Top 5 Cruise Lines for Vegans
Cruising as a vegan poses many different issues. First, having options at all is a concern. Then comes the quality of the vegan food provided. Lastly, the health and sustainability of the food. Where is it sourced? Is it vegan to be on a cruise line?
Veganism isn’t just about avoiding animal products. It is also a political statement and lifestyle choice. Vegans do not wear anything that comes from an animal and try not to do anything that harms the ecosystem.
If you’re concerned about the sustainably of cruise lines, you may want to consider a smaller, more eco-friendly option. These cruises focus on the health of the ecosystem they explore and are more accommodating to their passengers. The smaller and more intimate the company, the better odds of getting sustainable food with a focus on compassion.
However, many cruise ships offer plant-based options on the menu. This allows those who are more focused on their diet to enjoy luxury cruises in relative comfort.
Here are some options for cruise lines that offer a variety of dietary and sustainable choices.
1. Carnival Company
This company is suitable for the dietary vegan or plant-based eater. The dining room always has a few plant-based options available. This might not be the most ethical choice for an environmentally conscious vegan, but you won’t go hungry. Many vegans believe including plant-based options alone is a step in the right direction.
2. Oceania
Oceania Cruises have a full vegan menu. You won’t have to feel like you missing out or stuck with a salad. Oceania prides itself on its culinary focus. Their new menu will feature over 250 different dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Additionally, Ociania’s juice bar has many vegan options. This all-inclusive ship provides plant-based options while maintaining massive luxury cruise liner energy. Unfortunately, they do not have a good rating regarding environmental protection, according to Friends of the Earth.
3. Royal Caribbean
In recent years Royal Caribbean has made moves towards better environmental practices. They have water treatment systems that prevent the transfer of invasive species. They are also dedicated to preserving energy and repurposing operational waste.
These improvements are encouraging for the more environmentally inclined. There are also many plant-based food options on board. There are buffets with multiple plant-based options as well as made-to-order meals. Royal Caribbean is a good option for someone strict with their plant-based diet, is conscious of their environmental impact, and still wants the entire cruise experience.
4. Virgin
Virgin Voyages currently boasts cruise ships with excellent vegan options, including the Vallient Lady and the Scarlet Lady. Each of these ships offers plant-based meals at almost every restaurant.
You may have to mix and match sides for breakfast, a standard vegan practice. Make sure to double-check with each menu item or contact the ship before you board just to be sure. As veganism and plant-based foods become more popular, chefs will likely understand your dietary needs and be more than willing to accommodate them.
5. Hurtigruten
Hurtigruten is a Norwegian cruise line that is perfect for the environmentalist vegan. They have taken significant steps to preserve the natural beauty along their route in other parts of the world. Hurtigruten has over 40 environmental and sustainability projects in nearly a dozen countries.
Hurtigruten is also committed to the sustainability of each ship. In the past decade, the company has made significant changes to its fleet, including adopting three battery-powered vessels.
As for the food, Hurtigruten guarantees a vegetarian and vegan menu on their ships. However, because of the Norwegian climate, it may be more difficult to find plant-based food during certain times of the year. Make sure to contact the cruise line before you book so you can enjoy the coastline of Norway sustainably without worrying about what you will eat.
FAQ
Are there additional charges for vegan meals?
There shouldn’t be any additional charges for vegan meals on a cruise line. Many cruises include food in the ticket price, and there should not be any additional cost to the customer for food.
How can I inform the cruise line of my dietary needs?
When in doubt, talk to the chef ahead of time. Many vegans are used to contacting a restaurant or scouting out a menu before walking in the door. It should be the same with cruise lines.
Do cruise ships have dairy-free options?
Many cruise ships have dairy-free options to address several dietary concerns. Look for milk and cheese alternatives. It is always an excellent idea to contact the cruise company beforehand.