This paper reports findings derived from two samples, each of which numbered over 400 respondents. The
first was of divers and the second of whale watchers, and both samples were from the Azores, a major diving
and whale watching tourist location in the northeast Atlantic ocean. Distinctions were made between generalists
and specialists in the recreational activities with the objective of assessing differences in perceptions and
behaviors. While there are commonalities in concerns over environmental issues distinct differences were
found. The findings also question previous studies that suggest higher degrees of involvement are related
to greater frequencies of a given activity. With reference to the passive activity of whale watching no such
relationship was found, but the behaviors of divers are consistent with such hypotheses, and it is suggested
that the requirement for training is one determining factor that reinforces involvement as people become
more specialized and skilled