Do eco-friendly cruises live up to their promises or is it just a marketing ploy? 🌱 Discover the truth about these supposedly sustainable sea voyages and the initiatives of the companies.
🌿 The rise of eco-friendly cruises: a necessity or a trend?
In the face of growing ecological awareness, the cruise industry is trying to green its image. Several companies claim actions to reduce their environmental impact, but are these commitments really effective?
📌 What you will discover in this article:
✔️ The measures implemented by the companies
✔️ The criticisms and controversies surrounding greenwashing
✔️ Real alternatives for sustainable maritime tourism

🚢 Ecological initiatives of cruises: promises or realities?
Several companies display commitments to make their cruises more environmentally friendly. Here are the main strategies highlighted:
🔋 Clean propulsion technologies
- Introduction of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) to reduce emissions
- Development of hybrid and electric ships, such as the MS Roald Amundsen
🌊 Waste management and marine pollution
- Reduction of single-use plastics
- Advanced wastewater treatment systems
🌱 Offsets and ecological commitment
- Partnerships with environmental NGOs
- Initiatives for reforestation and carbon offsetting
But are these actions really sufficient? 🤔
⚠️ Maritime greenwashing: the hidden face of eco-friendly cruises
Although some companies show green ambitions, experts denounce misleading practices. Here are some signs of greenwashing:
❌ Use of LNG: while it reduces sulfur emissions, it remains a polluting fossil fuel.
❌ Misleading advertising: some companies highlight marginal measures to mask an overall high impact.
❌ Lack of transparency: absence of precise data on the actual emission reductions and waste management.
➡️ Should we still believe in eco-friendly cruises?
🏝️ What alternatives for truly sustainable maritime tourism?
If you want to travel while respecting the environment, here are some alternatives to traditional cruises:
⛵ Opt for sailing cruises: companies like Ponant offer expeditions on ships with mixed propulsion.
🚤 Favor small boats: expedition cruises have less impact on marine ecosystems than the giants of the seas.
🌍 Travel differently: choose destinations accessible by train or other more sustainable transport modes.
📢 Eco-friendly cruises, real progress or just a marketing stunt?
Eco-friendly cruises exist, but they are not yet a perfect solution. Before booking, it is essential to check the real commitments of the companies and to prioritize the journeys that are most respectful of the environment.
💬 And you, do you believe in eco-friendly cruises? Share your opinion in the comments!

Julie Lambert – Travel & News Blogger
Passionate about discoveries and current events, I share my adventures around the world along with insights on key societal issues. From travel stories to news analysis, join me in exploring and understanding the world!