Journal article
Wildlife tourism: The psychological benefits of whale watching
Pacific Tourism Review, Vol.2(3/4), pp.199-213
01/01/1998
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Abstract
Since 1990, there has been a dramatic growth in the whale watching industry worldwide. It has generated millions of dollars in revenue for the tourism industry. There are also many visitor benefits associated with experiencing whales from close proximity, resulting in high satisfaction levels. This article reports the findings of a case study conducted in 1995 of one operator offering whale watch trips in Hervey Bay, Queensland. The study incorporates psychological and social psychological concepts of human behavior to understand the human dimension of whale watching, with a focus on the benefits recognized from the experience of viewing whales in their natural habitat. The methodology involved self-completed questionnaires and a detailed observational checklist, which was completed for each boat trip. Major findings include significant gender differences in overall satisfaction level and in the benefits realized from the experience. On-site factors significantly influencing satisfaction level relate to the intensity of the whale encounter (e.g., high level of activity, proximity to boat, and long surface intervals). Recommendations include marketing on the basis of these gender differences and key visitor benefits, including the importance of whale watching regulations. The findings of this study reinforce the tension between satisfying the tourist and protecting wildlife, while managing the natural resource base.
Details
- Title
- Wildlife tourism: The psychological benefits of whale watching
- Creators
- Sue Muloin (Author) - University of Newcastle Australia
- Publication Details
- Pacific Tourism Review, Vol.2(3/4), pp.199-213
- Publisher
- Cognizant Communication Corporation
- Identifiers
- 991013233513302368
- Academic Unit
- SCU College
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article