Issue 81 - February 2022

Could Whale Watching Tourism Benefit Whale Conservation?

By Maddie Henning

SENTINELS OF THE SOUND

Many conservationists celebrated a recent bill passed in the Washington state legislature that limits commercial whale watching of the endangered Southern Resident Orcas. However, the activists aboard these commercial whale watching boats are not as convinced of the positive implications of the bill. Whale watchers are worried that taking away their sentinel role on the ocean will actually expose the orcas to greater threats.

An iconic species of the Puget Sound

The Southern Resident Orcas are a subpopulation of orcas that frequently occupy the inland waters of Washington state, specifically in the Puget Sound region. Their eye-catching black and white patterns distinguish them as the most visually striking of all marine mammals. Orcas have stories, a social nature, and an intelligence similar to humans that we find captivating. Yet these animals face huge challenges to their survival, in part due to their close proximity to human activity in the nearshore environment. With concerningly steady population declines and a shrinking food supply, the Southern Resident Orcas are a top priority for local and global conservation efforts.

Southern Resident Orcas face environmental threats.

Vessel noise disturbance, depleted Chinook salmon food supply, and toxic contaminants entering the water are the three principal threats to the Southern Resident Orcas. The Orca Task Force, set up under WA Governor Jay Inslee is dedicated to orca recovery and sustainability. This Task Force includes diverse stakeholders in orca conservation including researchers who collected and analyzed information on the Southern Residents’ interactions with commercial and private vessels. These data ultimately contributed to the creation of the recent commercial whale watching bill. The three environmental threats were considered within the creation of the bill. However, vessel noise was the main issue targeted by the recent bill’s regulations. Furthermore, the bill mainly regulates commercial whale watching vessels, only one subsection of the vessels contributing to the noise and traffic in orca environments. Commercial whale watchers feel that part of the problem is a political drive to pass a protective bill, despite the true implications.

New Washington bill limits commercial whale watching

Washington state already has substantial protective regulations for vessels approaching whales. These “Be Whale Wise regulations” apply to all vessels in the Salish Sea, a transboundary region overlooked by Canada, the United States, and Washington State. In the US, requirements include a 300-yard boundary around the sides of Southern Resident Orcas. The regulations also enforce a 400-yard boundary in front of or behind their path. Lastly, all vessels are required to reduce speed to under 7 knots within a half-mile of orcas. These regulations are widely supported by most stakeholders. Many whale watching ecotourism companies helped to develop these regulations and educate others about boating safety near whales.

The new Washington whale watching bill allows commercial whale watching vessels to view Southern Resident Orcas only during a two-hour daily window from July to September. The bill also places a limit of three commercial whale watching vessels at a time per group of Southern Resident Orcas. In addition, groups of orcas cannot be approached if they have a calf under one year. Many whale watching companies are calling this a moratorium on their viewing of Southern Resident Orcas. They feel the severe limitations should not restrict commercial vessels when private vessels are still only limited to the 300-yard boundary near a Southern Resident orca. Whale watching companies argue that private vessels are typically the ones least aware of guidelines or orca locations.

Soundwatch, a boater education and outreach program, has members that frequent the waters during the busy summer months to monitor boats in known wildlife areas. They distribute outreach and education material about whale watching regulations as needed. A Soundwatch report found that of the private vessels contacted, only 25% of vessels were aware of vessel regulations near orcas. This expresses a still-present need for greater on-the-water protection of orcas and other marine mammals.

The sentinel role of commercial whale watching vessels

Often, this protective, sentinel role is filled by commercial whale watching vessels. Erin, a lead naturalist with Island Adventures, Inc.,has been a heavily involved stakeholder in the Orca Task Force and Whale Watching Licensing process over the past few years. She gave first-hand information about how she and her fellow whale watchers fill a sentinel role on the water. As she states, the bottom line is that whales are hard to spot. Even a trained naturalist can have a difficult time spotting whales, with binoculars and at a slow speed. An average boater that is not looking for whales, is unlikely to see them on time to follow the distance regulations (assuming they are aware of the regulations). The 2019 Soundwatch report found that of all the boats they stopped in proximity to whales, only 60% of those were actively looking for whales. This, again, presents a danger to marine mammals and a need for protection from other vessels.

