Whale and dolphin watching has become a billion-dollar industry worldwide. Millions of people now go on "whale hunts" with their cameras every year. This booming sector of tourism, although touted as an economic alternative to whaling, is increasingly becoming a problem for marine mammals. This guide provides conscientious nature lovers with the means to distinguish between gentle and harmful whale watching, always emphasizing ecological aspects. Practical tips help to thoroughly plan and prepare for a trip to see whales. It includes a detailed description of the 32 most common whale and dolphin species, making the book also very useful as an identification guide. The presentation of the best whale watching spots around the world, with precise information on the species that can be encountered and the whale watching season, adds to its value.