SEATTLE – 27 JULY 2026 – Marine Mammal Observer Maria Snell has joined MSC Poesia in Alaska under a research and conservation partnership between MSC Cruises and marine conservation organisation ORCA, according to the cruise line’s official press release.
Snell will study passenger ship operations in areas with significant whale populations, evaluate shore excursions from a conservation perspective and deliver educational activities for guests. The project coincides with MSC Cruises’ inaugural Alaska season and represents ORCA’s most extensive conservation programme conducted in the region.
Research to Examine Whale-Vessel Interactions
During the peak whale season, Snell will follow a new research protocol developed by ORCA for use aboard MSC Poesia.
Her work will employ a mobile observation rig equipped with high-powered binoculars and camera technology. The resulting observations are intended to contribute information to the scientific and maritime communities.
The research will examine interactions between passenger vessels and marine wildlife, with findings expected to inform future crew training and operating protocols. It brings together scientific data collection, operational training, conservation education and engagement with passengers.
Snell will also review shore excursions, provide guidance to tour operators and help guests understand responsible tourism practices in Alaska.
Experienced Observer Leads Onboard Programme
Snell is a UK-based conservationist with a master’s degree in Global Wildlife Health and Conservation. She is a trained Marine Mammal Observer and a leading member of ORCA’s whale-vessel interaction research programme.
Since joining ORCA in 2022, she has completed three summers of field research in Alaska. Her previous work has involved collecting data on humpback whale behaviour and interactions between whales and vessels, supporting research into measures that could reduce associated risks.
Aboard MSC Poesia, Snell will lead guest education programmes focused on marine mammal research and conservation. She will also provide guests with guidance on responsible tourism practices throughout their time in Alaska.
Linden Coppell, Vice President of Sustainability and ESG at MSC Cruises, said the collaboration would help develop understanding of passenger-vessel interactions with marine wildlife while extending conservation education to crew and guests.
“We are delighted to welcome Maria aboard and look forward to learning from her work throughout the season.”
ORCA Partnership Moves into Active Research
MSC Cruises has worked with ORCA on marine wildlife training for shipboard officers since 2022. Hosting a dedicated Marine Mammal Observer represents the next stage of that relationship.
This is the first time active research conducted aboard an MSC Cruises ship through the partnership will directly contribute to future training and operational procedures.
Steve Jones, Chief Operating Officer at ORCA, said cooperation with the maritime industry was important to creating safer marine environments for whales and dolphins. He said the project would help the organisation study and protect whales in one of the world’s richest marine habitats.
ORCA plans to publish a scientific report after the project concludes. The report will detail Snell’s findings for the wider scientific and maritime communities.
Work Taking Place During Alaska Season
MSC Poesia is operating seven-night Alaska voyages from Seattle through September 2026. The itineraries call at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau, alongside Victoria in British Columbia, and include scenic cruising through Endicott Arm with views of Dawes Glacier.
Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 27 July, 2026, Seattle.
