Worst polluting cruise lines named as single ship 'spews out as much CO2 as a town'

In 2023, emissions data analysis indicated that certain cruise lines operated in European waters release carbon dioxide emissions comparable to those of small towns. The Disney Dream topped the list of polluters, emitting nearly 1.5 tonnes of CO2 per nautical mile despite having only one ship in the region. Norwegian Cruise Line followed, with a fleet of ten ships averaging 1.4 tonnes of CO2 emissions each per nautical mile. The growing popularity of cruising has led to larger ships, consequently increasing their environmental impact. Notably, the Norwegian Epic generated an alarming two tonnes of CO2 per nautical mile, reflecting the distressing trend in eco-sustainability among mega-ships. The report emphasized that pollution from these vessels extends beyond CO2 emissions, as it does not account for significant contributions to air and water pollution, which are challenging to measure. Cruises, particularly long-distance ones, often produce a larger carbon footprint compared to other travel methods, raising concerns about their sustainability in light of upcoming climate targets set for the industry. Some companies, like Viking, are attempting to mitigate environmental impacts by investing in hydrogen fuel cell-powered ships. However, notable cruise companies, including Disney and Norwegian, have defended their operations’ environmental impact by emphasizing their ongoing commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving their overall sustainability performance.