Cruise Tourism and Sustainability

When we think about cruise trips, sustainability may not be the first thing to come to mind. After all, cruise ships are all about luxury and five-star service on large, city-like boats.

However, one of the prominent buzzwords in the cruise industry these days is sustainability — and how the many companies in the sector can achieve it. Cruise company Norwegian Cruise Line recently announced continued investments in initiatives to cut cruise ship emissions and reach net zero operations by 2050. Currently, the group’s final two Prima class ships, which will use green methanol as an alternative fuel source, are expected to be delivered in 2027 and 2028.

Still, many cruise lines and companies are working actively on greener and more eco-friendly technologies and offerings to reduce their environmental impact. As with the electric vehicles (EVs) discussed in our post on BMW, many cruise ships are considering electric or hybrid alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas and carbon emissions. These greener cruise ships must be charged in designated charging ports like EVs.

As consumers become more conscious and responsible about the impact of their activities, such as travel and tourism, cruise companies need to keep up and adopt greener ways. Below, we’ll look at some more ways cruise companies are committing to their sustainability goals:

Sustainable onboard retail experiences

Known for immersive ocean travel experiences and luxury onboard experiences, Explora Cruises recently announced the company’s latest step in ensuring sustainable practices and environmental consciousness. Called a sustainable onboard retail experience, Explora partnered with luxury brands that align with their sustainability commitment.

One of the brands that partnered with the cruise line is luxury watch designer and manufacturer Rolex. The partnership offers high-end travellers the opportunity to purchase Rolex watches while sailing on board Explora I. Of course, the Swiss luxury brand is only one among numerous sustainable luxury brands offered onboard.

Tech for sustainability

Beyond onboard retail, many cruise companies invest in emerging technologies to help further sustainability efforts. Recently, companies have been testing the impact of artificial intelligence by integrating them into cruises to optimise routes, manage energy, monitor emissions, and even reduce waste. Some cruise lines like Virgin Voyages also have a heat power system to convert engine heat to electricity.

As mentioned in our introduction, cruise lines also heavily invest in shoreside electricity solutions. Today, most new ships can plug in to “charge” using shoreside electricity. 98% of new fleets planned for 2028 are committed to be fitted with shoreside electricity systems or have provisions to add shoreside power in the future.

Reducing emissions

Finally, a fundamental commitment from various cruise companies worldwide is to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero operations. In its latest sustainability report, Princess Cruises claimed to be producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions today than in 2011. Princess outlines five environmental objectives for reducing fuel, waste, and water use and deploying solutions to provide cleaner power.

With the introduction of liquified natural gas-fueled ships, cruise lines also hope to produce virtually zero sulfur emissions and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%. Today, extensive research and development efforts are ongoing in search of alternative sustainable fuels, propulsion systems, and other technologies that can help achieve zero carbon emissions.

Ultimately, the significant growth in consumer demand for brands with robust sustainability practices and principles is pushing cruise companies to rethink the cruise industry’s approach to providing luxury cruise journeys.

To appeal to and retain interest among a demographic that is increasingly environmentally conscious about travel, cruise companies must commit to initiatives and innovations that can further the fight to reduce environmental harm.

For more articles on a conscious and sustainable presence, do read our other posts on Incredibusy.