MSC Poesia to Host Marine Mammal Observer During Alaska Sailings
MSC Cruises will host a specially trained marine mammal observer aboard MSC Poesia during its Alaska sailings this summer, marking a new step in the cruise line’s sustainability and wildlife protection efforts as it prepares for its inaugural season in the region.
The initiative is part of a new partnership with ORCA, a United Kingdom–based marine conservation organization dedicated to the protection of whales and dolphins worldwide. An ORCA-trained observer will sail aboard MSC Poesia for approximately one month, from late July through late August, coinciding with one of the peak periods for whale activity in Alaskan waters.
During the voyage, the observer will collect data on whale behavior and responses to vessel presence and movement. This research will help build a clearer understanding of how large ships interact with marine mammals in busy cruising areas. The findings will be shared with the wider scientific community and will directly inform whale avoidance training programs delivered by ORCA to deck officers across the maritime sector, including MSC Cruises.
The partnership extends beyond onboard observation. ORCA will also provide guidance on destination experiences in Alaska, including a review of existing whale-watching excursions offered ashore. The goal is to support responsible and sustainable wildlife tourism practices that prioritize animal welfare while still delivering meaningful experiences for guests.
In addition to the research component, guest education will play a central role. On each Alaska itinerary, the marine mammal observer will host an onboard educational session, giving passengers insight into whale behavior, conservation challenges, and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. These sessions are designed to deepen guest awareness and encourage more informed engagement with the natural environment.
According to Linden Coppell, vice president of sustainability and ESG at MSC Cruises, the initiative reflects a proactive, science-led approach to operating in one of the world’s most environmentally sensitive cruising regions. She noted that partnering with ORCA allows the cruise line to combine expert research, enhanced crew training, and meaningful guest engagement to better understand vessel–whale interactions and further reduce potential risks.
MSC Cruises has emphasized that the program aligns with its broader environmental strategy, which includes continuous improvement in navigational practices, crew education, and collaboration with independent experts. By embedding marine mammal observers directly into Alaska sailings, the company aims to generate practical insights while demonstrating responsible operations in a destination known for its rich marine biodiversity.
As MSC Poesia enters Alaska waters for the first time, the collaboration with ORCA positions the cruise line to contribute valuable data to ongoing conservation efforts while offering guests a deeper connection to the wildlife that defines the region.
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