Travel
is a way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of our world, and many travelers
want to take action to help improve the economy or ecology of the places they
visit. That’s called voluntourism, and it’s taken hold in the cruise industry.
Voluntourism
can help you find a balance between enjoying your cruise and knowing
that you’ve done something to help and support the ports you visit along the
way. Voluntourism opportunities in the cruise world range from onboard
fundraising activities, to spending some time doing volunteer work onshore, to
taking a charter cruise with the sole purpose of supporting a nonprofit
organization.
Onboard fundraising supports programs from cancer research
to preserving habitat for wildlife. Holland America’s On Deck for a Cause
program invites passengers to join in a 5k walk around the decks in exchange
for a $20 donation. The proceeds support cancer organizations in six different
countries, so it’s an easy way to do good (and feel good because you got your
exercise). Royal Caribbean holds a similar event to support the World Wildlife
Fund (WWF); on some itineraries, you can also “Swim for Sea Turtles” in the
ship’s pool. A purchase of WWF merchandise in the onboard gift shop supports
the organization, too.
Several cruise lines – including Princess, Holland America
Line and Crystal – offer shore excursions specifically designed for
voluntourism. You might participate in a beach cleanup, deliver donations of
food and clothing, plant trees, visit schools to deliver supplies for students,
or help build new homes for hurricane victims. Some voluntourism excursions
focus on animals: you could help marine scientists gather data on sea life,
care for injured animals, or work on habitat preservation projects.
Some nonprofit organizations charter ships for cruises that
raise funds for their causes. A portion of each cruise fare goes to support the organization, and there may be onboard auctions and activities designed to
raise additional funds. Examples include cruises that raise money to provide
service dogs to veterans, active military and first responders who have
disabilities; cruises that support the maintenance of breeding ground habitats
for sea life; and most recently, cruises that support assistance and relief for
victims of Australia’s wildfires.
Choosing a cruise with voluntourism opportunities makes your
vacation so much more than a great time; you’ll be doing good and spreading
love, too. For more information, talk with Anita, your professional travel
advisor.
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