Combining work and travel – sea chefs makes it possible: as one of the world’s leading partners of shipping companies and tour operators in the cruise industry, sea chefs currently offers jobs to around 16,000 crew members. Whether on board the luxury and expedition fleet of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, on the Mein Schiff fleet of TUI Cruises, the ships of Phoenix Reisen or numerous renowned river cruise ships – the job opportunities are diverse.

Sarah Korb tells us what it’s like to work and live on board. After many years in catering on land, she ventured onto a ship and now works on the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises expedition fleet. In this interview, she talks about her everyday life, unforgettable moments and why working on the high seas is much more than just a job.

Sarah, how did you come to work on the expedition fleet today?

I had long dreamed of working on a cruise ship. In 2023, I made up my mind and applied to sea chefs – and was accepted shortly afterwards. My first assignment took me to the HANSEATIC spirit in September 2024 – in the middle of the breathtaking nature of Greenland. A real goosebump moment!

 

Unforgettable encounters with nature – another perk of working at sea chefs.

What did you do before you joined sea chefs?

I worked in the catering industry for many years, most recently as a restaurant manager in Frankfurt for almost eight years. I loved the work – but at some point I felt the need for a change. For something big and unusual. And that’s exactly what I’ve found here.

What are your tasks and responsibilities in your current position?

As Chef de Rang in the main restaurant, I am responsible for my own station and often accompany guests throughout their journey. I make sure that the service runs smoothly, attentively and at the highest level at all times. I cater to individual requests, pay attention to every detail and work closely with an international team of service, galley (kitchen) and sommeliers.

What makes working and living on board so special?

It’s the combination: high-quality service, teamwork in a confined space and discovering the world at the same time. No two days are the same. I meet exciting people from all over the world, develop professionally – and wake up in a different place every day. What else could you want?

Is there a moment that you particularly remember?

Definitely the journey through Tower Bridge in London. The music, the light, the scenery – a real highlight! I’ll also never forget ice swimming in Greenland. These are moments that you can only experience here.

 

Arrival in London: the journey through Tower Bridge is just one of the many special moments while working on board.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about working on board?

Make the move – you won’t regret it! Of course, it takes openness, flexibility and the courage to embark on a completely new life. But you’ll get so much in return: incredible experiences, personal development and a strong team that sticks together like a family.

There are exciting areas of work not only in catering: sea chefs also offers a wide range of job opportunities in Spa & Sport, Entertainment, Housekeeping or IT – from entry-level positions to responsible management roles. Career changers can also discover new perspectives here, as can young people who would like to start their training as a chef or hotel and catering assistant directly on board.

Thank you for talking to us, Sarah – and enjoy your time on board!

In summer 2026, lovers of the north will be spoiled for choice: MSC Preziosa, the “Precious One”, will set sail from Hamburg on 17 departures. Among them are two 14-night voyages through Norway’s famous fjords to Svalbard, and two 11-night cruises to the North Cape – the very edge of Europe. Those wishing to explore Iceland’s untouched volcanic landscapes can choose from five 11-night itineraries, calling not only at Reykjavik but also at Ísafjörður, Akureyri, the Orkney Islands and Scotland. On three 10-night cruises, the ship will visit Ireland and Scotland, where dramatic coastlines, gentle meadows and the untamed Highlands await. New in 2026 are two 7-night itineraries, one to Norway’s fjords and one to Scandinavia’s vibrant capitals – Oslo, Kristiansand, Copenhagen and Stavanger.

 

Encounters with polar bears, arctic foxes and reindeer – and a voyage into the midnight sun

From Hamburg, MSC Preziosa sets course for Scandinavia in June and August on 14-night cruises. The first stop is Molde on the Romsdalsfjord, famed for the spectacular “Atlantic Road” and “Trollstigen” mountain pass – two of Norway’s most scenic routes. On the way to Tromsø, home to the striking Arctic Cathedral, the ship passes the Vesterålen archipelago, one of Norway’s best whale-watching regions. Balcony views are well worth it here, as the chances of spotting whales and orcas are high in summer. Tromsø is the last port before reaching Svalbard.

North of the Arctic Circle, where the sun never sets in summer, lies the Svalbard archipelago. Rugged islands and fjords here are 60 per cent glacier-covered. For just six weeks each summer, the tundra is snow-free and the fjords ice-free, creating the brief season when reindeer, arctic foxes, seals, whales – and the famous polar bears – roam a truly unique wilderness. From Longyearbyen, the journey continues south to the North Cape. Europe’s northernmost accessible point rises 300 metres above the Arctic Ocean, with a sweeping view from its stark plateau.

