WCA joins global coalition against bottom trawling
The WCA has joined the Transform Bottom Trawling coalition and is calling for a globally reduced bottom trawling footprint by 2030.
Charismatic Encounters: a new research project
The WCA is excited to announce that we’re working on a new, international research project!
Less talk, more action needed from UK Government to end bycatch
After announcing that 2021 would be a ‘Super Year’ for ocean protection, the UK Government has made few real advances in safeguarding its seas or marine wildlife.
Bottlenose dolphins receive protection in new sanctuary
A marine mammal sanctuary has been declared in Te Pēwhairangi / Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Dolphins Aren’t Discard: WCA launches bycatch campaign
We’re on a mission to stop dolphins from dying in supertrawler nets.
Ocean protection is key to climate action
The health of our planet depends on the health of our ocean.
Algoa Bay WHS welcomes new whale calves
WCA Partner Raggy Charters welcome two new calves to Algoa Bay Whale Heritage Site!
WHS Criteria Explained: Research, Education and Awareness
Whale Heritage Sites invest in research and put education and public awareness at the heart of their message.
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Dr Trish Franklin
Trish dedicated her life to studying the humpback whales of Hervey Bay.
WHS Criteria Explained – Environmental, Social and Economic Sustainability
To become an accredited Whale Heritage Site, Candidates need to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
Algoa Bay awarded Whale Heritage Site status!
Congratulations to Algoa Bay on becoming the world’s fifth Whale Heritage Site!
Humpback Comeback in the Salish Sea continues!
A few days ago, Five Star Whale Watching headed out on tour and...
An update from Futurismo on their understanding of Orca populations off the South coast of São Miguel Island, Azores
As we continue to demonstrate, Azores is a box full of surprises and...
Love the Oceans shares new Turtle Protection Project
The last few months have seen the launch of Love the Oceans' Turtle...
Swiss Cetacean Society’s Comoro island Green turtle protection project
The Swiss Cetacean Society (SCS) has set up a project to protect green...
Swiss Cetacean Society launches new App
The SCS app, developed by the WCA's European Regional Coordinator Swiss...
Happywhale needs YOUR help in latest Citizen Science Project
Have you ever been fortunate enough to have visited Antarctica? Perhaps...
New Whale Heritage Sites in Europe and US awarded in a significant leap for wildlife protection
Tenerife-La Gomera and Dana Point become the first Whale Heritage Sites to be accredited in Europe and the Americas!
Raggy Charters tell us their highlights from 2020
Like most in the tourism industry 2020 has been a tough financial year...
Futurismo tell us their highlights from 2020
2020, a year that will be hard to forget. Our lives took a 180º turn,...
Five Star Whale Watching tell us their highlights from 2020
As we entered 2020 Five Star Whale Watching had big plans to celebrate...
A Team Effort for Marine Mammals
Clive Martin is an Individual Lifetime Partner and also runs the UK...
A Hello to the First Gray Whales on Their Journey South
In late November excited whale watchers aboard the catamaran Manute'a,...
Love the Oceans release new Whale Themed Jumpers just in time for Christmas!
To round off 2020, Love the Oceans have released a 100% organic cotton...
Relax to the Soothing Sounds of Whale Song on Limited-Edition CD
Oscar Frey from Ocean Friendly Tours has culminated over 6 years' worth...
How Artificial Intelligence is Helping us Understand Sperm Whale Migration
Marine biologist Lisa Steiner has been part of the team developing a...
Joy in Algoa Bay as Killer Whales Sighted Twice in One Week
It’s been an exciting week for Raggy Charters whale watching team. Killer...
Our resident Risso’s dolphin family is back!
This year has been quite different for everyone, and it wasn’t an...
Wildlife Selfies: Are they really worth a like?
We’ve all seen it – Social media today is riddled with pictures and...
WCA Urge Incoming Owners Of Sea World Australia To Stop Breeding Dolphins!
On 5 November 2020 the WCA reached out to BGH Capital, an Australian...
Epimeletic behaviour observed in Algoa Bay
Epimeletic refers to behaviour exhibited by an adult, sometimes together...
Astonishing Footage taken of False Killer Whale Super-pod in the Azores
Close your eyes. Take a breath. Imagine yourself in a boat floating in...
Update from Dolphin Encountours Research Centre in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
The Dolphin Team in the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve in Southern...
The World Clean-up Month, Tags and Raising Awareness
September was the World Coastal Clean-Up month, and therefore, once again...
PWWA Naturalists Thrilled to Witness New Calf’s First Breath
Expectant mother J41, aka Eclipse, gave birth to her newest baby Thursday...
Meet the Partner: Raggy Charters!
Photo credit: Lloyd Edwards, Raggy Charters' owner Raggy Charters is the...
An Update from Encountours Research Centre in Ponta do Oura, Mozambique
It’s been an interesting past 6 months for the team as we still remain...
An Update from Ilha Blue Whale Watching
In July, Ilha Blue announced that they had become recognised as an...
Marine-Wildlife.org explain the Risks of Swimming with Whales after recent documented injuries
You might well be aware of the stories which went viral last month...
Elation as New calf confirmed for Southern Resident Killer Whale’s J Pod!
Early this September, WCA Partner Five Star Whale Watching were out in...
New Eco-Friendly Poster Brochure!
WCA Partner Raggy Charters released a new concept brochure! An...
Raggy Charters’ incredible sightings on Bird Island!
WCA Partner Raggy Charters have recently been running regular full day...
You Can Help Launch a New Sustainable Fishing Project in Mozambique
WCA Partner Love The Oceans is launching a new Sustainable Fishing...
