A conservation first : Tourism operators join forces to protect our Humpback Whales

Login

Register

http://www.clubofmozambique.com/

A conservation first : Tourism operators join forces to protect our Humpback Whales

1:45 CAT | 03 Aug 2020

Photo: Supplied

Accommodation providers on Ilha de Moçambique have combined with Ilha Blue Island Safaris in a conservation first for the island. They have joined forces to protect the Humpback whales that visit Ilha every year to mate and give birth in the warm tropical waters.

Ilha Blue Island Safaris is the only accredited Responsible Whale Watching operator in the northern region of Mozambique and as such is the only operator with the knowledge, skills and training to deliver an exceptional and responsible whale watching experience. Accommodation providers recognise the precious asset whale watching represents and understand that it is essential to protect it for future generations. To this end they have pledged their support by recommending Ilha Blue only, for Whale Watching.

At Ilha de Moçambique you have the unique opportunity to see the mothers and new babies together. “Sometimes we can see the mother carrying her baby, lifting it up out of the water to help it breathe or just so the baby can rest”, says Gail Woods of Ilha Blue Island Safaris. Ilha Blue is one of only 2 operators in all of Mozambique who is certified by the international World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) as an accredited Responsible Whale Watching operator. The other certified operator is Dolphin Encountours based in Ponta do Ouro.

The World Cetacean Alliance is the world’s largest network of experts on whale and dolphin watching. Our partners include whale watch tour operators, NGOs, scientists, and educators, all focused on respectful, responsible and sustainable whale watching tourism. Certification is based on the WCA’s Global Guidelines for Responsible Whale and Dolphin Watching, overseen by an international panel with specialist knowledge.

A special aspect of Whale Watching with Ilha Blue is sailing out to the whales on traditional dhows. “That way we hear only the wind in the sail, the sea lapping at the side and the sound of the whales as they blow, or sing, or the whoosh of the water as they breach, leaping right out of the sea” says Abdurremane, tour coordinator and expert whale spotter. “We really want as many Mozambicans as possible to experience whale watching. It can be a life-changing event; we want the welfare of the whales to be in the hearts and minds of Mozambicans for our future. Once you see these amazing, majestic creatures you never forget them.”

Ilha Blue Island Safaris has combined with ‘The Best of Ilha’ accommodation providers to offer amazing special deals for the August/September Whale Watching season. Jardim dos Aloés, Villa Sands, Rickshaws Pousada, Café Central, and Cabaceira Village are offering 30% – 50% off their usual rate. And Ilha Blue Island Safaris is offering up to 60% off. There has never been a better time to see the whales!

Check the Ilha Blue website for all the details. ilhablue.com

Source: Ilha Blue