Flagship Cruises & Events of San Diego has announced that after investing $2.1 million in the development of a new facility on Port tidelands, which includes a shore power system, its 11 vessels plug into on-shore electricity while docked, eliminating the need to run diesel engines. This reduces the emission of excess greenhouse gases into the air.
Flaghips is a longstanding tenant of the Port of San Diego, providing harbor tours, ferry services, whale watching, jet boat thrill rides, charters and dinner cruises along San Diego Bay.
The company said that its efforts continue in the kitchen, where Head Chef Brian Gist prepares meals with locally caught and locally sourced sustainable seafood. Additionally, the chef uses produce from local farms in California when available. He utilizes the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch Guide to ensure he is making sustainable choices when purchasing seafood. The guide, available online, helps consumers select items that are fished or farmed in ways that have less impact on the environment.
Flagship is also using LED lighting on its docks. The lights are equipped with photocells, which automate the lights to turn on at night when it becomes dark and to turn off each morning when the sun rises. The fenders used on its docks are constructed from recycled rubber, further demonstrating its commitment to being a sustainable business.
Flagship has also installed eel grass beds and more than 80 artificial reef structures on the bay floor between its docks and seawall. This project feature enhances the marine ecosystem and the natural environment.
Flagship is among 81 Port of San Diego waterfront businesses participating in the Green Business Network. The Network was established in 2011 to promote business practices that reduce energy consumption, water use and waste and prevent pollution. The Port partners with San Diego Gas & Electric in this unique program which offers no-cost resources to participating businesses. The Green Business Network offers no-cost, on-site analysis of energy consuming systems and assistance with SDG&E programs to help Port businesses develop energy-saving plans.
