RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
Conscious ways to travel
Cruises provide incredible opportunities for people to explore some of the world's most stunning and fascinating locations. We want to support the communities we visit through responsible tourism and by contributing to positive social and economic impacts, ensuring future development and growth in the local communities we visit.
By partnering with local businesses, investing in community projects, and respecting cultural heritage, we aim to create connections and leave a positive impact.
MSC PROTECTOURS
In 2023 we provided 190 MSC Protectours in 100 destinations.
In 2020, we introduced our first MSC Protectour, as responsible shore excursions with a lower carbon footprint offering activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing and kayaking or those that support the local ecosystem, helping to protect local habitats and species. Guests are offered opportunities such as planting trees to replenish lost forests, visiting organic rooftop farms and collecting plastic waste from beaches. These were created in response to increasing passenger interest in sustainability and protecting the natural environment and now are offered at 57 destinations worldwide.
MSC PROTECTOURS
LOCAL COMMUNITIES
We support the economies of the local communities our cruises visit in numerous ways, for example through the purchase of ships supplies and the spend of our guests when they take part in excursions or buy meals or souvenirs while onshore. According to our industry association, CLIA this guest spend can average USD$107 per day based on a seven day itinerary.
We give preference to employing local staff to build and maintain shore operations on our private island destinations including the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in The Bahamas and Pomene and Portuguese Island in Mozambique. We work with tour operators who employ local staff and support their businesses to grow, helping to create jobs and mutual benefits.
LOCAL COMMUNITIES
TERMINAL DEVELOPMENT
Investment in cruise terminals can directly impact passenger experience, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Modern, well-equipped terminals enhance the boarding and disembarkation process, improve safety and security measures, and can offer advanced waste management facilities. Additionally, investing in terminal infrastructure supports local economies and strengthens relationships with port cities, fostering growth and sustainability in cruise destinations.
Our three new cruise terminals – Durban, Miami and Barcelona – have been built to accommodate our ships in the most efficient manner, bringing employment, passengers and economic and social benefits to the local communities.
Miami
Our new cruise terminal in Miami will open in 2024, following an investment of USD$350 million. It will be the largest terminal in North America, able to welcome our LNG-powered World Class ships and offering connection to the local power grid with dedicated shore power facilities.
Barcelona
Following an investment of €35 million, our new terminal in Barcelona will provide connections to shore power and has the infrastructure to store LNG. The goal is to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold rating through its low energy consumption design, use of solar panels and renewable energy from the grid. Once operational, we are also committed to LEED Zero water through its low water demand, reuse of rainwater and directing stormwater straight into the sea.
