Pacific Whale Foundation Founder and President, Plus Research Director and Research Team, to Lead Special VIP Whalewatch on March 28

Tickets Now Available at Pacific Whale Foundation

Ma’alaea, HI – A special whalewatch, led by Pacific Whale Foundation Founder and Executive Director Greg Kaufman, Research Director Dr. Kristen Jule, and members of Pacific Whale Foundation’s research team, will take place on Sunday, March 28 at 11:30 a.m. from Lahaina Harbor. Whale enthusiasts interested in learning from the experts firsthand are invited to join Pacific Whale Foundation for this special cruise. 

Renowned whale researcher and conservationist Greg Kaufman has studied humpback whales throughout the Pacific for more than 30 years. He has been a leader in the marine conservation field, and helped establish legislation for marine life protection in Hawaii and around the world. His research and passion have helped establish marine sanctuaries to protect humpback whales from extinction. He founded Pacific Whale Foundation, Maui’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to protecting whales and their habitats, in 1980, and is the author of four books about whales. In 2009 he completed the largest single season humpback whale research effort ever undertaken in eastern Australia.

Dr. Kristen Jule holds a Ph.D. in animal behavior from the University of Exeter in the UK. Her research has focused on the conservation and restoration of threatened and endangered species. She has published articles in numerous peer-reviewed journals and been featured in magazines such as National Geographic and Discover. At present, Dr. Jule and the research team are working on ongoing odontocete (toothed whale) identification projects and investigations into management of humpback whales in Hawaii, as well as working towards publishing results of Pacific Whale Foundation’s long-term research projects.

“This VIP Whalewatch is a ‘can’t miss’ event for whale enthusiasts of all ages,” says Diana Bergantino, Pacific Whale Foundation’s Director of Operations and Customer Services. “It’s a chance to get out on the water in the company of leading experts on humpback whales. Where else can you learn about the latest research and findings on humpbacks and hear about 30 years of experience with whales, while watching the dynamic behaviors of these amazing animals in the field?”

Participants will receive a free, autographed copy of Kaufman’s 2009 book, “Humpbacks of Hawaii: The Long Journey Back,” as well as complimentary whale posters and color whalewatch guides. Whale sightings are guaranteed on this trip, or you go again for free.

Check in time for this two-hour cruise is 10:45 a.m. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

The price is $49.95 for adults and $34.95 for children ages 7 to 12. Children ages 6 and under are free.

For reservations, call 249-8811 ext. 1. You can also register online (and receive special internet discounts) at www.pacificwhale.org/mauiecocruises.