Eco is possibly one of the most overused and misused prefixes today - particularly so, in our field of endeavor. There are quite a few examples of 1000 H.P. high speed powerboat tour operations claiming to be eco tours. They may well take their guests to view the wonders of various eco systems. In so doing, however, their guests, by their very participation, are enabling, to some extent, the deterioration of all fragile eco systems on the planet.
No doubt, the best type of tour, in which a sincere eco tourist could participate (in our field) is a kayaking / camping trip. The manufacture of the infrastructure for such a trip consumes few natural resources. Similarly, the operation of such a trip has very little negative effect on the environment. This knowledge, combined with sheer physical exhaustion, presumably contributes to a good nights sleep for the participants - despite, perhaps, some lack of creature comforts.
At the other end of the spectrum, a group of say six persons chartering a high speed luxury mega yacht for an "eco tourism adventure" should be aware that their eco tour is enabling a significant negative effect on the very environment which they express such concern about.
This type of situation is currently reflected (and discussed heatedly) in the actions of today's media "Eco Stars". In one of our associate web sites - Spirit of the Bahamas 2002 - there is a web page -Wake up and smell the oil! - which graphically illustrates this scenario.
We are not suggesting that it is inherently immoral to charter a multi million dollar yacht for half a dozen people to enjoy a spot of eco tourism. Conversely, we are not suggesting that it is not. The point is that one should be aware that making use of the organic, biodegradable shampoo provided does little to mitigate the significant negative environmental impact - which the construction and operation of such a vessel contributes to.
In the context of this web page, we will refrain from any discussion of massive cruise ships - with their outrageously opulent accommodations. Suffice to say that the claim that these vessels are offering "eco cruises" is absurd - to say the least.
Most so called "eco cruises" lie somewhere between these extremes. We would like to think that our ranking (in terms of being environmentally friendly) is not too far removed from that of the pure kayaking / camping tour.
We would also like to think that we are very far removed from this type of tour, in regard to creature comforts and, equally important, in regard to the variety of activities available. The truth be told, however, we are a little short on gold plated bathroom fixtures, leather armchairs, fully equipped gyms, and designer boutiques.
The reduced level of environmental impact derived from the design construction and operation of Grand Illusion (or in this case, a nearly identical sister ship) is fully covered on the web site - Spirit of the Bahamas -linked below. In this regard, Grand Illusion holds a considerable advantage over most of our competition
The choice to go with the "camping cruising" option also provides further reductions to environmental impact. This reduction is derived from the ability to carry a given number of guests (in spacious comfort) at reduced infrastructure and operating costs - both to the operator (thank you very much) and to the environment
Related info. available on the following web sites:
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Our Eco - Credentials
Pristine tropical paradise -
somewhere out there
Pristine tropical paradise -
somewhere out there
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Escape! Runaway! Getaway! - - to a
Faraway Pristine Paradise, where
Light dances with crystal seas - Time flows at a gentle pace -
Space goes on forever and
Grace reaches out to all.
Stretch your horizons!
We can take you there!
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Caribbean Paradise.
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Magic Carpet Catamarans
