Cruise: All-Around Wellness—For the Planet and Your Clients

SCENICAll-Around Wellness: For the Planet & Your Clients By Paloma Villaverde de RicoThe focus on keeping ourselves and the planet healthy is at an all-time high. More and more travelers are making sure that the cruise lines they vacation with are practicing sustainable and responsible tourism, and once they choose the cruise line that speaks to them and they sail off on their vacation, they’re keeping up with their wellness routines. In this piece, we’ve put the focus on all-around wellness—from what cruise lines are doing to get to net zero emissions by 2050 to healthy activities for passengers while they sail the waterways of the world. Fleet of the FutureAt this year’s Seatrade conference, Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of CLIA, told the audience that “every new ship will take us closer to our sustainability goals. Each one is approximately 20 percent more efficient than those that it supersedes, bringing more efficient propulsion systems, new fuels, better energy management and the newest engine technologies. “CLIA’s data shows an increasing uptake of new environmental technologies by our members,” she went on to say. “We’re seeing new pilot programs, new trials, new propulsion systems and all of this will ultimately take us to our 2050 goal of net zero emissions. “CLIA’s most recent environmental report found at least 32 pilot projects and collaborative initiatives underway with sustainable fuel producers and engine companies. Each of these is working to perfect the fleet of the future, which will sail using sustainable marine fuels like green methanol, bio LNG and synthetic LNG, as well as hydrogen fuel cells, battery storage, solar power and wind. In addition to reducing emissions at sea, cruise lines are also paving the way for significant emission reductions in port.” According to CLIA’s 2024 State of the Cruise Industry Report, CLIA-member cruise lines utilize a range of technologies and innovations to advance their sustainability initiatives: advanced wastewater treatment systems; repurposing and reducing waste; using systems that are designed to protect marine life; onshore power systems; water conservation; fuel flexibility; exhaust gas cleaning systems; air lubrication systems; and hull coatings. “Sustainability, of course, is vital to our industry, and so CLIA will continue to put a significant focus on these types of issues and environmental issues throughout the year,” notes Craighead. MSC SPAProtecting the OceansMSC Cruises, known for being a leader when it comes to sustainable tourism, “is committed to protecting the oceans, the destinations we visit and the port communities we touch,” says Koreen McNutt, the cruise line’s Sr. VP of Sales and Trade Engagement and Commercial Sales Officer. “We believe that sustainability should be effortless for our guests during their vacation. Water, waste, electricity, heating and cooling are all optimized automatically without requiring any effort from our guests.” That said, guests who are interested in this topic can take an exclusive tour to restricted areas on the ship. “During these tours, we not only showcase the latest maritime technologies but also educate our guests on the environmental credentials of the technology. We provide detailed explanations of the advantages of our solutions, highlighting how they contribute to reducing our ecological footprint.” Additionally, she continues, “Our shore excursions team has worked with tour operators around the world to identify excursions founded on strong sustainability principles. Known as Protectours, these excursions are not just about experiencing the beauty of our destinations, but also about learning and understanding the importance of protecting the nature. Around 70 percent of our Protectours now include low-impact transportation—including walking, cycling or kayaking—and many make a direct contribution to the environment through supporting species or habitat protection.”Wellness Factor: Another top priority for MSC is making sure passengers get much-needed R&R, which the onboard MSC Aurea Spa provides in spades, says McNutt. It’s “a guaranteed sanctuary of tranquility,” she says. “Here, guests can indulge in a luxurious Balinese massage, known for its blend of scented essences and aromatic oils. Our onboard thermal areas are another highlight, offering a holistic approach to wellness. These thermal experiences gradually raise body temperature by harnessing the therapeutic benefits of water and heat.” She also points to the Wellness Corner found at the ship’s buffet areas. It offers, she says, “a selection of dishes crafted with health in mind, designed to boost well-being without compromising on flavor. We’re rolling out new health concepts like the Zest Juice Bar that debuted with MSC World Europa.” Additionally, passengers will be able to find vegetarian and gluten-free menus with vegan-friendly dishes. Thoughtful Green Practices“Each of our ships, and every itinerary we operate,” says Kristin Karst, Executive VP & Co-Owner of AmaWaterways, “is thoughtfully designed to minimize fuel consumption and protect the riverbeds. We collaborate closely with local partners and communities to develop responsible tourism projects. This involves offering small group excursions led by knowledgeable local guides who share insights into the cultural heritage and environmental significance of the regions visited. These excursions not only enhance the guest experience but also support the local economy and promote awareness of sustainable practices.” The cruise line has been recognized for its sustainable practices, with 20 of its European ships earning the Green Award certification, which recognizes ships in Europe for their quality, safety and environmental performance. AMA QUOTE Not one to rest on its laurels, AmaWaterways has implemented a brand-new feature on one of its ships— the AmaMagna now sports brand-new solar panels on the awnings of select staterooms aimed at reducing fuel consumption related to heating and cooling of staterooms. Passengers will also find that the cruise
