Over 200 permits for whale watching tours are set to be issued to operators in the Bahía de Banderas region for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. The permits will be distributed on December 8th, marking the official start of the whale watching season.
To ensure the safety and protection of both the whales and tourists, the Mexican government, in collaboration with the Grupo de Investigación de Mamíferos Marinos (GRIMMA), conducted a series of training courses for tour operators in Bahía de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta. These courses covered topics such as wildlife management, regulations, climate change impacts on marine mammals, and the economic importance of responsible whale watching.
The training is mandatory for all operators seeking permits from the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). By adhering to strict guidelines outlined in the Official Mexican Standard NOM-131, the government aims to protect these majestic creatures and their habitats.
Source: Contralinea
