Practical courses
The waters off La Gomera (Canary Islands) provide almost perfect conditions for cetacean field studies. Only a few miles off the shoreline the Atlantic Ocean reaches depths of 2000 m and more. It is predominantly a pelagic habitat, which is underlined by the presence of some purely pelagic species such as sperm and beaked whales. Bottlenose dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins and pilot whales are resident within the area. Comparable conditions we can find only in very few places around the world.
Due to the fact that there are several cetacean species abundant in the same habitat, we can study them comparatively. Whales and dolphins have never been hunted in the Canaries and therefore behave relatively unprejudiced towards vessels. Comparable conditions one can find only in few places in the world.
View impressions from former courses…
Science in practice
The project M.E.E.R. La Gomera is conducting a study on the interactions between cetaceans and whale watching boats since many years. The participants of these 2-weeks practical courses will get an insight into the behavioural research conducted from whale watching boats operating off the island of La Gomera. In this area, 23 cetaceans species could be identified during the last years.
The course includes a full training program: the theory and practice of behavioural research will be learned and profound background information on whale watching will be given. Research experience that will be gained includes sighting data recording, behavioural sampling, photo identification and others.
Science applied in conservation
Moreover, the research is embedded in conservation efforts aiming at the preservation and promotion of whale watching as a sustainable use of cetaceans and the establishment of a marine sanctuary in the waters off La Gomera. M.E.E.R. La Gomera was honoured in 2001 with the international environmental award “Tourismus und Umwelt”, which is granted since 1987 by the German Association of Travel Agencies and Travel Operators (DRV). As was stated during the bestowal, the project “realises new ways of co-operation of research and tourism in an exemplary and innovative way”.
Additional information & booking
Download detailed information brochure (PDF)
Here is what participants said after the course:
„Wonderful, amazing, fantastic experience“
„The feeling when you see cetaceans is so powerful and energizing“
„This was the best experience in my life!“
„You learn a lot“
„Good scientific content“
„A very special experience in a very special place!“
„I learned a lot, not only about cetaceans but also about myself“
„This kind of work can truly help to save the animals by showing the negative effects of whale watching“
„If you have interest in cetaceans and want to respect and learn something about nature, this is a good project“
„More people should learn that whale watching is more than getting as close to whales as possible“
„Good mixture of whale watching, information and simply going around with the others of the group!“
„Helping to protect the animals and learn a lot about them“
„Getting to know the behavior of real dolphins and not only what you see on TV or in waterparks“
„I had a great time and I could improve myself as a person and be more aware what is going on in the Canaries“
„Good insight into how behavioural research and an environmental project works“
„In the comfortable atmosphere of La Gomera a highly motivated and qualified team offers a good mixture of theory and practice about cetaceans, whale watching and methods. This can only be recommended to others“
„Good organization, kind and highly qualified staff“
„A unique opportunity to participate in some very interesting, novel and important research.“
„Thank you for this great experience. It was absolutely amazing!“
