Simone
Maraschi
Managing
Director
Cruise
Gate Hamburg GmbH
Germany
simone.maraschi@cgh.hamburg.de
The sustainable development of cruise tourism is a multifaceted challenge. It requires the collaboration of various stakeholders across the maritime ecosystem, including ports, cruise lines, technology providers, tourism stakeholders and regulatory bodies. In Hamburg, this collaboration has been a cornerstone of our approach to sustainability, particularly since 2016, when the city pioneered the first shore power facility at the Cruise Center Altona, the first of its kind in Europe at the time. This project, developed by the Hamburg Port Authority in close partnership with AIDA Cruises and industry associations, has set a benchmark for ports worldwide. Currently, Hamburg is one of few ports worldwide offering shore power infrastructure. But the entire industry is making significant efforts to become more sustainable, with many other ports following suit.
Sustainable growth - environmentally, economically and socially – has always been a key focus in developing Hamburg as a cruise destination. Hamburg has risen to the challenge of balancing the economic opportunity of the port with environmental responsibility, while also meeting the expectations of Hamburg’s residents for a city-friendly port. Measures extend beyond sustainable practices and pollution prevention in air and water to encompass energy and resource efficiency. Cruise Gate Hamburg is working to ‘greenify’ its operations, including the installation of solar panels and introduction of EV charging points for trucks and buses at Cruise Center Steinwerder or the implementation of digital traffic guidance systems at the new Cruise Center HafenCity. Through strategic investments, collaborative efforts and a forward-thinking approach, Hamburg aims to set standards for sustainable cruise development, benefiting the local environment and society, while ensuring the long-term success and resilience of cruise tourism in Hamburg.
Looking from a broader perspective, the Cruise Industry has made substantial strides in sustainability. Industry-wide efforts and investments in research and development have led to exploring new propulsion systems and alternative low-carbon fuels. The cruise sector, along with shipyards, technology manufacturers and research institutions, has been at the forefront of these advancements, achieving significant milestones that benefit the entire maritime industry. Innovations, such as LNG-powered ships, hybrid propulsion systems and the exploration of fuel cells and batteries to further reduce emissions are just a few examples of how the industry is pushing the boundaries of sustainable maritime operations.
The journey towards sustainability is ongoing and it is crucial for the industry to continue working closely with local stakeholders. Effective route planning, for instance, can help mitigate overtourism, a pressing concern in many popular destinations. By proactively proposing solutions, the Cruise Industry can avoid regulatory measures that may not suit the unique dynamics of cruise tourism. Collaborative efforts can ensure that both the economic benefits of tourism and the well-being of local communities are balanced. In Hamburg, we do not face the problem of overtourism like some destinations. Open communication and transparency are essential for the acceptance of cruise tourism and tourism in general. We strive for this in coordination with key partners in the cruise business in Hamburg, be it from the tourism sector, political stakeholders, agencies, service providers or tour operators.
And let´s not forget: the Cruise Industry significantly contributes to value creation on both local and global scales. Globally, 1.2 million people benefit from the Cruise Industry’s activities, with nearly 40% residing in Europe. Across Europe the industry supports over 400,000 jobs. Cruise lines, passengers, local service providers, and cruise-related events all contribute to the economic strength of a city or region and the tourism sector as a whole. The influx of cruise passengers stimulates the local economy, creating jobs and fostering economic growth. For Hamburg, the annual Gross Value Added generated by the cruise business is approximately 420 million euros, involving nearly 4,500 full-time jobs, making it a significant economic factor for the city. The ripple effect of the Cruise Industry’s economic impact underscores the importance of maintaining a sustainable and thriving cruise tourism sector, benefitting not only the port but the entire region.
The sustainable development of cruise tourism at the Port of Hamburg exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation. By continuing to work together, we can ensure that the Industry remains a leader in sustainability, driving positive change for the environment and the economy alike. Together, we can navigate towards a greener and more sustainable future.