Whale of a time

Not many people know that this area is one the biggest whale watching spots in the world.

Turmares was founded in 1999. Scientists and experts on the subject head out to sea practically every day to study the various species of whales and dolphins in the Straits of Gibraltar. Environmental education is their main objective, and hundreds of tourists hit the town every year; binoculars in one hand (and seasick tablets in another) to do a bit of whale spotting.

It all began when Rafael and a group of friends decided to buy a small boat to study the cetaceans in their local environment. Most people thought they were mad. But five years down the road they are still going strong, and have just bought a boat that carries over 150 passengers.

In the winter months they go to the local schools giving lectures on the environment and taking the kids out in the boat to spot whales and dolphins. They also teach them how to look after the sea, which at the end of the day is going to be in their hands in the near future.

During July and August they run two trips a day, and sightings are practically guaranteed. There's definitely more to the Costa de la Luz than surfing, and this is just another in the long list of activities one can do in Tarifa. Check it out, and Enjoy! Turmares Tarifa: Av. Alcalde Juan Nu–ez 3, local 12, Tarifa T/F: 956 680 741 M: 696 448 349 www.turmares.com