Royal Caribbean Group’s annual ‘Seastainability Report’ communicates its environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy and performance. The content of the report was shaped by their 2021 materiality assessment and ESG framework and is guided by their commitment to SEA the Future.
Following the release of its 2020, 2021 and 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reports, the Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) reaffirms its commitment to advancing sustainability and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
Destination Net Zero
Central to Royal Caribbean’s vision is its “Destination Net Zero” strategy—an ambitious roadmap to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. The report details key milestones, including a 6.8% reduction in carbon intensity compared to a 2019 baseline and successful biofuel trials conducted across three ships. Additionally, the launch of the LNG-powered ship, Silversea’s Silver Nova, marked significant progress in reducing emissions. Construction has also begun on the Celebrity Xcel, a first-of-its-kind methanol-capable ship set to debut in 2025.
Energy efficiency remains a cornerstone of Royal Caribbean’s efforts, with over 50 retrofit projects completed in 2023 alone, yielding substantial reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. The introduction of the Total Energy Management (TEM) system has further optimized energy usage onboard ships, contributing to the company’s long-term sustainability goals.
[Photo: Page 32 from Royal Caribbean Group’s 2023 Seastainability Report]
Waste Management
Through its “Save the Waves” program, Royal Caribbean ensures that all ships are landfill-free. The introduction of waste-to-energy systems onboard the Icon of the Seas and Silver Nova represents a groundbreaking approach to waste reduction, converting organic waste into energy for onboard use. In 2023, 87% of waste generated across Royal Caribbean’s fleet was diverted from landfills, while food waste was reduced by 25% compared to a 2019 baseline.
[Photo: Page 8 from Royal Caribbean Group’s 2023 Seastainability Report]
Empowering Resilient Communities
Royal Caribbean Group’s community investments reflect a loyal commitment to fostering stronger, more resilient destinations through responsible practices, partnerships, and community engagement. By renewing collaborations like the OceanScope partnership and supporting educational programs such as the Sitka Sound Science Center’s Scientists in the Schools (SIS), RHG continues to strengthen its focus on sustainable and inclusive growth.
These efforts not only drive local economic development and entrepreneurship but also inspire future generations and celebrate local cultures, ensuring a positive and enduring legacy in the communities they serve.
[Photo: Page 8 from Royal Caribbean Group’s 2023 Seastainability Report]
GSTC certified Tour Operators
Part of RCG ESG Goals is to ensure that 60% of RCG-offered tours are provided by GSTC certified* tour operators by 2026. As of year-end 2023, 39% of its tours were GSTC certified, the same percentage as in 2022.
GSTC certified tour operators allow their guests to experience one-of-a-kind excursions while being mindful of the environment and communities they visit. Tour Operators agree to protect the health of destinations, preserve local heritage, maximize the benefits to the local community, and minimize the negative effects of travel-related waste on the environment.
Read the full 2023 Seastainability Report here.
About Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is a leader in the vacation industry, operating a global fleet of 65 ships across five renowned brands and visiting nearly 1,000 destinations worldwide. Guided by its mission to deliver exceptional vacations responsibly, the company serves millions of guests annually through its portfolio, which includes Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. Royal Caribbean Group also holds a 50% stake in a joint venture operating TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
