Costa Rica & Panama canal small ship cruise

Environment

The vessel's operators have been recognised by the The Passenger Vessel Association as a member of its Green WATERS Program for the company’s dedication and commitment toward a cleaner, greener marine environment.
Members of WATERS (We Are Taking Environmental Responsibility/Stewardship) from around the U.S. have taken it upon themselves to reduce their environmental impact in a variety of ways, including reducing fuel consumption, conserving potable water, using less harmful chemicals near waterways, conserving energy, and working with their employees to create a greener workplace.

The PVA Green WATERS Program was designed exclusively for the passenger vessel industry as a voluntary program aimed at reducing waste and operating in a cleaner, greener, more sustainable environment.

Our ship's operators follow 'Leave No Trace' practices on all voyages and explores remote areas in small groups to minimize impact on the environment. In the operators offices and aboard ships, eco-friendly products are purchased; waste is reduced through purchasing decisions; communities are supported through local purchases, hiring and donations; and recycling occurs wherever there are facilities. Vessels are maintained with an eye on fuel reduction including choosing more efficient engines. A new partnership with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program reinforces the line’s commitment to only serve sustainable seafood.

Community

The vessel's operators are very tuned in to responsible tourism. As part of operating a responsible business they ensure that they make a positive impact in the communities they visit in Panama and Costa Rica. This core value is part of their initial itinerary planning on through to operations, management and office practices. Whether it’s a cruise donation to an organization, a fundraising effort or partnering with local companies for tours, they look for ways to share the wealth and enrich the lives of those we meet.

We encourage all our passengers to engage with the local community on a social and economic level to ensure that this tourism has a benefit to both the visitors and the hosts. The ship’s managers will buy as much of their produce as possible from local communities, and will also encourage our passengers to spend money in the communities that we visit. For example by trying some local fruit juice instead of a well known American brand of soft drink, you will support the economy, it will be better for you and who knows, you might find you enjoy it more too.

We will endeavour to maximise the benefits of tourism and to minimise or eradicate any downside, socially, environmentally & economically. We will encourage our passengers to learn and understand as much as possible about the local traditions and way of life in Central America to enable them to appreciate the reality of life in this region.