The route then leads into the 116-kilometre Nordfjord and its picturesque arm, the Faleidfjord, to reach Olden, framed by towering peaks. To the southeast, Jotunheimen – Norway’s highest mountain massif – dominates the skyline. The final stop before returning to Hamburg is Stavanger, with its quaint white houses and medieval cathedral in “Gamle Stavanger”. Nearby lies the Lysefjord, home to one of Norway’s most iconic sights: the Preikestolen, or “Pulpit Rock”, a sheer cliff with breathtaking views across the fjord.

MSC Preziosa sails these North Sea voyages twice around the midsummer solstice, departing Hamburg on 26 June and 9 August. Prices start at €2,269 per person in a Bella interior cabin, including full board and hotel service charge.

 

Rugged Highlands, rolling meadows, ruined castles: touring Ireland and Scotland

The landscapes of Britain and Ireland are on show in three MSC Preziosa sailings from Hamburg on 20 May, 13 September and 4 October. The voyage begins in Cork on Ireland’s south coast, known for its coastal walks, lush countryside and historic castles. Next is Dún Laoghaire, the gateway to Dublin, with its charming quarters and major sights such as St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and the magnificent Trinity College Library.

In Belfast, the narrow alleys of the “Belfast Entries” are filled with shops and old pubs, while the grand Victorian City Hall and bustling St George’s Market recall the city’s industrial heyday. The ship then calls at Greenock in western Scotland, close to the enchanting Loch Lomond and within easy reach of both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Edinburgh captivates with winding lanes, castles and historic landmarks, while Glasgow impresses with Victorian grandeur, from the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens to vibrant street art and world-class museums.

The journey continues to the Orkney Islands, with wild beaches, windswept cliffs, ancient stone circles and lush fields in one of Scotland’s most remote landscapes. Before returning to Hamburg, MSC Preziosa calls at Invergordon, gateway to the Highlands, where peat bogs, castle ruins and, of course, Loch Ness await.

The October sailing follows a slightly different route, swapping Cork, Dún Laoghaire and Invergordon for South Queensferry near Edinburgh, Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides, and Liverpool. Fares start from €1,369 per person in a Bella interior cabin, including full board and hotel service charge.

For a journey that leaves a lasting impression, travelers need time to connect with new places and absorb different cultures. The Slow Cruising concept by nicko cruises is designed precisely for this purpose. But it also supports sustainability: smaller ships carrying a maximum of 220 guests, dispersed excursions with smaller groups – all of this helps reduce pressure on destinations and avoids the overtourism that has increasingly resulted from budget airlines and sharing platforms.

 

Leading the way in inland waterway environmental protectiont

nicko cruises is a pioneer in environmental protection on rivers. Its river ships operate exclusively with low-emission fuels. The diesel used meets the EU’s strictest standards, with a sulfur content of just 0.0001 percent. The company is also testing HVO 100 – a diesel fuel made from plant oils, waste, and residual materials that can reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutants by up to 90 percent.

Another key to sustainable cruising is shore power capability: every river ship in the fleet is equipped with a connection for shore-side electricity, allowing for port operations without diesel generators. This reduces emissions, cuts noise, and helps maintain air quality.

Energy efficiency is naturally in the operator’s own interest: it protects the environment and lowers operating costs. As a result, energy-saving LED lighting, smart lighting controls, and efficient HVAC systems are standard on board.

Waste and wastewater management are also crucial. Each ship features its own reverse osmosis system to purify water through a complex process – resulting in water that can be safely returned to the environment. Residual sewage sludge, by contrast, is disposed of by certified specialists at the ports. Food waste is also minimized through a simple yet effective measure: a multi-course menu is served at the table – and on many ships, guests choose their meals in the morning, allowing the kitchen to plan more efficiently.

nicko cruises holds the Green Award Silver certification – a quality mark for ships that meet high standards of environmental and operational safety. The company also participates in the “Fair Cruise Work” initiative with Nautilus International, advocating for fair working conditions in the cruise industry.

 

A promise for the future

Guests can count not only on unforgettable journeys to the world’s most beautiful river destinations, but also on nicko cruises’ ongoing commitment: the company will continue to seek and implement improvements in sustainability – today, tomorrow, and beyond. So that we may all continue discovering the world’s beauty together for years to come.

