How should you prepare for your whale watching trip?

Watching cetaceans at sea is a rare and often unforgettable experience. For it to be as comfortable as it is respectful of marine wildlife, careful preparation is needed. Here are the essential points to know before boarding.

What clothing to wear at sea?

At sea, the temperature can drop by 10 to 15°C compared with land. Suitable clothing is therefore essential to enjoy the watching without discomfort.

Type of clothing Recommendation Why
Base layer T-shirt or thermal underlayer Basic thermal regulation
Mid layer Fleece or sweatshirt Insulation against the cold
Outer layer Waterproof and windproof jacket Protection from spray and wind
Trousers Long and thick Protection from damp and wind
Footwear Closed shoes with non-slip soles Safety on deck

Recommended accessories:

  • Environmentally friendly sunscreen (SPF 50 minimum)
  • Polarised sunglasses
  • Hat or cap with a retaining strap
  • Gloves for cool mornings

What equipment for watching cetaceans well?

Recommended marine binoculars

  • Magnification between 8x and 10x
  • Non-slip, with quick focusing
  • Spray-proof

Photography at sea: useful settings

Setting Recommended value Why
Shutter speed 1/1600 to 1/2000 s To freeze movement
Fashion Continuous / burst mode To increase the chances of a good frame
Focus AF-C (continuous autofocus) To follow animals on the move
Lens 70-300 mm minimum Makes up for the watching distance
ISO Auto (with an upper limit) Adapts to the light

Tip: stand on the starboard quarter for a clear space and better stability.

How to prevent seasickness?

Medicines and natural methods

  • Antihistamines (Dramamine®, Bonine®)
  • Ginger, in capsules or as an infusion
  • Acupressure bands
  • Anti-nausea patches

Recommended places on board

  • Midships: the most stable area
  • Avoid the bow: movement is amplified

Behavioural advice: fix your eyes on the horizon, avoid screens, breathe slowly, stay outside.

What to eat beforehand

  • Favour: light meals, water, crackers
  • Avoid: fatty food, alcohol, coffee

What to take with you before leaving?

Personal organisation

  • Arrive 30 minutes before departure
  • Bring cash and photocopies of your documents
  • Bring prescriptions if you are on medication

Contents of the dry bag

  • Phone and charger
  • Camera + SD cards + batteries
  • Personal medication
  • Snacks, water, a flask

Which rules should you follow to protect the cetaceans?

Regulatory minimum distances

  • 100 m for adults
  • 300 m for a mother with her calf
  • Approach from the rear quarter, at a maximum angle of 30°
  • Speed < 5 knots when animals are present

Conduct on board

  • Keep quiet
  • Avoid sudden movements
  • Share the watching space
  • Follow the naturalist guide’s instructions

Recognising stress in cetaceans

  • Sudden changes of direction
  • Repeated or agitated dives
  • Lobtailing, forceful blows

“Respecting the distances and the animals’ behaviour guarantees a sustainable experience for everyone.”

How to reduce your environmental impact?

  • Use an ocean-friendly sunscreen
  • Bring a reusable bottle and reusable containers
  • Never throw anything into the sea
  • Limit watching of any one group to 30 minutes

A successful whale watching trip rests on three pillars: planning, responsibility and wonder.