The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge and understanding of Scotland’s whales, dolphins and porpoises(cetaceans)and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within local communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats.

Activities offered

Do you want to contribute directly to a research programme?  Would you like to learn more about the British marine environment?  HWDT is offering the opportunity to join us aboard our research yacht to live onboard and assist with valuable data collection.  The Hebrides, although having a very abundant cetacean population, had received little directed research until HWDT established its monitoring programme and instigated the community sightings network.  Join the crew and science officer onboard for at least a week and become a field biologist; view cetaceans and other marine animals in the wild, learn fundamental survey techniques, gain a few sailing skills, visit some of the remotest, spectacular parts of the UK and help maintain a valuable research project - all in one trip!

HWDT also run Marine mammal courses through out the year.  The course combines a variety of presentations on various topics with practical hands-on experience onboard Silurian.    

We run activities for

Everyone...HWDT is involved in various education programmes as well as the serious research activities.  Our education team visits many schools (both primary and secondary) during the year and delivers activities relevant to the children.  We also organise beach cleans, talks and attend a variety of events. 

The research surveys and marine mammal courses are open to anyone with a keen enthusiasm and interest.  However, survey participants must be 18 or older, be proficient in the English language and have a healthy pair of eyes/ears.

Location

The Visitor Centre is in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. The Centre provides a combination of factual boards with interactive displays. The shop also houses a great selection of gifts and books.  The centre also acts as a meeting place for course and survey participants.

Accommodation

If participating in a research survey, as part of the experience you will live onboard the yacht. If you are joining a marine mammal course there are a variety of accommodation options in Tobermory.