Northern whale study tour, Newfoundland
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
This programme collects humpback whale data but it is also timed to coincide with what we believe to be the best orca watching on the Atlantic coast of North America. We created and are expanding our database of western Atlantic orca families; and we use the data we have collected to increase the likelihood of orca encounters. This expedition program also brings the principals of ecotourism, sustainability, and the non consumptive value of animals into areas where many residents participate in traditional (illegal) hunts for small dolphins.
We have worked since 1984 at giving value to the non consumptive uses of wildlife in parts of Newfoundland and Labrador where most folks follow a very consumptive lifestyle. We receive very friendly welcomes from our fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and we work to gently introduce the joys of activities like whale watching, bird watching, and nature appreciation to our local service providers
All of our programs feature local hosts/leaders and all distribute non resident travellers to remote areas where they enjoy local services and hospitality ranging from boat tours to delicious homemade bread and local sub arctic berry jams.
The data collected on previous Northern Whale Studies enabled study tour leader Dave Snow to co-author Canada's status report document on the population of orcas in eastern Canada. Dave and some of the guests have also been able to contribute photographs and observations to books and magazine articles on these orcas. In 2011 Dave published the booklet Atlantic orcas featuring dramatic photos by guests and local contributors.
A National Geographic survey of guest satisfaction looked at the ethic of sustainability and educational emphasis of these very enjoyable excursions, and resulted in National Geographic Adventure Magazine listing our company as one of the best Adventure Travel companies on earth.
Community
We continue to bring the ideals of sustainability and nonconsumptive tourism into the same landscape that doubles as one of the world's most popular hunting and fishing grounds for the rich and famous. We support the region through education, providing alternatives, and leading biological research.
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