How we choose

The standard we use

When two ships fit the same brief, we prefer the line that publishes an environmental policy and a wildlife rule consistent with Wildlife and animals. We name that policy when we recommend an expedition ship, and we say if we cannot find one.

We do not put captive-wildlife interactions into a proposal. The full rule is on the animal-welfare page.

For Antarctica and the Arctic we follow the line's landing rules. Those duties are the line's. We do not replace the expedition leader. A landing canceled for ice, wildlife, or weather is the line's decision on the day.

We will say if a ship or an itinerary is a poor fit for someone who wants a quieter week, for the same reason we say when a ship is a poor fit for a family. We do not invent urgency. We do not drop a ship because the commission is lower.

What sits with the line

Fuel, waste, sourcing, and crew welfare are the cruise line's. We do not claim them as ours. We are paid a commission through our host agency if you book. That commission is not added to the fare.

What you can do

Refill a bottle where the ship allows it. Skip a crowded excursion in a small port. Book a local guide where the line allows it. Do not buy shell, coral, or ivory. Read Before you sail before you pay a non-refundable deposit.

A filtered collection, a named lead, or a charity partner will be added to this page only when the fact exists. Until then, this is the whole standard.