Recreational boaters continue to flout rules around whales: Study
How well are whale watching regulations being followed by small vessels...
Two tropical species in the temperate waters of The Azores?
2020 has been an amazing year for sightings of two rare species in the...
Pride of Queensland: The Journey to Whale Heritage Site Status
Sheltered by the coast of Fraser Island, Hervey Bay is an ideal resting spot for whales and their calves as they take a detour off the humpback highway to relax, play and rejuvenate.
The Evolution of a Region: A Sea Change for Durban’s Former Whaling Industry
In just two generations, whales off the coast of The Bluff have gone from being relentlessly hunted to passionately protected.
Humpback Whales Stranded in Nantucket
In the past couple of weeks, WCA Partner Marine Mammal Alliance Nantucket...
Amendment Of The First Prefectoral Decree Regulating Whale Watching In Reunion Island!
New Rules For Whale Watching In Reunion Island! In the recent years,...
New Research Papers on Whale Watching Impacts in Reunion Island
The Downsides of Swimming With Whales: Studying Agonistic Behaviours In...
An Update From Futurismo’s Sperm Whale Family!
Words by Laura González, marine biologist at Futurismo Our Favourite...
New Projects Starting At WCA Partner Terra Azul Azores Whale Watching!
Terra Azul Azores Whale Watching is thrilled to announce the beginning of...
Echoenia – Underwater Harmonies Of The Humpback Whales
Oscar Frey, founder of WCA Partner Ocean Friendly Tours and Director and...
Incredible Sightings From WCA Partner Five Star Whale Watching!
Five Star Whale Watching had a fantastic encounter with T10's Transient...
A conservation first for Mozambique Island: Tourism operators join forces to protect Humpback Whales!
Words from Ilha Blue Island Safaris Ilha Blue Island Safaris have had a...
Exploring Educational Activities Ran By WCA Partners
''The Education Action'' group of the WCA has recently sent a survey to...
The Moby Project – The only Whale that should eat Plastic!
Work has begun on an exciting new project in a collaboration between the...
The Fantastic Feedback Loop: how Happywhale attracts and holds public interest in science, Antarctica and it’s Whales.
WCA Partner Happywhale was founded in 2015 and has since shown the...
Meet the Partner: Five Star Whale Watching
We love getting to know the WCA Partners better and sharing their...
Meet one of our Newest Partners: Eagle Wing Tours
Words: Eagle Wing Tours Explore. Inspire. Conserve. These three words...
A UN World Tourism delegation get a treat visiting WCA Partner White Tenerife
Over the past couple of weeks, WCA Partner White Tenerife have been...
Sodurba Release a Highlight Reel of Previous Whale Festivals
Since COVID-19 has thrown a metaphorical spanner in the works of 2020,...
A Successful Maiden Voyage for Whale Festival Los Cabos
Words: Kátia Silva, Cabo Trek The migration of humpback whales to Mexican...
Raggy Charters’ Algoa Bay Festival 2020
Raggy Charters is proud to be the host of such a Whale Festival that is...
Investigating kelp gull attacks on southern right whales – An update from Bottazzi Whale Watching
Spreading awareness of their conservation work Bottazzi Whale Watching...
New research papers on the impact of tourism on humpback whales
WCA International Whale Watching Review Panel member Kate Rose-Ann...
New Case Study Released on Sustainable Tourism in Mozambique
This month has provided us with another step towards sustainable cetacean...
Public talk in Aukland, NZ on Responsible Marine Wildlife Tourism
Do you live local to Auckland Zoo, NZ? If so, take a note in your diary...
Power to the WCA regions – Regional Coordinator Programme
Since the WCA was founded seven years ago, our headquarters have been...
Responsible wanderlust – How to plan your next whale and dolphin watching trip
The global Covid-19 pandemic has put an automatic lockdown on many travel...
Los Cabos: a Hidden Cetacean Hotspot
A country commonly overlooked for it's diversity of marine life, Mexico...
An Update on Five Star Whale Watching regarding the Recent Pandemic
Words: Five Star Whale Watching Through the challenging months of the...
Futurismo Share the Importance of their Data Collection Process and Remind us to Enjoy the Little Joys of Everyday Life
Words by Laura González, marine biologist at Futurismo Whale watching...
Incredible Oceans TV has arrived!
NGO and WCA Partner Incredible Oceans have been working hard over the...
WCA and World Animal Protection Australia Apply Joint Pressure on Authorities Responsible for Exhibited Animals in Queensland
By mid-March 2020 and at the height of uncertainty surrounding...
The coalition between the WCA and WAP: Calling an end to wildlife trade
Recently the WCA have agreed to be part of a coalition led by World...
Meet the Partner: Elizabeth Robinson
It's always good fun to learn more about the diverse network of partners...
Partner experiences with the WCA: Rachael Barber, Individual Partner
Some partners have been with the World Cetacean Alliance from the very...
Canada Lays Down New Restrictions to aid Killer Whale Conservation
A huge progressive step has been taken this month into conserving the...
New Field Guide gives Tour Operators a more Immersive Experience in Reunion Island
The WCA partner ‘Equipe Quiétude’ of CEDTM in Reunion Island is in charge...
Cetacea Ecuador in brand new documentary of their work
This pilot episode of the 'Yubarta' series by Nature Frames and Cetacea...
Jonian Dolphin Conservation give an introduction on the Importance of Photo Identification
Words: Jonian Dolphin Conservation Photo-identification is a non-invasive...
In-water encounters with Humback Whales has Significant Effect on Behavioural Patterns
A new research paper has been published investigating the effects of...
