Who hasn't experienced it: the longing for a change of scenery, new adventures or simply to soak up the sun. But when it comes to choosing a means of transportation, the question arises: which is actually more environmentally friendly - the flight or the cruise? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and when it comes to climate action, it is important to be aware of the impact these trips have on the environment. 

Air travel: Speed versus high emissions  

Air travel is the fastest way to cover long distances. Whether for a vacation on a distant island or a city break in another corner of the world, the plane allows us to reach our destination in the shortest possible time. But this speed comes at a price: airplanes emit a considerable amount of greenhouse gases, particularly through the combustion process of kerosene. A flight from Germany to New York generates around 1.6 tons of CO2 per passenger - that's almost half the average annual CO2 emissions of a person in Germany. 

In addition, flights, especially long-haul flights, are particularly harmful to the climate, as emissions are released into the atmosphere at high altitudes, where they have an even greater impact than on the ground. Anyone who flies regularly therefore has a significant impact on the climate. 

Cruises: relaxed travel, but also harmful to the environment  

Cruises offer a relaxed way of traveling - the ship sails from port to port while guests indulge themselves on board. But cruise ships also have their ecological footprint. They consume large amounts of heavy fuel oil, which is extremely harmful to the environment. A cruise ship can emit as much sulphur in one day as a million cars in the same period. 

Another point of criticism is waste disposal. Cruise ships produce huge amounts of waste, from plastic and sewage to exhaust fumes, which are often not treated adequately. While some ships are already equipped with more environmentally friendly technologies, the eco-balance of many cruises remains negative. 

What can you do?  

If you care about climate action, there are ways to reduce your footprint for both types of travel. For air travel, you can opt for shorter routes, perhaps replace your flight with a train or bus or choose an airline that uses more environmentally friendly technologies. For cruises, it's worth opting for providers that focus on sustainability, such as modern exhaust gas purification systems or green ships. 

Ultimately, it is important to make conscious decisions when choosing a means of travel and not to lose sight of the impact on the climate. Every decision, no matter how small, helps to protect our planet - be it the choice of transportation or other everyday decisions.