WILD MARINE WILDLIFE
Marine wildlife includes all animals and plants that live in saltwater habitats such as oceans, seas, and estuaries.
Exploring life underwater feels like entering a whole different world. With the right choice of tour, it is possible to admire these animals ethically in their natural habitat with a positive conservation impact.
TOP MARINE WILDLIFE-SEEING ETHICAL EXPERIENCES
SNORKEL IN JELLYFISH LAKE
Jellyfish Lake in Palau is a unique destination, offering a chance to swim with millions of harmless jellyfish in a natural lagoon.
GO FOR A DIP WITH MANATEES
Manatees are an iconic species of Florida and are often seen in warm shallow waters such as springs, rivers and coastal areas, with an estimated 6 000 individuals.
SWIM WITH SEA LIONS
Swimming with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands is a truly unique experience. These friendly and playful creatures often come right up to visitors, providing an unforgettable encounter.
EXPLORE A CORAL REEF
Snorkelling in a coral reef is an incredible experience, offering the chance to explore the vibrant colours and diverse marine life of the reef.
JOIN A WHALE-WATCHING TOUR
Observing majestic cetaceans in their natural habitat can be done in several locations such as Iceland, the Azores, Mexico, New Zealand and South Africa to name a few.
ALL MARINE WILDLIFE BLOG ARTICLES & ETHICAL TOURS RECOMMENDATIONS
SEALS
Seals are marine mammals that are found in the cold waters of the Arctic and Antarctic regions, as well as in temperate waters around the world. Seals have four flippers, a streamlined body and a layer of blubber to keep them warm in cold water. They are excellent swimmers and can stay underwater for up to two minutes.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Pinnipedia
IUCN STATUS
Variable
RANGE
North Atlantic, North Pacific, Southern Ocean
Featured articles ON SEALS >>
WHALES
Whales are some of the most majestic and powerful creatures in the animal kingdom and have been around for millions of years. There are around 90 different species, including the blue whale, the largest animal on Earth. They can be found all over the world in different habitats, such as the open ocean, shallow coastal waters, and the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Mysticeti and Odontoceti parvorders
IUCN STATUS
Variable
RANGE
Worldwide
Featured articles ON WHALES >>
DOLPHINS
Dolphins are one of the most beloved and intelligent animals on earth. They are found in every ocean and are the most social of all aquatic mammals, forming strong bonds with their family, friends, and even humans.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Delphinidae (Oceanic dolphins)
IUCN STATUS
Variable
RANGE
Worldwide
FISHES
From silent predators to colourful coral dwellers, fishes provide an opportunity to explore the wonders of the underwater world. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, and they inhabit every ocean, lake, and river on the planet.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Chondrichthyes (Cartilaginous fishes), Osteichthyes (Bony fishes)
IUCN STATUS
Variable
RANGE
Worldwide
SIRENIANS
Sirenians are an unique group of aquatic mammals that include the manatees and the dugongs. They are also sometimes known as sea cows due to their slow, grazing lifestyle. These animals are found in warm, shallow coastal waters in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are herbivores, feeding on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Sirenia
IUCN STATUS
Vulnerable
RANGE
Central America, Amazonia, Africa, Pacific Ocean