How Are Cruises Still A Thing?
These icons of capitalist greed are making a roaring comeback
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.
