MSC Cruises has designed a series of cruise excursions that are both eco-friendly and give local tour operators the opportunity to become internationally certified under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification program. Collectively referred to as PROTECTOURS, the growing list of 25-plus excursions allows your family to make a positive contribution to the planet, while discovering destinations in new ways. Seventy percent of the tours involve activities with zero environmental impact, such as walking, cycling or kayaking, while others make a direct contribution to the environment through activities like tree planting or beach cleaning. In January, the cruise line became the first global cruise line to become carbon neutral across its marine operations.Examples include:

Animal Haven Rescued Dogs Forest Hike, Jamaica: During this half-day excursion, participants will hike with rescued dogs from Montego Bay Animals Haven, all of whom were rescued from the streets and have suffered from starvation, dehydration, injury or abuse.

Discover the Magical World of Bees, Greece: In Corfu, participants can immerse themselves in the world of bees, learning all about what the Royal Geographical Society has called “the most important living being on earth.” Tour-goers will travel to Bioporos Farm, where they will be kitted out with full safety equipment to get up close with the farm’s honeybees. A meal at the farm’s fully organic restaurant is included, as are a sesame bar and 100 grams of local honey to take home.

Iceland on Horseback with Tree Planting, Iceland: Cruisers looking to add a little horsepower to their land experience will want to join this tour from Reykjavik as they saddle up and trek out into the scenic Icelandic wilderness of lava fields and green hillsides. Following the ride, tour-goers will journey to Guomundarlundur Forest, where a forester will guide them in planting a tree.