Short Marine Mammal Courses 2008

Our two-day Marine Mammal Course is the perfect introduction to whale, dolphin and porpoise research.

HWDT's Marine Mammal Course combines practical presentations and discussions on marine mammal biology, ecology and conservation with hands-on fieldwork experience onboard our research yacht Silurian.

The course is lead by HWDT's knowledgeable and enthusiastic research team, Science Director Dr. Peter Stevick, Biodiversity Officer, Susannah Calderan and Sightings Officer, Laura Mandleberg.

You don't need any in-depth prior knowledge of whales, dolphins and porpoises to join the course – just a genuine enthusiasm to learn and get involved.

Dates:

The dates for our 2008 Marine Mammal Courses are as follows:

April 11th - April 13th   FULL

April 25th - April 27th   FULL

Course Schedule:

Day 1

PM

Evening arrival and introductory presentation on the local marine area and marine mammal species

Day 2

AM 

Introduction to research techniques

Survey day at sea to learn, discuss and apply cetacean monitoring techniques

PM

Discussion on how survey data are used

Day 3

AM

Presentations covering cetacean biology, anatomy, ecology and behaviour

Lunchtime

Interactive discussion of a specific research project

PM

Presentation on conservation and anthropogenic impacts

Please note:

This course is for anyone with an interest in cetacean research. It is not a whale watching trip. If you want to see whales, dolphins or porpoises, please go to our 'whales and dolphins' website section and look at our 'Go Whale Watching!' page for whale watching companies. On our survey day on our research vessel, we hope to record sightings, but this is not guaranteed. The likelihood of seeing cetaceans depends on the weather and distribution of the species, which we have no control over. So, please consider what you would like to get out of the course before booking on it.

Group Size:

Maximum of 9 people

Suitability:

The course is aimed at all who have an interest in marine life and wish to know more. Unfortunately this particular course is not suitable for children. All persons should aged over 18.

We have an education officer and a scientific officer who will be present for the entire course. One day is planned to be on board our yacht 'Silurian' and here, a qualified skipper is present who can help those with an interest in sailing.

Please note that our survey vessel is not equipped for wheelchairs, and is not suitable if you have poor balance or require assistance to stand. Participants must be over 18. When onboard our survey vessel, our qualified skipper and crew will ensure the safety of all

participants.

Accommodation:

We ask that participants organise their own accomodation whilst staying on Mull.  As a popular tourist destination Tobermory plays host to a varied range of accomodation types; from self-catering cottages to upmarket hotels - something to suit all needs.

A good website can be found at www.holidaymull.co.uk for accomodation needs on the Island. Or you can contact the Scottish Tourist Board or HWDT for more information

Food:

We provide lunch on the day on board Silurian, but all other meals are the responsibility of participants.

Cost:

The 2 day, 3 night course is:

£150 per person

Note: HWDT members will recieve a 10% discount on this course.  To find out more about becoming a member click here.

How to Book a Space:

Please e-mail Morven Summers to reserve a place or phone us on 01688 302620 for a booking form and further information.