Should I Take a Cruise, or Shouldn't I?
Is the Cruise Industry Changing?
How Do Small-and Big-Ship Cruises Differ?

Today’s cruise ships are known for high-quality accommodations, a variety of outdoor and indoor activities, shopping, entertainment, and fine dining. These ships are sometimes larger in size and population than the destinations they visit, and leading cruise lines increasingly recognize the need to have a positive impact on the environment and the island communities they visit.

Cruising is very popular, and it's going to continue to be a big part of the travel industry. So, if you're a conscientious traveler, and you're thinking about cruising, we can help you plan a more responsible voyage.

Should I Take a Cruise, or Shouldn't I?

This is an important question for responsible travelers to ask themselves. And the answer is: It depends on the cruise (and the cruise company). Despite the potentially negative effects of cruising, if you choose your cruise carefully, you can set off to sea knowing you'll be minimizing your environmental impact and that you'll be benefitting the communities you visit along the way.

If you want to find a responsible cruise line, take a look at the profiles of the cruise companies on Green.travel. Each of these companies will include information about its environmental, social, and economic policies for you to review.

Is the Cruise Industry Changing?

Yes! In recent years, individuals and organizations have become increasingly aware of the impacts of conventional cruising, and they're holding cruise lines accountable for the preservation and conservation of the ocean and of onshore communities. Many cruise lines are rising to the challenge and are taking steps to operate in a more sustainable and responsible manner.

→ If you'd like to read about the steps the cruise industry is taking to support sustainable tourism, please keep reading here.

→ Additionally, you can learn about specific ways several cruise lines are changing in order to incorporate sustainable practices into their business policies. Please take a look at this list of responsible cruise companies.

How Do Small- and Big-Ship Cruises Differ?

Small-ship and big-ship cruises provide different styles of cruising that appeal to different types of travelers, yet they both have essential similarities. Both styles allow guests to see many locations without organizing transportation and hotel reservations for each destination. Guests can unpack once and their transportation, meals, and activities are already taken care of.

For guests, the differences lie mainly in the atmosphere, attitude, and activities offered.

→ Read more about the differences between small- and big-ship cruising...

___________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever considered traveling by freighter?

→ Learn about freighter cruising here...