KAPALUA – The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua will host the 14th annual Whale Tales Presented by Whale Trust on Feb. 14-17. Guests and locals will have the opportunity to interact with top international scientists, photographers and conservationists during the four-day event.

Whale Tales will feature talks from world renowned researchers on cetaceans and the ocean environment, stunning underwater photography and video of whales, immersive hands-on educational opportunities presented by marine research and conservation organizations and benefit whale watches.

In partnership with Maui-based whale watch companies, local and international guest presenters will be featured on whale watching cruises during the event.

Whale Tales is a unique opportunity for Maui residents and visitors to hear first-hand what marine scientists are studying and discovering about the ocean and its inhabitants.

“We are so lucky to live here on Maui, where the whales are such an important part of our lifestyle,” said Whale Trust Executive Director and Co-founder Meagan Jones Gray.

“As photographers, filmmakers, conservationists and researchers, we travel the world to learn more about whales and their ocean environment, but it is on Maui that we come together to share our stories, research, photographs and video at Whale Tales, a free community event.”

Whale Tales (originally Whale Quest Kapalua) was established in 2006 by Kapalua Land Company in partnership with Whale Trust to bridge the information gap between scientists working in the field and the public.

This year marks an exciting milestone in the evolution of Whale Tales by Whale Trust, as the event becomes one of The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua’s signature events.

“To be in partnership with an organization that is making such an important and positive impact on the ocean environment is a true honor. Whales are a beloved aspect of Maui, and we look forward to helping… bridge the gap between scientists and the general public,” said General Manager Andrew Rogers.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has been home to the event nearly every year since its inception in 2006.

Presentations, special events and benefit whale watches will be held throughout the weekend. Admission to Whale Tales presentations and the Marine Science Center is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation of $20 per person to support Whale Tales 2020 Beneficiaries. Benefit whale watch tickets start at $65 per person.

Whale Tales is a fundraising event to support whale research in Hawaii. In 13 years, the event has raised more than $725,000 for whale research in Hawaii and Alaska. All proceeds are distributed to selected beneficiary organizations and students.

This year’s presenting sponsors are Makana Aloha Foundation and George and Marie Weis.

For more information about Whale Tales, visit whaletales.org or call Whale Trust at 572-5700.