Search Results (92)

‘Wellness-at-sea’ is an integral part of the cruise holiday service bundle. Marketed within an image of experiential diversity within a safe, controlled environment, it features medical centers, spa facilities and restoration-focused itineraries. Nevertheless, epidemiologically speaking, cruise ships rank amongst the riskiest transmission environments in tourism. This perspective paper proposes a typology of wellness cruising along two axes (i.e., offer scope: themed voyages versus onboard amenities and promotion focus: borrowed credibility versus narrative ‘storyscaping’) and uses it to develop the ‘wellness-risk paradox’, a boundary case for health-tourism literature. Three testable propositions emerge: reputational risk exposure increases with the offer’s wellness centrality; narrative-based promotion is more susceptible than credibility-based promotion and a quadrant-adjusted health-assurance scheme is more effective than current inspection standards. The argument draws on the 2026 Andes hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius (three deaths among thirteen cases), the 2020 Diamond Princess outbreak, and a decade of official outbreak surveillance, reporting an increase in gastrointestinal outbreaks from 0.34 to 0.62 per million passengers between 2019 and 2025 (rate ratio 1.84, 95% CI 0.87–3.86), which reverses the pre-pandemic downward trend although annual counts remain too small for the change to reach conventional statistical significance. Sanitation-inspection compliance cannot reliably predict outbreaks, nor does it facilitate trust. Four domains of action are proposed: continuous air-quality monitoring, wastewater surveillance, behavioral risk modeling and jurisdictional coordination. Full article

Tourism is a major driver of economic growth in tropical island destinations but also places increasing pressure on fragile marine ecosystems. This study examined tourists’ environmental awareness, perceptions, and conservation-related behaviors on Cozumel Island, part of the Mesoamerican Reef System and home to multiple protected areas, including the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park. Between June and September 2022, surveys were conducted with 144 tourists at major tourism hubs across the island. Although 86% of respondents identified themselves as environmentally conscious, awareness of local environmental impacts associated with tourism remained limited, and only 6% reported engaging in environmentally conscious actions during their visit. Awareness of the protected status and regulations of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park was also low (39%), and only 19% reported purchasing the required conservation bracelet or park pass. Short-stay cruise visitors represented 65% of respondents, potentially limiting opportunities for deeper environmental engagement and conservation education. These findings highlight the need for stronger pre-trip environmental communication, visible on-site interpretation, and targeted outreach strategies to support sustainable tourism and coral reef conservation in the Mexican Caribbean. Full article

Cruise tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the global tourism industry, generating significant economic benefits while also creating challenges related to overtourism, congestion, environmental pressure, and residents’ quality of life. Understanding residents’ attitudes towards tourism is therefore essential for sustainable destination management. Although previous studies have examined the roles of place attachment and quality of life in shaping tourism attitudes, evidence from cruise destinations remains limited. This study investigates the influence of place attachment and quality of life on residents’ attitudes towards tourism in two contrasting European cruise destinations: Kotor (Montenegro) and Athens/Piraeus (Greece). Additionally, it aims to explore the link between place attachment and quality of life, which remains understudied in this context. The study also investigates whether destination moderates the effect between explored variables. To address this objective, Kotor and Athens/Piraeus were purposively selected as a maximum-variation pair. A quantitative survey was conducted among 319 local residents (157 from Kotor and 162 from Athens/Piraeus). The findings indicate that both place attachment and quality of life significantly influence residents’ attitudes towards tourism. Stronger place attachment was associated with more positive perceptions of social interaction with tourists and beneficial cultural impacts, but it also influenced residents’ attitudes indirectly through perceived quality of life. Moreover, place attachment was identified as a significant determinant across all five dimensions of residents’ quality of life. Furthermore, quality-of-life dimensions, particularly heritage and commercial development, socialisation and economic opportunities, and environmental conditions, emerged as significant predictors of tourism attitudes. Destination comparisons revealed overall consistency between both cruise tourism destinations, except for the link between place attachment and health and safety benefits, which was stronger among residents of Athens. The findings provide practical implications for sustainable tourism planning by highlighting the importance of incorporating residents’ perceptions into destination management. Full article

