Want to cruise sustainably? Start here. The cruise industry has a big environmental footprint, but small, intentional choices can make your trip eco-friendlier. From picking cleaner cruise lines to packing reusable essentials, every effort counts. Here’s how you can reduce your impact:
- Choose eco-friendly cruise lines: Look for certifications like Green Globe or Clean Shipping Index and ships using LNG or hybrid engines.
- Pack reusable items: Bring a water bottle, insulated cup, reusable utensils, and a tote bag like Blululi’s vibrant mandala designs.
- Reduce onboard energy use: Turn off lights, unplug devices, and conserve water by reusing towels and taking shorter showers.
- Support local communities: Pick tours with local guides or conservation projects, and shop for handmade, locally sourced souvenirs.
- Offset your carbon footprint: Use programs like Gold Standard or myclimate to balance your emissions.
Your choices can protect marine ecosystems, uplift local communities, and create a more mindful travel experience. Ready to cruise greener? Let’s dive into the details.
Choose Eco-Friendly Cruise Lines
The cruise line you choose plays a huge role in shaping the environmental impact of your trip. Cruise companies differ in the steps they take and the technologies they adopt to minimize their ecological footprint.
Research Cruise Line Environmental Practices
It’s important to dive into real, actionable data instead of relying on broad claims. Look for cruise lines that publish detailed sustainability reports with measurable goals. The most transparent companies share specifics, such as their emissions reduction percentages or waste recycling efforts.
Take PONANT, for example. Their entire fleet of major vessels has earned Green Globe certification, a symbol of their dedication to minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable travel.
Similarly, MSC Cruises has set bold targets. By the end of 2021, they aimed to ensure that all tour operators at their most-visited destinations were either certified by a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) program or actively working toward certification.
When evaluating cruise lines, check for key certifications like the Clean Shipping Index (CSI), which assesses CO₂ emissions, sulfur oxide emissions, and waste management practices. Other important certifications include the Green Award, which recognizes outstanding environmental performance and safety, and ISO 14001, an internationally acknowledged framework for environmental management.
"We need to play a leadership role in sustainable tourism." – Adam Goldstein, Global Chair of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
Also, investigate whether cruise lines are adopting cleaner fuels like Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). LNG can cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 25%, eliminate sulfur emissions entirely, and reduce nitrogen oxides by up to 95%. As of June 2025, nearly half of the global cruise fleet will be equipped to connect to shore power, enabling ships to use clean electricity while docked instead of running on diesel.
Some cruise operators go even further by repurposing 100% of their onboard waste through removal, reuse, recycling, or waste-to-energy conversion. These efforts reflect a commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable tourism.
Pick Ships with Modern Technology
Newer ships often come with cutting-edge environmental technologies, incorporating proven sustainability practices. These vessels are designed with advanced wastewater treatment systems, energy-efficient engines, and smart design features that significantly reduce their environmental impact.
For instance, Hurtigruten's MS Roald Amundsen made history as the first hybrid-powered cruise ship in the world. In its inaugural year, it reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by 20%, avoiding over 3,000 metric tons of CO₂ compared to similar-sized traditional ships. Hurtigruten is already working on the next step - a zero-emission ship expected by 2030, featuring retractable sails with solar panels and batteries charged via shore power.
Viking Cruises has also embraced sustainability by eliminating single-use plastics onboard and processing 98% of their wastewater. This initiative alone prevents over 1 million plastic bottles from polluting the oceans each year.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas incorporates advanced emission systems, optimized hull designs, and smart controls to minimize fuel use, cut sulfur dioxide emissions, and enhance energy efficiency.
When researching ships, look for features like hybrid or LNG engines, advanced water treatment systems, shore power capabilities, and energy-efficient propulsion systems. These technologies aren’t just for show - they make a real, measurable difference in lowering a ship’s environmental footprint.
If you’re unsure about a cruise line’s sustainability efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out directly. Ask detailed questions about their waste management systems, fuel efficiency strategies, and collaborations with environmental organizations. Companies genuinely committed to sustainability will be open and transparent about their progress.
