Earlier this month, “Cruise the Great Lakes”, a coalition of states and provinces, cruise lines, ports, convention & visitor bureaus signed a pledge. The pledge was a formal commitment to environmentally conscious cruising. And local destinations like Muskegon County signed on.
“We want to take care of our Great Lakes and make them available for many years in the future.”
That’s Bob Lukens, Community Development Director for Muskegon County. He says they’re proud to be a part of a recent commitment to environmentally conscious cruising on the Great Lakes.
“They’re so important to the United States of America and our Canadian neighbors that we have to maintain and keep these lakes clean and as free from invasive species as we can and so we’re proud here in Muskegon County to part of the pledge.”
That pledge commits them to promoting four environmentally conscious cruising stewardship efforts starting with the 2022 cruising season. The areas of focus include Destination Stewardship, Air emissions and carbon reduction, wastewater and recycling.
“This pledge was a way for some of the cruise lines and ports to come together to let residents know we are concerned about our Great Lakes and we want to protect them and we’re making a concerted effort to do that.”
Officials say Great Lakes cruises are unique in experience and impact. The ships are smaller and provide a more intimate guest experience. The largest cruise vessels in operation on the Great Lakes can hold a maximum of 400 passengers with an average size of 200 or less. They add this “intentional effort will resonate with travelers who prefer environmentally responsible practices.” You can find the full pledge at cruisethegreatlakes.com
