European cruise associations share a commitment to addressing key challenges and promoting sustainable cruise tourism
Five European cruise port and destination associations have announced a strategic alliance, marking a significant step forward in regional and international collaboration focused on developing sustainable solutions to tourism and environmental challenges. Cruise Baltic, Cruise Britain, Cruise Europe, Cruise Norway and MedCruise bring together more than 400 ports, destinations, and service providers in this new collaborative initiative designed to support the continued sustainable development of the European cruise industry.
As leaders of the European cruise port community, the associations recognize the importance of working together to create innovative and sustainable solutions that ensure the long-term viability of European ports and destinations, while protecting the environment and the communities that are key to cruise tourism.
By pooling resources, knowledge, and experience, this strategic alliance aims to promote best practices across the region and strengthen collective efforts to minimize environmental impact and develop cruise tourism responsibly. The alliance seeks to enhance collaboration with key stakeholders, both within and beyond the broader cruise community, and support all members in their work across all European cruise destinations.
The alliance will initially focus on two main areas that, together, can support the creation of a sustainable tourism model.
Develop strategies to better manage the flow of cruise passengers in popular destinations, ensuring that cruise tourism remains a positive force for local economies and cultures, while minimizing pressure on infrastructure and ecosystems.
Sharing best practices on the adoption of greener technologies, such as shore power, alternative fuels and waste management solutions, which can further reduce the environmental footprint of cruise tourism.
The alliance is committed to advocating for a responsible approach to cruising. An approach that benefits guests, respects communities, protects natural heritage and fragile environments, and contributes positively to local economies.
Klaus Bondam, President of Cruise Baltic, stated: “Cruise Baltic is proud to be part of this new and strong alliance in Europe. An alliance that will set new standards for dialogue and cooperation within the cruise tourism sector. For us, responsible cruising is a reality. So is the realization that we share challenges with colleagues across Europe. This is an important step towards finding solutions to these challenges, and we hope to serve as an example for other cruise destinations worldwide.”.
Ian McQuade, Chairman of Cruise Britain, said: “Cruise Britain is proud to be part of this new initiative that will support the sustainable growth of the cruise industry across the wider European region. This alliance strengthens our collective ability to address our common challenges through shared best practices and transparent communication, and we look forward to working with our new partners.”.
Simone Maraschi, President of Cruise Europe, stated: “As President of Cruise Europe, I am proud to support the new alliance between European cruise port associations, focused on advancing sustainable cruising. This partnership is a crucial step in addressing our industry’s environmental challenges, driving innovation, and sharing best practices to reduce our impact on the planet. This alliance reinforces our collective commitment to making cruising a model of sustainable tourism across Europe.”.
Together, the five associations issued the following statement: “As an alliance of European and Mediterranean cruise ports and destinations, represented by Cruise Baltic, Cruise Britain, Cruise Europe, Cruise Norway, and MedCruise, we are focused on promoting sustainable growth within the cruise industry. We are aware of the common challenges faced by our members and partners, and we believe that we can find innovative solutions by collaborating transparently with all stakeholders. These solutions will ensure that the cruise industry and all our surrounding environments, from urban to rural, can coexist harmoniously with other forms of tourism. Recognizing the current concern about overtourism in some European destinations, our priority is to develop and promote strategies and messaging that enable the cruise industry to achieve a satisfactory balance between tourism and local communities.” By joining forces and collaborating with cruise lines and other key stakeholders, we are committed to advocating for a responsible approach to cruising that delivers results for our guests, respects our communities, protects our natural heritage and fragile environments, and contributes positively to local economies.”.
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