Terra Azul Record what could be the First Drone Footage of True’s Beaked Whales
In this remarkable piece of filming, a True’s Beaked Whale mother and...
Who’s Who? The fun, quirky educational artwork from Chantal Pagal
Chantal Pagal from WCA Partner marine-wildlife.org has been coming up...
Virtual Iceberg Tours of Trinity Bay
Trinity Ecotours are famed in the Newfoundland area for their iceberg...
Raggy Charters shares some insight during Covid 19 Lockdown.
Words: Raggy Charters It is extremely difficult for us who know what is...
Meet the Partner, Clive Martin
It's always great to get to know the WCA Partners a little better. This...
World marine mammal conference 2019
Words by WCA Partner Pippa Lee It was absolutely thrilling to attend the...
“Be strong and be positive” – Nine thoughts from our partners
We know that the Covid-19 global pandemic has brought all kinds of...
Join our fundraising team! Grant writers needed
We are looking for talented individuals to join our team and help grow...
Thursday Night becomes the Highlight of the Week with Live Q&A Show from Love the Oceans
I think it’s fair to say that boredom is taking its toll on all of us...
New Evidence Suggests Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales may be Migrating Further than Originally Expected
WCA Partner Happywhale and fellow researchers have produced a new...
New Research Investigates Wounded Dolphins in the South Iberian Peninsula
WCA Partner Rocio Espada of Dolphin Adventure Gibraltar is author on a...
When is the Best Time to See Whales?
Elding have a new post on their website answering just that. By taking...
Where do Humpback Whales Migrate to after the Breeding Season in Ecuador?
WCA Partner Happy Whale have been collaborating with marine scientists...
Ilha Blue Island Safaris takes out Silver in the 2020 Inspirational Africa Responsible Tourism awards.
The 2020 Inspirational Africa Responsible Tourism awards were to be given...
Elding Premiere First Live Virtual Whale Watching Tour
Are you struggling to fulfil your fix for whale watching during this...
Exciting opportunity as we expand our Trustee Board..
The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is looking to expand our Trustee...
2019 a record year for Whale Sightings in the Salish Sea!
WCA Certified Responsible Whale Watching Operator Five Star Whale...
Clive Martin spots a fellow WCA Partner on his travels..
Clive Martin, of Orca Rescues, had not one but TWO extraordinary sighting...
Partner experiences with the WCA: Simon McPherson
Every partner within the WCA has equal opportunities and a united voice...
“100 measures” for a sustainable and responsible management of whale watching activities in Reunion Island
Dolphin and whale watching is an activity that is developing rapidly,...
COLLISION COURSE: New online training could help save endangered whales!
NEW TRAINING COURSE TO REDUCE SHIP STRIKES COULD HELP SAVE RIGHT WHALES...
Introducing our new Trustee, Ian Lewis
What a start to 2020! We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ian Lewis as...
Partner experiences with the WCA: Helga du Preez, chairperson of Sodurba
The WCA has partners from many different backgrounds and many different...
The influence of social media on marine tourism
New publication on risk and influence of social media with swim-with...
Human-Whale Interactions: Past and Present
On 30th November WCA Partner Botazzi Whale Watch based in Puerto...
Partner experiences with the WCA: Sharyn Taylor
The driving force behind all the WCA projects and campaigns are our...
The Wildsea Atlantic Ocean Heritage Route Project Update
WCA's Sophie Lewis attended the final Steering Committee meeting for the...
AWADS x Million Metres
A Partnership to Counteract Carbon Emissions In April 2019 WCA Partner...
The Ultimate Ecotourism Internship
WCA Partner Conscious Breath Adventures – in its twelfth year taking...
5 Business Benefits of Being WCA Responsible Whale Watch Certified
As a commercial whale or dolphin watching operator, having WCA...
Marine Mammal Incident Response Training
Marine Mammal Incident Response Training Popular at the World Whale...
WWC2019 Award Winners Announced
During the World Whale Conference 2019 in Hervey Bay, the WCA recognised...
World’s First Whale Heritage Sites
The Bluff, South Africa and Hervey Bay, Australia Announced as World's...
Loving them too much
New Zealand Bans Swimming with Bottlenose Dolphins in the Bay of Islands...
Marine Mammal Training in Hervey Bay
The World Whale Conference and ORRCA to Provide Marine Mammal Rescue...
Conference Update
With less than 2 weeks to go, there’s still time to consider attending...
Hope for Humpbacks
Captain Gene Flipse, head of WCA Partner Conscious Breath Adventures has...
August 2019 Sighting of the Month
August 2019 Sighting of the Month goes to WCA Individual Partner Rachael...
Concern from Algoa Bay
WCA Partner Raggy Charters are noticing a lack of southern right whales...
News from Love the Oceans
A Force for Change WCA Partner 'Love The Oceans' was recently selected by...
Greetings from Ponto do Ouro
Angie Gullan from WCA Partner Dolphin Encountours Research Center gives...
Welcoming the Whales in Mozambique
Every year humpback whales make an enormous journey from the freezing...
Marine Adventures in the Salish Sea
The Salish Sea is the ecosystem that includes Washington State’s Puget...
World Whale Conference Community Arts Project
Hervey Bay’s scientifically proven importance as a stop-over destination...
Virgin Holidays announce move from captive to wild dolphin and whale experiences
The World Cetacean Alliance welcomes Virgin Holidays’ decision today to...
Welcoming the Whales 2019
WCA Partner Sodurba CTO is the official tourism body for Durban South...
MARINElife Training Courses 2019
WCA Partner MARINElife is a leading charity conserving marine wildlife...
