Watch Whale Wars, Specials

Whale Wars is a reality television series that originally aired on Animal Planet in 2008. The show follows the efforts of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting marine wildlife and their habitats, as they embark on dangerous missions to stop illegal whaling in various parts of the world.

The series features crew members from various countries who use direct action tactics to disrupt and halt whaling operations. The crew's main ship is the Steve Irwin, which is equipped with helicopter and high-speed rigid inflatable boats to find and pursue the whaling vessels. The Steve Irwin and her crew are led by Captain Paul Watson, who is known for his outspoken and controversial activism.

Throughout the series, the crew members face numerous challenges and dangers in their quest to stop whaling. They often come into conflict with the whaling vessels and their crews, who are not always willing to cooperate or respect international laws and regulations regarding whaling. The show highlights the difficult decisions and actions that the Sea Shepherd crew must take in order to protect the whales and enforce anti-whaling laws.

In addition to the regular series, there are also several specials that have aired on Animal Planet. These specials focus on specific aspects of the Sea Shepherd's campaigns against whaling, such as their efforts to stop Japan's so-called scientific whaling program in the Southern Ocean.

One such special is Whale Wars: Viking Shores. This special follows the crew as they travel to the Faroe Islands, a Danish territory where traditional whaling practices are still allowed. The crew witnesses a brutal whale hunt known as the Grind, where pilot whales are driven into a shallow bay and slaughtered by local fishermen. The Sea Shepherd crew attempts to intervene and prevent the hunt from taking place, but encounters resistance from the local community and law enforcement.

Another special is Whale Wars: A Commander Rises. This special documents the departure of Captain Paul Watson from the Sea Shepherd organization, following legal trouble and controversy surrounding his activism. The crew must adjust to the departure of their founder and leader, while also continuing their mission to stop illegal whaling.

Overall, Whale Wars is a gripping and intense series that sheds light on the important issue of whaling and marine conservation. The show provides a unique perspective on direct action tactics used by activists to protect wildlife and the environment, while also sparking debates about the ethics and effectiveness of such tactics. The specials add depth and nuance to the series, offering insight into specific campaigns and challenges faced by the Sea Shepherd crew.