Tips

It’s best to cruise on vessels with eco-itineraries, since these lines tend to be more environmentally aware. California-based AdventureSmith Explorations, for example, partners with Sustainable Travel International (STI) to offset carbon output. A portion of each fare goes to STI initiatives around the world, such as harnessing biomass energy in India and wind energy in Madagascar. Lindblad Expeditions works with the National Geographic Society. Besides supporting research, the company is involved in environmental practices at every level: it partners with local organizations to implement conservation projects and eco-stewardship; donates ship space for environmental organizations; and through its program Seafood for Thought, ensures that it uses only seafood farmed from sustainable sources. Finally, if you’re truly concerned, stick to smaller cruise ships (fewer than 150 passengers). By forgoing such services as laundry and onboard entertainment, they burn less fuel.