The sixth edition of the High Quality Whale Watching® (HQWW®) training and certification course has successfully concluded. This initiative is dedicated to professionals in the sector who aim to combine tourism activities with the protection of the marine environment. This year’s edition, funded by the Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano and organized in collaboration with CIMA Research Foundation, took place on April 3-4 in hybrid format, welcoming participants from all over Italy both online and in person at the Park’s headquarters in Enfola, Portoferraio.

The High Quality Whale Watching® label, registered by ACCOBAMS and promoted together with the Pelagos Agreement, is now the benchmark for those who want to operate in the field of whale watching with full respect for animals and the environment. In Italy, the certification is entrusted to Fondazione CIMA, the only accredited body since 2019, which continues to support the development of a trained and conscious operator network.

This edition involved 28 people from 12 companies connected online, while 12 professionals from 4 local operators attended the course in person on Elba Island. At the end of the training, 7 new operators from 4 different regions obtained HQWW® certification, bringing the total to 25 certified operators across 9 Italian regions. A significant result that highlights the growing commitment to more ethical and sustainable marine tourism.

An educational experience, beyond tourism

Whale watching continues to grow in popularity, attracting visitors from all over the world intrigued by the chance to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. However, to ensure this activity is truly sustainable, it is essential to rely on certified professionals who follow a strict and respectful code of conduct. The HQWW® training goes beyond cetacean observation: it promotes a broader understanding of the marine ecosystem, highlighting overall biodiversity—from pelagic fish to seabirds and sea turtles.

Choosing HQWW® certified operators means opting for tourism that respects the environment, supports science, and contributes to the growth of the blue economy. The label is not only a mark of quality, but also an awareness-raising tool that transforms every excursion into an educational opportunity to discover, understand, and protect the sea.

The Pelagos Sanctuary renews its support for all organizations committed to promoting good practices and training industry professionals, with the shared goal of safeguarding marine mammals and their habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for our Mediterranean.