If you have seen a whale or dolphin from a dive boat, or have dived in their vicinity it will undoubtedly be one of your most memorable experiences.

This is your opportunity to get close up to life sized whale and dolphin models, from mighty blue whales, to sperm and pilots whales, and down to the diminutive harbour porpoise - with guides to explain when and where to see them plus amazing facts on their biology and behaviour. Go virtual whale-watching, take a dive in our steam punk submarine, and pick up new knowledge to make your diving and interactions with whales and dolphins more meaningful, fun and sustainable.

This year's event is on a much bigger scale. For starters there will be a try-dive pool for those that haven't dived - so bring friends - and, for certified divers, a chance to try rebreathers, underwater photography and videography clinics and top tips for snorkelling and free diving with cetaceans. Learn more about Project AWARE, how to save stranded whales and dolphins with British Divers Marine Life Rescue and for children there will be fun activities on the indoor seashore beach.

Learn where to see and dive with wild whales and dolphins around the world, how any interaction with them needs to be conducted, from people with first hand close encounter experiences. With a jam-packed programme of talks, workshops, lectures, films, installations and exhibitors, including whale watching and tour operators, conservation groups and others from round the world, it's a shoal of ocean inspired enjoyment.

WhaleFest 2012 also has a serious message to share. Held at The Hilton Brighton Metropole hotel, the event marks the 30th anniversary of the world’s governments vote to suspend the hunting of whales, which was announced outside the hotel in 1982. Thirty years later, WhaleFest organisers Planet Whale will be inviting the public to support its new campaign - Save The Whales: Reloaded.

www.whale-fest.com