1) Raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental and social climate.  Monterey Bay is a small part of one of thirteen national marine sanctuaries throughout the U.S. A National Marine Sanctuary is federally protected area as designated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS) encompasses a shoreline length of 276 miles and 5,322 square miles of ocean along the Central California coast. Supporting one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems, it is home to numerous mammals, seabirds, fishes, invertebrates and plants in a remarkably productive coastal environment.

2) Minimizes Impact.  How we are minimizing our impact:

1. By extending the trip length we reduce the amount of trips going out into the marine sanctuary
2. Longer trips allow for approaching animals in a slower, more respectful manner. This will minimize the impact the boats presence will have on the animals’ behavior, decreasing the amount of evasive and avoidance behaviors.
3. Our ecotour is designed to decrease the amount of emissions released in the atmosphere, As well we are working on moving towards biodiesel fuels which will burn cleaner and be better for the environment.
4. Passengers will be educated on the importance of keeping their trash properly contained (in appropriate receptacles to keep from blowing off the boat), as well as alerting crew when they observe trash already in the ocean to be picked up.
5. We use recycled products when possible. Our trash bags, toilet paper and paper towels are made from post-consumer waste to minimize our impact. As well, our cleaning products are environmentally safe.

3) Builds environmental awareness. How we play a role:

1. The Ecotour will provide an educational experience highlighting the diversity of our oceans and the importance of the oceanic ecosystem.
2. Travelers will be provided with educational materials about the environment, history and culture of the National Marine Sanctuary and the surrounding communities, as well as guidelines for safe and appropriate whale watching.
3. Essential to good ecotourism are well-trained, naturalist guides with skills in natural and cultural history, environmental interpretation, ethical principles and effective communication.
4. Ecotour projects should also help educate members of the surrounding community, school children and the broader public.  We provide educational opportunities on the boats as well as in local communities. Monterey Bay serves as a center for many research institutes and universities, we offer free trips to individuals involved in these institutions, as well as a reduced rate for school groups.

 4) Provides direct financial benefits for conservation:  Ecotourism helps raise funds for environmental protection, research and education through a variety of mechanisms, including fundraising trips featuring local researchers, photographers and conservationists, and through voluntary contributions.

5) Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people: Conservation areas will only survive if there are happy people around their perimeters.  The local community must be involved with tangible benefits from the conservation area and its tourist facilities.  Ecotour trips work hand in hand with local governing bodies, community leaders and other tourism entities.

6) Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts: Our ecotour trip will provide an educational and fun filled experience that maintains the integrity of the national marine sanctuary, and a thorough understanding of the diversity of aquatic life found in our oceans that will give us a better insight into how our actions as human have on the environment and preserving it for future generations.

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