This coming weekend brings us to the peak of whale season and Valentine’s Day…the inspiration behind “For The Love of Whales” weekend on February 11 through 14.
“For the Love of Whales” is a series of events for people who love whales. Many are free!
Whatever you do, don’t miss “An Evening With the Experts” on Saturday, February 12, featuring presentations by acclaimed photographer Bryant Austin (who is famous for his life-size, intricately detailed photos of endangered whales; view video here), noted wildlife biologist Dr. Ari Friedlaender (who has made numerous trips to Antarctica; he’ll be sharing results on his studies using satellite tracking tags and his field observations of humpback whale feeding) and C.T. Ryder (part of the team that won the Academy Award for Best Documentary of 2009 for The Cove; he’ll be bringing a message from Ric O’Barry, the star of The Cove, with an update on efforts to stop Japan’s dolphin drive hunting).
This special presentation takes place from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Westin Maui Resort and Spa in Ka’anapali (just north of Whaler’s Village; click here for directions). It’s free and open to all!
Reservations are not required, but we suggest that you reserve your seats by calling (808) 249-8811 ext. 1. If you are a Pacific Whale Foundation Member or Friend of the Festival, we will reserve complimentary VIP seating for you and your guests.
But the fun doesn’t end there; there’s an entire weekend’s worth of events:
Friday, February 11
Tribute to the Whales
Gala Opening Night Celebration with Music, Dance and Other Performances
Join us for the opening night of “Tribute to the Whales,” a three-week art exhibition featuring sculpture, paintings, photographs and mixed media art. Experience the Curtain of Origami Whales and meet artist/creator Peggy Oki. Enjoy live music, hula and other performances in honor of whales at the Maui Mall’s stage (next to the center’s new water feature). 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Maui Mall, Kahului (the same location as Whole Foods on Ka’ahumanu Avenue). Free and open to all.
Please note: we want to hear your ocean stories! All whalewatchers are invited to share from the stage their experiences with Maui’s humpback whales. Bring your photos, videos, and memories.
Saturday, February 12
Hike to See Whales
A morning hike led by one of our trained naturalists and a professional guide along the Lahaina Pali Trail up to the ridge top where you can enjoy incredible views of whales in beautiful Ma’alaea Bay.
This is a strenuous hike. Participants must be age 14 and above. Please plan to wear close-toed shoes, pants, and hat/sun protection. A light jacket/layers is also recommended depending on weather. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and binoculars. For reservations, call (808) 249-8811 ext. 1.
Saturday, February 12 and Sunday, February 13
Land-based Whalewatching with Whale Researchers
Join Pacific Whale Foundation researchers at two locations (Ka’anapali Beach and Papawai Point scenic overlook on Route 30) to learn how to locate whales from shore, and get answers to your whale questions. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Free and open to all.
Saturday, February 12 and Sunday, February 13
Whale Photo Safari
Join Pacific Whale Foundation’s lead researcher Annie Macie and noted guest wildlife photographers on a whalewatch photo safari from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. aboard our spacious, eco-friendly, stable catamaran from Lahaina Harbor. We limit capacity to ensure our guests receive ultimate visibility and assistance with your wildlife photography. Participants will receive expert advice on capturing whale images and learn about utilizing the latest digital photo techniques and data storage (participants required to bring their own camera equipment). As a special gift, everyone who goes on the cruise will receive a DVD of all images and video collected during the safari plus bonus Pacific Whale Foundation stock footage. A continental breakfast will be provided on board. For reservations, call (808) 249-8811 ext. 1 or click here.
Sunday, February 13
Whalewatch with Our Conference Experts
Embark on an unforgettable whalewatch with the presenters from the “An Evening with the Experts” event. Each presenter (Bryant Austin, Ari Friedlaender and C.T. Ryder) will narrate a part of the whalewatch, so guests will hear from each one and will get their unique perspectives on the whales that are encountered. Pacific Whale Foundation President Greg Kaufman and Research Director Daniela Maldini will also lead this two-hour cruise from Lahaina Harbor. Reservations required. Click here or call (808) 249-8811 ext. 1.
The “For the Love of Whales” weekend is part of the Maui Whale Festival. To learn more, visit www.mauiwhalefestival.org.
