THE PWF DIFFERENCE PacWhale Eco Adventure is a world leader in marine ecotourism. Since 1980, we've carried more than 3.5 million guests on our ocean ecotours. Trip Advisor, Yelp, guidebooks and travel writers give our Eco-Adventure cruises rave reviews. But Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures is not your ordinary cruise company. All Profits Support Pacific Whale Foundation: When you buy a ticket on an eco-adventure cruise, you know your money is supporting Pacific Whale Foundation's work to protect our oceans through science and advocacy. Since 1980, we've raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support marine research, education and conservation programs on behalf of the ocean. Driven by Science, Based on Research: Early pioneers in non-invasive whale research, Pacific Whale Foundation is recognized today for our decades of marine research, including studies of coral reefs, wild dolphins, toothed whales and humpback whales. When you cruise with us, you'll get the latest facts and findings about marine life. We gather data about the wildlife we encounter on all of our trips. On some of our cruises, we have a researcher on board, gathering additional data for our studies. Boats to Boast About: We have invested in the most modern and environmentally-sound catamarans on Maui. Our vessels feature SmoothCat technology for an ultra-comfortable ride and run on energy-efficient, low-emissions engines. Pacific Whale Foundation developed and outfitted all of our vessels with whale protection devices, the first devices in the world for commercial vessels that guide whales away from propellers and running gear. Our People Make the Difference: Every Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventure cruise is led by a team of Certified Marine Naturalists, all of whom hold graduate or undergraduate degrees in marine biology, ecology or related sciences. In addition, our staff must complete our rigorous certification program, which includes testing their knowledge about Hawaii's marine environment, local geography and culture, their presentation skills and Red Cross CPR, First Aid and Lifesaving Certifications. Protecting the Environment: Pacific Whale Foundation is recognized worldwide as an ecotourism leader. Whether it be using bio-compostable plates, cups and utensils; sourcing locally grown fruits, vegetables and meats for our trips to reduce our carbon footprint, or leading the charge by establishing a strict wildlife watching code, it is our mission to be advocates for marine life, the ocean, and the planet. Ideal for Families and Beginners: If you've never been on a boat, or used a snorkel, don't worry. Our will provide the equipment, instruction, support and encouragement to help you feel 100% comfortable with the ocean. For kids, we offer a FREE Junior Naturalist Program on our cruises. Safety is Important to Us: When it comes to our guests' safety, Pacific Whale Foundation prides itself on not only meeting, but exceeding all industry standards. For example, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requires two to three crew per vessel and that half are CPR and First Aid certified. On our Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-adventures, you will see up to seven crew members per cruises, all of whom are certified in CPR at the professional level (for treating adults, infants and children). They are also certified in first aid and oxygen administration. Our first aid kits on each vessel are extremely well-stocked, with multiple oxygen set-ups, backboards, neck-braces, and complete AED (defibrillator) set-ups. The State of Hawai'i has no specific standard when it comes to certified lifeguards on vessels, but at Pacific Whale Foundation, all crew members on snorkel trips are lifeguard certified. We also offer our guests multiple (free) options for flotation devices, and our crew offers a brief 'snorkel 101 class' for those who want a refresher or an introduction to snorkeling. Pacific Whale Foundation employs a USCG licensed Maritime Safety Coordinator who conducts in-house American Red Cross certifications, safety drills and trainings and oversees all safety aspects to insure our guests receive the most safe and comfortable cruise as possible.