Be Part of the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association to
Keep
the Ocean Thriving
We bring together marine tourism operators, researchers, and partners committed to responsible marine tourism along Northern Vancouver Island to ensure that human activities - like whale watching - coexist sustainably with the marine ecosystem
Three Pillars
Our work to keep in balance human and economic activities with the protection of the unique habitat of North Vancouver Island is centered around the following three pillars:
Responsible Tourism
Through shared standards and stewardship practices, NIMMSA helps ensure wildlife viewing is respectful, sustainable, and future-focused.
Research & Conservation
We support innovative research and conservation projects that protect marine mammals and their ecosystems.
Advocacy & Education
Explore NIMMSA our Learning Hub for best practices, driver training, and links to trusted marine resources.
Join Our Community
Discover the value of NIMMSA membership. Become part of a network of like-minded organizations dedicated to safeguarding the unique ecosystem of North Vancouver Island for future generations.
Meet our members!
Meet our members! Tour operators and non-profits coming together to care for our coast. Explore organizations committed to responsible marine tourism and marine mammal stewardship.
Figures that Make us Happy
Current Members
42
A growing network of tour operators and non-profits working together.
Projects Funded since 2017
33
Supporting research, education, and stewardship along our coast.
Total Funds Distributed
$239K
Made possible through member contributions and donations.
Protecting North Vancouver Island's Unique Habitat
The following video by our non-profit member organization 4TVI gives you the opportunity to learn more about the environment that we cherish and strive to protect
Join Our Community
Discover the value of NIMMSA membership. Become part of a network of like-minded organizations dedicated to safeguarding the unique ecosystem of North Vancouver Island for future generations.
Meet our members!
Meet our members! Tour operators and non-profits coming together to care for our coast. Explore organizations committed to responsible marine tourism and marine mammal stewardship.
Stewardship in Practice
Learn more about how NIMMSA makes a tangible difference through its Code of Conduct and the Conservation Fund
NIMMSA’s Code of Conduct
Our Code of Conduct sets clear expectations for how our members operate in the water, communicate with the public, and work together as stewards of the marine environment.
Our Code of Conduct guides members in:
- Practicing safe, responsible, and respectful marine wildlife viewing
- Following regulations, guidelines, and ethical marketing standards
- Supporting stewardship, reconciliation, and collaboration on the water
A Fund to Support Marine Conservation on Northern Vancouver Island
The Conservation Fund helps support on-the-ground projects related to marine research, education, and stewardship. Funding comes from NIMMSA members and donors and is directed to projects that reflect shared values and priorities in the region.
Voices from the Community
Hear what NIMMSA members say about being part of the community and how membership has benefited them.
Wildcoast Adventures
"For Wildcoast Adventures, being a member of NIMMSA means taking an active role in caring for the coastal places we explore every day. The Code of Conduct and Ethical Marketing guidelines help us lead small-group adventures with respect for wildlife and wild spaces, while contributions to the Conservation Fund support on-the-ground conservation efforts across the region. It’s an important way for us to ensure our adventures are rooted in stewardship, not just exploration."
Marine Education and Research Society (MERS)
"We are grateful to NIMMSA for their focus on stewardship and our collaborations on resources to reduce impacts to whales, including the #ForTheWhales campaign. The support via the NIMMSA Conservation Fund has also been of very significant help to our research and education efforts to reduce threats to whales. "
Spirit of the West Adventures
"Being a part of NIMMSA has meant we are connected to the greater network of other operators throughout the North Island who care as much about this diverse region as we do. When a collective advocates together, our voices are heard more clearly and change can be lasting. We are so grateful for NIMMSA's steady leadership in shaping conservation efforts, fostering stewardship and supporting our community. "
Sailcone's Grizzly Bear Safari
"NIMMSA has helped create connections with like minded organisations and contribute to meaningful initiatives in our operating area, while remaining humble and working with integrity."
Prince of Whales
"Being a NIMMSA member has been invaluable for us. It connects us with operators who genuinely care about marine mammals and the future of this region, and it gives our guests confidence that we are committed to responsible, ethical wildlife viewing. Through NIMMSA’s shared Code of Conduct and Conservation Fund, we commit to stewardship in a way that strengthens both the ecosystem and our industry."
Protected Water Charters
"NIMMSA has helped make me a more knowledgeable and better guide as well as giving me the opportunity to contribute to the wider wildlife viewing community and conservation efforts coastwide."
Join Our Community
Discover the value of NIMMSA membership. Become part of a network of like-minded organizations dedicated to safeguarding the unique ecosystem of North Vancouver Island for future generations.
Meet our members!
Meet our members! Tour operators and non-profits coming together to care for our coast. Explore organizations committed to responsible marine tourism and marine mammal stewardship.
Keep The Ocean Thriving
Donate today and play a vital role in caring for the marine wildlife and ecosystems of Northern Vancouver Island.