And while you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to pack a vibrant Blululi tote bag for your shore excursions. These durable canvas bags, adorned with original mandala designs, are perfect for carrying your essentials while helping you avoid single-use plastics at ports and markets. It’s a small step, but every effort counts when it comes to protecting our planet.
Pack Smart with Reusable Items
Packing wisely not only makes your cruise more convenient but also helps reduce waste and aligns with the eco-friendly practices many cruise lines are adopting. The trick? Swap out disposable items for durable, reusable ones that will serve you throughout your journey. This approach minimizes waste and keeps your packing streamlined.
Bring Reusable Travel Items
When packing, focus on items that replace single-use alternatives. A few essentials to consider:
- A sturdy water bottle
- An insulated coffee cup
- A reusable bag, like the vibrant Blululi tote bag with original mandala designs
- A compact utensil set
- Reusable food containers
Most cruise ships now feature refill stations, making it simple to stay hydrated without relying on plastic bottles. Whether you're sipping coffee at breakfast or enjoying a drink by the pool, having your own insulated cup ensures you skip disposable options while keeping your beverages at the perfect temperature.
Reusable utensils are another must-have as cruise lines phase out single-use plastics. A lightweight set with a fork, knife, spoon, and straw can help you avoid disposables during meals or excursions.
For snacks or leftovers, reusable food containers are incredibly handy. Whether you're storing fruit from the buffet or packing treats from a local market, silicone or glass containers are perfect for both onboard and onshore use.
"Being a more eco-conscious cruiser is also the responsibility of each guest." - Sometimes Sailing
Once you've packed your reusable essentials, shift your focus to eco-friendly toiletries to complete your sustainable travel kit.
Pack Eco-Friendly Toiletries
Toiletries are another area where you can cut down on waste. Traditional liquid toiletries not only contribute to plastic pollution but also take up precious luggage space. Instead, opt for solid alternatives like shampoo bars. These concentrated bars last longer, eliminate plastic packaging, and won’t leak in your bag. Plus, they’re TSA-friendly and perfect for shared bathrooms onboard.
For any liquids you can't replace with solids, use refillable containers. High-quality, leak-proof bottles let you bring just the right amount of product while reducing plastic waste. They're reusable trip after trip, making them a smart long-term investment.
Whenever possible, choose biodegradable products, especially for items that might enter the ship's greywater systems. Avoid products with harmful microbeads or chemicals like polyethylene and polypropylene, which can damage marine life. Some cruise lines even collect unused toiletries to recycle and repurpose, helping those in need while reducing waste.
Other great plastic-free options include solid deodorant, toothpaste tablets, and bar soap. These compact items eliminate the need for multiple plastic containers and last longer than their liquid counterparts.
Supporting cruise lines that actively work to reduce single-use plastics further reinforces your commitment to sustainability.
"There's one thing we most certainly can: how much single-use trash we create as we cruise through the skies at 40,000 feet and schlep through airports." – Jackie Nuñez, Advocacy and Engagement Manager, Plastic Pollution Coalition
Investing in reusable items not only helps the planet but also saves you from running out of essentials or paying high prices for replacements at ports. With the right gear, your cruise becomes smoother, more convenient, and kinder to the environment.
Reduce Your Impact Onboard
After packing your eco-friendly essentials, the next step is to make thoughtful choices during your cruise to lessen your environmental impact. Every small decision - whether it's about energy use or waste disposal - plays a role in creating a more sustainable cruising experience.
Save Energy in Your Cabin
Your cabin offers simple ways to cut down on energy use without sacrificing comfort. Start by turning off lights and unplugging chargers when you leave. Electronics like phone chargers and hair dryers can still draw power even when not in use.
Most cruise cabins use key card-activated power switches to reduce standby energy consumption. While this system might seem inconvenient at times, it’s designed to save energy when you're not in the room. As Dori Saltzman, a contributor at Cruise Critic, explains:
"We're not advocating wasting electricity (we believe in being green-friendly on cruises and elsewhere), but we do recognize those energy-saving light switches (the ones that require you to leave your key card in the slot to power the room) can be a bit frustrating in some situations."
If needed, you can use a spare card to keep essential devices powered. For a cozy evening vibe, consider using battery-operated tea lights instead of leaving the cabin’s main lights on - they’re energy-efficient and create a relaxing atmosphere.