She’s a classic of the seas: the ocean ship VASCO DA GAMA, built in 1993, stands for everything cruising once was – elegance, tradition, and unhurried travel. Rather than modern minimalism, guests on board are welcomed by authentic cruise atmosphere, maritime charm, and an inviting ambiance. Preserving this “soul” of the ship while investing in cutting-edge technology – that is what sustainability looks like today. And VASCO DA GAMA beautifully demonstrates how environmental responsibility and cruise tradition can go hand in hand.

 

Sailing sustainably

One major step toward eco-conscious operations is the newly installed shore power connection. It allows VASCO DA GAMA to draw electricity from the grid while in port, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions and contributing to climate protection.

To ensure a cleaner future, the ship uses ultra-low sulfur fuels. In ports and environmentally sensitive areas (the so-called ECA zones), VASCO DA GAMA runs on MGO (Marine Gas Oil), which emits considerably less particulate matter and soot. In line with the EU’s Green Deal, nicko cruises also turns to biofuels from renewable sources: the elegant cruise ship is partially powered by biodiesel made from waste products such as used cooking oil or plant-based residues. In addition, a particularly eco-friendly underwater coating helps prevent biofouling – saving up to six percent in fuel consumption.

 

 

Smart technology and fresh ideas for environmental protection

With around 1,000 guests and 550 crew members on board, a significant amount of wastewater is generated. VASCO DA GAMA uses an innovative treatment system based on membrane technology to remove bacteria, microplastics, phosphorus, and nitrogen. The resulting treated water meets bathing-water quality standards and is even permitted to be discharged into the Baltic Sea – one of the world’s most stringently regulated maritime areas.

All five engines are equipped with SCR catalytic converters, reducing nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 95 percent – fully meeting the latest environmental standards for sensitive zones such as the North Sea, Baltic Sea and the Norwegian coast.

Wherever possible, nicko cruises uses biodegradable materials, avoids waste, and eliminates single-use items. In the Club Bistro buffet restaurant, meals are served exclusively by the crew – a concept that promotes mindful consumption and has led to measurable reductions in food waste since its introduction.

Naturally, the ship’s machinery and systems are digitally controlled to ensure optimal resource management throughout all technical operations.

 

Discover the world in style – while protecting the planet

VASCO DA GAMA shows how two worlds can be united: the world of traditional, elegant cruising and that of modern technologies pointing the way forward. Only by actively promoting sustainability will we continue to be able to explore and enjoy the most beautiful regions of our planet by ship in the future.

 

 

When one of the Cunard Queens docks at the Landungsbrücken, the Hanseatic city becomes, if only for a moment, a stage for grand entrances, elegant silhouettes, and worldly stories: For two decades, the arrivals of Cunard ships have been a fixed part of the city’s maritime calendar — sometimes bathed in golden morning light, sometimes veiled in Elbe fog. For many Hamburg residents, it’s a familiar, almost ceremonial moment when the imposing silhouettes of these ocean giants slowly glide through the harbor. And for all those boarding, it marks the beginning of a journey that goes far beyond the destination — a journey into a world of style, service, and sensory impressions.

Because stepping aboard a Cunard Queen is not merely boarding a ship — it is stepping onto a stage.

 

Welcome to the red carpet

On board a Cunard Queen, everyday life begins to fade — and a sense of occasion takes over. It’s in the way guests are welcomed: with a smile that goes beyond simple politeness. It’s in the architecture, which doesn’t just impress but invites. And it’s in the little rituals — from afternoon tea to the evening aperitif — that turn every voyage into a stylish experience.

Whether strolling along the sweeping staircases, catching that first glimpse of the Grand Lobby, or listening to live music in the ballroom — those who travel here, travel with poise. And with the feeling that time has suddenly made space for itself again.

It’s the soft carpet underfoot that greets guests in the Grand Lobby. It’s the elegant uniforms of the bellhops, whose British courtesy and hint of nostalgia recall an era when travel was still an event. It’s the perfectly mixed Negroni served at sunset — on deck with views across the open sea, or in the Commodore Club overlooking the ship’s bow.

It’s the Cunard Red Ale in the Golden Lion Pub, infused with British cheer and camaraderie. It’s the plush armchairs of the Royal Court Theatre, where guests sit back as a touch of Broadway comes to life on stage. And it’s the festive gala evenings, when life on board transforms into a sparkling sea of evening gowns, suits, and golden details — a celebration for all the senses.