Commercial whale watching vessels have a lot of ways they fill their sentinel role on the water. To start, their presence alone can alert other vessels to avoid that area of water. As Erin mentioned, “It’s difficult to see a whale. It’s not difficult to see a whale watching boat. We envision ourselves to be one big marker for where the whales are.” In addition to being a marker themselves, the boats have “Whale Watch” flags which indicate the presence of whales nearby. Despite these efforts, there are times when commercial whale watching boats need to be physical protectors for the orcas. The commercial whale watching boats will even maneuver themselves between an oncoming vessel and a whale’s path if necessary. By shortening the timeframe and lengthening viewing distance that commercial vessels must maintain, the new bill actually reduces orca protection by commercial whale watching vessels.

Some commercial whale watching opponents argue that the vessels attract other boats to the location of whales and therefore add to the vessel traffic and noise. Independent reports, though, refute this idea and essentially prove the opposite. Returning again to the 2019 Soundwatch report, it was found that the number of boats in the area decreased with the number of “Whale Watch” flags raised. They also discovered the number of whale watching regulation violations by any vessel decreased in the presence of commercial whale watching vessels. A separate study additionally found it is actually the vessel speed that affects orcas much more than the proximity of vessels. The noise created from the speed of vessels is much more disruptive to an orca pod than the number of vessels if the vessels were to travel slowly.

Commercial whale watching vessels don’t just protect the orcas from transit or recreational vehicles, though. The U.S. Navy recently extended its testing and training in the area until 2027, with exercises including firing torpedoes, detonating bombs, and using underwater sonar. Whale watching vessels are able to contact the Navy when whales are in the area. Commercial vessels can also supply Navy vessels with real-time sightings through alerts with GPS locations. Vessels that are part of the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) utilize their own GPS-based app. The PWWA app allows for faster communication between vessels of the organization. They also legally report all sightings to the WhaleReport Alert System. This ensures that locations of whales can be sent to the WhaleDesk, in Canada, as well as immediately sent out to PWWA vessels in the area. This is yet another reason that restricting commercial whale watching vessels that focus on protecting orcas is potentially more harmful to orca conservation than beneficial.

Despite pushback from several ecotourism organizations, the commercial whale watching licensing bill passed in the Washington state legislature and is lauded by some conservation groups. PWWA issued a statement in December 2020 about the impacts this bill could have on orca conservation. These concerns are shared throughout the commercial whale watching network and detailed below. While concerns about orca conservation are looming, there is little for commercial whale watchers to do unless change is brought about by an amendment to the law.

Whale watching vessels have a widespread influence on orca conservation.

“It’s one thing to read a book about orcas or to watch a Discovery Channel documentary about them, that only gets you so far. Once you actually see and experience them in the wild you just have a much bigger investment in their conservation. And that’s something that I fear we will lose if this trend against whale watching continues.” As Erin’s quote shows, there is more to the sentinel role of commercial whale watchers than the physical protections.

Whale watching tours provide the ideal opportunity and location for hands-on learning about our connection to marine life. Tourists and locals alike get a chance to appreciate the beauty of the area and its wildlife. Their appreciation is the first step on a pathway to advocacy. During this time, naturalists like Erin take the chance to share ways we can help conserve the animals and their environment.

Whether a local or distant admirer of orca whales, there are always things we can do in our everyday lives to help improve the orca’s environment! We must remember our connections to other animals in all that we do, and the impacts of our actions. And when in Washington, join one of the Pacific Whale Watch Association members for an educational and unforgettable whale watching experience. You may get the increasingly rare chance to spot a Southern Resident Orca, and will certainly learn more about the amazing ocean world below you.

