Guidelines for Managing Ecotourism for Bryde's Whale Watching in Samut Sakhon Province

Abstract

          This mixed-methods research aims to 1) study tourist behavior and needs regarding ecotourism for Bryde's whale watching in Samut Sakhon Province 2) examine tourism management for Bryde's whale watching in Samut Sakhon Province, and 3) propose guidelines for managing ecotourism for Bryde’s whale watching in Samut Sakhon Province. The quantitative sample consisted of 139 tourists aged 18 and above who participated in whale watching activities. The qualitative data were collected from six key informants, including local tourism operators and whale watching experts. The research instruments included questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The statistical data was analyzed by using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

            The research results found that 1) The majority of tourists traveled primarily to seek novel and unique experiences, most often with family members using private vehicles, with an average expenditure of 3,001–4,000 baht, and obtained information predominantly through social media. The tourists expressed the highest level of demand for attractive tourism components   ( = 4.27, S.D. = 0.58). 2) As for the managing tourism for Bryde’s whale watching in Samut Sakhon found that the majority of tourists rated tourism management aspects at the highest level ( = 4.29, S.D. = 0.63), and most of the local tourism operators emphasized the importance of minimizing negative impacts on Bryde’s whales and the ecosystem. 3) The guidelines for managing ecotourism for Bryde’s whale watching in Samut Sakhon facilities should be developed, especially at the pier, diversifying tourism activities to meet tourists' needs, promoting waste separation on boats, and encouraging community participation.