The IWDG invites you to Whale Tales, the biennial meeting of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, where members and people interested in whales, dolphins and porpoises in Ireland are invited to join us in our shared appreciation and admiration of these charismatic animals.
This year, we’re thrilled to host Whale Tales across the border in Northern Ireland, embracing our all-island approach to marine conservation. The event will take place at YWAM An Cuan (The Harbour) in Rostrevor, a stunning venue aligned with values of peacebuilding, unity, and collaboration.
Event Highlights
Friday, March 7: Free event and Open to All
IWDG is delighted to announce that Whale Tales 2025 will kick off on Friday 7th March with a film by Andrew Stevenson of WhalesBermuda, a voluntary group established in 2007 to research and study humpbacks that migrate past Bermuda en route to and from their Caribbean breeding grounds. The team use underwater and aerial high-definition video and underwater hydrophone recordings to document this annual migration.
Andrew describes himself as being passionate about many things in life including: sailing, wildlife, flying, travelling, mountains, the ocean, humpback whales and family-not necessarily in that order. Andrew has enjoyed a colourful life, growing up in Hong Kong, India, Scotland/London, Kenya, Malaysia/Singapore and Canada. He has lived in France, Norway and Tanzania and worked extensively in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mali, Bangladesh, Nepal and Indonesia.
Andrew has a postgraduate education in International Economics and started his professional life in Finance but followed his heart and passions, changing career frequently. He has been taking photographs since he was a teenager and has written 12 books which have been published in four languages in nine countries, including three photographic books. Self-taught, Andrew started making films in 2005 and has produced, directed, filmed, narrated and edited three award winning documentaries, the second of which…. “The Secret Lives of the Humpbacks” (2019) we are delighted to be able to show on our opening evening of Whale Tales.
Andrew’s film will be followed by a Q&A session and discussion with Pádraig Whooley, IWDG Sightings Officer and curator of the Irish humpback Photo Id catalogue, to discuss the importance of International collaboration when working with highly mobile species and the link between our two island nations and the potential for further matches.
Images: WhalesBermuda, A.Stevenson
Saturday, March 8: Members Only
Saturday is dedicated to IWDG members, featuring a full day of engaging presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities. The program includes updates from IWDG officers, reflections on the group’s history and outreach in Northern Ireland, and opportunities for panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and storytelling.
- At 5:00 PM, we’ll hold our AGM for current IWDG members.
- The day concludes with an evening gathering at the Whistledown Hotel, where you can enjoy a hot fork dinner and participate in a fun quiz night (we’re gonna test your knowledge) and connect with fellow attendees.
Sunday, March 9:
Sunday begins with the launch of a new podcast, part of The Shifting Tides Project, the project unites coastal communities from the twin shores of Carlingford Lough and across the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, aimed at building deeper connections with the marine environment through practical ecology and collaborative arts.
Supported by iCommunity, an initiative that encourages people and communities to explore key themes, collaborate, and showcase effective solutions. The venue will also feature an inspiration space, displaying stunning underwater photography of Carlingford Lough to celebrate its natural beauty and cultural importance.
Before saying our goodbyes, we will take a walk in Kilbroney Park, offering breathtaking views of Carlingford Lough. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs, enjoy the scenery, and recharge before your journey home.
Event Costs:
- IWDG Members Registration (Lunch) (€15): Includes Saturday venue, a light lunch, and refreshments (AM & PM).
- IWDG Members Registration (Lunch and Dinner) (€50): Includes all the above, plus Saturday evening’s hot fork dinner, dessert, and tea/coffee at the Whistledown Hotel.
Book Your Ticket Now!
Mark Your Calendar
Save the date: March 7–9, 2025, and book your ticket now! Whale Tales 2025 promises to be an inspiring weekend of shared stories, learning, and connection.
For those traveling outside the area or county and seeking a local hotel or B&B, we recommend www.booking.com.
We look forward to seeing you all at Carlingford Lough, and please share this event with any whale enthusiasts you may know.