 

A farewell with a view

And when the Cunard Queens once again set course for the open sea, more than just the echo of a ship’s horn remains in Hamburg. What lingers is the memory of a special moment on the waterfront, a quiet pause between ebb and flow — and a gentle longing to one day come aboard.

Because sometimes, all it takes is a glance at the Elbe to feel how vast the world can be — and how stylishly it can be discovered.

Discover Cunard now at: www.cunard.com

Technical innovations, the expansion of the circular economy and social responsibility: these are the three areas that AIDA is focussing on in its sustainability efforts. Hamburg CruiseMag offers a glimpse into some of the building blocks of this comprehensive undertaking.

Innovative technologies: toward net-zero emissions in ship operations

AIDA’s goal is to make cruising more resource-efficient—and to reach net-zero emissions in ship operations by 2050. The company is relying on viable and increasingly sustainable technologies to reach that target: shore power, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and biofuels play key roles in this strategy.

Shore power

Ships typically remain in port for 8 to 10 hours a day, sometimes overnight. Shore power allows ships to shut down their engines during this time and draw electricity from local grids instead—significantly reducing emissions in port areas. AIDA already uses shore power wherever it is available. Currently, 15 ports in seven European countries offer this option. The company’s goal is to use shore power from renewable energy sources in all destinations. And this trend is gaining momentum: Copenhagen inaugurated its facility in June 2025, and AIDAnova was the first cruise ship to connect.

 

Liquefied natural gas (LNG)

In 2018, AIDAnova became the world’s first cruise ship capable of operating on LNG; it was joined by AIDAcosma at the end of 2021. LNG reduces particulate emissions by over 95%, nearly eliminates sulfur oxides, and significantly lowers nitrogen oxides (by 85%) and CO₂. Already, about 33% of AIDA guests—based on total fleet capacity—sail aboard LNG-capable ships. LNG is, however, only a transitional fuel: the propulsion systems of these ships are also compatible with future e-fuels and biofuels.

Energy management

Continuous advancements in energy management help AIDA further reduce emissions. This includes optimized routing and speed profiles, as well as intelligent software for efficient onboard energy use. Newbuilds benefit from innovative hull and propeller design to reduce propulsion energy needs. Air conditioning—a major energy consumer—has also been rethought: AIDA uses absorption chillers that convert excess heat into cooling energy, reducing fuel consumption.

 

Alternative energy in testing

AIDA is also exploring e-mobility at sea. AIDAprima has been retrofitted with the world’s largest battery storage system in maritime use. Charged by the ship’s engines, it can supply power during short operations—such as docking, undocking, or navigating sensitive waters—allowing 100% emission-free cruising in those moments.
In 2022, AIDA also began testing 100% biofuel from GoodFuels, derived from recycled biological waste like used cooking oil. This fuel avoids competition with food crops and prevents deforestation, supporting biodiversity and global food security. For this effort, AIDA received a Silver Recognition in the “Technology Leader” category at the 2025 ESG Shipping Awards.

 

Circular economy: conserving and preserving resources

Given the planet’s finite resources, AIDA is committed to conserving raw materials, keeping them in circulation as long as possible, and reducing waste. AIDA pursues this through comprehensive environmental management in waste, materials, and food, as well as through pioneering projects that point the way forward.

Water, waste, and recycling management

Water is central to the cruise experience. AIDA uses reverse osmosis systems to convert seawater into freshwater—even brewing its own onboard beer from it. Water-saving measures are in place across the fleet, including in showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. Wastewater is treated to near-drinking water quality using membrane technology and is disposed of via certified waste handlers in port.
Avoiding waste is a top priority. AIDA prefers reusable items over single-use and operates state-of-the-art recycling centers on board. Compared to 2018, the fleet has reduced single-use plastic items by more than 79%.

Soap made from recycled coffee grounds

Coffee is popular on board—and produces a lot of used grounds. In 2023, AIDA partnered with Hamburg-based startup Coffeecycle to turn coffee waste into premium natural cosmetics. This supports both waste reduction and circular economy goals. The resulting AIDA soap contains Fairtrade coffee grounds from the ships, coconut and olive oil, and is free of microplastics.

Carpet recycling pilot project

During a recent dry dock of AIDAdiva, 45,700 square meters of carpet—roughly the size of six football fields—were removed for recycling and will be reused as new flooring aboard AIDAluna. Together with Hamburg’s Oceancircle GmbH, AIDA developed a process to recycle used carpets, curtains, and canopy fabrics from its cabins.
The new floor coverings on AIDAdiva are equally sustainable: the allergy-friendly carpets are made from recycled plastics, such as fishing nets and old carpets. They can also be broken down at the end of their life cycle and recycled again.

