Holland America Line Tests Biofuel on Rotterdam Cruise Ship

Holland America Line has launched a summer-long testing campaign of 100% low-carbon intensity biofuel on itsflagship, Rotterdam, while sailing within the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords. The ship bunkered the biofuel, supplied by FincoEnergies, at the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands, on April 27, 2024, before embarking on its journey.

Why this matters: The successful adoption of biofuels in the cruise industry could have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions frommaritime transportation, which is a significant contributor to global emissions. As the demand for sustainable travel options grows, innovations like this could pave the way for a more environmentally friendly future for the industry.

The biofuel, certified according to the EU Renewable Energy Directive, is derived from organic waste or residues. It is expected to result in an estimated 86% reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to marine gas oil (MGO). The Rotterdam will initially operate one of its four engines using the low-carbon intensity oil during cruises this month, with the potential to expand to multiple engines over the summer.

Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha expressed the company's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, stating, "Holland America Line is committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, and we are excited to demonstrate a next-generation fuel source that can help us toward our pursuit of net-zero emissions." He added, "Converting items such as food waste into fuel is an innovative way to meet environmental challenges, and we thank the Dutch government for its support."

Johannes Schürmann, Commercial Director International Marine at FincoEnergies, noted that the GoodFuels MR1-100 biofuel fits existing practices in shipping where heavier fuels are already used. "The GoodFuels MR1-100 fits the existing practice in shipping where heavier fuels are already used today," he said. Holland America Line's existing ships can operate on biofuels without modifications to the engine or fuel structure.

This is not the first biofuel test for Holland America Line, which completed a successful trial in August 2022. The current testing campaign is part of the company's broader efforts to reduce its environmental impact and achieve net-zero emissions, aligning with the overall environmental mission and goals of its parent company, Carnival Corporation. Carnival Corporation's 2023 Sustainability Report, released in April 2024, noted significant achievements toward its 2030 goals.

The biofuel testing on the Rotterdam marks a significant step in the cruise industry's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. As the demand for eco-friendly travel options grows,initiatives like thisdemonstrate the industry's commitment to finding innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America Line tests 100% low-carbon biofuel on Rotterdam ship.
• Biofuel reduces life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions by 86% vs. marine gas oil.
• Rotterdam will operate one engine on biofuel, with potential to expand to multiple engines.
• Biofuel is certified according to EU Renewable Energy Directive and derived from organic waste.
• Test aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.