The list of luxuries that comes with cruising is long: from the variety of cuisine to showstopping entertainment and more! On top of the wow-factor, the cruising experience offers, cruise lines have also become increasingly conscious about how their sailings impact the environment. The below initiatives are just a few of the ship improvements and onboard sustainability practices cruise ships are implementing so that cruisers can continue to enjoy our oceans for generations to come.

1. Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Powered Ships

One of the biggest changes coming to the cruise industry ships powered by Liquified Natural Gas. Aside from electric power, LNG is one of the cleanest energy sources in the cruise industry. This will result in a huge reduction in sulfur and carbon emissions for these new ships.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line have all ordered ships powered by LNG to move their fleets in a greener direction. In fact, Carnival’s much-anticipated ship, the Carnival Mardi Gras, set to launch in early 2021, will be an LNG-powered.

2. Eliminating Single-Use Plastic

Across the globe, companies and individuals are working to eliminate single-use plastic. For cruise lines, this means using paper straws, purchasing plant-based, biodegradable cups, and switching from bottled water to alternatives. Norwegian Cruise Line partnered with JUST Goods Inc. in 2019 to using the brand’s boxed water, which comes in a paper carton.

Virgin Voyages has plans to ensure its entire fleet is free from single-use plastic. They’re taking it one step further and ensuring the alternative materials they use, like paper straws and cups, are also tree-free. This means using fibers from plants like bamboo and sugar cane to avoid deforestation.

3. Reducing Food Waste

Another key to more sustainable cruising is to reduce food waste on board. Cruise lines are working to reduce the amount of food that goes uneaten at buffets and dining rooms.  Through onboard biodigesters, ships are also able to break down food products before they are disposed of. This helps to minimize ocean waste as well.

As travelers look to their future vacations, sustainability will continue to grow in importance for many travel clients. As a travel agent, it’s important to share how cruise lines are making strides to keep their guests and the planet safe and healthy.