Every year humpback whales frequent our waters. They come here to breed or give birth. Seeing them is common during this period and many boaters post photos on social networks. However, whale watching should not be done in just any conditions. In particular, it is prohibited within a radius of less than 300 meters.
However, exceptions exist. Derogations may be granted, in particular to "whale watchers" authorized by the Agoa sanctuary. A whale watcher is a sea professional (day charter, etc.) who can take his clients to observe dolphins, whales, etc., approaching up to 100 meters.
To obtain this certification, professionals must follow training provided by Agoa and sign a charter. Fifteen professionals in Guadeloupe and thirty-nine in Martinique are thus certified. In Saint-Martin, only one operator is an official "whale watcher", ScoobiToo. In order to better enforce the observation of cetaceans, the association of maritime professions, Métimer, is currently working with Agoa to set up training courses in France; today the training is provided in Martinique which represents an investment in time and money too important for professionals. Métimer would like to be able to offer a first training course in Saint-Martin by the end of the year.
7,121 total views
No comments