Marine Life
Cruise line members are recognized by notable organizations for marine conservation efforts, including initiatives such as hosting scientific research onboard, voluntarily reducing speeds near marine life, crew training for mammal sightings, specialized ship design to minimize noise, and establishing conservation projects like coral restoration.
Systems Designed to Protect Marine Life
CLIA members agree to avoid or voluntarily reduce vessel speed in sensitive areas; in addition, many ships have underwater noise and vibration reduction systems, as well as scientists on board to support important ocean and marine life research.
“I joined cruise to escape the 9 to 5 routine and to pursue my two big passions, environmental protection and the ocean.”
Fenia Kalachani
Environmental Officer with TUI Cruises
Onboard Experts
Many cruise ships sail with environmental officers on board. These officers are subject matter experts in environmental regulations. In their roles, they oversee all aspects of environmental management and compliance.
Cruise Lines Taking Action for Marine Life
Many cruise line members have been recognized for their efforts in marine life protection from notable organizations such as the World Sustainability Organization, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service, and programs in key markets—like the ECHO program established by the Port of Vancouver.
Examples of some of the initiatives cruise lines utilize include:
- Hosting scientists on board ships to support important ocean and marine life research—especially in arctic and polar regions.
- Voluntarily reducing vessel speed and maintain safe distances in sensitive areas or when marine life is observed/present.
- Training crews to sight marine mammals and participating in interactive, computer-based training programs developed in collaboration with NOAA and the National Parks Service.
- Building ships with specially designed hulls, propellers, and noise suppression devices designed to significantly minimize underwater vibrations.
- Developing marine conservation centers, solar farms, and coral restoration initiatives support ocean and private island biodiversity.