On August 7tth, the Day of dolphins, a traditional event held since 1993. will be held in Veli Lošinj. This event is organized by the Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation. It is an organization that has for 23 years conducted research of biology, ecology and social structure of communities of bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the seas around the islands of Cres and Lošinj. The size of the community was estimated at 120 individuals and the group is one of the most researched in the whole Mediterranean."Blue World" in its scientific research and educational and protection programs implements several projects aimed at gathering information on endangered sea life and education of the public and various interest groups in order to preserve the marine environment. One of the goals is to support sustainable development of island communities.
"Blue World" in 2003. opened the first educational center about the sea on the Adriatic in which through the permanent collection, exhibitions, interactive, multimedia presentations, workshops, lectures, and conducts the education courses continue.
One of the projects and actions is "Adopt a dolphin", which raises funds for the continuing of research and studies through the association. Dolphin adopters receive a certificate and a photograph of the adopted dolphin, with a text that describes it.
"Blue World" reaches out to volunteers who want to spend ten days at the base in Veli Lošinj, actively
participating in daily activities, learning and gaining experience in the field.
However, the crown of the year-round activities for 18 consecutive years has been the fun-educational event called ‘’Day of the dolphins’’ organized by the Association in Veli Lošinj on the first Saturday in August. The program consists of regular lectures, exhibitions, workshops, games, sporting events and other entertainment content. One of the main features of Dolphin Day by which this event has become recognizable id the big exhibition of children's art works from Croatia and abroad on the sea and dolphins theme.
Veli Lošinj is situated in a narrow bay on the southeast side of the island of Lošinj. Tall houses, primarily around the harbor and the many villas with beautiful gardens are the main features of this town, which already in the 19th century became known and recognized for its climate. In 1892. along with Mali Lošinj, it was declared a health resort, followed by the rapid development of health tourism.
The Tourist Board of Primorsko-Goranska County
www.kvarner.hr
The Tourist Board of Mali Lošinj
www.tz-malilosinj.hr
''Blue World'' Association
www.plavi-svijet.org