Swim for the Whales: Make a Splash in Conservation

Jan 23, 2025 Blog Icon

Category: Events

Marival Resorts is proud to sponsor the remarkable event "Nado Por Las Ballenas” this year! With three all-inclusive resorts located on the pristine beaches of Nuevo Vallarta and Punta de Mita, we are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of our surroundings. We believe that by supporting initiatives like Swim for the Whales (“Nado por las Ballenas” in Spanish), we can help raise awareness and funds for whale conservation in our local waters.

This initiative is led by a pioneer in the field of aquatic conservation, Stephanie Montero. A talented open-water swimmer, Stephanie has dedicated her efforts to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the humpback whales in Banderas Bay. Her commitment to the environment is inspiring, highlighting the need for collective action in response to the ongoing environmental crisis.

In December 2024, Swim for the Whales will continue its efforts to raise money for whale conservation in Banderas Bay. Read on for all the details on how to get involved.

What Is “Swim for the Whales”?

The upcoming challenge will be an epic event featuring six teams led by renowned Mexican athletes. Scheduled for December 7, these teams will take on the “Vuelta a la Bahía de Banderas,” each swimmer completing a stage of the same 120-kilometer route that Stephanie has already conquered earlier this year. Their mission? To raise crucial funds for the conservation of the majestic humpback whale and the marine ecosystems of the Mexican Pacific.

The event’s stages include:

Puerto Vallarta to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle - 20 km

La Cruz to Punta de Mita (Punta Villela) - 16.1 km

Punta de Mita to Chimo, Jalisco - 34.8 km

Chimo to Yelapa - 17.1 km

Yelapa to Mismaloya (passing in front of Boca de Tomatlán) - 18.4 km

Mismaloya (passing through Los Arcos) to Puerto Vallarta - 14.2 km

Funds raised during this event will support six key conservation projects, including whale sighting surveillance, retrieval of lost fishing nets, rescuing entangled whales, coral cultivation and monitoring, the Bahía Cero campaign to reduce single-use plastics, and environmental education.

How Can I Participate?

Participating in “Nado por las Ballenas” is an opportunity to engage in a meaningful cause while challenging yourself physically! Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to make a difference in your community, there are various ways to get involved:

Virtual Participation: You can sign up for a virtual Swim for the Whales challenge! This means you can set your own personal goal, whether it's swimming, running, walking, dancing, or even horseback riding. Choose an activity you love and commit to completing it during the event week. You can create a fundraising page and promote your personal challenge to friends, family, and social networks. Set a fundraising goal that motivates you and share your journey on social media with the hashtag #NadoPorLasBallenas

Attend the Event: If you're in the area, come out on December 7 to cheer on the teams! Experience the excitement of the event firsthand and engage with the community dedicated to whale conservation. Your presence can boost morale and encourage participants to push their limits.

Spread the Word: Help raise awareness for the event by sharing information on your social media channels or even discussing it in your community. The more people know about Swim for the Whales, the greater the potential for fundraising and conservation efforts.

How Can I Donate?

Donating to “Swim for the Whales” is a powerful way to support marine conservation efforts directly. Here’s how you can make a meaningful contribution:

Online Donations: Visit Nado por las Ballenas and click on the “Donativos” button. You can choose to make a one-time donation or set up a recurring monthly contribution to support the ongoing projects aimed at protecting the humpback whales and their habitat.

Sponsor a Swimmer: If you know someone participating in the event, consider sponsoring them. Pledge a certain amount for every kilometer they complete or set a fixed donation amount. This personal connection not only makes your donation more impactful but also encourages the swimmer to give their all.

By participating or donating to Swim for the Whales, you're not just engaging in a fun activity; you're playing a crucial role in the protection of our marine ecosystems and the magnificent humpback whales of Banderas Bay. Every effort counts, and together, we can make a significant impact!

Marival Resorts is committed to supporting conservation efforts that protect the stunning natural beauty of our region. When you choose to stay at our all-inclusive beach resorts in Nuevo Vallarta or Punta de Mita, you’re not just enjoying a luxurious getaway, you’re also contributing to a vital cause. Find more details on the official Swim for the Whales website, and join us in making a splash for the whales and help ensure that these magnificent creatures thrive in our beautiful Banderas Bay for generations to come!