Dr. Carolin Lusby
Associate Professor and Co
director Global Sustainable Tourism
Florida International University
Chaplin
School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Miami FL USA
Cruise line travel has experienced a remarkable resurgence, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in popularity. These luxurious floating cities offer an unparalleled vacation experience, taking passengers to exotic destinations while providing a vast array of entertainment options, gourmet culinary delights, and exciting excursions and activities onboard. With itineraries ranging from short 3-day getaways to extended year-long voyages, cruises cater to diverse preferences, with the average journey spanning around seven days. Younger generations have taken a particular interest in cruising, with an impressive 85% of Millennials and Gen X cruisers expressing enthusiasm for future sailings.
As a researcher and professor of sustainable tourism, I have been following the cruise line industry’s progress towards sustainability. While some advances have been made, significant challenges remain. The industry’s continued growth (which exceeded 31 million passengers in 2023) worsened environmental concerns such as:
- Carbon emissions: Cruise ships still heavily rely on fossil fuels which contribute to climate change.
- Waste management: Vast amounts of plastics, sewage, chemicals are generated onboard.
- Social impacts: Crew wages and welfare, cultural sensitivity and community engagement are often overlooked
Despite comprising only approximately 1% of the global fleet, cruise lines have a disproportionately negative impact on the environment. Specifically, cruise ships emit the highest amount of black carbon per vessel, with each ship generating 10 metric tons of soot or black carbon emissions annually. In contrast, container ships emit 3.5 metric tons per ship per year. The repercussions of black carbon extend beyond environmental degradation, as it poses a significant threat to human health when inhaled. Furthermore, when absorbed in the atmosphere, black carbon blocks sunlight, contributing to increased global temperatures.
Compounding the issue is the limited availability of shore-based power at current ports and ships, resulting in sustained high emissions even when vessels are docked. Notably, cruising has a higher carbon footprint per passenger compared to land-based holidays or camping. The average cruise passenger generates 3.5 kg of waste and 0.83 tonnes of CO2, underscoring the need for sustainable practices in the cruise industry.
Despite these issues, some cruise lines are taking steps towards sustainability including alternatives fuels (such as hydrogen or LNG and hydrogen or wind assisted propulsion), waste reduction (including implementing recycling programs, reducing single use plastics, and improving waste management). New technologies allow for a more sustainable operation. Industrywide, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has set sustainability goals, and many cruise lines have sustainability officer on board now.
The sociocultural implications of cruise tourism are significant, albeit less obvious than environmental impacts. The industry's contribution to overtourism has resulted in issues such as overcrowding, local resentment towards tourists, and undue pressure on local resources. With less time in port and all needs met on board, cruise passengers spend a lot less money in a destination than overnight passengers. Notably, cities like Barcelona, Venice, and Amsterdam have experienced a surge in anti-tourism protests, highlighting the need for mitigating measures. In response, Amsterdam has implemented initiatives aimed at curbing the adverse effects of overtourism and cruise tourism, serving as a model for other destinations to follow.
Lastly, food sourcing has been an issue with cruise line supply chains sourcing from big companies. The industry is aiming at increasing locally sourced foods and other supplies which would reduce carbon footprint and also support local economies. Passengers also seem to be more aware and demand mor sustainable cruising options. The journey towards sustainability in cruising has begun. We need to ensure it continues for the benefit of our planet and future generations.