Another way to save energy is by adjusting your cabin thermostat. Set it to a comfortable but moderate level. Cruise ships usually maintain excellent climate control, so extreme heating or cooling is rarely necessary. When you’re out exploring the ship or visiting ports, turning the thermostat up or down a few degrees can significantly reduce energy use.
Saving energy naturally ties into conserving water, another important step toward greener cruising.
Use Less Water
Water conservation on cruise ships not only helps the environment but also supports the ship’s overall efficiency. A good place to start is by skipping daily towel and linen changes. Hang up your towels to signal reuse, and let housekeeping know if you’re fine with keeping the same sheets for several nights.
Your shower habits can also make a big difference. Keep showers short and turn off the water while soaping up. Those solid shampoo bars you packed? They work just as well with quicker rinse times. And don’t forget to turn off the faucet completely when brushing your teeth or washing your hands - a dripping tap can waste gallons of water over the course of a week.
Many modern cruise ships are equipped with low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets designed to use less water without compromising your experience. These systems work best when used as intended, so avoid trying to override their water-saving features.
Beyond energy and water, how you handle waste onboard is another key part of reducing your impact.
Follow Waste Management Rules
Proper waste disposal on cruise ships is essential for protecting the environment and complying with strict regulations. Ships adhere to MARPOL guidelines, which govern how various types of waste - like sewage, graywater, and hazardous materials - are managed.
As a passenger, your role is to follow waste separation rules. Use the designated bins in your cabin and around the ship to sort recyclables, general waste, and hazardous materials. Most cabins provide separate containers, and public spaces have clearly marked bins to make sorting easier.
Be mindful of what you throw away. Items like batteries, medications, and electronics need special handling and should never go into regular trash bins. If you’re unsure how to dispose of something, ask your cabin steward or visit guest services for advice.
You can also support the ship’s waste reduction efforts by being conscious of your consumption. Avoid piling up excessive food at buffets, and use the reusable containers you packed to store any leftovers.
Finally, follow all instructions from the cruise staff regarding waste disposal. Ships have detailed waste management systems and strict tracking procedures to ensure compliance with environmental laws. By participating in these efforts, you’re helping to protect marine ecosystems and keep the oceans clean.
Choose Eco-Friendly Shore Activities
After reducing your onboard impact, your time onshore offers another opportunity to make a difference. The activities you choose during port visits can either support conservation efforts or contribute to overtourism and environmental strain. Thoughtful decisions not only help protect these destinations but also create a more enriching travel experience.
Support Local and Conservation Tours
One of the best ways to spend your time in port is by choosing excursions that benefit local communities or wildlife conservation. Opt for tours led by local guides rather than large international operators. This ensures your money stays within the community, supporting local businesses and livelihoods.
When researching tours, dig a little deeper to see how they give back. Does the company hire local residents? Do they contribute to conservation projects or community initiatives? Some places have achieved incredible results by transitioning from resource-based economies to sustainable tourism. For example, in Gökova Bay, Turkey, fishing communities shifted to eco-tourism and sustainable fishing practices, easing pressure on marine ecosystems while boosting their economy.
Look for tours that educate participants about local ecosystems and conservation challenges. These experiences not only deepen your understanding of the area but also support important environmental efforts. A great example is the Ligurian Sea, where fishers and NGOs collaborate to manage Marine Protected Areas, safeguarding marine life and habitats.
Certifications or partnerships with recognized conservation organizations can also signal a tour operator's genuine commitment to sustainability. Countries like Slovenia have developed systems, such as the Slovenia Green Label, to help travelers identify tourism services that preserve traditions and protect the environment.
Before you arrive, research coastal conservation groups at your destination. Many offer volunteer opportunities or educational programs that allow visitors to contribute to marine conservation. For instance, citizen science projects in the Baltic Sea invite cruise passengers to help monitor fish stocks and pollution levels, offering a meaningful way to engage with your surroundings.
When you find a tour that aligns with your values, consider packing items that support sustainable practices. A vibrant Blululi tote bag, adorned with mandala designs, is perfect for carrying essentials like water bottles, snacks, and small souvenirs. These reusable bags reduce the need for plastic ones while adding a cheerful touch to your adventures.
