Whale watching is a major wildlife tourism industry that can disturb cetaceans if poorly managed. Evidence-based guidelines and certification schemes help minimise harm.
Whale watching, when well-managed, provides both economic incentive for cetacean conservation and public education value. However, unregulated or poorly managed operations cause significant disturbance to whale and dolphin behaviour. Chronic exposure to vessel traffic reduces time spent in important behaviours including foraging and socialising, and can displace animals from preferred habitat. Best practice whale watching operations follow scientifically-developed guidelines: maintaining approach distances, limiting vessel numbers, avoiding high-speed approaches, reducing engine noise, and limiting time with individual animals. Whale SENSE, the Pacific Whale Foundation, and other organisations offer operator certification programs.