AIDA sets course for sustainability

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.