AmaWaterways has reinforced its commitment to sustainable cruising by outlining plans to reduce its fuel consumption by installing solar panels and reducing onboard paper and food waste.
Rudi Schreiner, cofounder and president of the river line, said sustainability is the "top and ever-present" responsibility of every company in the travel industry.
"Each of our ships and every itinerary we operate is thoughtfully designed to minimise fuel consumption but the impact we have on the local communities is also of utmost importance to us," he added.
The line is currently building its two newest ships in Colombia, working in partnership with local architects, designers and suppliers to ensure it is incorporating the destinations’ natural resources and culture.
In 2019, AmaWaterways’ AmaKristina became the first river vessel to receive the Green Award which recognises ships in Europe for their quality, safety and environmental performance.
Since then, another 19 river cruise ships in AmaWaterways’ European fleet have earned the certification.
This year, AmaMagna will have new solar panels on the awnings of selected staterooms installed which will reduce fuel consumption related to heating and cooling.
A new River Track Pilot navigation system is also being tested on several ships to further optimise fuel use based on riverbed configuration and current conditions.
AmaWaterways is tackling the growing concern of food waste and has replaced breakfast and lunch buffets with full service a la carte menus which is expected to reduce food waste by up to 30%.
Find contacts for 260+ travel suppliers. Type name, company or destination.