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New program recognizes commercial whale watching companies committed to a higher standard of whale watching.

A new program, Whale SENSE, developed by WDCS and NOAA with collaboration from the commercial whale watching industry, recognizes commercial whale watching companies in the Northeast Region (Maine through Virginia) that are committed to a higher standard of whale watching.

This pioneering program uses the acronym SENSE to acknowledge companies that Stick to whale watching guidelines, Educating naturalists, operators and guests to have SENSE when whale watching; Notify appropriate agencies or networks of right whale sightings or whale problems; Set an example for others on the water; and Encourage ocean stewardship.

“Studies have shown that customer satisfaction is based more on the education experience the passengers have than the proximity of whales to the boat,” said Allison Rosner of NMFS. “We believe Whale SENSE gives consumers a way to choose a company that will ensure they get the best trip possible.”

The program was developed with input from the industry and participating companies voluntarily agree to take part in yearly training and evaluations for their vessel operators and naturalists.

“Whale watching in this region is not only a multi-million dollar industry and an important part of the local economy,” said Regina Asmutis-Silvia, Senior Biologist for WDCS, “but it is also an important conservation tool and a viable alternative to whaling.”

For more information, including the NOAA press release, and a current list of Whale SENSE operators and more information, visit www.whalesense.org.

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