On December 22, 2023, AIDA Cruises welcomed key figures in the maritime industry aboard the cruise ship AIDAnova at Hamburg’s Steinwerder Cruise Center.
Felix Eichhorn (AIDA's President) hosted Dieter Janecek, the Federal Government Coordinator for the Maritime Economy and Tourism, and Dirk Inger, the Managing Director of the German Travel Association DRV, for discussions centering on the cruise industry's development, AIDA Cruises’ sustainability strategy, and the company's initiatives to meet climate goals. A significant focus of the conversation was on the implementation of shore power.
AIDA, with 116 planned calls by 7 ships, will maintain its leading position in the Port of Hamburg in 2024. The company has also planned 63 calls in Kiel and 69 in Rostock-Warnemunde, both equipped with shore power infrastructure since 2021.
AIDA Cruises continues to support other ports as a pilot partner for the activation of shore power systems in various European countries, including recent initiatives in Aarhus Denmark, and Valletta Malta. The company applauds the intentions of nations in the North and Baltic Sea regions, as well as the Mediterranean region, to develop similar services.
Aligned with its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, AIDA Cruises has long invested in sustainable practices for the cruise market. In addition to utilizing renewable shore power and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a bridging technology, AIDA Cruises explores alternative energy sources such as biofuel and batteries for its cruise ships.
The visit also delved into AIDA's efforts in enhancing energy efficiency, resource conservation, and a circular economy. Innovative solutions on board AIDA cruise ships include advancements in air conditioning, heat and energy recovery, lighting, and water management. Recycling practices are rigorously followed, with all recyclable materials segregated on board, prepared for recycling on shore, and delivered exclusively to certified disposal companies in ports. Energy and fuel consumption are constantly analyzed to optimize ship itineraries and hydrodynamics. State-of-the-art reverse osmosis plants are employed to produce freshwater from seawater, contributing to water resource conservation.
Collaborating with partners, AIDA Cruises actively explores solutions for using regenerative and synthetic fuels. As part of the Carnival Corporation & plc family, AIDA Cruises is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.