New Partnership Brings Ocean Conservation to the Heart of Holland America Cruises
Support Caribbean Ecosystems While Sailing in Comfort
If you love cruising and care about the oceans you sail on, Holland America Line has just introduced a meaningful way to give back, right from the deck of your ship.
The cruise line has officially named Conservation International as the new beneficiary of its onboard guest donation program, expanding its commitment to ocean health across sailings worldwide (outside of Alaska).
Turning Every Step Into Ocean Impact
At the heart of this initiative is On Deck for a Cause: Healthy Oceans, a non-competitive 5K walk held on every cruise. Open to guests of all ages, the event invites participants to make a donation to the Holland America Line Foundation, supporting conservation efforts that protect marine ecosystems.
Guests who take part will not only enjoy a scenic walk at sea but also receive a commemorative T-shirt and wristband, making it a memorable experience with a purpose.
Supporting Coastal Communities and Marine Life
Through this partnership, funds raised will support Conservation International’s work in more than 100 countries, with a focus on restoring and protecting vital coastal ecosystems in the Caribbean.
Key efforts include:
Mangrove Restoration: Helping rehabilitate mangrove forests that protect coastlines, store carbon, and serve as critical habitats for marine life.
Wetland Protection: Revitalizing damaged coastal wetlands that play a crucial role in biodiversity and shoreline protection.
Community Support: Assisting local businesses, like ecotourism operators, fishers, and artisans, with training, resources, and sustainable growth opportunities.
It’s a powerful combination of environmental conservation and community empowerment, all driven by guest participation onboard.
A Natural Fit for Responsible Travel
According to Beth Bodensteiner, protecting the oceans is a natural extension of the cruise line’s commitment to responsible travel, giving guests the opportunity to make a real difference while enjoying their holiday.
For Kelvin Alie, the partnership builds on decades of conservation work, helping turn individual guest actions into long-term impact for coastal communities and future generations.
A non-competitive 5K walk held on Holland America Line cruises
A Legacy of Giving Back
On Deck for a Cause has a long history of supporting meaningful initiatives, from cancer research organizations to global relief efforts. On Alaska sailings, the program will continue to support Alaska Geographic.
With Conservation International now part of the program, the initiative evolves to focus even more on ocean health, perfectly aligning with the cruise experience itself.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just a walk around the deck, it’s a chance for travellers to be part of something bigger. With every step, guests contribute to protecting marine life, restoring ecosystems, and supporting coastal communities around the world.
For cruisers who want their holiday to leave a positive footprint, Holland America Line is making it easier than ever to sail, and give back, with purpose.