Work

Indoor air quality aboard cruise ships: Utilizing survey and monitoring approaches

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Indoor environment quality (IEQ) aboard cruise ships is a critical factor affecting the health, comfort, and productivity of crew and passengers, but remains understudied compared to schools, offices, and hospitals. To bridge this gap, the present study employs, separately, both occupant surveys and continuous indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring aboard a cruise ship. This dual approach, not previously undertaken on cruise ships, aims to provide comprehensive insights into the measured and perceived environmental conditions on board. The study was conducted on a cruise ship on the Baltic Sea and involved surveying 391 crew members in October 2023 to assess their dissatisfaction with the indoor environment across various workstations. Additionally, real-time sensors measured essential IAQ parameters (temperature, relative humidity (RH), particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and total volatile organic compounds) from October to December 2024. Conditions on board the ship were largely acceptable. Survey results indicate considerable variation in dissatisfaction levels, with noise emerging as a significant source of dissatisfaction, particularly in drinking establishments. Sensor monitoring recorded low RH levels in multiple measurement locations, especially at the command bridge, alongside with high temperatures in nightclub areas. Otherwise, pollutant levels generally aligned with expected standards, except for isolated spikes. Based on the study findings, a few targeted improvement suggestions could be made to enhance the indoor comfort and air quality, such as installing air humidifiers. Further research should expand to monitor noise levels, include passengers and other cruise operators in surveys, address seasonal variations, and explore additional environmental factors.

Source: Environmental Advances

DOI: 10.1016/j.envadv.2026.100772