Whale-Sized Fun for Maui Children at Sea

Pacific Whale Foundation’s Keiki Whalewatch program is offered to create an impactful and interactive learning experience for future generations. “It is evident that many children who attend our program have yet to observe a humpback whale,” according to the PWF.

After greeting the children, educators often ask the group, “who has never seen a whale?” Each time, several mini hands launch towards the sky in eager anticipation of the near adventure that will soon change that response.

Designed so that children preschool through high school can experience these majestic animals in their natural habitat, Keiki Whalewatches allow children to connect with the marine environment, and for many, to see a whale for the very first time.

Exclusively available to schoolchildren and their teachers and chaperones, participants enjoy a unique 75 minute whalewatch complimented by a playful presentation in the PWF Discovery Center classrooms or in their own classrooms. Schools are also invited to apply for additional scholarship support through wither PWF Education Program.

“The students loved seeing the whales and being on the boat. Many of the students have never been on a boat before. It was such an impactful experience for them,” said Kristen Lawlor, Kahului Elementary, 2nd grade teacher.

To help continue this program into 2020, Pacific Whale Foundation will host its 2019 Annual Online Auction from Nov. 9 to 18. By reaching its $20,000 goal through this benefit, the 2020 Keiki Whalewatch Program (which runs from January to April) will reach more than 3,000 schoolchildren throughout Maui County.