When Size Doesn’t Justify the Means
The Icon of the Seas, the pride of Royal Caribbean, is now the largest cruise ship in the world. But behind its gigantism and promises of “green” innovations lies a much darker environmental reality.
Royal Caribbean: Questionable Green Promises
Royal Caribbean claims to focus on ecology with its new maritime behemoth, boasting the use of a “green fuel”. However, this so-called green fuel is nothing other than liquefied natural gas (LNG), a hydrocarbon whose ecological footprint is far from light. The truth is that this choice is more a marketing stunt than a real commitment to the planet.
LNG: A Deceptive Facade
Environmental experts agree that LNG is far from the ecological solution presented by Royal Caribbean. The production and transportation of this gas contribute massively to greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, its combustion releases methane, a gas even more harmful to the climate than CO2. Is Royal Caribbean not sailing against the current of climate imperatives?

Travelers: Unwitting Accomplices?
This situation raises a crucial question: are travelers complicit in this ecological charade? By choosing to travel on such sea giants, passengers indirectly support an industry that flouts the principles of sustainability. Every ticket purchased is a vote in favor of questionable environmental practices.
Ignored Alternative Solutions
Despite the existence of less polluting alternatives, such as renewable hydrogen or methanol, Royal Caribbean and other companies seem to prefer the convenience of LNG. Innovations like sailing ships and solar-powered vessels remain distant concepts, while the industry continues to favor compromise solutions.
A Devastating and Ignored Impact
The environmental impact of the cruise sector is colossal. A single docked cruise ship can pollute as much as thousands of cars. Yet, these facts seem to be ignored by companies like Royal Caribbean and by the travelers themselves, who continue to turn a blind eye to the polluting reality of their dream vacations.
Conclusion: A Call to Responsibility
The Icon of the Seas is not just a symbol of luxury and leisure; it is also a glaring reminder of the environmental irresponsibility of some corporations and the complacency of consumers. It’s time for cruise companies and their clients to become aware of the climate emergency and act accordingly. Choosing to sail on such a ship is choosing to ignore our planet’s alarm bells.