MSC Cruises has announced a landmark partnership with marine conservation organisation ORCA, deploying the first dedicated ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) aboard a ship during the cruise line’s inaugural Alaska season in summer 2026. This science-driven initiative reinforces MSC Cruises’ commitment to turning environmental responsibility into action as it expands operations while moving industry-wide standards forward.
As part of the partnership, an ORCA MMO will sail on board MSC Poesia for one month during the peak whale season from late July through late August 2026, one of the most whale-populous periods in Alaskan waters. This extended observation period enables statistically significant data collection on whale behavioral responses to vessel presence and activity.
The ORCA MMO will also be using this time to study whale behavior and collect data, notably their reaction to the presence of cruise vessels. This information will be shared with the scientific community as well as used to inform the whale avoidance training that ORCA provides to deck crew of numerous cruise lines and shipping companies, including MSC Cruises.
Drawing on ORCA’s expertise in ethical and responsible whale watching, the organisation will offer support and guidance on Alaska destination experiences, including the review of current whale watching excursions.
ORCA will help identify best-practice operators and work collaboratively throughout the season to conduct ongoing assessments, gathering near real-time quantitative feedback to support high standards of sustainable wildlife tourism.
Guest education is another core pillar of the collaboration. During each Alaska itinerary, ORCA’s MMO will host an on board educational session for guests, highlighting the research taking place and the potential positive impact of the partnership. Guests will also be introduced to ORCA’s citizen science initiatives, offering an opportunity to engage more deeply with Alaska’s marine environment.
Linden Coppell, Vice President, Sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises, said: “As we prepare for our inaugural season in Alaska, it was important for us to take a proactive, science-led approach to operating in one of the world’s most environmentally sensitive regions. Partnering with ORCA allows us to combine expert research, enhanced crew training and meaningful guest engagement to better understand how vessels interact with whales and how we can further reduce risk. This collaboration reflects our broader commitment to protecting marine biodiversity while continuing to evolve how our industry operates responsibly.”
Steve Jones, COO at ORCA, said: “As ORCA enters its 25th year, we see more than ever before the opportunity the cruise industry has to play a meaningful part in protecting whales. MSC Cruises is showing that they plan to go above and beyond to embed conservation as a part of the wonderful programme they are offering this summer. We’re proud to be a part of making their debut Alaskan season an experience their guests will never forget.”
The partnership supports MSC Cruises’ inaugural Alaska season in summer 2026, with newly upgraded MSC Poesia sailing seven-night itineraries from Seattle and marking a major milestone in the brand’s global deployment. Building on this momentum, MSC Cruises has also recently opened sales for its second Alaska season in summer 2027, reflecting strong demand for the destination and the company’s long-term commitment to operating responsibly in the region.
The partnership was formally unveiled at CLIA’s Pacific Northwest Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska, where industry and conservation leaders gathered to discuss sustainable cruise operations. The announcement spotlights MSC Cruises’ leadership and calls on others to prioritize science-driven approaches to conservation.
Prices from £799 for 7-nights on MSC Poesia departing 17th August 2026 from Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Icy Strait Hoonah, Tracy Arm, Juneau and Victoria.