Social responsibility: commitment to people and a better future

AIDA is committed to creating positive change and promoting sustainable development in tourism—not only as an employer, but also in its relationships with guests, partners, and communities at its destinations

AIDA Cruise & Help

Travel and do good—this is the idea behind AIDA Cruise & Help, an initiative supporting education in some of the world’s poorest regions. Since opening its first school in Cebu City, Philippines, in 2019, AIDA has helped launch more than 80 school projects in over 20 countries, made possible by guests, crew, and partners. More than 12,600 children now have access to safe learning environments.

Cycling sustainably

Since 2019, AIDA has partnered with Kiel-based bicycle manufacturer my Boo, which produces bamboo bikes in Ghana while funding a local school of over 500 students and creating jobs. Today, the AIDA fleet includes over 1,100 my Boo bikes—including e-bikes and cross bikes—for excursions.

Barrier-free cruising

Cruises should be for everyone. AIDA is committed to making travel on board as accessible as possible for people of all needs and ages. Nearly all public areas are barrier-free, and specially equipped cabins are available. Guests are invited to share their accessibility needs in advance, ensuring a worry-free vacation. An expert advisory council also supports AIDA in continuously improving accessibility on board and ashore.

Nobody counts it, no nation weighs it. So let’s make do with an informed guess: roughly a truck-load per minute, between five and 13 million tons per year: that’s how much plastic garbage ends up in the oceans. Where it lingers for hundreds of years, degrading to form macro- and microplastic which then ends up in the digestive systems of fish and, further down the chain, humans, marine mammals and birds; some of it is washed up on beaches or drifts through the world’s oceans in one of five great garbage patches. According to one study, in terms of weight, by 2050 there will be more plastic swimming in the sea than fish.
Alongside climate change, plastic is one of the biggest environmental concerns of our era. It is, in fact, part of the bigger climate problem and it is something that we humans are entirely and solely responsible for. It all started so promisingly: plastic was progress, plastic was the future. It was a new material with an unprecedented degree of versatility. Within the space of a few decades, it transformed the way we clothe ourselves, how we eat our food, how we furnish our houses and get from A to B. It conquered the world and all aspects of our lives – from telephones to nylon tights, from dental floss to car tyres and drainpipes.

A boon and a curse: plastic
Plastic production on a large scale started in the 1950s. Back then, the total volume was around two million tons a year; today, Coca-Cola alone uses three million tons annually. By 2018, the global production of plastic was over 330 million tons, and that figure is expected to rise to 400 million next year. The eagerly welcomed boon has long since become a curse.
Instead of establishing a circular economy, where as much of the plastic is recycled and reused as possible, for years the approach has been simply to keep on producing more and more plastic, using it – and then throwing it away. Since 1950, globally only nine per cent of the plastic that has been used has actually been recycled. Worldwide, the present recycling ratio of plastic packaging is a derisory 14 per cent. And quite apart from all the waste, every year the production and incineration of plastic generates around 400 million tons of carbon emissions.
Whether it’s the Yangtze or the Yellow River, the Indus, Ganges or Brahmaputra, Amur, Mekong, Nile or Niger: it is estimated that half of the plastic that ends up in the world’s oceans every year comes from a total of ten rivers, most of which are in Asia. The rest is blown into the sea by the wind – or comes from people throwing their plastic waste into the water. At the UN Environmental Conference in Nairobi in March 2019, plastic waste in the oceans was high up on the agenda. Ultimately, though, the conference ended without a joint resolution: the participants could not even agree to start negotiations.

