sustainability in — The partnership between the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence aims to enhance sustainability in cruises, a vital aspect for today’s environmentally conscious travellers.
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Sustainability in: Charting a Sustainable Course
As the cruise industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, this collaboration strives to embed sustainable practices into the very fabric of cruise tourism. By focusing on high-quality professional training for tour operators and guides, GSTC and Aquila are not just setting standards but also nurturing a culture of responsibility within the industry.
Training for Tomorrow’s Tours
This partnership will allow both organisations to offer their training programmes at preferred rates, making them more accessible to professionals working in cruise destinations. The Excellence in Sustainable Destination Experiences programme, launched by Aquila in 2024, aligns with GSTC’s framework, providing practical tools to improve the quality and sustainability of shore excursions.
Why Training Matters
Beth Hatt, Founder of Aquila, expresses excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the importance of practical applications of sustainability principles. “We’re operators too, not just trainers,” she says, indicating that this hands-on experience enriches the training process.
Empowering Cruise Professionals
Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC, points out that the partnership connects GSTC Standards with the realities of cruise tourism. By empowering operators and guides with the necessary knowledge, tools, and confidence, they can curate sustainable experiences that benefit not just the destinations but also the communities they inhabit.
Future Endeavours
The collaboration promises to be a game changer in cruise tourism. Both organisations aim to gather participant feedback, ensuring continuous improvement across the tourism value chain. This proactive approach is essential for fostering a more responsible and resilient industry, responding to the evolving expectations of travellers.
A Greener Horizon
As the cruise sector navigates through environmental challenges, initiatives like this partnership pave the way for a brighter, greener future. With sustainability at the forefront, the journey ahead for cruise tourism looks promising, engaging travellers who seek authentic and responsible experiences.
