How does Star Clippers remain eco-friendly in modern times?

21st January 2022

Star Clippers has been incorporating eco-friendly systems and practices on its three tall ships for years, making eco-friendly and future sustainable travel a priority. Most significant, of course, is the fact that the vessels’ major source of energy - wind propulsion - is both abundant and emission-free.

Star Clippers always tries to maximise the amount of time under wind power; guests can experience a true tall ship sailing experience whilst using minimal fuel, which is much easier and gentle on the environment. In the Caribbean, where the wind is most predictable, the ships operate under wind power up to 70 percent of the time, thus minimising use of the auxiliary engines, which also power the air-conditioning and provide electricity for the day-to-day operation of the ship.

When Star Clippers ships do consume fuel, it is a less-polluting grade. All vessels only use very pure, high-quality low-sulphur gas oil; for this Star Clippers was awarded the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate. Star Flyer was the first ship to receive this certificate. Later, Star Clipper and Royal Clipper received the same certification.

Star Clippers has a straightforward waste-management policy on board - reduce the amount of waste created, recycle as much as possible and ensure proper disposal of the remaining waste. Only eco-friendly and biodegradable products are used for cleaning on board; super-concentrated formulae that employ innovative packaging and dispensing methods are used to keep waste to a minimum.

The hotel department constantly evaluates the use of plastics on board; eco-friendly biodegradable straws, as well as reusable melanine cups and glasses at drinks stations, are in use in continual efforts to reduce waste. The renowned beach BBQs no longer use single-use plastics; stainless steel cutlery and reusable melamine plates have replaced paper and plastic.

Wastewater is contained in holding tanks while a vessel is in port or close to shore. After a stringent treatment process, this water is released when the vessel is outside national limits and special zones in accordance with international regulations.

These practices, as well as consistent crew training and education, all play a part in ensuring travel remains sustainable now and for many more generations to come. Star Clippers is currently reviewing where they might be able to improve further to ensure eco-friendly travel remains priority.

If you’d like to discuss anything regarding Star Clippers’ practices on board and as a company, please feel free to call the team on 0845 200 6145.