WiSe (WIldlife SafE) is a Training and Accreditation scheme aimed at operators of passenger pleasure craft, wildlife cruise operators, dive boats and charter yachts who may come into contact with “mega”marine wildlife such as whales, dolphins, basking sharks or seals.

The training of operators consists of instruction in to how to best view these creatures, whilst at the same time minimising disturbance to them. All WiSe accredited operators will have received instruction into how to handle their craft whilst in contact with any of these animals and how to leave room for the animals to carry on with their lives unimpeded.

All WiSe operators will also have received instruction in species identification, life history and behaviour of a range of species that they might encounter, and will record their sightings for use in basic scientific research.

All WiSe operators will have completed a course led by marine wildlife experts before receiving Accreditation, and have agreed to abide by the Codes of Conduct for each of the species covered within the WiSe scheme.

Our marine wildlife is amongst the most precious jewels in Britain’s wild crown, and should be treated with respect. All WiSe Accredited operators recognise this, so if you visiting the areas covered by the scheme, and wish to view marine wildlife, choose a WiSe operator, who will make the most of any encounter whilst respecting the creatures we all love to see.

WiSe operators can be found in many coastal ports around Cornwall, Devon , Dorset, South Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, and Scotland (east coast and west coast). Some operators offer specialized wildlife watching day trips, others coastal voyages in which you may encounter wildlife - there is a wealth of choice.

All WiSe operators currently Accredited are listed on this site by region, with full contact details, length of operating season, details of voyages and potential species that may be encountered.

All WiSe operators must hold the necessary commercial licences and insurance to operate their vessel to meet all current legislation.