Offering more sustainable sailing, boutique cruise line Celestyal Cruises has announced that Celestyal Discovery has become the first-ever cruise ship to operate in Greek waters using a marine biofuel blend.
The milestone delivery to the Port of Lavrion in the southeastern part of Attica was conducted by Coral Marine Products, SA, part of Motor Oil Group, in partnership with Celestyal.
The locally produced blend combines conventional marine fuel with a second-generation biofuel derived from used, recycled cooking oils. Created by Motor Oil’s subsidiary Verd, the fuel is fully compliant with the new ISO 8217:2024 standards and is credited with reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 21 percent.
Captain George Koumpenas, COO at Celestyal, said in a statement, “This initiative marks a meaningful shift toward sustainable cruising. We are proud that Celestyal Discovery is taking the lead in reducing the environmental footprint of the cruise sector in Greece.”
“From refreshing our fleet to expanding our itineraries, sustainability is central to our long-term vision. This pioneering use of biofuel is a proud moment for us and demonstrates what’s possible when local expertise and global ambition come together, added Chris Theophilides, Celestyal CEO. “We’re committed to exploring further solutions that support our planet and enhance the cruising experience for future generations.”
The 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery joined the Celestyal fleet in November 2023 and has recently undergone her second multi-million Euro refurbishment. From April to November 2025, she will offer three- and four-night “Iconic Greek Islands” cruises departing Athens with port calls in Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes and Santorini. Prices start at $389 per person.
The cruise ship will then reposition to the Arabian Gulf, offering her first season of three- and four-night “Iconic Arabia” cruises departing Abu Dhabi and calling at Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, Khasab and Ras al Khaimah. Pricing begins at $718 for two guests on a three-night voyage, and $918 for two on a four-night cruise.
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