The San Antonio Whale Heritage Area, located within the stunning Marine Reserve of Cabo de San Antonio in the Mediterranean, is a sanctuary for cetaceans, particularly the majestic fin whales that migrate through these waters. This unique area, nestled between the vibrant cliffs of the Montgó Natural Park, showcases pristine marine habitats teeming with diverse wildlife. Local communities, including the town of Denia, are deeply connected to the sea, fostering sustainable tourism and education programs. Visitors can experience ethical whale-watching, explore rich ecosystems, and engage with conservation efforts to protect this incredible marine biodiversity.
This area is home to a variety of cetaceans, including both resident and migratory species. One of the most notable visitors is the fin whale, which migrates through these Mediterranean waters during the spring and summer months as it follows nutrient-rich currents on its journey. These majestic whales can be seen gliding through the deep waters off Cabo de San Antonio.
The area also supports populations of bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and the playful common dolphin. These dolphins can be seen year-round, thriving in the marine habitats provided by the rich biodiversity of the Montgó Natural Park and the surrounding waters. These cetaceans are drawn to the area by its abundant marine life, particularly small fish and squid, which make the region a critical feeding ground.
The cetacean species in San Antonio face several significant threats that highlight the urgent need for protection. Boat traffic leads to collisions, noise pollution, and the disruption of natural behaviours, such as communication and migration. Plastic pollution and chemical contaminants also pose serious risks, as cetaceans often ingest debris or suffer from deteriorating water quality.
Additionally, climate change is altering ocean temperatures and affecting prey availability, leading to disruptions in feeding patterns and migration routes. The rise in illegal fishing and bycatch further endangers cetaceans in the area, as they can become entangled in fishing gear.
Visitors to Wildlife Heritage Areas can take part in outstanding wildlife watching experiences that put wildlife first. Staying in a Wildlife Heritage Area helps local communities invest in animal welfare and wildlife conservation, benefitting community well-being and driving forward sustainable practices.
Communities achieve Wildlife Heritage Area designation by playing a central role in protecting wild animals and their habitats. With support from responsible travel organisations and wildlife experts, these communities are committed to help turn the tide on biodiversity loss and the climate crisis, adopt a zero tolerance for wildlife suffering in tourism, and advocate for positive change through a willingness to collaborate.
In Dénia, several initiatives have been implemented to promote responsible tourism and minimize impact on local cetaceans. These efforts include establishing specific guidelines for whale watching, creating land-based observation routes, and partnering with EUCRANTE’s volunteer campaigns for cetacean monitoring. These volunteers gather data and track fin whales in the area,...
Dénia has become a key cetacean observation site, largely thanks to the Marine Reserve of Cabo de San Antonio, a protected area that extends naturally from the Montgó Natural Park. Scientific studies, led by the Institut Cavanilles in collaboration with universities and conservation bodies, have been instrumental in establishing the Mediterranean Cetacean Migration Corridor, a...
Equilibrio Marino is an educational program designed to connect children with marine conservation. Through interactive workshops, field trips, and hands-on activities, students learn about the importance of marine ecosystems and how to protect them. This program has fostered a new generation of ocean advocates who are passionate about preserving the marine heritage of Cabo de...
Dénia’s involvement in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network emphasizes its cultural and intellectual activities, positioning itself as a hub for thought and creativity in the Mediterranean. The Dénia Festival de les Humanitats, for example, serves as a platform that highlights the city’s cultural and historical significance, aiming to restore its status as a center for cultural...
The headland of Cabo de San Antonio has been inhabited and used strategically since ancient times. The Iberians and later the Romans used this region as an observation point. However, while there are no explicit ancient records linking cetaceans directly to these cultures, the region’s long history as a maritime passage suggests that interactions with marine life, including...
The “Barriendo Mares” (Sweeping the Seas) marine cleanup campaign, held October 6th in Dénia, successfully removed 317 kilograms of waste from the coastline within the Marine Reserve of Cabo de San Antonio. A total of 311 participants joined the initiative, including 48 divers responsible for underwater cleanup. Additionally, 9 boats helped collect floating waste, while other...
One of the key partnerships that has significantly contributed to the establishment of the Whale Heritage Area (WHA) in San Antonio is the collaboration between WeWhale and Mundo Marino. This partnership has been instrumental in combining local expertise with international experience in marine conservation, creating a strong foundation for the WHA initiative.
WeWhale, with its...
Guided tour of Cape San Antonio. Sail by catamaran to enjoy El Tesoro del Cabo de San Antonio from the port of Denia, skirting the beaches of les Rotes to the Marine Reserve and Cabo de San Antonio accompanied by the impressive Montgó in the background.
Sunset on catamaran. The best scenery you can contemplate at sea is undoubtedly the moment of sunset. On this excursion we take you to the sea aboard the Mundo Marino catamaran along the beautiful coast of Denia, from where you can enjoy the romantic moment when the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, with a glass of cava. Occasionally we can see the whales as we cruise along the marine reserve.
Excursion with swimming in the Cova Tallada. We will sail by boat from the port of Denia through the area of Las Rotas accompanied by the impressive Montgó. We will approach the marine reserve area and the Cova Tallada to see its crystal clear waters. We will make a stop to refresh ourselves near the Marine Reserve area. Do you want to see this incredible protected area from a different perspective?
Tour of the capes and caves of Jávea. The best kept secrets of the coast, uncovered! On this excursion you will discover charming spots, landscapes, caves and seabeds. We will sail very close to the coast, with views of Cabo de San Antonio, Cabo de San Martín and Cabo de La Nao. We will also anchor for approximately 45 minutes to enjoy a swim.
Catamaran tour in Denia. Enjoy a sailing trip from the port of Denia. We will be able to see the impressive protected area with its beautiful crystal-clear waters from another perspective. We will make the journey thanks to the help of the wind and we will take a relaxing bath.
