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https://freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/the-environment/how-are-cruises-still-a-thing-ef7fd8eebfa9>
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May 2023, Barcelona
As I enjoyed a sunset sailing cruise around the city, I noticed a massive
monstrosity at the port, blocking out the light from the gently setting sun. A
gigantic vessel was billowing out thick black smoke into the evening sea air.
It blanketed the port and marina area of the city, making the iconic cityscape
in the background barely visible.
Turning to the boat's skipper, I asked how they felt about these massive cruise
vessels docking in their city. What followed was a foul-mouthed tirade
bemoaning the pollution, eyesore and the transformation of the area around the
port into a hive of kitschy souvenir stores and overpriced touristy
restaurants.
She claimed that 'shore excursions', that is, when the multitudes from the
cruise ships are let loose in a city, were far more of a nuisance than an
economic benefit, because in their limited time on the shore, the
ocean-dwellers did little more than buy a coffee and a fridge magnet. But more
than that, she blasted the cruise ships themselves for the terrible air and
water pollution they created. The picture she painted was of a lose-lose
scenario for any city burdened with having to welcome this guest.
This got me wondering — if they are so universally maligned, how are cruise
ships still such a big thing?"
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
