One of the most remarkable aspects of Montauk is the deep-rooted love and appreciation for the ocean shared by its locals. From fishermen to conservationists, there’s a profound understanding of the importance of preserving marine life and coastal ecosystems. A shining example of this commitment is the Coastal Research & Education Society of Long Island, Inc, otherwise known as CRESLI, whose tireless efforts are dedicated to the study and protection of marine species, including those dear to Montauk. CRESLI has taken an innovative approach of partnering with a beloved local fleet, the Viking Fleet, and working together to take exciting whale watching trips for visitors, and create both an educational experience, as well as an opportunity for research on these incredible species to be conducted.
“CRESLI and the Viking Fleet have been working together since our formation in 1996.” Dr. Arthur Kopelman, President of CRESLI shares. “The whale watch trips are an important way for us to fulfill our mission to promote and foster stewardship and understanding of coastal ecosystems through research and education. The work we do couldn’t happen without the Viking Fleet, their captains and crew, and without the support and work of our hundreds of trained volunteers”.
So, what can you expect on one of these exciting whale watching excursions? Orla Reville, an owner of the Viking Fleet, shared with us what she feels are the best parts of the experience you’ll get out on her whale watching vessel. “Our guests can expect to learn things about whales, dolphins, and porpoises in our waters. You will learn about the biology of these animals, about their status, their communication techniques, and how you can help to protect them. You’ll learn about the research that we conduct with the program with CRESLI, and about the importance of photo identification of humpback whales, fin whales, bottlenose dolphins, and other North Atlantic Right whales. You’ll learn to identify behaviors and what we think about the functions of those behaviors, about the overall ecosystems that we travel on, its health, and about the conditions in the world’s oceans and how they affect these waters here. You will hopefully get to see first-hand an array of the wildlife of the waters of Montauk. You’ll understand why we (CRESLI and the Viking Fleet) have been doing these trips together for so long, and lastly, for all of you who are pelagic birders, you will be sure to have a great time!”
From beautiful views, spunky coastal bird species, and breathtaking whale and dolphin encounters, this educational and electrifying experience will surely leave a lasting impression on every one of its guests.
Be sure to book your whale watching trip with the Viking Fleet at https://vikingfleet.com/ today to encounter these amazing creatures up close, while also supporting the inspiring conservation efforts of CRESLI.