About The Author

Maddie Henning is a current student with Project Dragonfly through Miami University. A search for the ideal career path led her through undergraduate studies in Animal Sciences, an internship at the Saint Louis Zoo, and management experience in companion animal boarding and daycare facilities. She then enrolled in the Advanced Inquiry Program of Project Dragonfly where she discovered her passion for focusing on empathy development in animal tourism attractions and is working towards her Biology MA. Outside of work and school, her time is filled with keeping her young and active black lab mix, Kona, entertained by exploring the nearby mountain hikes and alpine lakes.

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Related Topics:Humpback Whales whale whale watching

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Issue 81 - February 2022

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – February 2022 – Issue 81

Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Beautiful and diverse, Cyprus’ terrain lures many cyclists from all over Europe who want to experience epic cycling adventures across scenic, peaceful and car-free routes. The island is a firm favourite for competitive and leisurely cycling, mountain biking and road cycling alike. Read more…

Feature Destination: Climbing in Cyprus

Cyprus is an island full of hidden climbing treasures that can satiate climbers of all disciplines and skill levels. From beginners to experienced and elite climbers, from fans of traditional climbing to sport, speed, aid and recreational climbing or bouldering, Aphrodite’s birthplace offers experiences beyond imagination. Read more…

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore! Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. Read more…

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Cuba Shows How to Take Action on Climate Change

Cuba, a small island besieged by the United States, is taking concrete measures to reorient its economy in the fight against climate change. It’s an example that the whole world should take seriously” Read more…

Could Whale Watching Tourism Benefit Whale Conservation?

Many conservationists celebrated a recent bill passed in the Washington state legislature that limits commercial whale watching of the endangered Southern Resident Orcas. However, the activists aboard these commercial whale-watching boats are not as convinced of the positive implications of the bill. Read more…

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Reef-World Stronger & More Dynamic Moving Towards 2022 Despite Global Pandemic

The Reef-World Foundation – international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative – reveals the highlights and major developments in their latest 2020–2021 annual report today. The report shows how the charity has had to adapt to the pandemic to continue to deliver and is determined to build back better. Read more…

History Forgot The Life-Saving Service That Birthed The U.S. Coast Guard: James Charlet is Changing That

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The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here.

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Cycling in Cyprus

Biking enthusiasts get impressed by Cyprus’ varied landscape that can go from steep to flat and from rocky to clay within only a few kilometres.

Ride out into urban, rural, mountainous and coastal roadways packed with a range of natural wonders. Follow the designated cycling routes or venture out on your own biking adventure. Feel the Mediterranean breeze through your hair and get spontaneous; you might end up in a delightfully unexpected place!

The lack of headwinds, the sunny summers and mild winters in Cyprus make cycling an enjoyable activity throughout the year. Yet, spring and autumn are the ideal seasons when the days are long and not overly hot.

Various convenient rides start from Paphos in the west, Limassol in the south and from the capital Nicosia, towards the Troodos Mountain range at the heart of the island. Explore the coastal routes that offer spectacular views of picturesque bays and turquoise waters. Experienced cyclists choose to follow the valleys up to Mount Olympos through the rugged Troodos forest.

Ready to embark on a memorable cycling experience in the land of legends?

MTB & Road Cycling in Cyprus

The mountainous territory and the magnificent Troodos forest routes at high altitudes make Cyprus a great European destination for mountain bikers. The bike trails network at Troodos and Akamas peninsula are easily accessible wherever you’re based in Cyprus. Off-road cyclists can test their technical skills and stamina. The terrain becomes very challenging at certain points along the cycling routes, with steep slopes and rocky surfaces. MTB is allowed in any region of the island.

