Whale watching in Peru: Current status and recommendations for its proper control

Abstract

Humpback whale watching activities in northern Peru have been experiencing significant growth in the recreational sector. Such activities are regulated through RM - No 451-2019-PRODUCE, which only mentions minimum distances when approaching cetaceans. In this paper, eight fundamental suggestions are proposed for improvements in whale watching activities: adequate positioning, distance and maximum number of vessels, regulating of the maximum time permitted for whale watching, reduction in speed when entering the precautionary zone, withdrawal in the opposite direction to the individual or group, and indications in the event that an entangled whale is sighted. These suggestions will benefit the conservation of the species and the sustainability of whale watching activities over time, in economic, educational and tourism terms.