Where Does All the Poop Go on a Cruise Ship?

By Alice Nichols

Cruise ships are a popular way for travelers to explore the world with luxury accommodations and experiences. However, these large vessels have to find a way to dispose of sewage and other waste materials – including human waste – during their journeys. So, where does all the poop go on a cruise ship?

Gravity-Fed Systems
The majority of modern cruise ships use gravity-fed systems to dispose of human waste. This involves connecting the toilets on board directly to large holding tanks, which are then emptied at designated ports. The contents of these tanks are then treated in accordance with local regulations, depending on where the ship is visiting.

Incineration
Some cruise lines also utilize incinerators to dispose of human waste on board their ships. These incinerators heat the waste material up to extremely high temperatures until it is reduced to ash. The ash can then be disposed of either at sea or at a port, depending on local regulations and environmental considerations.

Treated Sewage
Treated sewage is another common disposal method used by cruise ships. This involves collecting human waste in large tanks and treating it with chemicals and enzymes before pumping it back into the ocean in a diluted form. While this method is generally considered safe for marine life, some environmental groups have raised concerns about its long-term effects on marine ecosystems.

Sewage Treatment Plants
The most advanced disposal method used by cruise lines is installing their own onboard sewage treatment plants. These plants use a variety of methods – including filtration, chemical treatment, and ultraviolet disinfection – to turn human waste into gray water that can be safely released into the environment without harming marine life or ecosystems.

Conclusion
Where does all the poop go on a cruise ship? Cruise lines use a variety of methods to dispose of human waste while at sea such as gravity-fed systems, incineration, treated sewage, and onboard sewage treatment plants that turn waste into gray water that can be safely released into the environment without harming marine life or ecosystems.