Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:  

The main area of focus is conservation of the environment.

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative: 

Through the operation of this tour, Rota Tropical, the tour operator, hopes to contribute to the preservation and research of the 80,000 estimated humpback whales worldwide.

In August 2008, the humpback whale's status on the World Conservation Union's (IUCN) threatened species list went from Vulnerable to Least Concern. This achievement would not have been possible without the ongoing work of the humpback whale conservation and research community.

The Whale Watching tour operators work with Instituto Baleia Jubarte (IBJ), a non-governmental organisation engaged in researching and monitoring the population of the Humpback Whales. Technicians from the Institute join this whale watching tour to support the crew in the education of tour participants and the collection of research data. A portion of the tour cost is donated directly to the Institute. These donations allow the Institute to continue their ongoing, independent work, such as collecting research data and promoting environmental awareness at school and local community presentations.

During the tour, IBJ and tour staff will talk to participants about environmental awareness with regard to the marine environment, stressing in particular the significance of humpback whales. Participants will experience for themselves the majesty of these marine giants, and take home bountiful memories and the passion to promote and help conserve this species for future generations. Not only does the money from this tour make the work of IBJ possible; it also helps to spread the message of conservation to the global community. Whether avid activists or sceptics, this tour will create or increase awareness and interest among participants and help protect the environment.

Third Party Verification: 

Instituto Baleia Jubarte (Brazil)