Since July 20, the whale-watching season has resumed in French Polynesia, marked this year by the implementation of new regulations . While these aim to better regulate the practice and protect cetaceans, professionals in the sector, although generally in favor of these measures, express many concerns. Between unprofitable investments, logistical complexity, and fears of elitism of the activity, everyone agrees that an adjustment is necessary.
“ It's great that the regulations are evolving,” acknowledges Isabelle Klein, sports instructor and guide at Mobydick Diving in Tahiti. “ We were waiting for this, especially to limit the number of service providers in order to protect the whales, but also our business .” However, she quickly points out a major difficulty: “ The number of people allowed in the water is six, while our boat can accommodate twelve. I have to do two rotations, so I have to stay twice as long in the water, which is complicated when other boats are waiting their turn. ”
