by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:50 AM ET, Wed September 20, 2023
Royal Caribbean Group announced the completion of a 12-week alternative
biofuel testing program in Europe.
Earlier this week, Royal Caribbean International’s Symphony
of the Seas became the first ship in the maritime industry to successfully test
and use a biofuel blend in Barcelona, Spain, to meet part of the vessel’s fuel
needs.
As part of the testing process, the cruise company confirmed
onboard technical systems met operational standards, without quality or safety
concerns, demonstrating the biofuel blend is a reliable “drop in” supply of
lower emission energy that ships can use to set sail across Europe and beyond.
“This is a pivotal moment for Royal Caribbean Group’s
alternative fuel journey,” President and CEO Jason Liberty said. “Following our
successful trial of biofuels this summer, we are one step closer to bringing
our vision for net-zero cruising to life.”
The alternative biofuel tests across Europe also provided
valuable data to understand the availability and scalability of biofuel in the
region. The company began testing biofuels last year and expanded the trail
this summer in Europe to two additional vessels: Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of
the Seas and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex.
With Symphony of the Seas departing from the Port of
Barcelona and Celebrity Apex departing from the Port of Rotterdam, both ships
accomplished multiple sailings using biofuel and contributed critical data on
the fuel’s capabilities.
“As we strive to protect and promote the vibrant oceans we
sail, we are determined to accelerate innovation and improve how we deliver
vacation experiences responsibly,” Liberty continued.
The results will help accelerate Royal Caribbean Group’s
plans to continue testing different types of biofuels on upcoming European
sailings this fall.
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