Affordable-quality, no-fly cruise line, Ambassador Cruise Line is proud to announce a new initiative with long-standing charity partner, ORCA, the marine conservation charity dedicated to the protection of whales and dolphins, that will see future Ocean Conservationists undergo training onboard Ambassador’s second lady of the sea, Ambition. These highly skilled individuals will soon join the ranks of ORCA’s global team of experts, working to protect marine life and inspire the public through educational initiatives and research.
The 24 trainee Ocean Conservationists will join guests onboard Ambition on the Marvels of France, Portugal & Spain itinerary, departing from Bristol on 13 June 2025. With 12 future Ocean Conservationists sailing from Bristol to Cadiz from 13 June to 22 June 2025 and a further 12 trainees replacing them for the ship’s return leg from 22 June 29 June, this will form part of a rigorous, multi-stage training programme designed to develop conservation experts who can lead educational efforts and contribute valuable scientific research onboard ships across the world.
After completing a comprehensive four-month online training course, which will dive deep into topics ranging from conservation threats to life at sea, each group will take part in a real-life assignment alongside current ORCA staff members, with participants given the chance to put their knowledge into action while onboard. This hands-on experience will allow trainees to practice their skills in a live environment, delivering inspiring talks, collecting scientific data and guiding guests in wildlife watching sessions while exploring the ocean’s diverse habitats.
“We believe that everyone who cares about whales and dolphins can take an active role in safeguarding their future,” says Steve Jones, Director of Fundraising & Operations at ORCA. “Through our Ocean Conservationist Network, we provide individuals from all walks of life – teachers, finance professionals, police officers and more – with the tools and knowledge they need to protect marine life. It is through collaboration with valued partners such as Ambassador Cruise Line that we can inspire more people to get involved and make a difference.”
Guests onboard the summertime itinerary will have the chance to engage directly with the training process, helping to support the next generation of conservation heroes, all while enjoying a fantastic 16-night cruise to some of Europe’s most beautiful regions.
Each guest who participates in these activities will play a part in developing a new cohort of passionate Ocean Conservationists, highlighting the importance of public engagement in ocean conservation and the opportunity for cruise travellers to make a lasting impact on the future of our oceans.
“We are proud to extend our partnership with ORCA and offer our guests this unique and meaningful opportunity to engage with the organisation and its important work on a deeper level,” says Bob McGowan, Chief Experience Officer at Ambassador. “Our guests will not only experience the beauty of the European coastline but also gain an understanding of the critical work being done to protect some of our ocean’s incredible creatures.”
A detailed itinerary of activities for guests to get involved in will be shared closer to the cruise departure date. To book a cabin on this special sailing, with prices starting from £1,409pp, visit www.ambassadorcruise.com.