Small rays of hope – or merely scratches on the surface?
Confronted by the reality of a vast sea of waste, people are attempting to make a change. For example, with experiments like “The Ocean Cleanup”, which aims to remove plastic from the Pacific Ocean using a mechanical collection device. With a fleet of 60 systems, believes the Dutch inventor, half of the plastic waste in the great garbage patch in the Pacific could be collected in five years. It is unclear whether this prognosis includes the new waste that is being added every day. There are campaigns like the annual International Coastal Cleanup Day: nearly one hundred countries and countless national organisations take part and clean up “their” beaches. The Canadian start-up Hoola One has invented a gigantic beach vacuum cleaner that efficiently filters the plastic waste from the sand on the beach. Thanks to all these projects and campaigns, the problem is out of sight – at least temporarily.
The Canadian Plastic Bank is taking a different approach: all around the world in places where poverty and plastic waste coexist as serious problems, it aims to tackle both simultaneously. Collected plastic is exchanged for cash or products or swapped for blockchain-secured digital cash. And there are companies who believe that recycling is the answer. For instance, outdoor gear maker Patagonia: 69% of the materials the brand uses are recycled, and by 2025 it aims to increase this to 100%. A pair of Parley shoes by Adidas corresponds to 11 recycled plastic bottles. And even Coca-Cola wants to recycle a bottle or can for each one it sells by 2030. It’s a start.
Another approach is the STOP project launched by the industry, which is focussing on establishing low-cost waste management systems in Asia in order to avoid littering with plastic trash. Initiatives like The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment use the clout of multinational organisations: this programme currently unites more than 400 business, NGOs, governments and citizens in order to tackle the problem of plastic at source with targeted measures and ideas on recycling and reusing plastic packaging.

Good intentions and targeted action
Behind these efforts is usually the United Nation’s Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, a declaration of intent that specifically includes the protection of the oceans as “Goal 14”. The UN’s special agency for shipping, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), is also taking action. In 2018, its committee for the protection of the marine environment passed an action plan for the disposal of plastic waste on ships. The measures are due to be completed by 2025 and will affect all ships, from fishing boats to gigantic cruise liners. That being said, the disposal of plastic waste into the sea has long been prohibited by international regulations (MARPOL).
But apart from establishing the use of complex equipment on board to store and treat waste until it can be disposed of on land, plastic is a problem that needs to be tackled at the root. The answer is avoiding plastic altogether – and that includes the cruise industry.

For TUI Cruises the environmental targets set by the UN are an important guideline. In 2018, the cruise line launched a comprehensive company-wide programme for the avoidance of plastic rubbish called WASTELESS. Lucienne Damme, Environmental Manager at TUI Cruises, explains the programme: “Partners and suppliers, the staff on land and the crew members on board, and, ultimately, the guests on board the Mein Schiff® fleet – everyone is being included in this scheme. By the end of 2020, we aim to eliminate single-use and plastic products from our operations to the greatest extent possible or to replace them with eco-friendly alternatives, like bio plastics, multi-use items, bulk packaging, dosage and refillable systems. All remaining plastic waste will, of course, be recycled.”

Switching from plastic to wooden stirrers saves around 1.5 million plastic stirrers a year across the TUI Cruises fleet. Five million plastic drinks stirrers are no longer used, and neither are 250,000 plastic covers for the Mein Schiff® slippers, which are now presented without packaging. The introduction of dosage systems for toiletries in the cabins has eliminated the need for 380,000 little plastic bottles per year. In the ship’s shops, roughly 200,000 plastic and paper bags a year have been replaced with reusable Mein Schiff® beach bags made of recycled PET or with reusable branded shopping bags. The morning newspaper is no longer delivered to the cabin door in a plastic bag, but hung from the door handle with a reusable hemp string, saving a further 51,100 plastic bags a year.

The numbers that these changes bring are truly impressive, and particularly so because nearly all the big cruise lines have been taking a long, informed look at the issue and are making changes.

The No. 1 on the German market, AIDA, has also put single-use items and the avoidance of plastic on its agenda. “Reducing and, where possible, complete avoidance of plastic has been a key part of our sustainability strategy for many years”, says Hansjörg Kunze, Vice President Communication & Sustainability. This development is noticeable for passengers and crew on board the ships. Single-use cups and lids have been replaced with multi-use cups; disposable plastic cutlery is taboo. Since 2013, paper bags have been used instead of plastic ones, drinking straws or swizzle sticks are made of bio-degradable starch or wood, and microplastic has long since been banned in toiletries and spa products. Biscuits served with coffee are no longer individually wrapped, and laundry is delivered from the cleaners without a plastic cover. These are only a few of the many measures put in place which are making life on board more sustainable.
For AIDA, this is a constant process and changes are being made in many different areas. Hansjörg Kunze explains: “We are continually conducting surveys across the fleet to determine where we can switch from single-use and plastic products to bio-degradable or multi-use ones.”

