How CroisiEurope Leads with Green Investments in River Cruising

What Is Green Investment in Tourism?

Green investment, also known as sustainable or ethical investment, refers to aligning the tourism industry with environmental stewardship and sustainability. It means channeling financial support into ecological, human-centered, and innovative initiatives that benefit the planet. These investments aim to minimize environmental impact, promote socially responsible practices, and support companies in their sustainable growth.

In the context of tourism, green investment plays a vital role in creating low-impact travel experiences while safeguarding natural ecosystems. It supports projects that lower carbon emissions, improve resource efficiency, and foster community-based tourism that respects both people and places.

CroisiEurope’s Sustainable Vision

At CroisiEurope, we recognize that nature is our most valuable partner. That’s why environmental care is deeply embedded in our company culture. Our approach is not just symbolic; it’s driven by a series of concrete, measurable actions.

From upgrading our fleet with eco-friendly technologies to implementing responsible waste management practices and supporting local economies, every decision we make is guided by our commitment to sustainability. These initiatives allow us to sail the world’s rivers and seas while minimizing our environmental footprint and promoting ethical tourism.

Green Shipping & Innovation

River cruising is already one of the most sustainable travel options, thanks to its low energy use and reduced CO₂ emissions. At CroisiEurope, we go even further, setting new environmental standards through innovation and commitment.

Eco-Engineered Vessels

All our ships are equipped with engines that meet the highest European environmental standards, earning us the Greenship label for reduced emissions, fuel efficiency, and lower noise pollution. Five vessels also hold the GREENAWARD certification, a mark of excellence in sustainable river transport—a number we’re working to grow.

Cleaner Fuel on the Seine

Thanks to our partnership with AS Energy, all CroisiEurope vessels on the Seine River now run on GTL (gas-to-liquid), a cleaner synthetic fuel that cuts CO₂, NOₓ, and particulate emissions, and produces no smoke or odor—for a smoother, greener ride.

Protecting the Mediterranean

In October 2022, we signed the “Croisière Durable Méditerranée” charter, reinforcing our commitment to reducing emissions and protecting marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean, while supporting local economies through responsible cruising.

Sustainable Excursions That Respect People and Places

At CroisiEurope, sustainability doesn’t stop at the ship—it’s built into every journey we offer. Our human-scale vessels, carrying between 16 and 197 passengers, allow us to dock at smaller, less-traveled ports, helping reduce the strain on overcrowded tourist destinations and easing congestion in local communities.

Authentic, Responsible Travel Experiences

Our excursions are designed to be both eco-conscious and socially responsible. We work with local guides to ensure every tour supports community-based tourism while offering you a deeper, more authentic connection to each destination. Our culinary experiences follow the same principle: menus are inspired by regional cuisine and sourced primarily from local producers.

In Paris, we’ve taken things a step further by introducing electric buses for our excursions, cutting emissions while enhancing the urban experience.

Embracing Slow Tourism

For those cruising aboard our elegant French barges, you’ll experience the growing trend of slow tourism—a relaxed, mindful way to travel. Bicycles are available on board, letting you explore canal-side bike routes and greenways. These paths are reserved for non-motorized transport, designed to preserve the environment while offering a peaceful way to connect with nature.

Resource Conservation & Waste Management Onboard

At CroisiEurope, we believe every drop counts. Thanks to water-saving systems installed across our fleet, we’ve reduced drinking water consumption by 35%, cutting wastewater production and preserving precious resources. We also encourage guests to make eco-conscious choices—like limiting towel replacements and using onboard water fountains, which help us eliminate over 30 tonnes of plastic waste annually (read more in our [dedicated blog post]).

Smart Waste, Cleaner Future

We’ve long adopted a rigorous approach to waste sorting and recycling. Onboard, paper, cardboard, glass bottles, green waste, and even used cooking oil are carefully sorted and processed. Food waste and biowaste are collected and converted into biogas, significantly lowering our greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainability Beyond the Ships: Shore-Based Actions

Our environmental commitment extends beyond our fleet. At CroisiEurope, we also invest in sustainable practices on the quayside. We proudly signed the “Tous unis pour plus de biodiversité” (All United for Greater Biodiversity) charter, reinforcing our dedication to ecological land management around our river stations.

Key initiatives include reducing light pollution, creating habitats like biodiversity ponds, and protecting local fauna, all aimed at fostering richer, healthier urban ecosystems.