Getting More Businesslike with Whale Watching: Lessons Learned from Business Organizational Culture to Support Effective Cetacean Tourism Management

Abstract

The foundational research findings in cetacean tourism (whale watching, swim-with-cetacean tourism and in dolphinaria) remain consistent and abundant - science indicates the industry is not as benign as many would suggest with a multitude of studies showing impacts upon cetacean populations (see reviews in Gleason & Parsons, 2019; Gray, Machernis et al., 2018; Schuler & Parsons 2022; Parsons 2012; Parsons & Brown, 2017, 2018; Parsons & Scarpaci, 2010, 2016; Parsons & Smith, 2018; Parsons, Lewandowski, & Lück, 2006; Parsons, Lück, & Lewandowski, 2006; Scarpaci, Parsons, & Lück, 2008a, 2008b; Scarpaci & Parsons, 2012a, 2012b,2, 2014, 2015) as summarised in Table One. Moreover, management strategies implemented to mitigate risk of harm to target species are generally non-effective due to absence of statutory regulation, low compliance with guidelines, and lack of enforcement of regulations (Amerson & Parsons, 2018; Cunningham-Smith et al., 2006; Higham et al., 2009; Kessler & Harcourt, 2013, Scarpaci, Nugegoda & Corkeron, 2003). Research demonstrates threats from activities frequently outweighing the conservation benefits – if any – that accrue. Frequently there are poor levels of education on vessels, and consequently a low likelihood that tourists become more biocentric or conservation-minded, or participate in conservation activities (Gleason & Parsons, 2018).<br><br>This commentary is intended to spark discussion and bring some concepts from successful business management into a discussion of cetacean tourism management. Specifically, it explored the concepts of: (a) vision; (b) risk culture; and (c) stakeholder motivations, as drivers that may influence whether cetacean tourism management strategies are implemented effectively. This is an important conversation, as the intention of management strategies are to reduce risk of harm to cetaceans and improve the sustainability of the industry. This paper will also consider the roles of key stakeholders (scientists, wildlife managers and tourism operators) and the potential ideological and cultural divides between them, with the intention to broaden the thinking on how to better achieve sustainable cetacean tourism.