MSC is also committed to making changes. “MSC Cruises has opened a new chapter in its environmental commitment”, reports Christian Hein, Managing Director of MSC Cruises in Germany. “We have pledged to stop using disposable plastics and, wherever possible, to introduce sustainable alternatives.” Since March 2019, disposable plastic bags, spoons, jars and other items have been replaced with eco-friendly alternatives. Single portions in plastic packaging, like butter, jam or yoghurt, have become a thing of the past. Disposable straws have been banished and replaced with sustainable alternatives. This practice has not only been established on board the ships, but also on all island destinations, in the MSC offices on shore and on MSC shore excursions. “It’s a long-term, continuous commitment. Where sustainable solutions for specific products are not yet available, we ensure that all plastic waste is recycled in the most effective way. Our processes are checked and certified by external experts”, Hein adds.

Costa Cruises is taking a similar approach. On board and on land, in food and beverages, diposable plastic items are being replaced by ones made of bio-degradable, compostable “Mater-Bi” or wood. Wherever possible, packaging and food containers are reused. On the buffets, yoghurt comes from dispensers instead of individual pots; in cabins, soap and shampoo dispensers have replaced plastic bottles and caps. Microplastics have been banned from toiletries and spa products. In the ships’ kitchens, dishwasher tabs are used instead of liquid dishwashing detergents, which significantly reduces the amount of plastic packaging consumed. Cleaning agents come in concentrates, and the bottles are reused, reducing the need for plastic and cutting transport and energy costs.
Reduce and recycle is also is the name of the game at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: plastic bags, drinking straws and swizzle sticks are no longer used or are made of wood; plastic waste is collected separately and disposed of professionally on land. The suites of the new expedition ships come with complimentary refillable water bottles which guests can also use for shore excursions.

In other areas, care is also being taken to use alternatives to plastic. For instance, the kayaks on board the new expedition ships are made of HTP, a very robust and durable polyethylene. No waste is generated when the hulls are built, and the producer also takes the boats back for recycling free of charge. The expedition line also impressively shows how passengers can engage and participate: every time one of the ships visits Spitsbergen, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises participates in the “Clean up Svalbard” initiative and, together with the passengers, collects garbage – especially plastic – that washes up on the coast of Spitsbergen.
The fight against plastic has become an important element in the cruise lines’ comprehensive sustainability efforts. Individually, none of these projects will solve the problem of plastic, but in the greater picture every little detail counts. The schemes introduced by the cruise lines show that something is happening and that every individual passenger can help to avoid plastic – and that’s a great first step for the oceans of the world.
But obviously we still have a long, long way to go before we can truthfully give the all-clear signal for either the oceans or land. The Plastic Atlas recently published by the Heinrich Böll Foundation states bluntly: “Many people are aware of the issue of microplastic in the oceans. But what fewer people know is that, depending on the location, the contamination of the soil and inland waters is between four and 23 times as high as in the ocean.”

You are by the seaside. You see the horizon in the distance, hear the waves crashing, smell the fragrance of sun cream, feel the warm rays on your skin, and taste the salt water on your lips… Your stress levels have probably gone down just by reading those lines. That’s not out of the ordinary, as over half of all the Germans, Austrians and Swiss who took the survey said that precisely this scenario makes them feel happy and relaxed.
TUI Cruises asked Statista to conduct a representative survey of the holiday habits of 2000 respondents. The results were very enlightening – and at the same time slightly concerning. While 96% of those surveyed agreed that relaxation and regeneration are important, alarmingly few actually manage to free up time to consciously relax: only 8% regularly succeed in attaining that all-important state of relaxation.
These results do not automatically lead to a call for more holidays – but for better ones. The well-known television and internet medical professional Dr Johannes Wimmer explains: “People today have forgotten how to really relax. At the same time, relaxation has become more important than ever. We live in an ‘always-on’ age and that wears us down.” Noise, busy schedules, the expectations of others and perpetual availability are all factors that were mentioned in the TUI Cruises survey as being especially stressful. “It is a fact that you can’t just relax on command; you need a certain ‘warming-up’ period”, says Dr Wimmer, explaining how relaxation works. “That is why holidays are so important from a medical point of view in order to leave everyday life and stress behind.”
The sea beats the competition from any other holiday location. Over 75% of the respondents agreed that the smell of the sea and the sound of the waves are part of a successful holiday. But what many may not realise is that relaxation is always an experience for all the senses. Dr Wimmer explains: “Our five senses – hearing, taste, touch, smell and vision – all play a crucial role in helping us to relax.”
These senses are all stimulated in different ways on a cruise. “The conscious application of the senses makes it a lot easier for us to achieve relaxation mode”, says the medical expert. For example, gazing out to sea during a cruise: “Vision is our strongest sense, and looking out into the distance has something magical about it. Looking at the distant horizon gives us a feeling of freedom. Behind the horizon lies the unknown, the undiscovered. If you gaze into the distance, it is easy to shrug off everyday life and build a distance between those mundane problems and the present moment in time”, says Wimmer. “In psychology, the sea also has a very special meaning. It is perceived as a place of peace and tranquillity.”
Cruises also cover a lot of other aspects that help people to switch off. Lazing around and doing nothing, enjoying good food and drink, reading books and magazines, or wellness: according to the survey, these are the most popular ways of relaxing.
Take some time off! This is the motto and recommendation TUI Cruises has distilled from the extensive survey. It is a call to unwind and pamper those senses – and a guideline for conscious relaxation on board that takes in the eyes and ears, taste buds, nose and emotions. And, as an added bonus: the signature colour of the sky, the sea and cruises – blue – is also the colour that 50% of those surveyed said was the most soothing, relaxing colour. What are you waiting for? Take a trip into the relaxing blue!

