Marie-Lou Poisson

Originally from Montreal, Marie-Lou spent her formative years exploring Australia, Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America before finding her place in the Galápagos Islands, where she lived for nearly two decades. Her work has spanned many sides of tourism—scuba instruction, guiding, hospitality, itinerary design, and guest experience management—all shaped by the realities of island life and a deep respect for its ecosystems and communities.

Since relocating to Vancouver Island in 2018, she has continued to bridge her experience between the Galápagos and Canada, focusing on place-based travel that values cultural exchange, local knowledge, and Indigenous partnerships rooted in respect and reciprocity. As product manager at Adventure Canada, she oversees the design and development of new expeditions, working across teams and regions to create meaningful travel experiences that connect people with place.

Alongside her work, Marie-Lou is pursuing a master of arts in environment and management at Royal Roads University, deepening her understanding of sustainable development and systems thinking as they relate to tourism and conservation. When not studying or at sea, she can be found in or near the water—freediving, sailing, or practicing yoga—and welcomes every chance to slow down and share stories from a life shaped by the ocean.