This summer, Royal Caribbean Group will set a new industry milestone in the use of alternative fuels when Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Apex and Royal Caribbean International's Symphony of the Seas begin sailing in Europe using sustainable biofuel to meet some of the ships' fuel needs. This initial trial will provide key data on the alternative fuel's capabilities and the supply chain infrastructure required to further develop its use in the industry.
During the trial, which will last three months, Celebrity Apex will depart from the Port of Rotterdam and Symphony of the Seas from the Port of Barcelona using a blend of biofuels that reduces the ships' carbon emissions.
“Biofuels will play an increasingly important role in achieving not only our decarbonization goals, but also those of the entire maritime sector in the short and medium term. We are proud to continue driving our industry forward in exploring innovative fuel solutions that reduce carbon impact and preserve the vitality of the oceans we sail,” explained Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
The cruise company plans to continue increasing its use of low-carbon alternative fuels to meet the needs of ships across its entire fleet
“We have our sights set on a bright and sustainable future, and we are committed to collaboration and innovation to deliver great holiday experiences in a responsible way,” Liberty adds.
This important step in Royal Caribbean Group's search for alternative fuels follows the biofuel trial conducted on Navigator of the Seas in California, which became the first cruise ship to sail from a US port using renewable diesel fuel last fall.
Royal Caribbean Group's journey towards sustainability began more than 30 years ago, and the group has remained steadfast in its commitment to innovate and promote the solutions needed for a better future.
Thanks to a robust set of technologies that improve energy efficiency, water treatment and waste management, the biofuel trials are a step that brings the company closer to achieving Destination Net Zero, its vision for net-zero emissions by 2050.