Occurrence & social structure of sperm whales off the Azores
Miranda van der Linde, the lead marine biologist working for WCA Partner...
Celebrating the Whales Festival – South Africa
The 2nd Celebrating the Arrival of the Whales Festival was held at Pine...
Humpback whales of Island Ilha De Mozambique
The waters close to the Island of Ilha De Mozambique appear to be the...
Call for volunteers with Ilha Blue
WCA Partner Ilha Blue requires volunteers in August and September with...
An update from south Mozambique
WCA Partner Angie Gullan from Dolphin Encountours gives us an update from...
Humpback whale calf saved after mother disentangled from fishing gear
WCA Partner Lloyd Edwards of Raggy Charters tells of an extraordinary...
First Humpback Whales in Algoa Bay
This month's Sighting of the Month is from Raggy Charters in South...
State of Marine Mammals in Aotearoa
New Zealand has always been a nation where ordinary people play a key...
Paper on hybridization in the wild
Rocio Espada from WCA Partner Dolphin Adventure Gibraltar recently...
WCA Joins Calls to Cancel Planned Oil Drilling in Ionian Sea
The WCA, along with one hundred scientists, scientific bodies and...
Marine Protected Area Celebrations
A Marine Protected Area (MPA) Celebratory Dinner was held at the...
Pedaços de Mar & Ambiente III
WCA Partner Atlantiangra Whale Watching, based on the island of Terceira...
ACEST Petition
The Association of Cetaceans South of Tenerife (ACEST) is a non-profit...
Training for bottlenose dolphins encounters in Croatia
Vivamar Society is one of WCA’s newest partners, whose name directly...
NZ Marine Guide Course
Since 2017, the World Cetacean Alliance has run its Responsible Whale...
Mandatory Measures to Protect Whales in Antarctica
WCA Partner instrumental in bringing in mandatory measures to protect...
Nantucket’s aim for WHS status take step forward
In June 2018, N Magazine –the magazine for Nantucket in Massachusetts,...
Raggy Charters Maiden Voyage to Bird Island
In our November 2018 newsletter we told you about WCA Partner Raggy...
Welcome to Hervey Bay
Join the Journey to Hervey Bay - World Whale Conference and Whale...
Humpbacks in Northern Chile
WCA's Partner CIFAMAC (Marine Fauna Research Center and Cetacean...
Breaching Dwarf Minke Whale in Algoa Bay
Lloyd Edwards from WCA Partner Raggy Charters tells of an incredible...
Eagle Eye Adventures soar in to the record books as the world’s first WCA certified responsible whale watching company
Eagle Eye Adventures, based in the Campbell River area of Vancouver Island in Canada, has become the first company in the world to become certified under new international standards for responsible whale and dolphin watching!
New protected areas in Howe Sound
Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Ocean’s has finally announced the...
WCA Partner attends Ocean Week in Monaco
Romina Bottazzi of WCA partner Bottazzi Whale Watch, a family company...
An encounter with Type D orca
In January 2019 Jared Towers from WCA Partner North Island Marine Mammals...
The Human Aquarium Exhibition
UK based WCA partner Yorkshire Life Aquatic C.I.C. use art &...
Abstract and Speaker Submissions Open for WWC2019
The 2019 World Whale Conference hosted by Fraser Coast Tourism and...
Iceland announces new whaling quotas
In February the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) was shocked and saddened to...
WAOH Project Update
This February, all seven project partners met in Cornwall to discuss the progress of the project and coordinate the next steps. Read about the project progress and next steps here..
WCA Partner publishes two important research papers
WCA Partner Jonian Dolphin Conservation has recently published two...
World Whale Conference 2019, Official Website Goes Live!
The WCA is thrilled to announce that the official World Whale Conference...
Flemish government takes action for captive dolphins
Positive news from the Campaigns Working Group concerning dolphin welfare...
Arizona Dolphins Sent to St Thomas ‘Cesspool’
The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) has grave concerns for four dolphins...
Few people are affected more by climate change and biodiversity loss than...
Partner Spolight: WILDOCEANS WHALETIME Project
The WILDOCEANS WHALETIME project – a multi-disciplinary approach towards...
A very rare sighting of a very rare whale
WCA Partner Clive Martin describes his recent trip to the Maldives with...
Japan’s withdrawal from IWC could open the way for South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary
Japan’s withdrawal from killing whales in international waters is a...
BBC travel documentary features WCA Partner
Renowned documentary maker Simon Reeve made a surprise visit dropping in...
News from Mozambique
Angie Gullan from WCA Partner Dolphin Encountours gives an update from...
WCA Partner helps Orca Campaigner fulfil her dream
In 2017 Andrew Jones from WCA partner Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures...
Black Cove: A Dolphin Calf Dead and Two Failed Pregnancies?
A dolphin calf dead and two failed pregnancies? The 'Carnivale' Continues...
Brighton Bioblitz
In early December the team at World Cetacean Alliance HQ and Brighton...
Yorkshire Life Aquatic: The Human Aquarium
WCA Partner Yorkshire Life Aquatic's The Human Aquarium is a brand new...
2018 Sightings of the Month
Browse our gallery of images from 2018's Sightings of the...
2018 in brief: Sites and Species
March: Saw the restructure of the way Whale Heritage Site scheme can be...
2018 in brief: Sustainable cetacean tourism
March: The Wildsea Atlantic Ocean Heritage (WOAH) Route, an EU funded...
2018 in brief: Capacity Building
March: WCA launched new partner types and is now open to scientific...
November Sighting of the Month
Bottlenose Dolphin Carries Dead Calf In late October WCA Partner Lloyd...
