We will prioritise cruise operators that can demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.

We expect preferred partners to show evidence of:

• Investment in cleaner propulsion technologies.
• Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
• Elimination or reduction of heavy fuel oil use.
• Effective wastewater treatment systems.
• Robust waste management and recycling programmes.
• Reduction of single-use plastics.
• Measures to minimise impacts on marine ecosystems.
• Transparent environmental reporting.
• Clear decarbonisation targets.

We reserve the right not to work with operators that cannot demonstrate meaningful environmental progress.

Research has identified a range of environmental concerns associated with cruise tourism, including air pollution, marine pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation and impacts on sensitive ecosystems. Studies have also highlighted potential impacts on public health and on residents living in port communities.

In response, we will favour operators that actively work to minimise:

• Air pollution.
• Carbon emissions.
• Waste generation.
• Marine pollution.
• Disturbance to wildlife.
• Damage to sensitive habitats.

Special consideration will be given to cruises operating in environmentally sensitive regions such as the Arctic, Antarctic, Galápagos, Alaska and small-island environments.

We expect cruise operators and excursion providers to follow recognised wildlife viewing guidelines.

We will not knowingly promote shore excursions involving:

• Captive wildlife attractions.
• Wildlife performances.
• Direct contact with wild animals.
• Feeding of wild animals.
• Trophy hunting.
• Activities that disturb breeding, feeding or resting wildlife.

We recognise that overtourism can negatively affect communities, local culture and the visitor experience.

Accordingly, we will favour cruise itineraries that:

• Visit smaller ports and lesser-known destinations.
• Extend visitor spending into local communities.
• Encourage longer stays in destinations.
• Avoid excessive concentration of visitors.
• Support local businesses and guides.
• Respect destination management plans and visitor limits.

We will seek to avoid promoting itineraries that contribute significantly to overcrowding in destinations already experiencing overtourism pressures.

Cruise tourism should create tangible benefits for local people.

We support operators that:

• Employ local guides and suppliers.
• Source products locally where practical.
• Support community projects.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Demonstrate fair employment practices.

We will seek to avoid cruise products where the economic benefits are disproportionately retained onboard or outside the destination.

Cruise operators will be reviewed periodically against this policy.

Factors considered may include:

• Vessel size.
• Environmental performance.
• Sustainability commitments.
• Destination management practices.
• Community engagement.
• Wildlife protection measures.
• Publicly available environmental reporting.

Operators that fail to meet our expectations may be removed from our preferred supplier portfolio.

We believe that the future of cruising lies in smaller-scale, lower-impact and destination-focused experiences. Our business will support cruise operators that demonstrate a commitment to protecting the environment, respecting local communities and delivering meaningful travel experiences.

To support this commitment, we will not actively promote cruise ships carrying more than 1,500 passengers and will prioritise cruise products that align with the principles of responsible and sustainable tourism.