Whale watching tourism: recommendations to the Superagui National Park (PR, Brazil)

Abstract

Whale watching involves observing, identifying, and studying the behaviors and habitats of cetaceans. In the Superagui National Park, located on the northern coast of Paraná, this activity is mainly practiced in Baía dos Golfinhos (Peças Island). The aim of this study is to present a guidance proposal for the future regulation that will govern the observation of the Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) within the park and its surrounding areas, based on research conducted for its management plan. The methodology included in loco monitoring of the activity and conducting interviews. The park's management team should periodically assess the conditions of dolphin watching with respect to possible impacts on the species' dynamics, as well as on the fauna and flora in general; monitor and apply corrective measures necessary for environmental protection and visitor safety. The regulation must be agreed upon by the Guaraqueçaba Environmental Protection Area/ICMBio, the Superagui National Park/ICMBio, the Marine Studies Center/UFPR, and community members.