Responsible business operations
Committing to the reduction of net emissions and waste production by our vessels
Ever since Aqua Expeditions’ inception, we have been committed to responsible practices on board our vessels and across our operations. This includes eliminating single-use plastics, using energy-efficient lighting, and building sustainable F&B supply chains. Here’s a look at our responsible business practices which span across our various operational dimensions.
Emission Control
We are in the process of implementing a series of operational changes allowing for more efficient fuel and energy consumption.
In the short-term, we plan to implement measures including smart engine and anchor use, and more efficient itinerary planning to reduce unnecessary propulsion. Looking forward to the coming years, all of our river ships will be equipped with solar panels to reduce fuel consumption for lighting and air-conditioning. Older engines in our fleet will also be replaced with newer fuel-efficient models.
Sustainable Culinary Practices
Over the years, we have developed sustainable F&B supply chains across the destinations which we sail. As a result, the majority of the ingredients used as part of our on board dining are sourced locally. This has been made possible through key partnerships – for example in Indonesia, Bali Sustainable Seafoods (BSS) has been our primary supplier since 2019. BSS empowers local fishermen to fish more sustainably and give up harmful practices such as dynamite and cyanide fishing.
Since 2022, we have worked with the Wildlife Conservation Society to support sustainable fisheries. Our annual purchase of one ton of paiche fish has contributed to the rehabilitation of this endangered species’ population. Furthermore, Aqua has supported infrastructure development in communities, including installation of freezers and fileting platforms, in turn allowing communities to build more sustainable supply chains.
Efficient Waste Management
Aqua utilizes closed-loop systems for recycling across multiple ships and is in the process of eliminating single-use plastics across the entire fleet. All waste water is purified on board without the use of chemicals, and only entirely clean water is returned to the world’s rivers and oceans.
In Indonesia, we have an ongoing partnership with the Indonesian Waste Platform for waste collection and recycling. During Aqua Blu’s season of sailing Bali and Komodo National Park, all on board waste is collected, sorted, and recycled by the Indonesian Waste Platform. The sorted waste is subsequently transported to mainland Java for further processing and sale, in line with a circular economy model. This partnership began with a beach clean-up in 2023 along Horseshoe Bay and also includes educational efforts to improve waste management practices in East Indonesia’s island communities.
Sustainable Design Features
Sustainability has been a key design focus across our fleet. For instance, Aqua Nera utilizes high-performing solar panels on its roof, providing power to illuminate the entire top deck. Meanwhile, Aqua Mekong's exterior deck is crafted entirely from Reysta, a recyclable material composed of recycled rice husk and vegetable oil, replicating the look of tropical hardwood.
The Indochine-influenced interiors on Aqua Mekong were crafted from locally sourced sustainable materials, blending natural fibers from the surrounding environment with artisanal elements influenced by the culture of the surrounding region. Furniture on board has been curated from across the region, featuring bespoke pieces custom-made in Vietnam and antique finds sourced from Vietnam and Cambodia, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and supporting regional craftsmanship.
