Crystal Cruises now offers the “You Care, We Care” program to guests, which gives them the opportunity to participate in service projects at a location they visit on their cruise. From redecorating an orphanage in Fiji to working with burn victims in Lima, Peru, guests can directly help the local population while also experiencing the culture.
The program began in January after much preparation by Crystal Cruises. Tour guides in the desired locations came up with service projects that not only worked logistically in terms of location and the number of guests that could participate, but also filled a very real need.
This excursion is free to any guests or crew who want to join. Crystal Cruises pays for the tour guide and transportation. Generally thirty guests can participate in each program. Crystal Cruises does its best to post the details of these expeditions online; however some itineraries are only finalized just before sailing. Guests can sign up for the service projects onboard. Currently, only one excursion is offered for each cruise, although that number may increase as interest in the program grows. While the first excursion included around nine guests.
This new program adds to Crystal Cruises reputation of cultural activism with respect to its destinations, in addition to the recognition it has received for environmentally friendly initiatives. From its comprehensive sewage system to providing guests with cloth laundry bags and onboard seminars raising awareness on environmental issues, nothing is too big or small for Crystal Cruises notice.
The company’s environmental standards have received notice from the US National Parks Service, which resulted in permits to travel into Glacier Bay this year. Crystal Cruises also received its ISO 14001 certificate in 2004. This accomplishment involves adhering to a stringent environmental management system.
Click here for Crystal Cruises 2012 Itineraries and Specials
