Responsible Tourism Whale Shark Education
Whale Shark Education
There is little known about this magnificent fish and even less known about their mating habits, migration patterns and the actual living population. The objective of the Whale Shark Exploration Program is to help save this precious species and raise awareness by educating all participants about the Whale Shark in particular, by locating and observing them while identifying and taking pictures of the spot pattern on their skin. We will also see and learn about all of the local marine life indigenous to the premier dive locations in the Andaman Sea.
Wicked Diving is very proud of our broad range of educational and experiential opportunities. One of the most famous and interesting option is our annual Whale Shark and Manta Ray dive tour. This trip offers a unique experience that supports eco-tourism and combines the opportunity to search for, identify and track Whale Sharks in Thailand ‘s Andaman Sea.
Graceful, rare and mesmerizing, the Whale Shark can grow up to 12.2 meters long (although some 14m sightings have been reported), weigh upwards of 13.6 tonnes, and can live for about 70 years. The most elusive and largest fish in the sea is found in warm tropical waters and it is believed to have originated 60 million years ago. Currently listed as a vulnerable species by The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Whale Shark is frequently targeted by commercial fisheries in many regions.
Wicked Diving is founded on the belief that diving should be safe, educational and fun. You will find a different kink of diving with us. In addition to these base ideals, we respect and protect the environment we live and play in. Wicked boats use locally produced BioFuel, and while participating in activities with us you will notice that we use natural and organic materials whenever possible. These products range from 100% organic cotton linens and towels, natural body soaps and shampoo’s, and phosphate free detergents. Wicked strictly enforces no trash overboard, no fishing overboard and in the protected areas, and no touching or handling of ANY marine life what so ever. We show respect for the natural resources we all enjoy, and protect and preserve them for the next visitor to enjoy as well.
Wicked Diving offers the unique opportunity to dive with and learn more about Whale Sharks and Manta Rays in February and March of 2010.
