Dead Endangered Whale Found on Bow of Cruise Ship Arriving in Alaska

A 61-foot fin whale was found dead on the bow of Royal Caribbean Group’s Ovation of the Seas after the cruise ship arrived in Seward, Alaska on June 19. The endangered whale, described as pregnant, was towed to a local beach for further examination, according to NOAA Fisheries Alaska. Preliminary necropsy findings reported that the whale died after being struck by a vessel, citing blunt force trauma to the jaw, spine, and ribs. Royal Caribbean Group said the company was saddened and noted that the ship immediately reported the incident to the proper authorities, cooperating with NOAA and awaiting necropsy results. Law enforcement is investigating. The whale will be towed out to sea to sink, leaving natural processes to take effect.