In addition to supporting local efforts, focus on activities that naturally minimize environmental impact.
Pick Low-Impact Activities
The activities you choose can significantly affect your environmental footprint. Walking tours and cycling excursions are among the most sustainable ways to explore - they produce zero emissions and allow you to soak in the local details at your own pace.
Human-powered water activities, such as kayaking, are another excellent option. These let you experience coastal areas without disturbing marine life or polluting the water. Plus, they’re typically done in small groups, which helps reduce crowding and stress on sensitive environments.
If motorized transport is necessary, opt for small group tours rather than large bus excursions. Smaller groups tend to have a lighter environmental impact, create more personal cultural exchanges, and often provide access to lesser-known spots.
Another way to make a difference is by visiting less popular destinations or timing your visits to avoid peak hours. Overtourism can strain fragile ecosystems and overwhelm local resources. Exploring hidden gems or enjoying popular sites during quieter times helps spread the impact more evenly.
Avoid activities that exploit animals, such as elephant rides, swimming with captive dolphins, or visiting facilities where wild animals are used for entertainment. Instead, seek out wildlife experiences that allow you to observe animals in their natural habitats from a respectful distance.
If you’re drawn to voluntourism, take the time to research thoroughly. Short-term volunteer projects can sometimes do more harm than good if not properly managed. Focus on organizations with a strong track record and clear partnerships with local communities.
Some destinations have introduced creative ways to balance tourism revenue with environmental protection. Bhutan, for instance, has charged visitors a daily Sustainable Development Fee since 1991. These funds go toward offsetting carbon footprints, supporting education, promoting organic farming, and training tourism workers.
Finally, during moments of downtime in nature, Blululi’s printable coloring books offer a relaxing, screen-free way to connect with the beauty around you. Download and print a few pages before your trip for a peaceful activity that complements your eco-friendly adventures.
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Shop and Dine Responsibly
When you're on a cruise, your spending choices can have a ripple effect, benefiting local communities and supporting sustainable practices. Whether you're browsing for souvenirs or trying local cuisine, thoughtful decisions can help protect the destinations you visit while making your trip more meaningful.
Choose Eco-Friendly Souvenirs
The souvenirs you pick up during your travels can carry the essence of your trip long after it's over. Opting for items crafted by local artisans not only supports their livelihoods but also reduces environmental impact.
Seek out handmade items like jewelry made from repurposed materials, textiles woven from natural fibers, or traditional ceramics. These choices often reflect the culture of the region and are crafted with care and minimal resource use. Slow fashion, for example, offers high-quality, longer-lasting products while being kinder to the environment.
For something truly special, explore local art galleries or craft shops instead of mass-market souvenir stores. Authentic pieces, like home decor or textiles that showcase traditional techniques, can serve as lasting reminders of your journey while honoring local heritage.
Many small businesses offer personalized service, and some can even customize items for you. This makes your purchase not only a keepsake but a one-of-a-kind memory. Carry your treasures in a reusable tote bag to avoid single-use plastic bags during your shopping trips.
You can also extend your impact beyond the purchase. Share photos of your finds on social media, leave glowing reviews online, and recommend local artisans to friends and fellow travelers. These simple steps can help small businesses gain the visibility they need to thrive.
Just as your shopping choices can make a difference, so can the meals you enjoy during your travels.
Eat Locally Sourced Foods
Cruise lines are increasingly embracing sustainable dining by sourcing ingredients locally. This approach not only ensures fresher meals but also strengthens coastal economies and reduces the environmental footprint of transporting food.
Before booking, research cruise lines that prioritize sustainable dining. For example, Holland America Line’s Global Fresh Fish Program delivers fresh, responsibly sourced wild Alaska seafood within 48 hours, adhering to Responsible Fisheries Management certification standards. This ensures both high quality and eco-conscious practices.
Lindblad Expeditions takes a similar approach, working with farmers and vendors in the Galápagos Islands and Ecuador to source fresh produce, meats, and even craft beer. This commitment provides guests with authentic flavors while supporting local agriculture.
