MSC Cruises is taking a thoughtful and responsible step as it prepares for its very first Alaska cruise season in summer 2026.
The cruise line has announced a new partnership with marine conservation charity ORCA, aimed at protecting whales in one of the world’s most sensitive and wildlife-rich regions.
Rather than treating sustainability as a side effort, MSC is placing it directly into daily operations.
During select seven-night sailings from Seattle, an ORCA marine mammal observer will be onboard the MSC Poesia, helping monitor whale activity during peak migration months. The initiative is designed to turn scientific research into practical action at sea.
Scientists Onboard During Peak Whale Season
From late July through late August 2026, guests sailing aboard the newly upgraded MSC Poesia will share their voyage with a trained ORCA observer.
This marks the first time ORCA has placed a dedicated marine mammal observer on an MSC Cruises ship.
The observer will spend each day monitoring whale movements and behavior, collecting real-time data on how marine mammals respond to cruise ship activity.
This research will help deepen understanding of whale interactions in busy Alaskan waters and support future conservation efforts across the region.
Turning Research Into Real-World Action
The information gathered during these sailings won’t stay onboard. MSC Cruises confirmed that collected data will be shared with the wider scientific community and used to enhance ORCA’s whale-avoidance training for ship deck crews.
In addition, ORCA will review whale-watching excursions offered in Alaska, helping MSC identify operators that follow best-practice guidelines.
This step supports more responsible wildlife tourism while ensuring guests can enjoy Alaska’s iconic marine life respectfully and sustainably.
This move aligns with wider efforts across the West Coast, including California’s decision to open its whale protection program to cruise lines ahead of the 2026 season.
MSC Cruises’ sustainability leadership says the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to marine protection, not just for Alaska but across the company’s expanding global operations.
By blending research, crew education and guest engagement, MSC aims to set a higher standard for responsible cruising in environmentally sensitive destinations.
As MSC enters Alaska for the first time, this initiative signals that conservation and cruising can move forward together thoughtfully, responsibly and with real impact.