line has reduced single-use plastics, promotes recycling and uses energy-efficient technologies. “These initiatives not only demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainability but also provide tangible examples for guests to observe and engage with,” Karst tells Recommend. Wellness Factor: Providing a vacation that encompasses physical, mental and spiritual wellness is of utmost importance to Karst. She says that she believes in the power of keeping up with one’s wellness routine during a vacation and as such they were the first river cruise line to introduce a robust Wellness Program led by Wellness Hosts. “Guests are welcome to choose from a wide range of offerings, including yoga, Pilates, core strengthening, cardio or even Latin dance,” she says, adding that classes are included in the river cruise fare. On the culinary front, she says that the cruise line is acutely aware that more and more travelers are paying closer attention to what they eat, so the menu features healthy cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients. “Chefs on board accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences including gluten-free, low-sodium, vegan and vegetarian options,” says Karst. “Local dishes and traditional Western offerings are skillfully prepared alongside vegetarian and gluten-free options, healthy breakfast bowls high in grains and fruits, and special extras like infused citrus and gemstone water.”Cherishing the PlanetScenic Group’s 2023 Impact Report, which was released earlier this year, puts the focus on the cruise line’s environmental stewardship, which includes reducing single-use plastics by 95 percent across its fleet; investing in advanced ship design to protect the sea floor and progressive water treatment systems to purge invasive species; the launch of the “Cherish the Planet” menu, which promotes locally sourced and sustainable ingredients; and the creation of the “Cherish the Planet” Sustainable Touring Inclusion Program to support community engagement around the globe. Says Ken Muskat, Managing Director of Scenic Group USA, “Scenic and Emerald Cruises are deeply committed to sustainable practices within the cruise industry. Our fleet’s design updates embody sustainable luxury with certified green elements and thoughtful design. The Scenic Neptune II submersible features zero emissions, reflecting our commitment to minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, we use advanced technology like GPS Dynamic Positioning to avoid anchoring on sensitive seabeds and have effective energy installations to reduce emissions and noise.” He adds that the group’s small ships have less of an environmental impact when compared to larger vessels. “They provide intimate and eco-friendly travel experiences, accessing less-visited ports and minimizing the footprint on local environments,” Muskat notes. “Our small ships incorporate advanced waste treatment systems, efficient energy use and sustainable design practices. Our strategic approach not only focuses on operational enhancements but also on deepening our connections with the communities we visit, fostering mutual cultural exchanges and ensuring our actions help preserve the world’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.”Wellness Factor: Muskat proudly points to an array of innovative wellness offerings across the fleet, both for Scenic and Emerald—from a wellness retreat sailing to hiking excursions in the Arctic. SCENIC QUOTE “Scenic is leading the way in holistic cruising with our new 12-day Wellness Retreat,” he says. “Departing from Barbados aboard Scenic Eclipse on Nov. 5, 2024, and with additional sailings through 2026, this journey is designed to rejuvenate and inspire. Guests can dive into holistic fitness sessions like yoga, Pilates and circuit training, and enjoy unique cultural practices from around the world. Culinary enthusiasts can also join masterclasses on healthy cooking with the finest ingredients. Special events and rituals, such as sip and soiree facial events, afternoon tea with a wellness coach, honey sauna rituals and sound healing with Tibetan bowls, are designed to relax and rejuvenate. For those seeking deeper relaxation, additional Spa & Wellness packages like the Detox & Sculpt Program and Zen Harmony Escape are available.” In Europe on Emerald’s river cruises, the EmeraldACTIVE program is overseen by an activity manager and wellness coach. Included in the program is morning yoga on the Sun Deck or an aqua aerobics class in the indoor pool, as well as guided hike and bike rides. Other fun wellness options include Scenic’s Salt Therapy Lounge on select ships in France and on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers; helicopter excursions that visit remote indigenous communities and pristine natural settings; and hikes along stunning routes in Iceland and Norway. Contact InformationAmaWaterways: amawaterways.comMSC Cruises: msccruisesusa.comScenic Group: scenicusa.com AND emeraldcruises.com

COVERINCLUSIVE GATE 1INCLUSIVE GATE 2-3INCLUSIVE GATE 4Table of ContentsSANDALSSANDALS SPREADEditor's NotesEDU HOUSE ADAdvisor Speak: Making Waves in Cruise SalesIndustry Insights: USTOA puts Responsible Tourism Front and CenterCaribbean/Mexico: Island Hopping—Caribbean UpdateMexico: Good Vibrations—Eco-Friendly Vacays in MexicoCAYMANS ISLANDS SCCAYMAN ISLANDSINCLUSIVE COLLECTION SCINCLUSIVE COLLECTION ADINCLUSIVE COLLECTION SPREADPALLADIUM SPREADOnsite Review: Grand Palladium Punta Cana—Four Resorts in OneCruise: All-Around Wellness—For the Planet and Your ClientsOceania’s Marina is Back in ServiceOCEANIA SCOCEANIA CRUISESOnboard Review: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse PointNorth America: Two Las Vegas Giants Put Focus on Healthy FutureMGM SCMGM RESORTSOnsite Review: Disney Magic Meets the BayouTURKISH AIRLINES