"I think it's important to offer local businesses our patronage as this will ultimately assist them in maintaining, serving and crafting items that are true to their identity and authenticity."
– Josh Becker, Corporate Executive Chef, Celebrity Cruises
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has also forged strong ties with local suppliers at their ports of call. Bernhard Zorn, their Director of Culinary Operations & Development, highlights the value of these partnerships:
"By working with these local communities and utilising their passion and skill in producing high standard supplies, we have opened up great relationships that we are proud to foster. In our increasingly digital age it's important that these personal connections still thrive, and we place great value on supporting local communities."
– Bernhard Zorn, Director of Culinary Operations & Development, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
When dining onboard, ask about where the ingredients come from. Many cruise lines are eager to share details about their sustainability efforts and local partnerships. You can also request modifications to meals to align with your preferences for sustainable dining.
For a deeper connection to the places you visit, consider joining culinary shore excursions. These often include visits to local farms, markets, or food producers, offering a firsthand look at regional cuisine while directly supporting local businesses.
The growing trend of farm-to-table dining on cruises reflects travelers’ interest in knowing the origins of their food. As Josh Becker of Celebrity Cruises notes, this transparency adds to the travel experience:
"Guests appreciate immersing themselves in their vacation destinations. We make it more convenient and give them some great stories to tell."
– Josh Becker, Corporate Executive Chef, Celebrity Cruises
Finally, look for cruise lines with eco-certifications or those that openly share their sustainability practices. These companies often have robust systems in place for ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and community support through their dining programs.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Even with eco-conscious choices onboard, cruise travel still generates CO₂ emissions. That’s where carbon offsets come in - a way to balance your environmental impact by supporting projects designed to reduce or remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
What Are Carbon Offsets?
Carbon offsets fund initiatives like renewable energy, forest conservation, methane capture, and energy efficiency. By purchasing offsets, you’re essentially investing in measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions - reductions that wouldn’t have occurred otherwise.
To put it in perspective, tourism contributes about 8% of the world’s carbon emissions, making offsetting an impactful way to counterbalance your travel footprint. Both cruise lines and independent providers offer ways to incorporate offsets into your journey.
Cruise Line Offset Programs
Some cruise lines now offer carbon offset programs as part of their services. Virgin Voyages, for example, announced in February 2020 that their first ship, Scarlet Lady, would be carbon neutral for direct emissions from day one. The company purchases offsets from wind and solar projects certified by standards like The Gold Standard and Verified Carbon Standard.
"The ocean is our home, and we are on a mission to protect it. The single biggest threat facing our ocean is climate change, and we want to be part of the solution."
– Tom McAlpin, CEO and President of Virgin Voyages
When booking your trip, check if your cruise line offers built-in offset programs. It’s a convenient way to address your carbon footprint as part of your travel planning.
Independent Offset Programs
If your cruise line doesn’t provide offsets, independent programs like Sustainable Travel International, myclimate, and Cool Effect offer reliable alternatives. Since 2007, Sustainable Travel International has offset over 386,309 metric tons of CO₂.
Here’s a breakdown of costs for offsetting 1 metric ton (1,000kg) of CO₂ with various providers:
| Provider | Cost per Metric Ton | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Care | $11.56 | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Sustainable Travel International | $12.36 | Travel-specific offsets |
| Cool Effect | $14.62 | Project transparency |
| Clear | $14.99 | Verified removal projects |
| GoClimate | $17.00 | Simple, straightforward process |
| Carbonfund | $17.16 | General offsetting |
| Terrapass | $17.63 | Established track record |
| Atmosfair | $25.00 | European travelers |
| myclimate | $30.00 | Detailed project insights |
How to Choose Quality Offset Projects
Not all offset projects are equal. Look for programs certified by recognized standards like Gold Standard, Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Climate Action Reserve, or American Carbon Registry. These certifications ensure the projects are effective, additional, and verifiable.
For example, the Chyulu Hills forest preservation project in Kenya, verified by Verra, is set to prevent 18 million tons of carbon emissions over 30 years. Similarly, the Larimar Wind Farm in the Dominican Republic uses ocean breezes to generate clean energy, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Calculate Your Cruise Emissions
Many offset providers offer online calculators to help you estimate your cruise emissions. Simply enter details like your cruise duration, ship size, and travel plans. Some calculators even include emissions from flights to your departure port.