This research examines the tourism structure of Santorini within the framework of the Triple Layered Business Model Canvas (TLBMC) and evaluates how circular tourism principles can be integrated into the value creation process across the TLBMC layers. The study utilizes secondary sources such as tourism reports, policy documents, corporate publications, and previous academic studies. Conducted using qualitative case study principles, this study employs PESTLE analysis, stakeholder analysis, TLBMC framework analysis, alignment analysis, and SWOT–CAME analysis. The research concludes that tourism in Santorini is highly dependent on a premium positioning strategy and characterized by a cruise- and experience-oriented visitor structure. Furthermore, the existing tourism structure exhibits both environmental and social vulnerabilities, including water scarcity, overtourism, seasonal demand concentration, and housing pressure. The destination possesses significant potential for stronger alignment among economic, environmental, and social layers, particularly through the introduction of alternative tourism activities. This research provides significant contributions to the literature and offers recommendations for all stakeholders, especially local actors, to establish a resilient tourism model that supports long-term alignment among the layers. Full article

Decadal changes in the community structure of coral reef-associated fishes reflect prevailing poor environmental conditions. This study analyzed temporal shifts in fish communities (e.g., diversity, density, and biomass) recorded via SCUBA belt transects across coral reefs on the center–southern coast of Quintana Roo (eastern Yucatan Peninsula) in the Mexican Caribbean. Sites were initially investigated in 1995 and revisited in 2024 after the construction of a cruise ship pier, and we compared sites under different protection categories. Mean density and biomass decreased significantly over time, particularly at reef sites outside of a protected area in 1995. While species richness and density of commercially important fishes were higher in protected sites in 1995, parrotfishes (Scarinae) maintained stable density and biomass across both years and protection status. No significant differences were found in the biomass of other fishes (e.g., Haemulidae, Lutjanidae). Changes recorded may reflect historical fishing pressure, including poaching, but probably also pollution from intense growth of coastal tourism infrastructure in 2024, as well as damage from the beached Sargassum influx. Ultimately, the positive effect offered by protected areas is not enough to mitigate the local and regional environmental impacts on coral reefs. Our findings serve as a reference point where coastal development and climate change interact and affect coral reefs. Full article

The concentration of tourist flows along short urban links caused by cruise stops in medium-sized Mediterranean ports exacerbates traffic and localized environmental externalities. This study evaluates the willingness to pay (WTP) of cruise passengers for an electric tram that would connect the Gaženica Port with Zadar’s historic center, an intervention designed to cut travel time and reduce on-street congestion and emissions. Over the course of two seasons, a two-wave, two-site, in-person survey was conducted at the port and in the city center. The instrument adopts a double-bounded dichotomous choice (DBDC) contingent valuation design with randomized starting bids that were calibrated using a pre-test that benchmarked prevailing transport pricing. Primary WTP estimates are obtained from a binary choice model with socio-demographic and environmental covariates; whereby inference relies on cluster-robust errors. Robustness is assessed through three complementary checks that do not require additional data: (i) a bivariate specification to account for within-respondent correlation between first and follow-up bids; (ii) Turnbull nonparametric bounds for the interval-censored WTP distribution; and (iii) starting-point tests using split-sample estimation and bid-set indicators. A spike adjustment based on “no–no at the lowest bid” responses is explored where appropriate. Beyond its methodological contribution, this research advances the sustainable tourism development discourse by quantifying visitors’ financial support for low-emission urban mobility infrastructure that mitigates environmental stresses while preserving residential life quality. The results integrate cruise tourist management with the more general goals of resilient and sustainable urban destinations by offering a decision-ready value input for port-city mobility planning in historic Mediterranean centers. Full article

In recent decades, cruise tourism has emerged as a key economic driver for port cities, while simultaneously intensifying environmental pressures and socio-spatial inequalities. Despite growing scholarly attention, research exploring how these pressures are distributed within urban contexts and how they interact with pre-existing vulnerability patterns remains scarce. This study addresses this gap by proposing a GIS-based integrated methodological framework, the Port-city Risk Integrated Spatial Method (PRISM), applied to the Mediterranean port city of Malaga, Spain. The approach combines socio-demographic indicators and data related to spatial amenities with environmental pressures from cruise ship emissions to construct an Urban Socio-Environmental Complexity Index. Emission scenarios for peak cruise days were estimated using a bottom-up methodology and spatialized through atmospheric dispersion modeling, enabling their integration with exposure, vulnerability, and urban capacity indicators. The results reveal marked intra-urban heterogeneity and highlight the emergence of cumulative risk hotspots in areas adjacent to the port and along prevailing inland dispersion corridors. This study demonstrates the potential of integrated spatial indices as decision support tools for urban planning, offering a replicable framework for other port cities facing similar tourism-driven transformations. Full article

