Within the next two years, the cruise corporation will develop new sustainability goals and have its aims validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), an independent climate action group for private sector companies.

Work will begin following the publication of SBTi’s marine transport methodology and one of Royal’s “most ambitious milestones” includes the delivery of a net-zero cruise ship by 2035. 

Achieving its goals would rely on “strong partnerships with governments, suppliers and shipyards” to create “alternative and accessible fuels and technology”, the company said.

As part of its strategy, Royal brand Silversea recently announced its “Project Evolution” programme – to deliver the cruise sector’s first hybrid-powered ship using hydrogen-based fuel cell technology – in summer 2023.

Destination Net Zero’s four-pronged approach includes the modernisation of Royal’s fleets, with the introduction of 13 new energy-efficient and alternatively fuelled vessels, as well as pledging to develop “strategic shore-based supply chains”, new alternative fuels and power solutions.

Royal said its new strategy built on its “track record of designing and operating some of the most energy efficient ships on the seas” with each new generation of vessel 20-25% more efficient than their predecessors. 

“Decades ago, we set out on a course to advance sustainability; our vision now is to realise carbon-free cruising over the next two decades,” said chairman and chief executive Richard Fain.

“Today, we are announcing the most important destination of all in our company’s history – Destination Net Zero – an ambitious strategy to cut emissions, protect our oceans, and ensure the viability of the hundreds of destinations that our guests and crew members care deeply about.”