Cruise debate on sustainable tourism at Arendalsuka 22

CLIA, Cruise Norway and European Cruise Services hosted a debate on the future of the cruise industry during Arendal Week – an important annual cultural and political event in Norway.

Bringing together a panel with diverse viewpoints, the group shared different ideas with the goal of improving future dialogue and co-operation.

The panel debated major themes that have been widely discussed in the Norwegian media over the past several years. There was a particular focus on sustainability and tourism management, and several constructive solutions were presented and discussed.

“I’m impressed by the engagement of the panel and the constructive feedback we have received. We look forward to expanding our cooperation with Norwegian authorities and together to create the cruise industry of tomorrow and continue to bring tourists to the beautiful Norwegian coastline, which I had a taste of here in Arendal”

Wybcke Meier, CEO, TUI Cruises

“During the debate, several important topics were raised and discussed. We have come a long way on topics such as sustainability, zero emissions, tourism management and economic impact. I look forward to future co-operation with the relevant. I hope we are one step closer to raising cruise to the same level as other tourist industries and removing the mistrust we have seen directed at cruise tourists.” says CLIA’s Tor Christian Sletner.

The panel debated major themes that have been widely discussed in the Norwegian media over the past several years. There was a particular focus on sustainability and tourism management, and several constructive solutions were presented and discussed.

Tor added “CLIA, Cruise Norway and European Cruise Services would like to thank all our debate participants and we look forward to further co-operation. The cruise industry employs thousands of people along the coast, accounts for a third of all tourism in Norway and helps keep the local communities alive. At the same time, we must engage in dialogue with the authorities, and ensure that we can agree on the way forward for a more sustainable industry.

With thanks to all our panellists: