My Ecotourism Adventure in Nice: A Journey with Shelltone Whale Project

Ecotourism has always been a passion of mine, and my recent trip to Nice was nothing short of magical. I had the incredible opportunity to join the Shelltone Whale Project, a foundation dedicated to the conservation and study of marine life. This experience not only deepened my love for the ocean but also reinforced the importance of supporting non-profit organizations that work tirelessly to protect our environment.

During my adventure, I was fortunate enough to witness a cachalot whale in its natural habitat. The experience was surreal as I got to hear the whale thanks to the amazing crew of the Shelltone Whale Project. Although I couldn't capture a video of this majestic creature, the memory will forever be etched in my mind. It served as a powerful reminder of why we must continue to support such activities and return to these beautiful places.

In addition to the cachalot whale, I also had the pleasure of watching striped dolphins playfully swimming around. As a scuba diver, moments like these are incredibly special and reinforce my commitment to environmental causes. The joy and wonder of seeing these marine animals up close are experiences that words can hardly describe.

For those interested in learning more about the Shelltone Whale Project and their incredible work, I highly recommend visiting their website for more information: https://www.shelltonewhaleproject.org/en/. This foundation is a shining example of how non-profit organizations can make a significant impact on marine conservation. By supporting these foundations, we contribute to the preservation of our oceans and the protection of the diverse species that inhabit them.

Types of Whales and Dolphins in the Pelagos Sanctuary

The Pelagos Sanctuary, a marine protected area in the Mediterranean Sea, is home to a variety of whale and dolphin species. Here are some of the incredible marine animals you might encounter:

Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus)

• Length: 18-22 meters

• Weight: 30-80 tons

• Characteristics: The second largest whale species, fin whales have a streamlined body and a prominent dorsal fin. They are known for their speed and grace in the water.

  
  

Cachalot Whale (Physeter macrocephalus)

• Length: 11-18 meters

• Weight: 20-57 tons

• Characteristics: The largest toothed predator, cachalot whales have a distinctive square-shaped head and are deep divers, often reaching depths of over 1,000 meters.

  
  

Cuvier’s Beaked Whale (Ziphius cavirostris)

• Length: 5.5-7 meters

• Weight: 2-3 tons

• Characteristics: These whales have a robust body and a small dorsal fin located far back on their body. They are known for their elusive nature and deep diving capabilities.

  
  

Risso’s Dolphin (Grampus griseus)

• Length: 2.6-4 meters

• Weight: 300-500 kilograms

• Characteristics: Risso’s dolphins have a bulbous head and heavily scarred skin, which is a result of social interactions. They also have a tall dorsal fin.

  
  

Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba)

• Length: 1.8-2.6 meters

• Weight: 90-150 kilograms

• Characteristics: These dolphins have a slender body and distinctive stripes along their sides, making them easily recognizable.

  
  

Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

• Length: 2.5-3.8 meters

• Weight: 200-500 kilograms

• Characteristics: Known for their robust body, short beak, and curved dorsal fin, bottlenose dolphins are one of the most well-known dolphin species.

  
  

Long-finned Pilot Whale (Globicephala melas)

• Length: 4-6 meters

• Weight: 1-3 tons

• Characteristics: These whales have a large bulbous forehead and long pectoral fins. They are highly social animals, often found in large pods.

  
  

The Importance of Supporting Non-Profit Foundations

My ecotourism journey in Nice was an unforgettable experience that highlighted the beauty of marine life and the importance of conservation efforts. Non-profit organizations like the Shelltone Whale Project play a crucial role in safeguarding our planet for future generations. By supporting these foundations, we contribute to the preservation of our oceans and the protection of the diverse species that inhabit them.

I encourage everyone to support non-profit organizations like the Shelltone Whale Project, as they play a crucial role in safeguarding our planet for future generations. Let's continue to cherish and protect our environment, one adventure at a time.