By
Alice Chambers |
Explora Journeys, an MSC Group cruise line, has partnered with Travelife for Tour Operators to improve its sustainability planning, maximise social and economic benefits for the local communities in the destinations its ships visit, and reduce its environmental impact.
The cruise line will have access to Travelife’s online platform, which will encourage sustainable tourism.
The platform offers a comprehensive learning platform with 16 sustainability modules including final exams and certification upon completion, an activity-specific excursion checklist that meets internationally recognised sustainability standards, and practical reporting and action planning tools to help the cruise line implement sustainable practices.
“Working towards more sustainable travel experiences for our guests is an important part of our vision to become a truly defining and desired luxury lifestyle travel brand,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys. “Our deep respect for the ocean is the principal component of our journey and out of a deep respect for local communities, our destination experiences are being designed to leave a positive impression and footprint.
“We are committed in this regard to work towards building and maintaining a mutual understanding and firm commitment to sustainable tourism and so I am delighted, therefore, to partner with Travelife who can help us, our tour operators and travel advisor colleagues to achieve our ambition.”
The Cruise Division of MSC Group has pledged to achieve new zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, extending the International Maritime Organization’s aim to reduce shipping emissions by 50 per cent by 2050 in comparison to 2008 readings. This partnership expands MSC Group’s commitment to sustainable tourism, with Explora Journeys' sister company, MSC Cruises, having been partnered with Travelife since 2018.
“Destination management companies, tour operators, travel advisors and ports are integral to support any sustainable implementation and they will be encouraged with education and incentives,” said Naut Kusters, general manager at Travelife. “We applaud Explora Journeys for its efforts to promote holistic sustainability.”