Cruise Industry Trends 2025 – Green Energy & Sustainability
As we come closer to the end of the year, we take a look at the trends that are making waves throughout the cruise industry. One of these trends being the implementation of greener technologies and protocols. The industry has bounced back after the decline caused by the pandemic, with a growth of 25% above pre-pandemic levels predicted for this year. The factors for this rise include a rise in ship deployment as well as an expansion of routes and overall consumer demand for traveling in cruise ships. The implementation of new practices is also a focal point for the industry as we head towards 2026 and beyond. All this in an effort to use greener energy, better technologies and to produce a more favorable experience for travelers as they enjoy their voyage at sea. (Caribbean News Digital, 2025)
Innovation in green technology is being seen throughout the industry. Several cruise lines have invested in liquefied natural gas to help with the reduction of emissions while traveling. Ammonia and hydrogen fuel technology are being looked into as alternatives as well. Also, companies are reducing single-use plastics and other non-recyclable materials. When cruise ships arrive shore-side, many are equipped with the ability to plug into power-grids to help reduce emissions. Eco-focused destinations are also being focused on to help with the practice of sustainability. (Cruise IND, 2025)
As for waste reduction, newer ships have the ability to treat wastewater to almost drinkable levels before discharge. Some cruise lines have taken to removing plastics entirely and being stricter with onboard recycling. Food waste is being cut down by the use of biodegradable digesters, smart kitchen sensors and better buffet designs. The implementation of these technologies helps considerably in bringing the cruise industry overall to become fully eco-friendly, and more technologies and policies continue to come to fruition regularly. Sustainability being the goal for the future. (Waldrop, 2025)
On the topic of sustainability, the cruise industry is taking steps in other ways to go green. One step is engaging the guests themselves. Companies are incorporating sustainability via educational programs as well as eco-friendly excursions. Initiatives onboard cruise ships are being made to encourage responsible tourism. The hull designs in newer ships are being made with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. To reduce energy consumption, LED lights and better air lubrication systems are being installed, with the final goal being better optimization and maximum efficiency.
To promote better transparency and accountability, cruise companies are implementing reporting practices. They are publishing environmental performance metrics that align with the International Maritime Organization. Stakeholders and even guests can track progress of these reports, which in turn helps build overall trust in the companies making changes to greener technologies and policies. These onboard initiatives and partnerships with tech companies pioneering green technologies contribute to the cruise industry meeting the goals of decarbonizations for the coming years. (Colombia Cruise Services, 2025)
The cruise industry is undergoing a transformative shift that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and passenger engagement. As technological advancements continue to reshape operations, from cleaner fuel alternatives to smarter waste management systems, the sector is not only adapting to environmental expectations but also setting new standards for responsible tourism. The integration of eco-conscious practices both onboard and at port destinations reflects a long-term commitment to reducing the industry’s environmental footprint. With transparent reporting and continued investment in green initiatives, the cruise industry is charting a course toward a more sustainable and future-ready model that balances luxury travel with environmental stewardship.
References
Caribbean News Digital. (2025, October 13). Cruise Industry Enters New Growth Phase with Sustainability Pressure. Retrieved from Caribbean News Digital: https://www.cndenglish.com/cruises/cruise-industry-enters-new-growth-phase-sustainability-pressure?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Colombia Cruise Services. (2025, February 26). Green Cruising: How The Cruise Industry Is Adapting To Decarbonisation Goals. Retrieved from Colombia Cruise Services: https://columbia-cs.com/green-cruising-how-the-cruise-industry-is-adapting-to-decarbonisation-goals/
Cruise IND. (2025). The Biggest Cruise Industry Trends to Expect in 2025. Retrieved from Cruise IND: https://www.cruiseind.com/the-biggest-cruise-industry-trends-to-expect-in-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Waldrop, M. (2025). Sustainable cruising in 2025: How major lines compare. Retrieved from Cruisebound: https://www.cruisebound.com/articles/cruise-line-sustainability-comparison