Celebrating Our Ocean With ORCA
Friday, 5 June 2026
As ORCA marks 25 years of protecting whales, dolphins and porpoises, we’re celebrating the partnership we have built together to work towards safer oceans for these incredible animals. Since launching our partnership in 2021, Ambassador and ORCA have worked together to champion ocean protection, inspire thousands of guests, and set new standards for how the cruise industry can support wildlife.
HOW WE'RE MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH ORCA
From the moment Ambassador Cruise Line entered the industry in 2021, our vision has been to create exceptional experiences for our guests while acting responsibly towards the oceans we sail. That same year, together with ORCA, we launched the world’s first cruise-led Anti-Whaling Campaign, taking a firm stand against commercial whaling and the consumption of whale meat. We encourage guests to avoid whale meat wherever it is offered, and we continue to use our voice to advocate for positive change.
A key part of our partnership is bringing ORCA's expertise directly on board through ORCA Ocean Conservationists, who deliver unforgettable wildlife experiences for our guests. From daily deck watches to interactive workshops, guests are invited to discover more about the oceans and the incredible animals that call them home. Crucially, Ocean Conservationists also conduct vital scientific surveys onboard, collecting data which feeds into ORCA’s wider conservation work.
Read more: Uncharted Waters: Ambassador Cruise Line and ORCA's Anti-Whaling Campaign
GETTING INVOLVED WITH ORCA ONBOARD
ORCA Ocean Conservationists also accompany guests on whale-watching excursions, using a scorecard to ensure operators follow best practice guidelines, demonstrating Ambassador’s commitment to responsible wildlife experiences. This data then helps shape industry standards and ensures that the joy of seeing whales and dolphins in the wild never comes at the expense of their wellbeing. Guests are encouraged to get involved, whether by joining deck watches, helping spot wildlife, or even conducting their own surveys. It’s conservation in action, and it’s accessible to everyone.
The cruise exceeded all our expectations…
The cruise exceeded all our expectations. The food & service were wonderful. We were blown away by the youngsters singing & dancing in the shows & the days at sea events were very good, & we enjoyed the Orca talks, plays, singing etc. We couldn’t fault our cabin & our steward & all the staff were so polite & friendly. A big thank you to Satia our steward & Noverdi our waiter.. The weather crowned it all. Thank you so much to all your team.
– Verified Guest Review, Trustpilot
HOW AMBASSADOR FOR WHALES IS MAKING AN IMPACT
Last year saw the launch of Ambassador for Whales, our dedicated match-funding campaign created in partnership with ORCA. The campaign was a huge success, raising over £18,000 in 2025, providing a significant boost to ORCA’s conservation programmes. Building on that momentum, Ambassador for Whales will return for a second year in October 2026, with Ambassador once again providing a donation that will be used to match public gifts and raise even more for ORCA’s work.
Read more: 6,766 Moments of Wonder: ORCA Marine Wildlife Sightings From Ambassador Vessels in 2025
Christian Verhounig, Chief Executive Officer of Ambassador Cruise Line, said:
“We are proud to be entering a sixth year of partnership with ORCA, which continues to play an important role in how we engage our guests with the natural world. This collaboration allows us to support meaningful scientific research while offering guests a deeper understanding of the marine environments we sail through.
“Sustainability remains a core value for Ambassador and the continuation of our ORCA programme for 2028/29 reflects both its success to date and our shared commitment to protecting the oceans for future generations. We’re delighted to see our ORCA sailings in 2028/29 contribute to this mission, alongside ORCA’s excellent educational programme that continues to resonate with our guests.”
At the core of this partnership is a shared belief that travel should enrich the world, not harm it. This alignment of values creates extraordinary experiences for passengers onboard that drives real, lasting change for whales and dolphins.
“Ambassador’s commitment to protecting whales and dolphins is genuine, consistent and deeply valued. Their support helps ORCA reach more people, gather more evidence and drive the change needed to safeguard these incredible animals for future generations.”
Steve Jones, Director of Fundraising and Operations, ORCA
STARTING YOUR JOURNEY WITH ORCA
ORCA is powered by its partners and ordinary people who care about whales and dolphins. Want to get involved? Begin your journey as a citizen scientist, and help protect the ocean. Sign up for free training this month only, and see how you can help save the whale.
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WHY CRUISE WITH AMBASSADOR
Discover how Ambassador and ORCA are working together to protect whales, dolphins and our oceans. With welcoming service, comfortable smaller ships and thoughtfully planned itineraries, it’s easy to relax and enjoy the journey while learning more about the marine life around you.
