On our cruise radar this week, we’re seeing state-of-the-art green technology, parties in Amsterdam, new itineraries in Alaska and more.

AIDA Cruises presents sustainability report

AIDA Cruises, the German brand of Carnival Corporation, documented further progress on its path toward emission-neutral cruising in the latest edition of ‘AIDA cares’.

As early as 2023, 94% of all AIDA guests will be sailing on ships that can be fully operated with low-emission liquefied natural gas (LNG). Two more of these innovative ships will take to the oceans for AIDA Cruises, in addition to the eight other LNG-powered vessels on order for Carnival Corporation due for delivery between 2019 and 2025.

AIDA Cruises is also retrofitting the ships in the existing fleet on an ongoing basis with state-of-the-art green technology. The use of LNG, shore power from renewable energy sources, the use of modern Advanced Air Quality Systems (AAQS), the reduction or complete elimination of plastic and disposable products, and the reduction of food waste on board are key issues that AIDA Cruises is tackling.

“Our long-term goal is clear”

AIDA President Felix Eichhorn said: “As Germany’s market leader for cruises, we accept the ecological and social challenges that we face both now and in the future, and we are taking responsibility. Today we are already exploring together with our partners the use of fuel cells, batteries or liquefied gas from renewable sources in the cruise industry. We are committed to both the Paris climate targets and those of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Our long-term goal is clear: emission-neutral cruising.”

Celebrate ‘Amsterdam Pride’ with Emerald Waterways

From 28 July – 4 August, travellers can gather at Amsterdam’s Canal Parade, cheer on the Drag Queen Olympics, or follow the parade down the famous canals, taking in sights along the way.

As well as enjoying the Pride party, this itinerary takes guests through 15 different European destinations, from the cobbled streets and symbolic canals of Amsterdam (Netherlands) and the picturesque German towns of Miltenberg and Rüdesheim village of Miltenberg (Germany), to experiencing Vienna’s (Austria) stunning architecture, this is the ultimate river cruise through Europe.

Highlights include a cruise through the famous Amsterdam canals, a guided walk and beer tasting in Nuremberg, a Bavarian band performance onboard and an active walk through the vineyards of the Rheingau wine region, all part of the EmeraldPLUS, EmeraldACTIVE and EmeraldEXCURSION experiences.

Spirit of Discovery arrives at the Port of Tyne

The Port of Tyne has welcomed almost 1,000 visiting passengers and over 500 crew on-board Spirit of Discovery as she embarked upon her maiden voyage. The ship, which arrived on Friday 12 July, will berth at Northumbrian Quay in North Shields.

In-bound from Dover, the Port of Tyne is Spirit of Discovery’s first port of call on her 13-night maiden cruise showcasing the best of Britain. Passengers will disembark the Port of Tyne’s International Passenger Terminal to explore all that the North East has to offer, including shore excursions to Bamburgh, Durham, Hadrian’s Wall, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and Newcastle – all within easy reach of the Port.

Sven Richards, operations manager, vessels at the Port of Tyne, said: “We are delighted to welcome Spirit of Discovery on her maiden voyage, and proud that the Port of Tyne will be her first port of call. We hope that visiting passengers enjoy their day, taking advantage of all that the region has to offer — right here from the Port of Tyne!”

Princess Cruises connects with local experts in Alaska

New for the 2019 season and celebrating the cruise line’s 50th year sailing in Alaska, Princess Cruises has partnered with a team of local experts in Alaska to give guests even more exclusive and authentic experiences ashore as part of the cruise line’s Local Connections program.

“Local Connections in Alaska was designed to connect our guests with the people of the destination and offer them interactive experiences with local chefs, artists and expert guides,” said Bruce Krumrine, Princess Cruises vice president of shore excursions. “With 50 years of experience sailing to the Great Land, we know the type of shore excursions our guests desire. From cooking with an Alaskan Chef to axe throwing with Lumberjacks, we know they’ll love every authentic experience and create long-lasting memories.”

With a total of 15 featured shore excursions in four Alaska ports, Princess Cruises has partnered with chefs, artists, wildlife experts, seafaring captains and much more.

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