Whales in Paradise director Anthony Ardern, gives some insight into the 2010 Whale watching season

Describe your plans for this year’s whale watching season

1. Whales in Paradise’s plan’s to continue with its 100% daily sightings record.  The only company to have seen whales on every day of operation.
2. Throughout the off season we have invested heavily in crew training, whale spotting techniques and whale education to ensure the best quality whale watch experience for customers this season.
3. As part of the companies successful growth we have also added a second vessel to Whales in Paradises fleet now making Whales in Paradise the largest whale watching company on the Gold Coast. The new vessel is a 20 passenger Rigid Inflatable targeting those interested in a slightly more exciting whale watch experience.  This vessel travels at speed of up to 40knots getting you to the whales faster and it’s open air water level viewing deck will ensure the closest of encounters. This tour will be seen in the market place branded as Adventure Whale watch

Have you made any changes to your vessels or itineraries?

1. Whales in Paradise- Mahi Mahi our 70 passenger catamaran will still be operating its usual 2x tours daily
   1. i.     Morning Whale Watch 9:00am – 12:30pm
   2. ii.     Sunset Whale Watch 2:00pm – 5:30pm
2. Adventure Whale Watch – Reef Ryder
   1. i.     Sunrise Whale Watch 7:30am – 10:30am
   2. ii.     Midday Whale Watch  11:00am-2:00pm
   3. iii.     Afternoon Whale Watch 2:30pm-5:30pm

Do you limit passenger numbers on these trips?

1. Whales in Paradiselimits all passenger numbers to ensure Small Groups and personalised service for all it’s customers
   1. i.     Whales in Paradise – Mahi Mhai – 69 passengers
   2. ii.     Adventure Whale Watch – Reef Ryder – 12 passengers

Is your vessel fitted with a hydrophone and on-board speakers to hear the whales’ songs?

1. All of our vessel are fitted with a state of the audio systems to deliver the best possible commentary and to play whale sounds via a CD
2. In our experience hydrophones are not beneficial as they are an underwater microphone and pickup all underwater noise eg. Boat engines, water slapping the hull etc.
3. We have found that conditions are only good enough for hydrophone usage on a maximum of 20% of the tours conducted.

Do you guarantee sighting a whale each trip? b) What happens if you don’t?

1. We guarantee whales on every cruise.
2. Whales in Paradise have a 100% daily sightings record and in the unlikely event you do not see a whale we offer a return tour free of charge.

How inquisitive are adult and calf whales? Do they swim up to the vessel?

1. Whales are extremely inquisitive animals a very similar trait to humans.
2. If a whale hears a noise coming from the surface more often than no they will come over for a closer look.
3. Their eyes are about the size of a Grapefruit and can see above and below the water.  So if they come close make sure you wave your arms… you may even get a wave back

Have there been instances where passengers have touched whales?

1. In some instance whales will come close enough to touch however unfortunately it’s illegal to touch a whale.

How would you describe the passenger’s feelings after encountering whales?

1. Passengers feel a range of emotions.  Mostly passengers are just in ore of their huge size, gentle nature, grace and human characteristics.
2. I have even seen grown men cry on more than one occasion

Have you seen instances of mothers feeding their calves?

1. No.  As a responsible operator we give mother and calf’s distance and treat them with respect.  It’s very important that mother and calf bond with limited interruption for the calf successful growth.

What is your most unique or memorable experience?

1. Our engines were off and the whale was what we call mugging the boat. The whale was lying motionless across the back of the vessel with its head hanging 2m of one side of the vessel and the tip of its tail 10m off the other side of the vessel.  As passenger were waving their arms you could see the whales Eye’s moving to look at different people on board the boat.
2. Another great experience that happens quite often is when a whale breathes on you.  When it expelles air from its lungs next to the vessel the air will become moist and smell slightly fishy.  It’s very special to have a whale breath on you.

What changes about the whales have you observed over the years?

1. The concentration of whales’ increase every year making them easier to find.
2. Also as all the whales have grown up knowing boats as being friendly they are coming closer and closer to the whale watch boats every year.

What changes have you noticed in the industry?

1. Whale watch operator have better on board education, better trained staff and better vessels.
2. Make sure you spend the money on a quality whale watch experience.  You definitely get what you pay.

How would you rank this area as a whale watching destination, and why?

1. The Gold Coast is definitely fast becoming recognised as the world premier whale watch destination.  It has typically calm clear crystal waters and approximately 12,500 humpbacks passing by every 2.5 months between June – November.
2. Once you get off the whale watch tour there are great sandy beaches, restaurants, bars and other attraction to keep you entertained.  The best place to find other things to see and do on the Gold Coast is to visit – www.experienceoz.com.au