PART 5. GUIDING WS EXCURSIONS © Alejandro Remolina Suarez

5.1 Guest Briefing Activity A good guest briefing provides guests with vital information and can create a healthy attitude onboard What information do you think should be included in a guest briefing? © MWSRP

5.2 Guest Briefing Content Top tips: Be enthusiastic and professional Use non-verbal communication Keep it short 10-15mins max Use a briefing pack © MWSRP

5.2 Guest Briefing Content A good brief should include: Welcome and introductions Timings and destination An introduction to the whale shark Encounter procedure Code of conduct Invitation for questions © Ecocolors

5.3 WS Encounter Code of Conduct Encounter rules differ around the world Both in content and in how they are enforced

5.4 WS Encounter Code of conduct 20 metres No vessel zone Vessels must: Keep their distance No closer than 20 metres The following rules are found in most countries and are based on research and common sense

5.4 WS Encounter Code of conduct 10 kts 2 kts Within 1km Within 50m 20 metres No vessel zone Vessels must: Reduce their speed Max 10kts and 2kts within 50metres of the shark

5.4 WS Encounter Code of conduct 100 metres 10 kts 2 kts Within 1km Within 50m 20 metres No vessel zone Vessels must: Keep to one vessel per shark Other vessels must keep their distance

5.4 WS Encounter Code of Conduct 3 metres 2 metres Snorkelers must: Keep their distance (2m head - 3m tail) and Must not obstruct the shark

5.4 WS Encounter Code of Conduct 3 metres 2 metres Snorkelers must: Not touch the whale shark

5.4 WS Encounter Code of Conduct Snorkelers must: Not use camera flash 3 metres 2 metres

5.4 WS Encounter Code of Conduct 4 metres 3 metres Snorkelers must: Not use scuba scooters

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter The following tips and guidelines can help reduce impact and lengthen a whale shark encounter: © Scubasigns

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter Vessel Operator Drop-off guests ahead of shark’s direction of travel Limit the number of people in the water (max 12 people) Pick up guests left behind and drop them back off ahead of the shark © James Hancock

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter Vessel Operator Observe a maximum encounter time allowing other vessels access Provide buoyancy aids Fit a propeller cover Apply for a whale shark tour operator’s license © Ecocolors

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter Snorkelers Enter the water as quietly as possible Look for directions from the boat crew or their guide Look ahead as they approach the shark Swim alongside the whale shark behind the pectoral fins © MWSRP

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter Snorkelers Avoid duck-diving and do not swim underneath the whale shark Avoid making loud noises, sharp movements and splashing If the shark approaches remain calm and swim to the side © Ecocolors

5.5 Guidelines and Tips for a Longer WS Encounter Snorkelers Be aware of other guests Wear a buoyancy aid Remember no one can guarantee an encounter Only use biodegradable sunscreen © Alejandro Remolina Suarez

5.6 Difficult Customers Being in the water can make people unpredictable Give instructions clearly and regularly Use a longer encounter as an incentive to stick to rules Decide on clear policies for dealing with difficult customers Policies should be made standard among tour operators and displayed clearly