MoECC grants permit for whale shark tours

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has granted the first permit for Qatar Tourism to organise the ‘Discover the Whale Sharks of Qatar’ tours in Al Shaheen region off the north east coast of the country.

This is part of the ongoing co-ordination between the official entities to support the environmental tourism, without causing any harm, a ministry statement said.The permit includes a number of general conditions regarding preserving the marine environment and abiding by the related laws and regulations, in addition to avoid causing any harm to the schools of whale sharks while maintaining the safety and security of the visitors and avoid focusing spotlights on them directly and following them. This initiative is part of the efforts of the ministry to spread awareness on related issues and the efforts of the country to maintain biodiversity and protect the endangered species, a statement added.The ‘Discover the Whale Sharks of Qatar’ tours offers the option of sightings from a luxurious ‘Private Charter’ yacht or a ‘Daily Explorer’ tour on a high-speed catamaran.Whale sharks, often referred to as ‘gentle giants’, are estimated to have existed for 60mn years. They can live up to 100 years and grow up to 12m in length.Between the summer months of April and September, during their annual migration to the region, whale sharks are found feeding in spectacular groups in Al Shaheen region of Qatar.According to information released earlier by Qatar Tourism, those looking for opulent exclusivity and comfort can choose the private charter tour, inclusive of a 121-foot-long luxury yacht, which can accommodate up to 20 guests, with three luxurious cabins, four lounge areas and a jacuzzi.Prices start from QR118,300 ($32,500) per day, including breakfast, a three-course lunch provided by a five-star hotel, an expert whale shark guide, a professional photographer, and Wi-Fi connectivity.Alternatively, the Daily Explorer tour offers a high-speed catamaran for up to 25 passengers, with prices starting at QR1,800 ($495) per person with a 25% discount offered for children under the age of 12. The package includes on-board breakfast and lunch provided by a five-star hotel, Wi-Fi connectivity, a professional photographer, an expert guide.Both tours are available to book on the Discover Qatar website for excursions until July 31.More information can be had from https://www.discoverqatar.qa/whale-sharks-of-qatar/