Cruise for Charity on the Ship that Helps the World

Voluntourism hits the high seas as Carnival Cruise Lines debuts a new fleet of ships called Fathom. Passengers spend a week-long journey aboard the ship and on land, meeting volunteers from around the world and helping underprivileged residents of the Caribbean with various projects.

After a two-day sail from Miami, the ship docks in the Dominican Republic where volunteers will disembark and aid struggling communities on the island. Volunteer activities include teaching English to children, providing the towns with water filters to improve their drinking water and planting crops with local farmers.

An on-board orientation will help passengers become acquainted with the island nation and prepare them for cultural integration. On land, volunteers will have the chance to offer and hone their specific skillset to provide assistance in aspects that interest them.

The price for the journey starts at $1,540, and includes on-board training, daily meals, a stateroom to share with a fellow traveler, necessary supplies for on-land volunteer activities and all taxes and fees. Some specific volunteer activities require additional fees for supplies and materials.

Beginning May 2016, Fathom will also offer cultural exchange trips to Cuba where passengers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Cuban culture.