Whale Lovers Series: A Conversation with Samantha Lippiatt
Tell us about your journey: What first inspired you to start Awesome Whale Adventures, and how did your passion for whales and the ocean evolve?
My passion for the ocean and mega-fauna has been with me for as long as I can remember, and I qualified as a scuba diver more than twenty years ago. However, it wasn’t until the pandemic, when I was unable to travel, that I had the incredible opportunity to witness the full whale migration season right off the east coast of Australia in Newcastle, and it was a powerful reminder that beauty always exists in the world, even in difficult times and its our job to protect it.
The sheer size and spectacle of whales breaching has always captivated me, and watching them migrate reinforced my desire to find a way to share that wonder with others. When I was booking my own whale swim experience it was of utmost importance to me have that experience ethically and I realised that I wanted to create something that combined my love for travel, wellness, and the ocean, while also contributing to the conservation of whales. That’s when I founded Awesome Whale Adventures.
I wanted to offer travellers the chance to experience whales in a responsible way, one that prioritises their well-being and has a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Through this journey, I’m able to share my passion for whales with others and help people connect with nature in a meaningful and ethical way.
What makes your whale adventures unique? What sets Awesome Whale Adventures apart from other whale tour operators?
At Awesome Whale Adventures, our focus is always on ethical whale tourism. What sets us apart is that we operate as a specialist travel agent, we hand-pick only suppliers that share our values: responsible, sustainable, and whale-friendly practices. We prioritise small, intimate groups to ensure a more personal, impactful experience that doesn’t overwhelm the animals or the environment.
We also run our own escorted tours, which are designed not only to create unforgettable memories but also to inspire travellers to take action in supporting whale conservation. We believe in educating guests on the significance of their actions during their adventures, helping them to be responsible travellers while fostering a deeper connection with the ocean.
What is your most memorable whale encounter, and why?
My first encounter was a flyby and I was shaking with excitement just to be in the water with this huge wild animal, but only a few moments later I was in awe as an escort (traveling with a mother and calf) turned back to come and look at us. He was so calm and peaceful and again and again I observed how curious they were of us. It reaffirmed my belief that we, as humans, have a responsibility to protect whale, to ensure that they continue to thrive in their oceans.
It’s this kind of experience that I want others to have—one where they feel a deep respect for the whales and are inspired to protect them.
Why is ethical whale tourism so important to you?
Ethical whale tourism is crucial because it allows us to witness these magnificent creatures without compromising their well-being. Too often, tourism can have a negative impact on the environment and wildlife, and that’s something I want to change.
At Awesome Whale Adventures, we’re committed to ensuring that every tour we offer is aligned with sustainable practices, such as minimising boat traffic, keeping a safe distance from the whales, and supporting local conservation efforts. The goal is to create experiences that help guests connect with nature while ensuring that their presence doesn’t harm the animals or their habitats.
It’s not just about making memories—it’s about creating advocates for whales and the ocean.
What advice would you give to someone looking to experience whale tourism responsibly?
My advice would be to research the companies you’re booking with and make sure they share your values when it comes to ethical practices. Look for operators that prioritise the welfare of the whales, follow responsible guidelines for viewing, and support conservation initiatives. Ask questions about how they operate, how they engage with local communities, and whether they contribute to whale conservation efforts.
At Awesome Whale Adventures, we hold ourselves to the highest standards and only work with partners that have the whales’ best interests at heart, and we always ensure that guests are educated on how to act responsibly during their encounters.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of what I do is knowing that I’m making a difference, even in a small way. Every time someone takes part in one of our tours, they’re not just creating a memory—they’re becoming a part of a movement to protect whales and the ocean.
How do you envision the future of whale tourism?
I envision a future where whale tourism is universally recognised for its ability to support both conservation and local communities. As more travellers become aware of the importance of ethical tourism, I believe we’ll see a shift toward more sustainable practices across the industry.
In the future, I’d love to see even more people opting for responsible, intimate whale encounters, where they’re not just passive spectators but active participants in conservation efforts. I also hope to continue expanding our offerings, introducing new destinations where ethical tourism can thrive, and helping more travellers experience whales in a way that truly honours these majestic animals.
What can people do to support whales and their environment?
There are a lot of ways people can make a difference, even beyond participating in whale tourism. Supporting organisations that focus on whale conservation, reducing plastic use, and making more sustainable lifestyle choices all contribute to healthier oceans.
I also encourage people to educate themselves about the challenges whales face, such as habitat destruction, entanglement in fishing gear, and climate change. The more we know, the better equipped we are to advocate for these creatures and their environment. Supporting responsible businesses and ensuring that our actions as travellers contribute to conservation is one of the most powerful ways to help whales thrive.
Whales are not just magnificent creatures—they’re a vital part of the ocean’s ecosystem, and the ocean is an essential part of our planet’s health. By engaging in responsible whale tourism and supporting conservation, we can all do our part to protect these incredible animals and the environment.