Whale Watch West Cork

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours with Whale Watch West Cork

Whale and dolphin watching from Baltimore, West Cork with Ireland’s premier whale watch operator and marine zoologist, Nic Slocum. Come aboard the purpose built whale watching boat Voyager and enjoy the whales, dolphins and porpoises that make the clear Atlantic waters off West Cork their home. Visit the rugged and remote cliffs and headlands of Ireland’s most southerly communities dotted with the castles of the old clan chiefs of Carbery. Marvel at the sheer variety of marine wildlife from birds to basking sharks and sunfish to seals set amid some of the most stunning coastal scenery Ireland has to offer.

About our Captain, Nic Slocum

Nic has been watching marine mammals around the UK and Irish coast from boats for nearly 25 years. During that time he has recorded over 10 species of cetaceans along the Irish south coast from Waterford to West Cork. Committed to the sustainable development of marine tourism and the conservation of West Cork's marine wildlife, Nic started offering whale and dolphin watching tours during the early part of 2005 growing rapidly to become, as many claim, Ireland's leading whale and dolphin watch operator.

Education and Conservation

Tours conducted by Whale Watch West Cork are always oriented towards education with a strong conservation message and we are the ONLY whale watch operator in West Cork to have a qualified zoologist available and information sheets on EVERY trip. With state-of-the-art hydrophone and camera equipment available onboard along with our detailed interactive commentaries we create an informative and educational experience throughout the tour that few other operators are able to recreate. Whale Watch West Cork is the only marine tour operator in West Cork dedicated solely to whale and dolphin watching.

Accreditation and No Trace Policy

Whale Watch West Cork is committed to an accreditation protocol, which dictates that all boat operators should be properly trained to conduct marine wildlife tours in order to maximize the viewing opportunities for customers and minimize pressure on the animals and habitats being viewed. We will never pressurise wildlife and operate a "no trace" policy - we take only pictures and leave only our wake.

Responsible Whale and Dolphin Watching

Whale Watch West Cork is a "RESPONSIBLE" whale and dolphin watch operator. Whale Watch West Cork has conducted an assessment of both statutory and voluntary guidelines and codes of conduct around the globe and reviewed the findings of our own research. As a result we have developed a code of conduct which includes what is considered to be a minimum requirement for the interaction of boats and cetaceans at the species level in Irish waters. Our code of conduct may be viewed on our website www.whalewatchwestcork.com

Safety Policy

Our safety policy is based on the Irish Department of Marine safety code for passenger boat operations at sea. We voluntarily EXCEED the legal requirement for safety equipment. All our boats are fully licensed by the DoM and have the latest safety equipment including lifejackets for all passengers and crew. There is a full safety briefing prior to every departure.

Summary

Whale Watch West Cork is dedicated to providing our customers with a safe, comfortable and educational whale and dolphin watching experience. We seek to impart detailed knowledge on the marine mammals and other wildlife we encounter and on the wider issues of marine conservation through informed commentary with special emphasis on the current threats facing these unique animals and their fragile environment.

Enquiries and Bookings

Enquiries and bookings may be made by email or telephone or through the enquiry form on our website www.whalewatchwestcork.com

Facilities

Opening Months: April - December

Opening Times:Daily: 8.00am - 9.00pm

Method of Payment: Cash

Cost: 4 hour tour: €50 per person

Pre Booking Required: Essential

Group Size Allowed: Any group size catered for

Guides Available: Qualified marine zoologist on all tours

Information Sheets: Available on all tours

Ages Catered For: Suitable for all age groups

Level of Experience Required: None

Refreshments / Drinks Available: Yes

Toilet Facilities: Yes

On Site Facilities: Car Park, Small Supermarket, Children’s Play Area