1. Whale Sanctuary:
- In 1986, the Dominican government declared the waters around Samaná Bay as the "Santuario de Mamíferos Marinos Estero Hondo" or the Marine Mammals Sanctuary of Estero Hondo. This designation provides legal protection to the whales and their habitat within the sanctuary.
2. Regulation of Whale-Watching Activities:
- Strict regulations are in place for whale-watching tour operators in Samaná. These regulations are aimed at minimizing disturbance and stress to the whales.
- The number of boats allowed in the whale-watching area is limited to ensure that there are no overcrowding situations.
- Boats are required to maintain a safe distance from the whales and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
- Feeding or attempting to touch the whales is strictly prohibited.
- Whale-watching tours are only allowed during specific hours to minimize the impact on the whales' behavior.
3. Enforcement and Monitoring:
- The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with local authorities, regularly patrols the whale-watching area to ensure compliance with the regulations.
- Penalties, including fines and license revocations, are in place for violations of whale-watching regulations.
4. Whale Conservation Education:
- Educational programs are conducted for tour operators, boat captains, local communities, and tourists to raise awareness about the importance of whale conservation.
- These programs emphasize the significance of responsible whale-watching practices and sustainable tourism practices.
5. Research and Monitoring:
- Scientists and researchers conduct studies on the humpback whale population in Samaná.
- This research aids in understanding the whales' behavior, migration patterns, and potential threats they face, which informs conservation and management strategies.
6. Community Engagement:
- Local communities are actively involved in whale conservation efforts in Samaná.
- Job opportunities related to whale-watching tourism provide incentives for locals to protect the whales.
7. International Cooperation:
- The Dominican Republic collaborates with international organizations focused on marine conservation, such as the International Whaling Commission (IWC), to share knowledge and expertise in whale conservation.
These combined efforts have contributed to the successful protection of humpback whales in Samaná Bay and have allowed for responsible whale-watching activities, promoting the coexistence of whales and humans in this unique ecosystem.