Tiny Swaps for a Greener Cruise 🌿 #012

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Hey,

If you love the ocean, you probably want to keep it clean and beautiful for your next trip (and the one after that!). The good news? You can be an eco-friendly cruiser without giving up the things that make cruising so fun and easy.

Today, I’m giving you some easy, realistic tips to shrink your environmental footprint while you sail. These aren’t “never shower again” tips — they’re simple swaps that can actually make your cruise better (and sometimes cheaper, too).

1. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Most cruise lines sell water bottles and give you plastic cups — which add up to mountains of waste every sailing. A simple reusable bottle means you can refill at the buffet or drink station and stay hydrated while keeping plastic out of the ocean.

2. Ditch Single-Use Toiletries
Those tiny hotel-style shampoos are convenient, but they’re also wasteful. Pack your own reusable toiletry bottles filled with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. If you want to take it up a notch, try solid shampoo bars — they last forever, don’t spill in your suitcase, and skip the plastic packaging altogether.

3. Pack a Tote Bag (or Two)
A small foldable tote is a must for souvenir shopping and beach days. Many ports charge for plastic bags now (or just don’t have them). A reusable bag cuts down on waste and saves you from awkwardly trying to carry six fridge magnets, a beach towel, and a coconut back to the ship.

4. Skip the Straw (or Bring Your Own)
Plastic straws are among the top offenders for ocean pollution. Many cruise lines are phasing them out, but some still hand them out automatically. Keep a reusable straw in your bag — there are stainless steel or silicone ones that come in cute travel cases.

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5. Be Smart About Excursions
Not all shore tours are created equal. Look for operators that support local communities and wildlife conservation. Avoid anything that exploits animals — if you’re not sure, do a quick search before you book. Responsible whale watching? Awesome. Swimming with sedated wildlife? Not so eco-friendly.

6. Control the Cabin Climate
Here’s one that saves the planet and your wallet: turn off lights, TVs, and A/C when you leave your cabin. Your room steward will thank you — and you’ll use less energy for no extra effort.

7. Don’t Toss Towels on the Floor
You know that sign in your bathroom? It’s true — if you hang up your towel, it stays. If you toss it on the floor, it goes to the laundry. Ships wash thousands of towels a day — you can help save water and detergent by reusing yours.

8. Choose a Newer Ship or a Greener Line
Some cruise lines are investing big in cleaner tech: better fuel, waste systems, and energy efficiency. If you have the option, check out newer ships — they’re often designed to be more eco-friendly.

Every small choice helps keep our oceans blue and our adventures beautiful for years to come. 💙🌊”

Tara