Responsible Whale Watching Workshop – Dominica
Last month, the WCA ran a Responsible Whale Watching workshop in Dominica...
Raggy Charters launches new vessel
Butt Cat Boat Builders, Atlin Chemicals, Suzuki Marine and Nauti-Tech...
Partner presents poster on sanctuaries
On October 19th and 20th 2018, FAADA, partner of WCA, presented...
World Whale Conference 2019 Logo Launched
Join the Journey to Hervey Bay, Australia! The 5th World Whale Conference...
The Mysterious Whale Skeleton of Skye
Last month WCA partner Clive Martin recounted a story of his recent visit...
New Automated Whale Catalogue Maker
WCA Partner Happywhale has developed an Automated Whale Catalogue Maker...
Sustainability Charter & Turtle Release
This October, coinciding with the presentation of the new Charter of...
Event Report: Helping cetaceans – the human element
If we do not understand why humans do the things they do, and what drives...
The Ultimate Humpback Whale Adoption Programme at CSI
WCA partner Cetacean Society International has added nine fascinating...
WCA Partner enters Wildlife Blogger of the Year Competition
The Wildlife Blogger of the Year 2018, sponsored by Swarovski Optik and...
An insight into southern ocean orcas
Jared Towers is the Executive Director of The North Island Marine...
Humpback whale stranding, Ponta do Ouro Marine Reserve, Mozambique
WCA Partner Angie Gullan from Dolphin Encountours Research Center (DERC)...
First humpback whale calves arrive in Algoa Bay, South Africa
In last month’s Newsletter WCA Partner Raggy Charters gave us an update...
Funding for Human Aquarium Project
WCA Partner Yorkshire Life Aquatic have recently confirmed art council...
Raggy Charters Scoops Award for 4th Time
WCA Partner Scoops South African Lilizela Tourism Award for 4th Time! On...
Moving In Together – WCA Partners Share Offices
WILDOCEANS a programme of WCA Partner WILDTRUST in South Africa are...
WCAs First Focus Day
The WCA held its first Focus Day on the 10th October, bringing together...
Sighting of the Month – Salt!
October's sighting of the month goes to Cape Ann Whale Watch who have...
A Whale Story from the Isle of Skye, Scotland
I laughed out loud at this notice as it was an obvious spoof write up on...
IWC Meeting Brazil – A Partners Perspective
WCA Partner Luena Ferandes from Instituto Baleia Jubarte (Humpback Whale Institute) of Brazil provides a summary of the recent International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in Brazil.
September Sighting of the Month – The Southern Residents
News from the Southern Resident Orca that inhabit the inshore waters...
Marine Educators Course Completed
This September the WCA ran the first of our 5 day interactive Marine...
Meeting with Virgin Holidays
WCA CEO, Dylan Walker was in London last week to meet with...
Trustee Update
The WCA Board of Trustees are delighted to announce the appointment of Suzanne Rogers of Change For Animals Foundation, as a new trustee to WCA.
Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whale Migration Underway
The annual Southern Hemisphere humpback whale migration is something...
WCA Partner Nominated for Environmental Award
WCA Partner Elding Whale Watching Reykjavík in Iceland, has been...
WCA Partner Invests in New Catamaran
WCA partner White Tenerife run whale and dolphin watching trips from...
New Photo Identification Guide for Southern Ocean Whales
WCA partner Happywhale engages citizen scientists to identify marine...
WCA Partners meet with Fraser Coast Tourism and Events in Hervey Bay, Australia ahead of World Whale Conference 2019
Long time WCA partners Wendy van Gool (Belgium) and Sharyn Taylor (Australia) finally had the opportunity to meet for the first time last month in Australia’s Whale Watching mecca, Hervey Bay on Queensland’s Fraser Coast, the location of the 2019 World Whale Conference…
The WCA calls for the Icelandic government to end whaling
After the recent tragedy of the “mistaken identity” that resulted in a blue-fin whale hybrid being slaughtered by Icelandic whalers the WCA has sent the following email to several Icelandic government officials.
Congratulations to 10 new WCA Responsible Whale Watching guides!
On the 13th of August, 2018, ten individuals from the UK, USA, Tenerife, Azores, Spain, Mexico, Hungary and Slovenia came to the WCA HQ in Brighton, UK to start their training to become Responsible Whale Watching Guides.
New management plan brings hope for Sataya Reef, Egypt
For Amanda and others who have asked for the protection of the reef as key habitat for the dolphins, it is a story of hope. The result will hopefully mean that people feel safe and protected within the reef, and that the ethos of respect and consideration will ensure the dolphins can live in peace.
Update from Mozambique
It’s been a busy August for the Dolphin Team in Ponta do Ouro,...
Bumper Blue Whale Sightings
WCA Partner Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, based in Auckland, New...
Guest Blog – The Cruelty of Captivity
On the 12th May, demonstrating a united front, advocates from across the world organised localised events as part of the global Empty The Tanks campaign. This long running effort seeks to spread awareness about marine mammal captivity, as well as educate the public about what we can do to help end it. The way cetaceans are kept in tanks and forced to perform for public entertainment is inhumane and unacceptable
Thomas Cook statement: A sign that the future for dolphins is in the wild!
WCA would like to congratulate Thomas Cook on its announcement today to withdraw from selling tickets to SeaWorld, USA, and Loro Parque, Spain. Both parks have come under severe criticism for their treatment of killer whales (orcas), since they were exposed in the movie BlackFish in 2013.
Incredible Oceans OceanDOME is here!