Cruise correspondents

The British shipping company P&O Cruises is credited with inventing the concept of cruises. Set with the challenge of trying to persuade people to take a voyage simply for pleasure, P&O came up with a cunning solution: in 1844, they gave the journalist and novelist William Makepeace Thackeray a free ticket and invited him to come on board and gather impressions for a book. He was also asked to entertain the female passengers. Thackeray did not spend the entire cruise on one ship, as he was forced the change several times in order to get to Athens, Jaffa and the Egyptian pyramids. And it wasn’t all smooth sailing, as the rough sea didn’t agree with him and on one leg of the journey he was distinctly discombobulated by the “un-British” behaviour of some pilgrims, not to mention the foreign customs and habits he was forced to endure on land. His travel report, published under the nom-de-plume Michael Angelo Titmarsh, was perhaps not as glowing as it could have been, but it did generate enough income for him to write “Vanity Fair”, one of the all-time classic British novels.

Sailing with Huckleberry Finn’s father

Mark Twain was another very early cruise passenger. In 1867, he went on board the Quaker City as a correspondent, explored the Mediterranean – and observed the quirks of his fellow passengers. He soon noticed the habit, particularly among seafaring novices, to attempt to blend in by adopting an elaborate maritime vernacular. Twain himself was familiar with ships, having worked as a pilot on the Mississippi before becoming an author. Not that this prepared him for what happened as his ship entered the port of Athens: due to quarantine rules, the passengers were ordered to forgo their long-awaited trip ashore. With his sights firmly set on the Acropolis, Twain did not want to miss Athens and so, with a few co-conspirators, covertly slipped off this ship at midnight… what happens next is described in his travelogue, “The Innocents Abroad” –perfect for reading in a deckchair!

Logbooks

Were they to return, Thackeray and Mark Twain might notice some slight changes to on-board entertainment since they set off on a cruise. As well as glittering stage shows, magic performances and acrobatics, book readings and writing workshops have become very popular. This also means that the number of writers at sea has shot up, which makes perfect sense as it is the ideal opportunity to combine travel and work. In fact, cruises have always been a source of inspiration, from as early as Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile”, a classic murder mystery set on a river cruise down the Nile that is thrilling today as it was when it was first published in 1937. Acclaimed writer Michael Ondaatje tells the story of a young boy who sails the Suez Canal bound for Europe in “The Cat’s Table”, the name given to the dining table furthest from the captain’s. A writer who took a cruise and didn’t like it was David Foster Wallace. In “A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again”, he describes his one week aboard a cruise ship in an essay packed with malicious observations.

Prefer to watch a movie instead of turning pages?

The sea has always been a rich source of inspiration for film directors. From nail-biting thriller to tearjerker or comedy: these seven movie highlights will get you in the mood for a cruise – or mark the fitting end to a memorable journey.
Mutiny on the Bounty (1962) – a classic adventure movie starring the incomparable Marlon Brando
Pirates of the Caribbean (2003) – An action-packed romp with Johnny Depp alias Capt. Jack Sparrow
African Queen (1951) – Romance and adventure with Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart
Murder Ahoy! (1964) – Maritime murder based on an Agatha Christie story with the sublime Margaret Rutherford as Miss Marple
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) – Classic comedy with Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell
An Affair to Remember (1957) – A romance starring Hollywood legends Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr and Richard Denning
Hotel Transylvania 3 – Summer Vacation (2018) – Cruise fun for youngsters with lovable monsters