Personalized itinerary planning for large-scale passengers under resource constraints is a critical challenge in enhancing the operational efficiency and service quality of cruise tourism. Traditional clustering methods, which primarily rely on geometric similarity, often fail to address the intricate coupling between passenger preferences and finite venue capacities, lacking predictive capability for the ultimate planning quality. To overcome these limitations, this study proposes a novel bio-inspired data-driven hybrid optimization framework for the cruise itinerary planning task unit partition. The framework innovatively integrates a Genetic Balanced Clustering Algorithm (GBCA) for multi-objective passenger grouping, Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA) for feature extraction from preference data, an improved Adaptive Spiral Flying Sparrow Search Algorithm (ASFSSA) for hyperparameter optimization, and a Kernel Extreme Learning Machine (KELM) for data-driven prediction of itinerary planning quality. This synergy enables the framework to dynamically allocate venue capacities based on group preferences and optimize partitioning towards maximizing overall benefits, ensuring load balance and fairness. Extensive experiments on simulated cruise scenarios demonstrate that the proposed framework significantly outperforms conventional methods, improving segmentation quality by at least 40% while exhibiting superior convergence speed and stability. This work provides a scalable, intelligent solution for complex resource-constrained scheduling problems, showcasing the effective application of bio-inspired data-driven methodologies in engineering optimization. Full article

The paper investigates the relationship between ESG transparency/performance and financial performance in tourism, with a focus on profitability (ROA), capital structure (D/E), and cost of capital (WACC). The empirical analysis uses a 2019–2024 panel for 10 listed tourism companies—Booking Holdings, Expedia Group, Airbnb, Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt Hotels, InterContinental Hotels Group, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, TUI Group, and Carnival Corporation—covering distinct sub-sectors (OTA/Platform, Hotels, Tour Operator, Cruise). The study is based on a quantitative methodology that includes descriptive analyses and the application of advanced econometric models. Methodologically, the paper applies panel econometric models with fixed effects (firm and year), sectoral controls and robustness tests (ESG × Sector interactions, alternative size specifications). The results indicate, on average, a positive association between ESG and profitability (ROA) scores, as well as a negative relationship with WACC (indicating a lower cost of capital for firms with higher ESG), after controlling for size, country and sector. The effects are heterogeneous across sub-sectors, with the ESG–performance relationship more pronounced in hotels (where capital intensity and operational exposure are higher) and less pronounced for OTA platforms, but remain directional and statistically significant in most specifications. Overall, ESG compliance and performance emerge not only as reporting obligations, but also as strategic tools associated with sustainable competitive advantage in tourism. Therefore, the CSRD is not just a reporting obligation, but also a strategic tool that boosts financial performance and managerial innovation. The study provides directions for future research on the use of artificial intelligence in the evaluation of ESG reporting and the expansion of the analysis to other economic branches. Full article

Resilience in cruise tourism has been particularly important in recent years and especially after crises such as the financial crisis (2011–2013), in addition to the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021). The role of cruise ports is not limited only to the operation of the transport service, but also includes shaping their competitive position, as well as their ability to maintain and recover cruise demand in times of crisis, while contributing to the long-term sustainability of tourism. This study analyzes the resilience of passenger demand in eight Greek cruise ports during the period 2010–2024, examining the stability and recovery of passenger traffic through two composite indicators, the Project Management Index (PMI) and the Multimodal Access Index (MAI). Panel data were used with the passenger traffic as the dependent variable and the PMI and MAI as independent variables. The results show that multimodality plays the most important role for the resilience of cruise demand as it enhances the stability and recovery of cruise passenger demand while the pandemic had a negative impact. The contribution of the study lies in the quantitative mapping of the resilience of cruise ports, which is part of the framework of sustainable tourism development, offering useful tools for policy-making and strategic planning of cruise ports’ connectivity. Full article

Digital transformation has reshaped how cruise firms acquire, engage and retain customers. However, existing research rarely integrates these behavioural dimensions within a unified analytical framework. This study applies a hybrid regression–Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM) approach to examine how acquisition channels, engagement indicators and online reputation metrics jointly shape website performance and digital innovation among leading global cruise operators. Using multi-source web-analytics data, regression models identify the direct predictive effects of organic, paid, referral and email channels, while FCM captures their non-linear feedback dynamics. Results reveal that visibility does not equate to engagement: organic and referral traffic drive exposure but not depth, whereas authority and reputation mediate engagement–performance relationships. Scenario simulations reveal asymmetric responses within the digital ecosystem. Consequently, balanced, knowledge-driven channel diversification emerges as a key strategic advantage. The findings extend the Knowledge-Based View (KBV) by conceptualising behavioural analytics as organisational knowledge resources that enable adaptive learning and digital innovation. The proposed framework contributes to both tourism analytics and information systems research, offering a scalable model for understanding how data-intensive service firms convert behavioural information into strategic knowledge and sustainable competitive advantage. Full article

