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Cruise ships are known for providing their guests with luxurious accommodations and fine dining experiences. But what happens when it comes to the water onboard?? Let’s find out.
First, it’s important to understand where the cruise ship’s water supply comes from. Most cruise ships use ocean water as their main source of water. However, before the water can be used for drinking, showering, or cooking, it must be purified. This is done through a process known as desalination.
Desalination is the process of removing salt and other minerals from seawater to make it drinkable. It’s a complex process that involves several steps. The first step is pre-treatment, where the seawater is screened to get rid of any large debris. The second step is reverse osmosis, where high-pressure pumps force the water through a membrane that removes any minerals and salts, leaving behind pure water.
Once the water has been purified, it’s then treated with chlorine to disinfect it and remove any remaining bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. The water is then stored in tanks and distributed throughout the ship as needed.
However, some cruise ships may also use freshwater sources in addition to or instead of seawater. For example, some cruise ships have water purification systems that can convert graywater (wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundry) into freshwater that can be used for non-drinking purposes. Other ships may also have onboard water recycling systems that collect and treat wastewater for reuse in things like toilets and irrigation.
Overall, it’s clear that cruise ships do purify ocean water to make it drinkable and safe for use onboard. However, the process can be energy-intensive and may contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, which is why some cruise lines are exploring more sustainable water management options. For example, some ships are now using advanced membrane bioreactor technology to treat wastewater and convert it back into freshwater, reducing the need for desalination.
While cruise ships do purify ocean water, there are ongoing efforts to find more sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to manage water on board. As travelers, it’s important to be aware of the impact that our choices have on the environment and to support companies that prioritize sustainability and conservation.