Whether you are looking for a unique gift for someone special or just interested in making a difference, please consider supporting the Aquarium’s Right Whale Research Program this holiday season.

The Right Whale Research Program, started in 1980 to study the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale, is one of the longest continuously running whale research and conservation programs in the world. Fewer than 500 right whales remain and they suffer high mortality rates from fishing gear entanglements and vessel strikes. Our mission is to conserve this critically endangered whale by decreasing the threat of entanglement, reducing the risk of ship strikes, and increasing our knowledge about how and where right whales live.  We work with scientists, government agencies, the shipping industry, and commercial fishing interests to find ways to assure the continued survival of the North Atlantic right whale.

north atlantic right whale genuine
Sponsorship whale, Gemini, is one of the oldest in the population! Photo: Yan Guilbault.

One way you can help our efforts is by participating in the Right Whale Sponsorship Program. Tax-deductible sponsorships are available at many different levels and go directly toward the research and conservation work focused on saving this most endangered whale. All of our sponsorship packages include full-color informational booklets, the hardcover book “Disappearing Giants,” a one-year subscription to our biannual newsletter, Right Whale Research News, stickers, and a coupon to the New England Aquarium Gift shop. And remember, each sponsorship is tax-deductible and 100% of your sponsorship dollars directly support our Right Whale Research Program.

right whale publications
A few of the items in a sponsorship package.

CALLING ALL TEACHERS!

We also offer a Classroom Sponsorship that is perfect for classroom or service projects. Along with all the other sponsorship materials, the Classroom Sponsorship includes a single plush right whale for the classroom, stickers for up to 30 students, and access to the right whale-themed Smithsonian in your Classroom lesson plans “The Tale of the Whale.” Learn more about our sponsorship program and the different support levels available here.

smithsonian in your classroom packet
Our Classroom sponsorship comes with lesson plans!

RIGHT WHALE THEMED GIFT IDEAS! 

In addition to sponsoring a right whale, you can shop in support of right whale research by purchasing T-shirts, books, or the super-soft right whale plushy. Net proceeds go directly toward the annual costs of field research, data analysis, and professional collaborations. These all make wonderful gifts for any occasion and shipping is FREE!

north atlantic right whale t-shirts
T-shirts for kids (pictured) and adults!
north atlantic right whale plushy toy
Our adorable plush right whale!

Or how about a right whale cutting board or clock? Off the Beam Woodworking creates such items from sustainably harvested domestic hardwoods and responsibly harvested tropical woods. There are many beautiful, custom-made products available, and proceeds from several (as indicated in the product description) are donated to the Aquarium’s Right Whale Research Program.

north atlantic right whale cutting board
One-of-a-kind serving board from Off The Beam.

Whether you choose a right whale sponsorship, a T-shirt, or a plush, your purchase directly supports the Aquarium’s Right Whale Research Program. So this season, please consider shopping to make a difference!  Thank you!