Overview

• Cruise ships are now twice as large as they were in 2000, with some vessels carrying up to 11,000 passengers by 2050.
• The number of cruise ships has increased from 21 in 1970 to 515 today, making cruising the fastest-growing tourism sector.
• Environmental groups highlight the industry's substantial greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, despite some ships switching to cleaner fuels.
• Campaigners propose a global tax on cruise tickets to fund climate action and advocate for the adoption of green shipping fuels.
• Ports in cities like Barcelona and Amsterdam are imposing new taxes and restrictions on cruise ships to combat pollution and overtourism.