Sustainable Time Ashore: How to Plan Eco-Friendly Excursions
A new port, exciting impressions, and the desire to discover foreign cultures – time ashore is one of the absolute highlights of any cruise. At the same time, awareness is growing of how important it is to protect local nature and communities. With a few simple tricks, you can noticeably reduce your ecological footprint in port while immersing yourself even deeper into your destination.
Gentle Mobility: On Foot, by Bike, or Bus
To explore the area around your port, you don't necessarily have to get onto a large tour bus. Many port cities can be easily discovered under your own power or by public transport:
- Exploring on foot: A walk is the most environmentally friendly way to travel. You notice details you would otherwise miss, and you remain completely flexible.
- Bicycles and e-bikes: In many ports, you can rent bikes. This enormously expands your radius of action and keeps you fit.
- Public transport: Buses, trams, or ferries take you from A to B cheaply and authentically. You share the ride with locals and protect the environment.
- Hiking: If your ship is docked near natural areas, well-marked hiking trails are a wonderful way to enjoy the landscape.
Support Local Guides and Preserve Culture
When planning shore excursions, it pays to look out for local guides. When you book tours led by people from the region, the economic benefit stays directly in the area. You hear first-hand stories, get real insider tips, and support the local community. Make sure to choose small operators that focus on small groups – this not only reduces crowding at popular spots, but also makes your experience much more personal.
Avoid Waste and Reduce Plastic
Especially in coastal regions and on islands, waste disposal is often a major challenge. Plastic waste easily ends up in the sea and harms wildlife. Here is how you can easily avoid waste while out and about:
- Take a reusable water bottle ashore with you. Depending on the destination, you can refill it locally or use filtered water from on board.
- Pack a small tote bag in your backpack so you can decline single-use plastic bags when shopping.
- When ordering snacks or drinks ashore, ask to skip single-use straws and plastic cutlery.
- If in doubt, take your trash back on board with you or dispose of it in designated bins.
Important note on food and drinks: Please note that rules regarding taking food off the ship ashore (and vice versa) can vary greatly depending on the cruise line, ship, and local customs regulations of the respective country. It is best to check the daily newsletter or ask at reception before going ashore.
Respect Wildlife and Nature
Whether it's a botanical garden, coastal path, or a trip into the countryside: local nature is sensitive. To protect local flora and fauna, you should follow a few basic rules:
- Always stay on designated hiking trails to prevent erosion and avoid trampling plants.
- Never feed wildlife. Outside food can make animals sick and disrupt their natural behavior.
- Keep a safe distance from wild animals and avoid activities where animals are kept in captivity for display or touching.
- Whenever possible, use eco-friendly sunscreen without reef-harmful ingredients when going swimming or snorkeling.
With conscious planning, your time ashore will not only be more sustainable, but usually also richer and more unforgettable. Via PortStory, you can collect your visited ports on your own world map and easily keep track of your next dream destinations.