Through funding from ERM Foundation Incredible Oceans has designed and created the amazing OceanDOME. Now they are on a mission to inspire the public!
WCA Partner walks for wild lives
WCA Partner Katie Reese is on a mission to raise awareness about plastic pollution in our oceans, the threat of ghost gear and the impact of captivity on cetaceans.
St Thomas Coral World Dolphin Plans an Environmental, Ethical and Economic Disaster
Featured image: Caribbean Buzz Helicopters Coral World Construction...
WCA Partner has rare encounter with a Right Whale
On July 23rd 2018 WCA Partner Elding Whaling Watching Reykjavik encountered a North Atlantic Right Whale during one of their whale watching tours off Iceland. This is the first time in Elding’s history they have sighted a Right Whale, a species rarely seen in Icelandic…
Opinion: Could Iceland’s big case of mistaken identity end whaling?
Perhaps we should spare a thought for the Icelandic whalers who mistakenly harpooned an endangered blue whale last week. Switch off for just a second and, would you believe it, you’ve accidentally speared a jumbo jet-sized blue-coloured whale! Easy mistake to make – right?
Changing the way we view whales and dolphins?
Watching whales and dolphins in the wild is big business. It’s a US$2.1 billion a year industry available in over 120 countries worldwide, and represents a significant proportion of an ecotourism market that also includes wildlife safaris, diving, and birdwatching tours. Now, a new report by the World Cetacean Alliance and Club Med, has highlighted concerns for many whale and dolphin populations and the need for improved standards across the world.
Icelandic whalers kill blue whale by ‘mistake’?
Off the coast of a country renowned for some of the world’s most spectacular whale watching, an endangered blue whale (or possible blue/fin whale hybrid) has been slaughtered by Icelandic whalers. According to the IUCN Red List, no blue whales have been recorded deliberately caught since 1978. The statement released by the whaling company called this act an “accident”, however to have a professional in any organization make such a large mistake like this seems unlikely.
Responsible Whale Watching – A WCA Partner focus
A blog composed by Bright Young Things, a Brighton-based student team,...
How is the WCA Encouraging Responsible Whale Watching
A blog composed by Bright Young Things, a Brighton-based student team,...
The Importance of Responsible Whale Watching
Responsible whale watching is the act of observing cetaceans from a safe distance in a responsible manner. It’s about providing an educational experience with qualified, experienced guides that provides passengers with information about the animals, the ocean environment, the issues they face and positive actions people can take to help. It’s about inspiring people to care.
The Human Aquarium
WCA Partner Yorkshire Life Aquatic C.I.C. is an arts organisation...
WCA Partner to help coordinate African East coast humpback whale fluke catalogue
WCA Partner WhaleTime is hoping to get to know their local humpback whales a little better!
Nantucket NGO opens door to Nantucket Historical Association Whaling Museum
Marine Mammal Alliance Nantucket (MMAN) has opened the door to the Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) Whaling Museum with inclusion of their ’new’ contemporary display “20th Century Whaling, to Save the Whales, to a New Era”.
Sustainable tourism at European Maritime Day
Responsible Whale Watching Project Manager, Sophie Lewis, attended the 2018 European Maritime Day conference in Burgas, Bulgaria on the 31st of May and 1st of June 2018.
WCA Partner Atlantiangra – Educational outreach in the Azores
WCA Responsible Whale Watching Partner Atlantiangra has been celebrating World Environment Day and World Oceans Day by participating in a range of activities to promote ocean literacy and education in the Azores.
Happywhale and Whales of Special Interest
This year Happywhale has been working with a BBC/PBS film crew on an upcoming documentary about whales, whale science and human interactions. Their aim is to not only increase public participation in whale science in general but to also find additional sightings of a group of seven humpback whales.
Common Dolphins in the Ionian Sea
Since 2016 there have been no sightings of common dolphins, until May 2018 when two individuals were seen along in the area
South African Partners give a warm welcome to the returning whales!
The whale watching season in southern Africa will soon be in full swing but not before the celebrations. This exciting time sees the joining of communities and organisations to celebrate the magnificent journey that whales take along the African coastlines.
New Whale watching destination, a need to introduce responsible practice and a call for volunteers
With the prospect of a whale watching industry comes the opportunity to get in early to ensure that things are done responsibly – something we believe will only happen if there is a carefully designed campaign.
“A new era for Nature Based Tourism in Mozambique”
Angie Gullan, founder of WCA Responsible Whale Watching Partner Dolphin Encountours, attended the “International Conference on Nature-Based Tourism in Conservation Areas”. Here is her summary of the event…
A Whale Song’s Expeditions – A month of sightings
Wow, what a month! Our expedition customers here in beautiful Sitka, Alaska were treated to viewing 5 species of cetaceans and some incredible behaviours. It’s kind of a toss up for me as to what was the most exciting expedition.
WCA attends Blue Flag International Jury meeting
In April Responsible Whale Watching Project Manager Sophie Lewis attended the 2018 International Jury meeting hosted by Blue Flag International at the Foundation for Environmental Education offices in Copenhagen.
Mermaids on a mission to end captivity
The WCA Campaigns Working Group has been meeting each month to discuss ideas to assist with Partner’s campaigns. In May the Working Group’s focus was on ‘The Human Aquarium’ project run by WCA Partner Yorkshire Life Aquatic in the UK. This is an innovative, artistic project that includes the use of Mer-people in public swimming spaces to highlight the plight of captive cetaceans.
Welcoming WCA’s first whale conservation heroes!
