Fathom, a new Carnival Cruise Line subsidiary that focuses exclusively on “voluntourism,” will be hitting the waves next spring. Catering to travelers who wish to contribute their vacation time to a charitable cause, the line will be sailing humanitarian cruises to the Dominican Republic aboard the P&O ship Adonia starting in April 2016. In an exciting recent announcement, fathom also revealed that it would be cruising to Cuba, as well, with a full slate of cultural immersion activities and aid excursions available.
Of course, in order to make an impact, cruisers don’t have to sacrifice a whole vacation, or even sail with a specialist line like fathom. In fact, the cruise industry and their loyal passengers have a long-established reputation for charity. In the aftermath of natural disasters like hurricanes, for example, cruise ships are often instrumental in bringing emergency supplies and personnel to affected sites. Cruise companies and passengers alike also participate in special fundraisers that provide millions of dollars to port cities that need recovery aid.
Even when there isn’t an emergency in the headlines, the cruise industry and its patrons remain active in philanthropy. Countless cruises every year offer charity-minded customers plenty of opportunities to join in the giving spirit.
Many cruise lines occasionally partner with philanthropic organizations to host charity cruises that bring together many passengers in support of a specific cause. Even when a whole cruise isn’t dedicated to a particular organization, there are often specific events and activities on any itinerary that serve to raise awareness or collect funds for causes as diverse as children’s health, veterans’ affairs, or environmental issues. Such charity drives can take almost any form: collection boxes, auctions, dining events, shop sales, dances, sport contests, and more.
Many cruise lines also offer special shore excursions in cooperation with charity organizations in select ports of call. These outings engage cruisers in intense but rewarding activities such as working with disadvantaged children, contributing to scientific research, or replanting trees destroyed by storms.
There really are countless ways to make a difference—even on a cruise!
