What's the Deal with Ecotourism? Q+A with Michaela Mansholt
Ecotourism is an immersive wildlife based experience that tourists are flocking to by the thousands. Ecotourism has been the subject of both praise and criticism. Panoramic Ocean wanted to clarify what “the deal” was with ecotourism. So naturally we turned to a friend in the industry.
Today, on Panoramic Ocean, I'm excited to host a Q+A with Ms. Michaela Mansholt, who's a marine biologist (in training), friend, and small business owner. I have gotten to know Michaela over the past few months, and she is always taking the initiative to educate the public on different conservation plights.
Without wasting any further time, let's quickly ask some questions and get responses from Ms. Michaela.
Michaela Mansholt tide pooling in Alaska.
Howdy Michaela, thank you so much for agreeing to do a little interview for Panoramic Ocean so our readers can learn more about ecotourism. Can you please tell us about yourself and give us a definition of ecotourism?
Hi there!! Well, My name is Michaela, I am a junior at the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau, Alaska, and I am currently pursuing my BSc in marine biology. I have always had a passion for the ocean and finding ways to be close to what I love. I have volunteered at the Aquarium of the Pacific as an education volunteer, and worked in my community college’s aquarium they had on campus. One of my favorite experiences in the marine biology field was participating in a shark research course with FieldSchool.
I began working in ecotourism back in March of 2020, with a small whale watching company out of Newport Beach, California! Ecotourism is defined as “tourism intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife”
What made you pursue a job in ecotourism?
Like so many things in life, my job in ecotourism was achieved through perseverance. In January 2020 I was attempting to pursue a job in ecotourism, only to be met with no's. At the end of February 2020, I noticed that an owner of a whale watching company followed me on Instagram. I decided to take a leap of faith, and DM’d the owner. Yes… I DM’d a prospective boss on Instagram. And as luck may have it, he was looking to hire someone! I quickly began my first day as a “deckhand photographer”. Sadly, covid-19 shut us down until June, but it felt great to be pursuing my goals! Now since I attend school out of state, I have a job waiting for me when I visit!
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned on the water?
Not every day is going to go like you plan, and that's okay! There have been days where the mornings have started out perfectly, and then all of the sudden the weather sucks, sightings suck, and the day goes downhill. On the other hand, some mornings start out really crummy, but as it goes on, it just gets better and better!
Michaela Mansholt on whale watching boat.
Do you think ecotourism is helping oceanic conservation efforts?
Yes! I believe ecotourism is helping to build future marine biologists, environmentalists, and future ocean lovers. It’s proven that we as a human race are more likely to care and conserve something if we are educated about it. Bringing people closer to the ocean and its animals, especially if it's for the first time, is so incredibly special to me.
If one of our readers is looking to participate in an ecotourism activity, what qualifications should they be looking for in the company?
Sadly, it takes a lot to figure out if a company is good or bad without going out with that company. My best advice is to educate yourself on the whale watching regulations in your area, and observe the company and their actions out on the water. Do they give the whales space? Are they cutting the engines when they are supposed to? Are they hanging out with a whale for a prolonged period of time? It also helps to talk with the crew! Are they educating passengers about whale watching regulations? Promoting ethical whale watching? (I am also happy to do some digging if someone has a question about a certain company!)
What is your parting advice for the next generation of environment warriors?
KEEP GOING! We need the next generation more than ever! The days are long, school is hard, but the reward is amazing.
Tell us about your small business!
My small business is blackfishandco on instagram and etsy! Recently I have found that my passion is creating stickers with a purpose. I have loved creating stickers that spread awareness about the Southern Resident Killer Whales!
Products from Michaela Mansholt's business. You can shop her business at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/blackfishandco/
Tell us about your youtube channel!
My youtube channel is “michaela mansholt” and on there I talk about marine biology, conservation, and college!