by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 10:00 AM ET, Thu February 5, 2026
MSC Cruises will have a specially trained marine mammal observer aboard MSC Poesia when it sails in Alaska this summer.
The brand is launching a new partnership with ORCA, a marine conservation organization based in the United Kingdom focused on protecting whales and dolphins around the world. The ORCA-trained observer will sail onboard MSC Poesia for one month from late July through late August, one of the most whale-populous periods in Alaskan waters.
The observation period will allow the ORCA expert to gather data on whale behavioral responses to vessel presence and activity. The information will be shared with the scientific community and will be used to inform the whale avoidance training that ORCA provides to deck crew of numerous cruise lines and shipping companies, including MSC Cruises.
ORCA will also offer support and guidance on Alaska destination experiences, including a review of current whale-watching excursions, to support sustainable wildlife tourism. During each Alaska itinerary, the observer will host an onboard educational session for guests.
“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,” says Linden Coppell, vice president of sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises.
“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," Coppell continued.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
