Sotogrande / Eastern Strait of Gibraltar Conservation Programme

Interested to get to know the Eastern part of the Strait of Gibraltar and its resident species such as the Common dolphins and Bottlenose dolphins? 

Our Sotogrande Conservation Programme offers a unique opportunity to study and protect the resident common and bottlenose dolphin populations in the eastern Strait of Gibraltar and Bay of Algeciras. 

These dolphins play a vital role in the local marine ecosystem, and your efforts will contribute to their long-term conservation. 

You’ll gain in-depth knowledge about whale and dolphin species, actively contribute to raising awareness of the challenges they face, and acquire practical experience working alongside the WeWhale team.

Highlights

  • Participate in our observation and monitoring trips to track dolphin activity, identify individuals, and document social behaviour.
  • Assist with photo-ID, cataloguing, and behavioural data collection, including recording vocalizations through hydrophone technology.
  • Document environmental impacts such as boat traffic, noise pollution, illegal fishing activity and water quality in order to understand how these factors affect dolphin health and behaviour.
  • Engage in public education efforts, providing insights into the importance of sustainable marine tourism and its effect on the local dolphin populations.

What will you be doing on the programme?

During the Sotogrande Conservation Programme, your tasks will vary day by day but may include:

  • Assisting our on-site crew (captain and biologist) in daily operations.
  • Searching for and documenting dolphins through photography, video, and hydrophone recordings.
  • Analysing data, including photo ID and acoustic recordings; bring your laptop for this.
  • Educating guests about the importance of dolphins and whales to our planet.
  • Creating social media content
  • Promoting responsible whale and dolphin watching practices to boaters and the public.

Note: You will be either every day out at sea or every two days, depending on the allocation of sea based and land-based activities (apart from Saturday and Sunday, as both days are our resting days) for 7-8 hours. So, you should be aware that if you experience seasickness, this programme might not be suitable for you.   

What’s included?

  • Trips/Expeditions (3-5 times per week) for dolphin and marine life observation and data collection.
  • Accommodation in the Sotogrande Ocean House.
  • Drinks during fieldwork days.
  • Training in dolphin monitoring techniques and data analysis.
  • Training in public outreach speeches to inform about the importance of whales and dolphins.

This programme is open from March to November and can be started on any specific date (subject to availability).

This is a paid programme – out of the fee, 7.5% is allocated to the work of WeWhale Association.

Price available on request – get in touch with us to find out more and to apply.

Sotogrande Ocean Flat