RESEARCH & CONSERVATION
IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
The Galapagos Cetacea Project is dedicated to the protection and study of whales and dolphins (cetaceans) within the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Through innovative research, community outreach, and hands-on conservation efforts, we aim to ensure a thriving habitat for these majestic marine mammals. Our mission is to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the reserve, where these incredible species can continue to thrive in their natural environment.
In collaboration with Nauti Expeditions, we’ve launched the Bubble Netting Program, a unique platform for cetacean research and conservation. Through guided excursions with our expert researchers, participants learn directly about whale and dolphin biology while supporting vital conservation work. 10% of profits go directly to the program.
This program creates a collaborative space where tourism operators, local communities, and scientists unite to protect the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Together, we are dedicated to preserving the remarkable cetacean populations of the Galapagos and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty of these majestic marine mammals in one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
WHY CETACEANS MATTER
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- Diverse Species: The Galapagos waters host over 24 known species of whales and dolphins, including humpbacks, orcas, and bottlenose dolphins.
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- Vital Population: Hundreds of individual cetaceans migrate or reside here to feed, mate, and raise their young—playing a key role in maintaining the ecological balance of the archipelago.
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- Global Significance: The Galapagos Marine Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making conservation efforts crucial for worldwide marine biodiversity.
OUR GOAL
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- Expand Monitoring: Enhance population surveys and behavioral studies.
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- Enhancing Research Technology: Utilizing drones, hydrophones, and other advanced tools to improve data collection on migration patterns and cetacean health.
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- Community Education: Develop workshops and outreach programs for local residents, fishers, and tourists to promote sustainable practices.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
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- Book a Cetacea Expeditions tour package: Guided excursions with Galapagos Cetacea’s researchers. learn about whale and dolphin biology directly from experts. 10% of profits will directly collaborate with the program.
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- Bubble Netting Program Symbolically adopt a Galapagos whale to help fund its protection. You’ll receive an adoption certificate, species profile, and regular updates on our research findings.
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- Bubble Curtain (Basic). $200 Join the effort by contributing to the “first layer” of our conservation bubble net.
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- Spiral Feeder (Premium). $300 Move deeper into the “feeding spiral” by providing enhanced support for ongoing whale research and protection. Includes everything from the Bubble Curtain tier, plus behind-the-scenes project reports, exclusive whale photos/videos, and a commemorative digital keepsake.
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- Net Master (Sponsor) $500 Become a key collaborator in our “complete bubble net,” ensuring maximum impact for whale conservation initiatives. Enjoy all Spiral Feeder benefits, in addition to personalized recognition, opportunities to name a newly identified whale (if applicable), and invitations to special online events or webinars with researcher.
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- Spread the Word: Share findings on social media and help educate others about the importance of Galapagos cetacean conservation.






