Celebrating Women’s History Month

Celebrating Women on the Water

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the women who have shaped industries, challenged expectations, and built careers in spaces that were not always designed with them in mind. In marine industries, women have long played essential roles, even when their contributions were overlooked.

Historically, seafaring was seen as a male-dominated world. Yet women worked behind the scenes as shipbuilders, navigators, engineers, dock workers, and business owners. Over time, more women stepped into the industry as captains, marine biologists, deckhands, mechanics, and conservation leaders. Today, women are helping steer the future of boating, from commercial shipping and tourism to marine research and ocean advocacy.

A few incredible women come to mind this month:

Dr. Sylvia Earle: A pioneering oceanographer and explorer, Dr. Sylvia Earle has led countless research expeditions and spent thousands of hours underwater studying marine ecosystems. As the first female Chief Scientist of NOAA, she became a global leader in ocean conservation and marine protected areas, inspiring generations to protect the ocean.

Eva Lucia Saulitis: was an American marine biologist and poet based in Homer, Alaska. Over a decades long career, she focused her research on marine life and environmental change. She worked closely with the Chugach transient killer whales, a small and vulnerable population with only a few individuals remaining. Her science and storytelling were deeply connected, and through her books and poetry she brought global attention to the fragility and beauty of these whales.

Janet Neilsen: is a respected marine naturalist and educator on the West Coast who has dedicated her career to connecting people with marine wildlife. Through guiding, teaching, and conservation advocacy, she has helped countless guests and students better understand whales and coastal ecosystems, proving that education on the water can be just as powerful as research in shaping the future of our oceans. One of our favourite whales (Neilsen) is named after her!

In coastal communities across British Columbia, women are leading whale research programs, managing fleets, driving sustainability initiatives, and mentoring the next generation of crew. Representation matters on the water. When young girls see women at the helm of a vessel or leading a wildlife tour, it expands what feels possible. When women are included in marine science, policy, and business decisions, the entire industry benefits from broader perspectives and stronger collaboration.

At Prince of Whales, we are proud to work alongside an incredible team of women across every part of our operation. From our captains and naturalists to our reservations team, dock crew, and leadership, their dedication, professionalism, and passion shape every guest experience. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the women who paved the way in marine industries and the women who continue to lead today, and we thank the women at Prince of Whales who show up every day with skill, strength, and heart.