There’s no denying it, travelers are more tuned in than ever to the environmental cost of their vacations. As climate awareness rises and low-impact travel options gain traction, many are asking the same question: can cruise vacations actually be eco-friendly?
It’s a fair concern, with many travelers concerned about the environmental impact of cruise ships. But surprisingly, eco-friendly cruises are becoming more of a reality in 2025. Advances in clean energy, waste reduction, and sustainable dining are starting to reshape what sustainable travel by sea really looks like making green cruises a reality. So, are cruises environmentally friendly now? Not all of them, but some are putting in real work to get there.
This article compares 16 major cruise lines and their most meaningful green initiatives—so you can see who’s serious about change and who’s still catching up.
Related: 2025’s most anticipated cruise ships