The Royal Caribbean’s cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas, successfully tested and used a biofuel blend in Barcelona, Spain for 12 weeks.
The tests provided valuable data on the availability and scalability of biofuel in the region. The biofuel blends tested were produced by purifying renewable raw materials like waste oils and fats and combining them with fuel oil to create an alternative fuel that is cleaner and more sustainable.
According to Royal Caribbean, the 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.
The Port of Barcelona is already working to become an energy hub, producing and supplying zero carbon fuels, such as green hydrogen and ammonia, and other almost zero-carbon alternative fuels, such as methanol, biofuels, or synthetic fuels. Innovation and collaboration between ports and shipping companies are key to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime transport.
Following our successful trial of biofuels this summer, we are one step closer to bringing our vision for net-zero cruising to life. 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.
… said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean’s success is a clear example of how commitment to innovation makes possible the development of solutions to decarbonise the maritime sector. In this case, it involves the cruise sector and focuses on biofuels, an area in which the Port of Barcelona is already working to become an energy hub.
… added the President of the Port of Barcelona, Lluís Salvadó.