The WCA is very proud to announce that its very first Whale Champions Course was held on Tuesday 10th April in Brighton. Our Whale Champions learnt about sensational cetaceans, heard stories from our Partners and took part in activities highlighted just how they can help. From top tips on how to travel responsibly, to how you can save the oceans, our Whale Champions learned how they can use their existing skills to help our Partners and ultimately whales and dolphins.
The Bluff, Durban, announced as Africa’s first candidate Whale Heritage Site!
The Bluff, Durban, joins four world renowned whale watching destinations and sites in need of special protection that have applied for Whale Heritage Site status.
Announce: pioneering collaboration between the World Cetacean Alliance and Virgin Holidays
Through collaboration with the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), Virgin Holidays suppliers will work towards meeting newly developed global best-practice guidelines.
The WCA Launches the Brighton Dolphin Project!
The Brighton Dolphin Project is an exciting new initiative that aims to improve awareness of the importance of local marine ecosystems and species in the Brighton area
WCA Partner helps students to participate in the conservation of cetaceans in Tenerife
On 11 March 2018, Freebird Catamaran held an informative open day for 21 Erasmus students, from 10 different nationalities, currently doing internships in the south of Tenerife. The open day focused on responsible whale and dolphin watching, and information on the whales and dolphins in the waters around Tenerife.
Brazil announces history making Marine Protected Areas
Following on from a united two-year campaign, including support from the WCA and our Partners, specifically Instituto Baleia Jubarte (The Humpback Whale Institute), Brazil has announced a historic move to protect more than 350,000 square miles of ocean!
Welcoming new Partner types into the WCA Partnership
The World Cetacean Alliance is pleased to announce that we are welcoming 3 new Partner types into the Partnerships!
The Wildsea Atlantic Ocean Heritage Route: A Dive into Adventure!
The “WAOH Route: A Dive into Adventure” is the first, European, Sustainable Diving Route and network connecting world-class diving sites from the extreme south in Portugal and Spain to the far north
Week 7 : Spinning Dolphins & Curious Whales
Day 46 (October 2nd 2017): Today’s first launch started at 7am and we...
Volunteer experience with Raggy Charters
When we arrived in Port Elizabeth, South Africa on a windy and rainy week...
PRESS RELEASE: 12 Dec 2017
World Cetacean Alliance Statement Regarding the Orca Morgan at Loro...
Week 6 Mozambique: Busy Dolphins
Day 39 (25th September 2017): At around 5:30am this morning I received...
Week 5 Mozambique: Work with dolphins and skeletons
Day 34 (20th September 2017): For the past three days –prior to this...
Thirty three potential WHS identified in Africa
The World Cetacean Alliance recently completed an online survey of stakeholders to identify ‘Areas of Interest’ for Whale Heritage Sites across Africa.
Week 4 Mozambique: WOW Breaching Whales!
Day 26 (12th September 2017): After sorting through over 2,000 images of...
Week 3 Mozambique: An Incredible Swim
Day 22 (8th September 2017): We had two launches scheduled today: the...
The Power of the Network
"No other organization on the planet doing what the WCA is doing:...
Week 2 in Mozambique: Tail-sailing Whales
Day 10 (26th Aug. 2017): We had two boat trips scheduled for today....
First week at Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Day 1 (17th Aug. 2017): After my arrival at Ponta do Ouro, I was first...
A whale of a surprise
This week was fairly regular in terms of sightings, seeing a few Sperm...
Risso’s Dolphins & Amazing Bottlenose Dolphins
This week went off to a great start as on Monday I saw a new species,...
Update from Vancouver Island North
Responsible whale watch expert Andrew Jones and researcher Jared Towers discuss the area and the Whale Heritage Site accreditation process.
Eliza’s First Blog
Earlier this year I completed the WCA’s first Responsible Whale Watching...
#Love4Whales
People haven’t always been good to whales and dolphins. We’ve polluted...
WHS Summit Review, South Africa, 2017
Highlights from the Whale Heritage Sites two-day Summit Review!
WCA Welcomes Virgin Holidays’ ‘Long Term Vision for Cetaceans in Tourism’
The World Cetacean Alliance welcomes the announcement today by Virgin...
Partnership with Blue Flag
The Foundation for Environmental Education and the World Cetacean...
Humpback Whale World Congress
The Humpback Whale World Congress takes place every 2 years all over...
Join the 50 Top Responsible Whale Watching Operators Worldwide
A Call for 50 Top Responsible Whale Watching Operators World Wide! ...
Partner Spotlight: Gina Gow
Gina Gow, Individual Partner, UK Gina joined the WCA in October 2014 with...
Partner Spotlight: Pottwale e.V
Pottwale e.V. Not for Profit Organisation, Germany Research and...
Tribute to Tilikum
A life well lived… Isn't that the finest epitaph anyone can wish for? In...
Trash Talk!
Rose Anne Everson, WCA Intern 21/12/2016: Trash Talk! At home in...
Forming Friendships…
Celine van Weelden, WCA Intern 13/12/2016: Forming Friendships I...
Tagging Turtles and other…
Celine van Weelden, WCA Intern 03/12/2016: Tagging Turtles and other...
The Search for Orcas – Part 3
Kevin Bennett, WCA Intern 25/11/2016: The Search For Orcas - Part 3...
The Search for Orcas – Part 2
Kevin Bennett, WCA Intern 23/11/2016: The Search for Orca's - Part...
The Search for Orcas – Part 1
Kevin Bennett, WCA Intern 20/11/2016: The Search for Orcas - Part 1...
The Kelp Gull Problem and…
KEVIN BENNETT, WCA INTERN 16/11/2016: THE KELP GULL PROBLEM AND THE...