For road cyclists, Cyprus also features smooth road surfaces, dedicated cycling lanes around big towns, and most importantly, there is hardly any traffic! The cycling routes guide visitors through tranquil forests, archaeological sites, idyllic vineyards, traditional villages and stunning olive groves.

The island boasts 45 cycle routes for outdoor fans:

17 bike trails
23 mountain biking routes
5 road cycling rides

Tips to get prepared for Cycling in Cyprus

Cyprus is a great destination to meet other cycling enthusiasts, take in the beautiful scenery and put your skills to the test.

Once you have booked your cycling holidays on the island, it’s time to get well-prepared to ensure you enjoy your biking adventure to the maximum.

Before you put on your lycra shorts and cycling shoes, check out some top tips that will help you make the most out of your trip, have loads of fun and get back home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences!

Outline a tentative cycling plan. Plan and study your trip itinerary and grading before you take your bike on tour in Cyprus. Will you follow your own route or join an organized cycling journey with professional drivers and local guides? Create your cycling bucket list and let Cyprus amaze you with its incredible blend of scenery, culture and history.
Prepare your bike or rent one on the island. Cyprus’ long climbs and steep descents will be challenging not only for your physical strength but also for the bike. Make sure your bike’s gears, brakes, pedals and tires are in good condition before you pack it up to travel. If you do not wish to travel with your own bike, you’ll find many bike rental shops on the island.
Remember to cycle on the left-hand side of the road. Use the street only if there is no cycling lane and always keep your bike on the left-hand side of the road as Cyprus follows the left-hand traffic system. In addition, be aware that cycling on highways is illegal and you might get a fine.

Who can go cycling in Cyprus?

You don’t have to be a cycling pro to explore Cyprus on two wheels. The island features a diverse landscape with thematic routes suitable for all level cyclists . From beginner to more advanced cyclists to families with children, Cyprus will offer you the ultimate biking experience!

Top Cycling Routes in Cyprus

With 45 cycling routes, you will never get enough of Cyprus!

Athalassa National Forest Park Cycling Route , Nicosia

The Athalassa National Forest Park nestles to the southeast of Nicosia and it is the greenest area within the capital’s territory. The park is surrounded by Aglantzia in the north, Strovolos and Latsia in the southwest, and Geri in the southeast.

It features a 16 km bicycle path passing along a lake and through a stunning eucalyptus-lined forest. It’s a very popular training and recreational cycling area among locals.

The route is fun and relaxing, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. The surface varies from hard pack to gravel to soft sand and dirt roads.

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 16 km
Estimated duration: Suitable for all types of bicycles
Start point: South of Nicosia park (Lefkosia)
End point: East of the Nicosia – Limassol motorway
Terrain: Paved road

A Sea of Green and the Coast route, Larnaca – Limassol

The route starts in the historic and picturesque village of Tochni in Larnaca District and heads to Choirokoitia – a UNESCO World Heritage site as of 1998. The next stop is Vavla, a traditional village with white-stone houses. Head downward to Lageia and then uphill towards Ora village. Here starts the mountainous terrain of Limassol with the villages of Akapnou, Eptagonia, Arakapas, Dierona, Akrounta and the Germasogeia urban area.

The route passes through the archaeological site of Amathus, where cyclists stop to gaze at the impressive remains of the ancient city-kingdom that dates back to the 4th century BC. The site features public baths, the Agora, the Temple of Aphrodite, several tombs and early Christian basilicas. The cycling route continues along the coast, offering wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the long glistening beaches.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 83,8 km
Terrain:Mountain
Road surface: Paved
Highest point: 688 m
Start point: Tochni
Loop: Yes. It ends back in the village of Tochni.

Tour of Marathasa Cycling Route, Troodos – Nicosia – Limassol – Paphos

This fascinating cycling excursion begins in Troodos square and climbs to the west toward Mount Olympos. Next, the route continues downhill to Prodromos village (the highest in Cyprus) and turns right to a pinewood area and Kykkos monastery. Spend some time here exploring one of the most lavish religious sites on the island, dedicated to Virgin Mary. The route continues to Stavros tis Psokas and the breathtaking Cedar Valley.

