- DISCOVERY Yacht Unbridled
Humpback Whale Research and Education in Southeast Alaska
- September 9 - 11, 2026
- Juneau, Alaska
Project Overview
Marine ecologist Dr. Fred Sharpe has conducted long-term research on humpback whales in Southeast Alaska, studying their seasonal movements, foraging behavior, and use of the region’s productive coastal waterways. Through an ongoing collaboration facilitated by The International SeaKeepers Society, DISCOVERY Yacht Unbridled has provided a platform for Dr. Sharpe’s research and educational efforts while operating in Alaska.
This expedition continued that collaboration while also providing an opportunity to connect whale research directly with the guest and crew experience aboard Unbridled. Through observations on the water and discussions with Dr. Sharpe, those onboard gained a deeper understanding of humpback whale behavior and how vessels can operate responsibly around marine wildlife.
Application
Long-term observations of humpback whales in Southeast Alaska contribute to a greater understanding of their distribution, movements, feeding behavior, and use of important habitats. Unbridled provides Dr. Sharpe with an at-sea platform from which to observe whales across the remote waterways where his broader research has taken place.
The collaboration also helps translate marine science into practical knowledge for yacht crews and guests. Dr. Sharpe discussed behavioral cues that can be observed at sea and responsible vessel practices around whales, including maintaining appropriate distances, reducing speed, avoiding sudden course changes, and allowing the animals to dictate encounters. Incorporating this knowledge into bridge operations and the guest experience can encourage a more informed and respectful approach to wildlife observation.
Expedition Summary
From September 9-11, 2026, The International SeaKeepers Society connected marine ecologist Dr. Fred Sharpe with DISCOVERY Yacht Unbridled for three days aboard the vessel during its charter operations in Southeast Alaska. The collaboration built upon Unbridled’s previous support of Dr. Sharpe’s long-term humpback whale research in the region.
During his time aboard, Dr. Sharpe observed humpback whales encountered throughout the vessel’s operations and shared insights from his research with Unbridled’s guests and crew. Discussions explored whale behavior, movement and feeding activity, as well as behavioral signs that can help those on the water better understand how whales are responding to their surroundings.
Dr. Sharpe also worked with the crew to discuss responsible vessel operations around whales, emphasizing practices that minimize disturbance and allow encounters to unfold naturally. For charter guests, the collaboration offered an opportunity to move beyond simply viewing whales and instead learn directly from a researcher about the animals’ behavior, ecology, and the importance of responsible wildlife interactions.
The expedition demonstrated how yachts operating in ecologically significant destinations can serve not only as platforms for scientific observation, but also as valuable spaces for education and the practical application of responsible wildlife-viewing practices.
Location
Southeast Alaska
Leadership
Research Team
Dr. Fred Sharpe
Partner Sites
Photo Gallery
