Long weekend of whale watching with WWF guide on an 18-meter schooner
Italy:
Tuscany
Duration:
3 days - 3 nights
Max number of passengers:
10 people
Available:
September
Boarding from:
Punta Ala
What's included
Cancellation policy
Organised by:
WWF Travel
Member since 2020 -
Organisation
Italian
English
This experience, in a nutshell
This sailing cruise in the heart of the Pelagos Sanctuary is an invitation to explore and protect the Mediterranean from a unique perspective, accompanied by whale watching guides from WWF Italy. Boarding an 18-meter wooden schooner, you will immerse yourself in an experience that goes beyond simple navigation: you will become an active part of a scientific mission dedicated to the protection of marine megafauna.
The waters of the Tuscan Archipelago, near the islands of Giglio, Giannutri and Montecristo, are home to rare and fascinating cetaceans such as the Cuvier's beaked whale and the common dolphin. Here, guided by experts, you will learn techniques for observing and identifying cetaceans, using strictly non-invasive methods. From nature photography and photo-identification technique, to behavior monitoring and sampling methodologies, you will develop skills of great scientific value. On board, the equipment is that of real researchers: GPS, binoculars with reticles, video cameras and the BORIS software for behavior analysis, as well as a hydrophone, which will allow you to listen to the sounds of the sea and experience the thrill of both day and night acoustic monitoring.
Each day will be a variable experience, adapted to the weather and sea conditions and the movements of marine fauna. In a serene and informal atmosphere, you will share with the crew not only the search activities but also the small daily tasks on board, such as cooking or tidying up, maintaining the spirit of sharing that makes these cruises unique.
This is not a luxury holiday, but an authentic adventure where direct contact with nature and its rhythm will teach you the value of patience and flexibility: sometimes the observations will require longer navigations, but each sighting will be an unforgettable moment. Join us to discover, listen and contribute to the protection of an extraordinary ecosystem, on a journey that combines exploration, sustainability and science in one of the most spectacular and biodiverse areas of the Mediterranean.
HIGHLIGHTS
Unique scientific experience: Direct participation in monitoring and research activities together with WWF guides , using non-invasive methods to observe and protect cetaceans in the Mediterranean, according to the rigorous standards of the High Quality Whale Watching certification, promoted by ACCOBAMBS and CIMA Foundation. These labels certify that all activities follow international guidelines, promoting species conservation and educating participants on the importance of protecting biodiversity.
Contact with wild nature: A journey in harmony with the marine environment, away from crowded places, to experience the Mediterranean in its authenticity and contribute to its conservation.
Sustainable sailing: The choice of sailboat aims to minimize the use of the engine (unless the marine weather conditions do not allow it), thus limiting emissions and noise pollution, for a more sustainable environmental impact. This choice represents a concrete commitment to responsible tourism that respects the marine environment.
Authentic and shared atmosphere: Spartan and collaborative life on board, with all participants involved in daily activities, for a travel experience that combines adventure, conviviality and a spirit of adaptation.
Education and active involvement
The experience is not just passive observation: participants are actively involved in on-board activities and scientific research, developing skills in nature photography, monitoring and sampling. This involvement allows us to create a deep connection with the marine environment, promoting greater awareness regarding biodiversity conservation.
Navigation and life on board
A sailing cruise means having the sea just a dive away, even first thing as soon as you wake up, it means having an aperitif always watching sunset, dining under the stars and enjoying moments of pure fun and relaxation.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY OF THE EXPERIENCE
Easy, suitable for everyone.
OUR SKIPPER
The skipper of this experience will be Francesco N. (click on his name to read reviews left by other travellers). On board with Francesco you may find 1 or 2 crew members who will help him during the navigation.
Sailing with Francesco means taking a step back in time, to experience those emotions that only history with its traditions can give you. Lie down on the deck, eyes closed, the sun warming your face and feel the gentle roll of the boat as it safely plows the water. In fact, the schooner is built entirely of wood and was designed for an environmental project to raise awareness on the issue of plastic in the sea. For those who wish, during the experience it will be possible to learn sailing notions with a small course held by the skipper.
€441
Per person
What's included
Cancellation policy
€441
3 days - 3 nights
17+
Show all
Boat & Classes of Service
Westegard Boats Schooner 60 - 2016
Type
Gulet
Length
18.14 m.
Toilets
2
Cabins
4
11+
Show all
Our itinerary
Our trip starts here:
Punta Ala.
Check-in: 6:00 PM
Our trip ends here:
Punta Ala.
Check-out: 4:00 PM
Frequent questions
The organiser reviews
Organised by:
WWF Travel
Member since 2020 -
Organisation
Italian
English
4.7/5
out of
212
reviews
Skipper
Boat
Destination
Whale watching cruise with WWF guide on an 18-meter schooner between Tuscany and Corsica
09/7/2025
Natalia B.
-
Italy
It's an amazing experience! We were lucky to observe some kind of sieves! And thanks to Joelle's lessons I discovered the whole new world! Going with the sails was fun and very safe with the captain and the captain Mela and Ale! A charge of positive emotions!
Whale watching cruise with WWF guide on an 18-meter schooner between Tuscany and Corsica
09/2/2025
Marco G.
-
Italy
Beautiful experience. The only flaw is that it ended too soon!
Whale watching cruise with WWF guide on an 18-meter schooner between Tuscany and Corsica
09/1/2025
Saverio D.
-
Italy
A big thank you to Joelle & team where you can see and feel the passion that they put into us wonderful cruise crew exceeding expectations, an experience that everyone should try to understand what state our seas are in.
Whale watching cruise with researcher between Liguria and the French Riviera
08/31/2025
Daniela D.
-
Italy
The whale watching cruise with WWF Travel was a truly unique experience, which I recommend to those looking for an authentic adventure and the chance to observe marine wildlife up close. The beauty of cetaceans and the thrill of seeing them in their natural habitat are certainly the highlights of this experience.
However, it is important to be aware that this is not a completely relaxing holiday. Sailing conditions can be physically demanding, with long hours on a sailboat, and the heat or rough seas can make travel difficult for those who are not used to it. So be prepared for these situations as well: bring seasickness medication with you and always let the crew know about any issues or needs.
Another very positive point of the cruise was our WWF guide, Silvia. She was truly exceptional: prepared, nice and always available. Silvia has a great knowledge of cetacean ethology and involved us passionately in the observations. Thanks to her, every moment at sea was interesting and informative.
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