Whale Watching in Patagonia
by Sophie Hooper

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International charity the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS) has launched a series of ecotourism holidays to fund conservation projects around the world. One of the six destinations is Patagonia, home to some of the world's most remarkable and endangered wildlife. It is also the base for Fundacion Cethus, a local conservation and research foundation led by husband and wife team Miguel and Vanesa Iniguez.

WDCS accepts that irresponsible or badly managed tourism can interfere with the local environment. Increasing demand for whale and dolphin watching can have a negative or even destructive impact, particularly within a competitive, for-profit environment. But responsible whale watching can benefit cetaceans, albeit indirectly. It raises awareness of conservation issues, funds vital research work, reduces the demand for captive cetaceans and provides an alternative income for whaling communities.

According to Chris Vick of WDCS: "We receive hundreds of telephone calls each year asking for advice on whale and dolphin watching trips that put principles before profits. Launching 'Out of the Blue' means we can provide unforgettable holidays that fund conservation projects and ensure that these magnificent animals will still be here for future generations to enjoy."

Patagonia was selected as one of the six 'Out of the Blue' destinations because of its windswept beauty, the diversity of marine wildlife and the importance of the local conservation work. Patagonia is a haven for endangered wildlife. It is one of the only places in the world where endangered southern right whales breed and raise their young. In addition, the shores and waters are teeming with stunning black and white Commerson's dolphins, sea lions, Magellanic penguins and enormous elephant seals.

In the company of Miguel and Vanesa, small groups will experience this incredible diversity of marine wildlife in a non-invasive fashion and learn about the animals and the ongoing conservation work. Born in Buenos Aires, both Miguel and Vanesa became fascinated by whales and dolphins at an early age. Brought together by their life-time dedication to protecting cetaceans, the couple love their work despite the constant challenges they face.

Thanks to mankind, the spectacular marine wildlife of Patagonia is in increasing danger. Besides habitat destruction and noise pollution, Commerson's dolphins are found entangled in fishing nets and members of the diminishing orca population have been captured for marine park shows. Thankfully, orca captures have recently been banned.

The Fundacion Cethus team are battling to raise public awareness of conservation issues. After 15 years working in Patagonia, they describe "a wonderful relationship with the local people, local government and institutions". They give talks, run frequent environmental education workshops and work as tour guides. The foundation also works with national and provincial authorities and the media. Both think that "the local attitude towards ecotourism is great". This is particularly important because tourism is one of the main local industries.

"The main problem," they admit, "is to generate enough funds to support current and new projects". In comparison to Europe and North America, companies are not yet concerned about having an environmentally friendly image, so they do not tend to donate money to causes such as Fundacion Cethus. WDCS has helped to fund the foundation for ten years but everyone hopes that 'Out of the Blue' will provide the much-needed injection of cash for years to come.

Despite the struggles, Miguel and Vanesa know that their conservation work is worth all the effort it involves. "The best thing about our work is watching the wild cetaceans", they say, describing Mel, the famous big bull orca of Peninsula Valdes and three very sociable Commerson's dolphins of San Julian Bay, known as Joaqui, Jose and Lucta. Recently they helped the Argentine Coast Guard rescue and release an 11 meter long southern right whale that had beached. Despite fears that it may have been an impossible task, the high tide helped and the enormous whale eventually swam back to freedom. "It was one of our greatest satisfactions," Miguel and Vanesa agreed wholeheartedly.

The first ever Patagonia trip takes place in November 2000 with a maximum group size of ten people. The Patagonia holiday involves a week at Peninsula Valdes and a week at San Julian. Besides whale and dolphin watching -- including a night cruise to listen to whale songs under the stars - there is ample opportunity to enjoy the local wildlife. Holidaymakers will also visit a traditional Patagonian ranch and trek through spectacular canyons to see 4000 year old cave paintings. The 2-week trip costs £1320 excluding flights but with accommodation, travel and most food included. WDCS is based in the UK but international bookings are welcomed.

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