The polar regions face growing threats from climate change, making sustainable practices in polar cruise tourism essential. This study examines the role of marketing in promoting sustainability by analysing cruise operators’ websites (n = 50) and testing alternative advertising strategies. Survey findings (n = 790) highlight that well-crafted sustainability advertisements can reduce interest in close-up wildlife interactions, increase willingness to pay for conservation-focused trips, and promote the adoption of sustainable technologies in travel. Content analysis shows that award-winning operators emphasise conservation, sustainability, and community engagement through distinctive digital traits. While traditional adverts were preferred for their adventure focus, sustainability adverts resonated with those valuing education. This study provides valuable insights for operators, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to advancing sustainable tourism in the polar regions. Full article

This study presents a comprehensive dataset developed to monitor coastal water quality in the south-central region of Vietnam, focusing on Nha Trang Bay. Environmental data were collected from four research cruises conducted between 2013 and 2024. Water samples were taken at two depths: surface samples at approximately 0.5–1.0 m below the water surface, and bottom samples 1.0 to 2.0 m above the seabed, depending on site-specific bathymetry. These samples were analyzed for key water quality parameters, including biological oxygen demand (BOD₅), dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP), and Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a). The data establish a valuable baseline for assessing both spatial and temporal patterns of water quality, and for calculating eutrophication index to evaluate potential environmental degradation. Importantly, it also demonstrates practical applications for environmental management. The dataset can support assessments of how seasonal tourism peaks contribute to nutrient enrichment, how aquaculture expansion affects dissolved oxygen dynamics, and how water quality trends evolve under increasing anthropogenic pressure. These applications make it a useful resource for evaluating pollution control efforts and for guiding sustainable development in coastal areas. By promoting open access, the dataset not only supports scientific research but also strengthens evidence-based management strategies to protect ecosystem health and socio-economic resilience in Nha Trang Bay. Full article

The islands of the Cyclades (located in the South Aegean Sea in Greece) are one of the most famous summer destinations worldwide. Every year, millions of Greek and foreign travelers visit the Cyclades to enjoy the islands’ dazzling light and beautiful crystal blue waters. The substantial increase in tourist arrivals has presented significant challenges to the islands, notably regarding sustainable infrastructure and consumer practices. Limited resources, especially water and energy, coupled with waste management issues, pose considerable pressure on the environment and local communities. This research paper investigates the facilities that promote the Cyclades islands (such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros) as an ecologically viable destination, analyzing the problems that arise during the adoption of sustainability. Data were retrieved from academic databases and publicly accessible sources, covering initiatives implemented between 2019 and 2025. The comparative analysis reveals distinct sustainability approaches: Santorini employs regulatory, infrastructure-heavy solutions, including cruise visitor caps (8000/day) and desalination capacity expansion; Mykonos relies predominantly on private sector initiatives despite experiencing a 5.8% decline in international arrivals; Paros demonstrates community-driven approaches, leading plastic reduction efforts through the “Clean Blue Paros” initiative. Key challenges persist across all islands, including water consumption doubling since 2020, waste increases of 350% during peak season, and tensions between economic growth and cultural preservation. The findings indicate no single blueprint for sustainable tourism development, emphasizing the need for destination-specific strategies combining policy intervention, technological innovation, and community engagement. Full article

Coral reefs provide environmental goods and services that support biodiversity and people but face diverse threats. To assess the human factors that might be influencing the status of Cuban coral reefs, we collected and analyzed data from three sources: observations made on a research cruise that circumnavigated Cuba’s waters, expert knowledge, and updated published information. Our results show that small-scale fisheries are predominant among human factors influencing Cuban coral reefs, with more than 97% of the fishing incidents detected in situ during the expedition. Many Cuban reefs are heavily fished, have low levels of contamination, and enjoy high legal protection but experience inadequate enforcement. Tourism occurs on many reefs but could be sustainably increased based on its role in supporting enforcement and compliance and reducing fishing pressure. Densities of marine debris were generally lower in Cuban waters than other Caribbean locations and even lower within protected areas. Many human factors are likely acting synergistically, making management a challenge. This is the first at-sea comprehensive visual survey of human factors in Cuban waters and evaluation of marine debris on Cuba’s reefs, establishing a baseline for future assessments. These findings highlight potential human impacts that must be addressed to safeguard the health of Cuba’s marine ecosystem. Full article