Port Canaveral has marked a major milestone by hosting the first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering for Royal Caribbean International’s newest and largest cruise ship, the Star of the Seas. The fueling operation, which took place on August 14, was a critical step just before the vessel’s official maiden voyage on August 31.
Fueling Operation Details
The LNG bunkering was carried out by Seaside LNG, which deployed its Jones Act-compliant barge, the Clean Everglades, to supply the fuel. The operation was supported by JAX LNG and Pivotal LNG and took approximately seven hours to complete, providing enough fuel for the ship to operate for several weeks. To ensure safety, the process was closely monitored by multiple agencies, including Canaveral Fire Rescue’s Fireboat 2, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Environmental Benefits of LNG
LNG was chosen to power the Star of the Seas due to its environmental advantages over traditional marine fuels. As a fuel, it is odorless and colorless, and it offers significant reductions in emissions. According to the port, LNG completely eliminates sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by up to 85%, and cuts particulate matter by 95%. It also results in up to 20% less carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.
The Ship and Its Strategy
The Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, following its sister ship, the Icon of the Seas. It was built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and operates fully on LNG. The ship’s advanced energy efficiency systems are a key part of Royal Caribbean’s “Destination Net Zero” strategy, a company-wide effort to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The successful bunkering operation at Port Canaveral highlights the port’s readiness and investment in the necessary infrastructure to handle the growing number of LNG-powered cruise ships. After its maiden voyage, the Star of the Seas is scheduled to begin regular seven-night cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean starting August 31.
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Source: Marine Insight