Cleaning Beaches
Kevin Bennett - WCA Intern 10/11/2016: Cleaning Beaches After a...
World Responsible Tourism Awards Winners!
World Cetacean Alliance wins accolades at World Responsible Tourism...
Spreading The Word
Pippa Hayter, WCA Intern 28/10/2016: Spreading The Word The last...
The Kelp Gull Threat
Emma Watton, WCA Intern 22/10/2016: The Kelp Gull Threat A...
Backpacking, Welsh To…
Kevin Bennett - WCA Intern 19/10/2016 - Backpacking, Welsh Towns and...
Lost in Translation
Emma Watton, WCA Intern 15/10/2016: Lost in Translation After...
The Reach of Ripples
Rose Anne Everson, WCA Intern 12/10/2016: The Reach of Ripples My...
The 1st Trip, Puerto…
Emma Watton, WCA Intern 08/10/2016: My 1st Trip, Puerto Piramides ...
What a welcome!
Pippa Hayter, WCA Intern 06/10/2016: What a welcome! After what...
Humpbacks, Marine…
Celine van Weelden , WCA Intern 01/10/2016: Humpbacks, Marine Musicians...
2016 : The Year of the Whale in the Pacific Islands
The World Cetacean Alliance will collaborate with a number of NGOs, the International Whaling Commission, and governments of the Pacific Islands for the Year of the Whale work programme.
My First Encounter
Celine van Weelden, WCA Intern 24/09/2016: My First Encounter My...
Brighton and Bahia…
Emma Brown, WCA Intern 23/09/2016: Brighton and Bahia, Worlds Apart...
South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary
The South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary The creation of the South Atlantic...
WHS wins Camden International Film Festival Award!
Our proposed short film on Whale Heritage Sites has won the 2016 CMG Action Grant, in conjunction with the Points North Institute and Camden International Film Festival!
Humpbacks and Dolph…
Emma Brown, WCA Intern 16/09/2016: Humpbacks and Dolphins - A Day to...
Vancouver Island North completes Whale Heritage Site audit
What does responsible whale watching look like? This question motivated...
Vancouver Island North completes Whale Heritage Site audit
WHS Auditor Stephanie Stefanski encounters orcas during her visit to the Candidate Whale Heritage Site of Vancouver Island North.
Four Weeks. 50 Trips….
Eva Prendergast, WCA Intern 02/09/2016: 4 Weeks. 50 Trips. 47 Identified...
World Responsible Tourism Awards Finalist!
World Cetacean Alliance included in the 2016 World Responsible Tourism...
Coincidence and Connec…
Rose Anne Everson, WCA Intern 02/09/2016: Coincidence and Connectivity...
Strip the Beach
Environmentalists go naked to strip Brighton beach of rubbish On Sunday...
Brazil, Humpbacks…
Emma Brown, WCA Intern 26/08/2016: Brazil, Humpbacks and Learning...
As Above, So Below
Rose Anne Everson, WCA Intern 19/08/2016: As above, so below ...
WCA – 2016 World Responsible Tourism Awards Finalist!
World Cetacean Alliance included in 2016 World Responsible Tourism Awards Finals at WTM London.
“Hola from Turmares!”
Sophia Bolton, WCA Intern 12/08/2016: "Hola from Turmares!" Hola!...
The Final Week in…
Kevin Bennett, WCA Intern 29/09/2016: The final week in the...
Week 3: Educating…
Emma Brown, WCA Intern 22/07/2016: Week 3: Educating, Fundraising and...
My second week at…
Chiara Ho, WCA Intern 15/07/2016: My second week at my UK internship with...
My first week as…
Emma Watton, WCA Intern 08/07/2016: My first week as a WCA intern......
The Dragnet Challenge
The Dragnet Challenge! Pulling Ghost Fishing Gear from Pier to Pier...
Algoa Bay: Bottlenose Dolphin Capital of the World!
On Monday 18th April 2016 Nelson Mandela Bay celebrated its new title as...
Adéu Delfinari
Adéu Delfinari is a campaign and petition being run by FAADA (The...
Project Pacific Whales is Launched
The Pacific Island region is home to over half the world’s species of...
Sports fishermen issued with multiple infraction notices after abusing rare Boto dolphin
Following an investigation by Brazilian wildlife authorities after...
SeaWorld to end Orca breeding
WCA welcomes SeaWorld's announcement to stop breeding its captive orcas...
Whale Heritage Sites Launched
After 18 months of development, two public consultations, and a two day...
4 April 2016 – Whale Heritage Sites Launch Day!
We’re proud to announce that the Whale Heritage Sites initiative is officially open for applications!
WCA endorses Blue Flag eco label for whale watching boats
For the first time, the Blue Flag International Jury will award boat-based tourism activities.
Partner Spotlight: Raggy Charters
Raggy Charters, Whale & Dolphin Watching Business in South Africa....
Whale Heritage Site Accreditation Criteria launched in top UK media
Dylan Walker of the WCA speaks with the Travel Trade Gazette about the new accreditation criteria for Whale Heritage Sites.
Partnership with SPREP
In September 2015 the WCA formed a new partnership with the Secretariat...
Day Two of the Summit
Highlights from Day 2 of the Whale Heritage Summit in the Azores.
Day One of the Summit
Highlights from Day 1 of the Whale Heritage Summit in the Azores.
Summit has arrived!
The inaugural Whale Heritage Summit commences on the island of Faial in the Azores.
Whale Heritage Sites to be designated around the world
The World Cetacean Alliance has launched a new initiative to recognise destinations that champion responsible whale and dolphin watching and celebrate the cultural importance of cetaceans.