HOW to CHOOSE a MORE RESPONSIBLE CRUISE

If you’re contemplating a cruise and care about the environment, you have a bit of a conundrum, writes Lorna Thornber

Pre-pandemic, the booming global cruise sector was putting serious pressure on our planet. Research has shown that a large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars, and that passengers on an Antarctic voyage can produce as many carbon dioxide emissions in seven days as the average European does in an entire year.

Encouragingly, there are signs the tide is turning. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), whose members account for some 95 per cent of global cruises, has set them the ambitious target of reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. Moving away from fossil fuels will play a big part so CLIA members have joined a shipping sector proposal for a US$5 billion fund to develop cleaner fuels.

In the meantime, there are things you can do to make your own trip more eco-friendly.

1 CHOOSE A CRUISE WITH GREENER FUEL

Some cruise lines are transitioning to ships that run on liquified natural gas (LNG), which produces up to 20% less carbon dioxide and 85% less nitrogen oxide than conventional fuel, with virtually zero sulphur emissions.

Still a fossil fuel, LNG is a stopgap until greener fuels are developed. Carnival Corporation, Disney Cruise Line and MSC Cruises are among those to have invested in LNG-powered ships. Several cruise lines operate hybrid-powered ships which have enabled them to cut carbon emissions. Arctic and Antarctic operator Hurtigruten, for one, has converted vessels to use a combination of battery packs and a biogas made in part from dead fish.

2 CHECK SUSTAINABILITY CREDENTIALS

From 2023, all large ships will be given a Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), arrived at by dividing carbon output by the capacity of the ship and again by distance travelled. Ships will be assigned an A to E rating, and those with a rating D or below are required to come up with a plan to improve.

It’s also worth looking at Friends of Earth’s annual Cruise Ship Report Card, which evaluates major lines on sewage treatment and pollution. While it doesn’t recognise that single companies often have a mixture of ships, some greener than others, it still gives you some guidance.

3 OPT FOR A SMALLER SHIP

Smaller ships require less power, produce less waste, and have less of an impact on ports. If you’re visiting a particularly vulnerable place, such as Antarctica, this should be a high priority.

4 AVOID THE CROWDS

Opt for itineraries that venture off the beaten track and, on shore, explore independently rather than join a group tour. Spending money in the communities you visit enables you to give something back.