The fresh air, the beauty of the virgin nature and the lovely architecture of the mountainous villages is an experience you will never forget.

Difficulty: Intense
Distance: 90,34 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: MTB or road bike with low gear ratios
Highest point: 1824 m
Elevation gain: 4746 m
Start point: Troodos square
Loop: Yes

Paphos (Pafos) , Polis Cycling Route

An exciting and demanding route that goes from Paphos to Polis, the main town of Chrysochou Bay.

The adventurous uphill trip starts from Kato Paphos and follows the coastal road to Coral Bay. It then climbs to the village of Peyia (Pegeia), one of the largest villages in the region, known for its ancient baths, the natural freshwater fountains and its spectacular Sea Caves.

Peyia Sea Caves is a unique place of great geological interest and incomparable beauty. It features priceless coastal formations created thousands of years ago. Along the bay, cyclists can admire enormous rocky seashores, scattered islets and large caves. The awe-inspiring view showcases the sea’s magnificent power.

From Peyia, cyclists can enjoy incredible panoramic vistas to Coral Bay and Paphos city. The route continues through the forest and heads toward Kathikas village and Prodromos. The cycling route ends in Polis.

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 37 km
Terrain:Mountain
Bike: Mountain bike with excellent suspension
Elevation gain: 615 m
Start point: Paphos
End poing: Polis Chrysochous

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Feature Destination

Feature Destination: Hiking in Cyprus

Hiking in Cyprus

Peaceful afternoon in Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Cyprus

The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, is a paradise for hikers. A peaceful place with more than 11,000 years in its natural environs – all yours to explore!

Tourists flock to Cyprus from all over the world to discover landscapes with astonishing sea views, traditional villages, fertile plains and lavish coniferous forests. At the same time, you will get to enjoy opulent sunsets and warm weather.

The island offers a great variety of easily accessible hiking trails that steer visitors to some of the best corners of Cyprus. Natural beauty, remnants of history and rich culture surround you in every direction.

The sign-posted walking trails and ancient footpaths highlight Cyprus’ deep-rooted beauty and its strong Mediterranean character. Hikers love trekking through the island’s placid villages with cobbled streets and stone houses, modest monasteries and fragrant vineyards.

Trails range in difficulty and length, from 3 km to 176 km. Maps, itineraries and guidebooks are available at the tourist information offices in Cyprus’ big cities and online.

So, lace up your hiking boots, grab a walking stick and start exploring Cyprus on foot!

Tips to get prepared for Hiking in Cyprus

Cyprus has hiking trails for outdoor fanatics of all fitness levels. With appropriate planning, the right tools, and an appetite for adventure, you can enjoy a pleasant and safe hike.

Leave behind any stressful thoughts, obligations, work emails, and heavy schedules and enjoy the journey. But before you hit the trail, check out these top hints for casual strolls or hikes on steep slopes.

Plan the hike ahead. Head to VisitCyprus to choose among over 50 designated thematic routes, including nature trails, wine routes, religious routes, cultural routes and more. You’ll find all the information you need to plan your hiking adventure in detail. Based on your trekking experience and mood, you can pick among easy, moderate or more challenging routes to explore. Alternatively, opt for the guided hiking tours running across the island throughout the year.
Design your route according to the season. Temperatures in Cyprus can exceed 40°C during summertime. Choose short and easy trails along the coastline and long walks in Troodos’ pathways from June to August. Always remember to have sunscreen, glasses, a sun hat, plenty of water and some Cypriot raisins for an energy boost.
Research in advance for drinking water sources in remote areas. Plan your stops for lunch and water well in advance, especially when hiking in remote areas like the Troodos Mountains or the Akamas peninsula.
Take with you the right gear. Pick comfortable and breathable clothing that helps you keep warm in winter or cool off for the hot summer months. Opt for clothes of vivid colors that offer adequate sun protection. If you go for Cyprus’ rocky trails and steep slopes, put on a reliable pair of walking shoes.

