Where Do Cruise Ships Go to Die?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ships are majestic and luxurious vessels that provide a unique vacation experience to travelers. But have you ever wondered what happens to these massive ships once they reach the end of their lifespan?

Where do they go to die? Let’s take a closer look at the fate of cruise ships.

What Happens to Old Cruise Ships?

While some old cruise ships may be sold or transferred to other companies, many of them end up being scrapped. This process is called shipbreaking and involves dismantling the ship piece by piece. The metal, glass, and other materials are then recycled or sold for scrap.

Where Do Cruise Ships Go to Die?

Most cruise ships end up in one of two places when they are retired: Asia or Turkey. These locations have become popular destinations for shipbreaking due to their lower labor costs and lax environmental regulations.

In Asia, countries like India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have become hotspots for shipbreaking. The beaches in these countries serve as makeshift shipyards where workers use blowtorches and heavy machinery to break down the ships. However, this process often comes at a high cost as the working conditions are hazardous and environmental regulations are not always enforced.

Turkey has also become a popular destination for shipbreaking due to its proximity to Europe. The country has several shipyards along its coast that specialize in the dismantling of large vessels like cruise ships.

The Environmental Impact of Shipbreaking

Shipbreaking can have a significant impact on the environment if proper precautions are not taken. The process can release hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, and oil into the surrounding water and air. This can harm marine life and cause respiratory problems for workers.

To combat these issues, organizations like the Basel Convention have established guidelines for safe and environmentally friendly shipbreaking practices. However, these guidelines are not always followed in countries where labor costs are low.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cruise ships may be beautiful and luxurious vessels, but they do not last forever. When they reach the end of their lifespan, many of them end up being scrapped in countries like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey. While shipbreaking can be an environmentally damaging process, organizations like the Basel Convention are working to establish safe and sustainable practices.