Marine Conservation Charity Protecting Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises
Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in the Arctic
ORCA is a marine conservation charity dedicated to the long-term protection of whales, dolphins, and porpoises around the world. From icy Arctic waters to temperate seas, ORCA’s mission is to give everyone who cares about whales and dolphins an active role in safeguarding their future.
Through its growing network of volunteers, professional Ocean Conservationists, and long-standing industry partnerships, ORCA is uniquely placed to monitor cetacean populations and help implement vital protection measures to protect these incredible animals.
In collaboration with AECO’s operators, ORCA’s work focuses on data collection, responsible wildlife watching, and tackling threats such as vessel strike. Together, we aim to ensure the Arctic remains a place where whales and dolphins can thrive.
Monitoring Arctic Cetaceans with OceanWatchers
ORCA’s OceanWatchers app transforms cruise ships into platforms of opportunity—floating research stations where passengers and crew can contribute directly to marine science.
Using the app, observers log sightings of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, building a valuable dataset that helps ORCA understand species distribution, behaviour, and find protection measures for the threats they face. Using the power of citizen science, ORCA gather more and more evidence enbleing them to be a more powerful voice for whales and dolphins. OceanWatchers is designed to make data collection as flexible as possible, enabling anyone to be a key part of their conservation work.
Responsible Wildlife Watching in the Arctic
The chance to see whales and dolphins in the wild is a highlight of many Arctic voyages. Species such as belugas, narwhals, and humpback whales captivate and inspire. ORCA have worked together with AECO to ensure that wildlife watching activities are carried out safely and sustainably in Arctic waters. ORCA supports the adoption of responsible whale watching guidelines that prioritise the welfare of animals and minimise human disturbance.
By encouraging animal-led encounters, where animals are free to choose how they interact, we allow for authentic, respectful experiences—ones that create lifelong memories while protecting wildlife for future generations.
Saving Large Whales from Vessel Strike
Vessel strike is one of the leading causes of mortality for large whales globally. As Arctic shipping routes become more accessible, traffic is increasing—particularly along areas like the Northwest Passage. This raises serious concerns for slow-moving, surface-dwelling species like bowhead whales, which could face similar risks to the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.
ORCA is working across the cruise and commercial shipping sectors to build awareness and reduce risk. Through specialist training, policy advocacy, and on board research, ORCA aim to implement practical solutions that protect vulnerable species.
Key actions include promoting speed restrictions in high-risk areas, educating seafarers on avoidance measures, and enhancing understanding of cetacean distribution.
