TUI Cruises and Copenhagen Malmö Port (CMP) held the first-ever TUI Cruises Gotland Day in Visby, Gotland, on August 19, 2024, aboard the newly launched The Mein Schiff 7.

The event, aimed at promoting dialogue on sustainability, brought together local politicians, port and destination stakeholders, and representatives from cruise lines to share knowledge, experiences and best practices, according to a statement.

“It was very inspiring to take part and see how the development of future cruise ships has become more sustainable,” said Erik Ohrn, CEO of Gotland Business and Tourism Association. “We need to shift gears and continue developing our tours and infrastructure to keep up with these advancements.”

The day featured presentations from industry leaders, including TUI Cruises Director of Destinations Marcus Puttich, Royal Caribbean Group Director of Government Relations UK & Nordics Jonathan Hawkings, and CMP Cruise Commercial Director Luis de Carvalho.

These presentations were followed by question and answer sessions that facilitated in-depth discussions on environmental initiatives and passenger visitation management in Gotland.

“As the cruise industry continues to grow, it’s vital for cruise lines, ports, and destination stakeholders to discuss and identify challenges and work together on best practices and solutions that can be applied in practice now and for years to come,” added de Carvalho.

A highlight of the event was a behind-the-scenes tour of the Mein Schiff 7, where participants explored the engine room, waste treatment facilities, bridge and public areas.

This provided an opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the ship’s officers, staff, and crew on various operational and environmental matters.

The Mein Schiff 7 is the first cruise ship designed to run on methanol.