'Cruise lines need greener fuels and technologies' say campaigners, who expect to protest ahead of G7
Environmental campaigners who staged a protest over Torbay's growing so-called 'cruise ship car park' at the weekend say more protests are likely ahead of the G7.
Last updated 20th Apr 2021
The Tor Bay harbour authority and police were both invited and watched as campaigners held up banners from their kayaks near to the giant vessels.
The kayaks stayed outside the required 50-metre distance from the cruise ships for the peaceful protest - before gathering on the beach in a socially distanced manner to highlight messages by holding placards.
Colin Moore, a retired teacher who's now part of South Devon's Ocean Rebellion group which was behind the protest, took part.
He said:" The (cruise ships) are highly polluting with a huge carbon footprint - up to three or four times even depending on the ship - the carbon footprint of a holiday with an airline.
"Many people fly to the cruise departure point anyway so the carbon footprint of going on a cruise holiday is massive."
The group are calling on the G7 to ensure investment in greener technologies for the cruise industry.
Mr Moore added: "I'm certain that Ocean Rebellion will be staging protests somewhere on land or on sea in the run up to the G7 meetings."
He said no firm plans have yet been confirmed and stressed 'Ocean Rebellion do not seek to break the law'.
The Ocean Rebellion campaign group was founded in Falmouth. For more about the group click here
For more about the South Devon part of the group's action in Torbay and the messages they wanted to highlight click here
Last year Greatest Hits Radio did a piece about the tourist impact of the so-called 'cruise ship car park' in Torbay. You can read the full article here
In response to the protests and claims about a dropped anchor, TUI say health and safety is a priority for the company - which adheres to regulations set by the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.
Their statement reads: "Health and safety protocols are always our first priority and we consulted with the local Coastguard and Natural England when Marella Explorer 2 had to shelter in Torbay due to adverse weather conditions in January.
"The ship temporarily lost anchor during this time which has been fully investigated. We can confirm that no waste was discharged, we operate with the utmost respect for the environment and all our ships are compliant with MARPOL as well as local regulations."
Yesterday we reported on how Devon & Cornwall Police were working with campaign groups to facilitate peaceful protest ahead of the G7.