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August 12, 2024

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced a new collaboration with the Barena Association of Venice to protect the salt marshes of the northern Venetian Lagoon. This initiative, led by The Travel Corporation (TTC)’s non-profit foundation TreadRight, marks an important step forward in preserving the fragile ecosystem of the lagoon, along with its wildlife, flora, and local cultural traditions. 

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, known for offering luxury river cruises with impeccable service, is part of The Travel Corporation, an international family-run travel group. TTC is renowned for creating high-quality travel experiences and for its commitment to sustainability. The TreadRight foundation, the beating heart of TTC’s sustainable philosophy, continues to support projects that protect the planet, people, and wildlife, with a focus on promoting solutions that safeguard biodiversity and restore environmental balance. 

Julie Higgins, Uniworld’s Sustainability Director, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with the Barena Association, stating that Uniworld has always recognized its role as a steward of Europe’s waterways and feels responsible for protecting the wetlands and waters of Venice, while also offering its guests a unique experience of the city. 

The “SOS Barena” project of the Barena Association is at the heart of this initiative, aimed at combating the erosion of the salt marshes of the northern Venetian Lagoon, known as “Barene.” Thanks to the support of TreadRight, biodegradable barriers called fascines will be constructed to help protect these sensitive areas from waves and encourage root development in the mud, reducing erosion. 

Uniworld, on its part, demonstrates its commitment to responsible tourism through its Venetian itineraries, including exclusive routes like the “Grande Italia” scheduled for 2025. Aboard the luxurious S.S. La Venezia, guests can explore the lagoon, knowing that the ship is the only one authorized to navigate these delicate waters, following Venice’s 2020 ban on large cruise ships to protect the ecosystem. 

Uniworld’s commitment goes beyond mere exploration. With the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® initiative, the brand turns travel into an opportunity for positive change, allowing guests to engage meaningfully with local communities. A concrete example is the “Vogare a Venezia” experience, where travelers learn the traditional Venetian rowing technique through lessons with Row Venice, an organization that promotes gender equality and sustainability. 

For more information, news, and updates on Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, visit our website at Cruising Journal. 

Mara Di Dio

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