When it comes to the future of cruising, sustainability is steering the ship.

On this episode of Unpacked, Afar cruise expert and deputy editor, Michelle Baran, takes you to Seatrade, one of the cruise industry's most important events for a panel discussion that asks the question: Is sustainable cruising the new luxury cruising?

From wind-powered voyages to community-centered tourism, she uncovers the surprising and inspiring ways two of the industry's greenest cruise lines, Hurtigruten and Sea Cloud Cruises, are charting the way to a sustainable future.

We'll unpack more of the trends and innovations coming out of Seatrade in coming weeks—stay tuned!

Why Small Ships Make Big Waves in Modern Cruising

On this episode, you’ll learn: 

• How smaller ships create opportunities for travelers to contribute to local communities. 


• Tips to spot the difference between genuine sustainability and “greenwashing” in cruising. 


• The unique ways that cruise lines are confronting overtourism and tending to travelers' needs. 

Sustainable Cruising: Seaweed Farms and Setting Sail 

Don’t miss these moments: 

[04:21 ] “Engines off. It doesn’t get greener than that.” The most peaceful moment of a Sea Cloud cruise.

[12:34 ] Don’t just ban single-use plastic. Behind Hurtigruten’s circular food economy. 

[18:14 ] How beach BBQs are helping build back an island’s economy

Meet this week’s guests

Gerry Larsson-Fedde, COO at Hurtigruten

Kevin Smith, vice president of sales at Sea Cloud Cruises

Resources 

Read the transcript of this episode.

Listen to these Unpacked Minis: There’s a Cruise for You (Really!) and Please Don’t Plan a Cruise Without This.

Explore more cruise inspiration and intel on afar.com

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