Who can go hiking in Cyprus?

Cyprus features hiking and walking trails for all ages to explore. You can go hiking alone, with your partner, friends, family and children, or a group of like-minded hikers. There are easy, moderate and hard trails to follow based on your hiking experience.

Top Hiking Trails in Cyprus

Caledonia (Kalidonia) Waterfall Trail – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

This unique trail passes through the dense forest of Troodos Mountain – an oasis full of dazzling pine trees, wild roses and golden oaks. It runs alongside burbling streams and the “Krios Potamos.” The view of one of Cyprus’ tallest waterfalls in the heart of Troodos is breathtaking. Along the way, hikers may get carried away by the stunning views of the valley below until they reach “Psilo Dentro” in Pano Platres.

Difficulty: Difficult. Suitable for seasoned hikers and families with older children.
Length: 3 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 1.5 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,571 m
Trailhead: Troodos Platres road

Insider Tip: Best to visit From March to October. While hiking, you can take a closer look at the endemic plants, such as the Purple Rock Cress (Arabis purpurea) and Aphrodite’s spurge (Euphorbia veneris).

Aphrodite & Adonis Nature Trail – Paphos District, Akamas Forest Nature Trail

A fantastic opportunity for hikers to take in the most sensational views of the glittering Mediterranean, Blue Lagoon, Cape Arnaoutis, Polis Chrysochous and Paphos Forest. Revel in nature’s magical beauty while hiking across Cyprus’ western peninsula featuring a chalk-white limestone coast. That’s one of the most popular walks and a great trail to fill your suitcase with beautiful memories!

The nature trail passes through the Baths of Aphrodite (Loutra tis Afroditis), where the Goddess of Love used to take her baths and met her lover, Adonis. In a short distance, hikers can admire the ruins of Queen’s Tower (Pyrgos tis Rigainas) that belong to a medieval monastery. Near the remnants of the tower, there’s a 500-year old oak tree and a faucet with drinking water.

Difficulty: Difficult.
Length: 7,5 km (circular)
Estimated duration: 3 – 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 333 m
Trailhead: Baths of Aphrodite

Insider Tip: Visit the Botanical Gardens of Akamas close to the trail’s starting point and smell the sweet fragrances of colorful blossoms in the spring. Along the way, you’ll find several benches to get some rest, marvel at incredible views and unwind

Kannoures Nature Trail to Kakopetria – Limassol District, Troodos Forest Nature Trail

A trail located within the virgin Troodos National Forest Park – ideal for more experienced hikers. It starts at Karkotis River, crosses the magnificent Solea valley, and ends in Kakopetria. On the way, you can rest at Agios Nikolaos tis Stegischurch that boasts exquisite frescoes from the 12th century. This sacred site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage monument.

Difficulty: Difficult. Difficult downhill trail
Length: 12 km (linear)
Estimated duration: 4 hrs
Highest peak altitude: 1,654 m
Trailhead: The main road of Karvounas

Insider Tip: The trail is suitable for dogs, but you should keep them on a leash.

Germasogeia Dam Nature Trail (Phoinikaria) – Limassol District

A trail around a beautiful valley located just 20 minutes away from the city of Limassol. The circular route passes through the eastern hills of Limassol district, offering lovely views of Foinikaria village, the Germasogeia dam, Limassol and Akrotiri. The terrain is relatively smooth and wide but becomes fairly rocky at points, with several mild uphill and downhill pathways.

The rural scenery features olive trees, wildflowers, pine trees and indigenous wild bushes. Close to the trail, the Foinikaria picnic area provides hikers with a water supply, wooden benches to rest, and a playground for little hikers.