Norway, renowned for its stunning fjords, is gearing up to implement a bold move by banning certain types of cruise ships from its waters by 2026.
The government's initiative aims to address the pollution stemming from marine diesel fuel used by cruise ships, leading to restrictions on their access to Norwegian harbors.
Espen Barth Eide, Norway's foreign minister, highlights the industry's substantial environmental impact, citing the world's highest emissions per passenger and travel kilometer, particularly in the picturesque fjords.
The forthcoming zero-emission policy poses significant challenges for the cruise sector, prompting companies to explore alternatives such as liquefied natural gas (LNG). MSC's cruise ship, Euribia, already operates on LNG, and Royal Caribbean's upcoming Icon of the Seas is set to follow suit upon her January launch.
While the cruise industry remains popular, it faces increasing scrutiny globally, with notable destinations like Amsterdam and Barcelona taking measures to restrict or relocate cruise activities. The move by Norway, expected to be enacted in 2026, raises concerns about the potential impact on tourism in fjord communities.