the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust

This study would not have been possible had it not been for the help and co-operation of certain organisations and individuals. Thanks therefore goes to all the people involved in the survey at the study site, including the staff at Arisaig Marine, Margaret and Rosemary of the Land, Sea and Islands Centre and especially to Anne Martin, not only for her support but also for providing a roof over my head. The data collection was undertaken as part of a DETR study into the economic impacts of whale watching on the west coast of Scotland and as such, thanks go to the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust for the opportunity to take part in the study and for financial assistance. Further thanks are due to Chris Parsons (HWDT) and Caroline Warburton (The Centre for Conservation and Sustainable Development, University of Greenwich) for their encouragement and understanding throughout. The unwavering support and advice offered by my project supervisor, Dr Richard Ladle of Napier University, was also much appreciated. My final thanks go to my family and friends who have shown consistent loyalty and encouragement throughout the year, with special thanks to my flatmate Jane for her positivity and steadfast belief in my abilities