Santa Barbara Channel in California was recently designated the ninth Whale Heritage Area in the world and only the second Whale Heritage Area in the United States. The Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area received this distinction thanks to its commitment to promoting responsible tourism, providing more ocean educational opportunities and supporting on-going research and conservation efforts.
© Adam Ernster, courtesy of Condor Express/Visit Santa Barbara
The Santa Barbara Channel is renowned for its rich biodiversity and thriving marine ecosystem. With more than 25 different specials of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), this region is highly important to the greater global ecosystem. The Santa Barbara Channel is home to larger great whales like blue whales, fin whales, humpback whales and the occasional orca. More than 15,000 Pacific gray whales migrate through the channel on their way to breeding grounds in Baja, Mexico, in the winter and to feeding groups in the Arctic in summer.
Now, The World Cetacean Alliance and World Animal Protection (the awarding organizations) teamed up with Santa Barbara Channel to launch a new global program: Wildlife Heritage Areas. The program serves as a larger initiative to support a coalition of responsible travel businesses with wildlife conservation.
The Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area also seeks funding support for increased educational opportunities for visitors, students and local communities to learn the value of marine conservation.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 19, 2024Aliikai Luxury Yacht Launches Expert-Crafted Sailings in Indonesia
Explore the serene and remote Banda Islands, also called the Spice Islands, with expert-crafted itineraries by Aliikai Luxury Yacht, a provider of luxury yacht experiences for exploring Indonesia's natural beauty.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Nov 19, 2024Seabourn Announces Entertainment, Speakers for Select 2025 “Seabourn Encore” Sailings
Seabourn recently announced bespoke onboard entertainment programs with star-studded performers and speakers on select 2025 Seabourn Encore sailings. In March and April 2025, three sailings offering exclusive themed entertainment and Seabourn Conversations programs include Writers & Writers, Stars & Stars and Magic Moments.
November 2024
Nov 19, 2024Explore the Beguiling Towns of Sicily’s Val di Noto
Best known to tourists for the boisterous chaos of Palermo, the views of Mount Etna from idyllic Taormina, and for that capricious volcano itself, Sicily has far more to draw travelers. In Sicily’s southeast corner, one region encapsulates the Sicilian spirit that has seen it through conquest and natural disasters, a region less well-known to tourists but one of the island’s most beautiful and fascinating.
Sponsored Content
Explore Egypt on the Most Extraordinary Tour Ever
Picture this: You’re standing in front of the Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in complete silence, with no crowds in sight. As you step inside, your guide leads you to hidden chambers inaccessible to other tourists. Here, you’re granted a rare chance to delve into the deepest mysteries of ancient Egypt.
Daily
Nov 19, 2024Explore Taú Beach Club on Your Next Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Trip
One of the best perks of staying at Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta is having exclusive access to local Taú Beach Club. Located minutes from the hotel, guests can hop in the complimentary shuttle and indulge in a day of relaxation.
Winterlights Sets Indianapolis Aglow
Daily
Nov 18, 2024LATAM Upgrades Boeing 787 Cabins
Airlines
Nov 17, 2024Airlines
Nov 16, 2024Brussels Airlines Expands Fleet, Invests in New Cabins
Brussels Airlines will grow its long-haul fleet with three new Airbus A330 aircraft, bringing its widebody fleet to 13 in the coming years. These additional aircraft comprise the airline’s greater initiative to strengthen its position in Africa following increased demand for air travel across the continent. The airline will mainly use the extra long-haul capacity to reinforce its Sub-Saharan African network, making Brussels Airlines a European hub for flights to and from Africa.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
Daily
Nov 15, 2024SLS Barcelona Opens This December
SLS Hotels & Residences makes its European debut this winter on Spain’s Mediterranean coastline in Barcelona, where the city’s excellent climate keeps winter temperatures pleasant. SLS Barcelona hits the waterside district of Port Fòrum, where a large marina is 15 minutes from city center.
ShareThis