Making Offsetting Count
While offsetting is a valuable tool, it’s not a substitute for reducing emissions. Pair your offsets with energy-saving practices, waste reduction, and mindful shopping during your trip. As Atmosfair puts it: "Only compensate what can't be avoided or reduced."
You can make your offset contributions even more meaningful by choosing projects that align with your values or relate to your cruise destination. For instance, if you’re exploring the Caribbean, supporting renewable energy projects in the Dominican Republic can create a direct connection between your travel and environmental efforts.
Keep your offset confirmation as a tangible reminder of your commitment to sustainable travel. By combining offsets with onboard conservation efforts, you’re reinforcing your dedication to a more responsible and eco-conscious voyage.
Conclusion: The Benefits of Greener Cruising
Making eco-conscious decisions during your cruise benefits not just the environment but also your personal experience and the communities you visit. Opting for reusable products, sustainable excursions, and supporting conservation efforts contributes to a growing movement reshaping the cruise industry for the better.
When many travelers embrace these habits, the collective impact significantly reduces the cruise’s carbon footprint while protecting the beauty and integrity of the destinations you explore.
Eco-friendly cruises also elevate your journey. Modern ships powered by cleaner energy and equipped with advanced waste management systems create quieter, cleaner, and more enjoyable environments. Add to that locally sourced meals, and your trip becomes both sustainable and memorable.
Your choices don’t just protect the planet - they also support local economies. By spending thoughtfully, you’re helping preserve these incredible destinations for future generations to enjoy.
Want to take your sustainable style up a notch? Blululi's artistic tote bags are the perfect travel companion. Designed to replace single-use plastics, these vibrant, mandala-inspired bags combine practicality with a touch of beauty, serving as a daily reminder of your commitment to responsible travel.
Starting your greener cruising journey doesn’t require an overhaul. Small, intentional steps - like choosing environmentally conscious cruise lines, packing sustainable essentials, and making mindful decisions onboard and ashore - can create a ripple effect. Every effort counts, leaving a lasting positive impact on the environment while enriching your travel experience.
Every thoughtful choice you make helps shape a sustainable future for cruising. By supporting greener travel, you’re encouraging cruise lines to invest in cleaner technologies, ensuring that these stunning destinations remain pristine for generations to come.
FAQs
How can I tell if a cruise line is genuinely eco-friendly and not just greenwashing?
To figure out if a cruise line genuinely prioritizes eco-friendly practices, start by checking for well-known certifications like Green Globe, Blue Angel, or the Green Marine Certificate. These certifications show that the company meets strict environmental standards and isn't just making empty promises.
Also, take note of how open the cruise line is about its efforts. Are they using cleaner fuels like LNG or biofuels? Do they have advanced waste management systems in place? Are they actively offsetting carbon emissions? Look for concrete actions, such as third-party audits or detailed sustainability reports, instead of vague statements filled with buzzwords.
Focusing on credible certifications and clear, measurable efforts can help you steer clear of greenwashing and make more informed, eco-conscious travel decisions.
What reusable items should I bring to make my cruise more eco-friendly?
When preparing for your cruise, think about ways to cut back on waste by packing reusable essentials. Bring along items like a sturdy water bottle, travel-friendly utensils, and foldable shopping bags. You might also want to include metal or glass straws, microfiber towels, and refillable toiletry containers in your luggage. These simple swaps help reduce single-use plastics and make your trip more eco-friendly without sacrificing convenience.
What are carbon offset programs, and how can I pick the right one for my cruise vacation?
Carbon offset programs work to counterbalance the carbon emissions from your activities by supporting projects that reduce or capture CO2. These can include initiatives like planting trees, developing renewable energy sources, or improving waste management systems. The goal is to offset the environmental impact of activities such as travel.
When selecting a program for your cruise, look for certifications from well-regarded organizations like the Climate Action Reserve or the Verified Carbon Standard. These certifications guarantee that the projects are credible, measurable, and effective. Choosing a reputable program ensures your contribution genuinely helps reduce your cruise’s carbon footprint.
