INSTITUTO BALEIA JUBARTE

Jubarte whales are not only found in the Abrolhos National Marine Park, at the southern tip of the state of Bahia. Coming from Antarctica to give birth in the warm waters off the Brazilian coast, they travel up to the Salvador area, and it's not unusual to see them cruising offshore every year from July to October.

In this research institute, we learn a little more about the animal. At the entrance to the center, visitors can see a 13-m-long whale skeleton. And throughout the guided tour, which lasts between 40 and 60 minutes, we learn a little more about the Institute's research activities and the importance of preserving marine environments. The center is still in an expansion phase and, among the projects initiated since 2010, has seen the construction of an eco-responsible building for educational activities. From construction and choice of materials, to the use and recycling of waste, everything is handled in a sustainable manner. The local community is also involved in these activities.

During whale-watching season, boat tours are organized to observe the animals. There may be some doubts as to the tranquillity of the cetaceans when the boats carrying the observers approach, but the organizers take all the necessary measures and precautions to disturb the shy cetaceans as little as possible. Their commitment is to be commended, as is the importance and quality of their research.