Cruise ships are the world’s biggest black carbon polluters, and the industry produces as much particulate matter as a million cars every single day. A recent study published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin indicated that the carbon footprint of a cruise ship is the same as 12,000 cars. 

Despite this, Deputy Inder said the cruise ship industry is a major economic enabler for the island. 

45 ships, sailed by companies including MSC, P&O, and Ambassador, will visit the island in 2024. Several of those ships are able to carry more than 2,000 passengers. 

When Express put Amsterdam’s decision to the States of Guernsey, it was the Committee for Economic Development who answered. 

“VisitGuernsey closely follows global trends as part of our cruise development and, like many others, the cruise industry as a whole is seeking to move to a more sustainable position,” said Deputy Inder. 

“Many cruise companies are making changes to reduce emissions and improve their sustainability, recognising the demand from customers. Additionally, and unlike some other jurisdictions, Guernsey has included emissions from visiting cruise ships in our net zero targets by 2050 at the latest.  

 “We’ve had a good cruise season this year and things are currently looking promising for next year too.  

“The cruise industry is an important part of our economy and the Bailiwick continues to be one of Europe’s top destinations, as evidenced by us being named as the “Best UK & British Isles Port of Call” at the prestigious annual Cruise Critic industry awards last year.”