Port of Seattle to run biofuel cruise pilot

As part of a ten-year deal, the two will collaborate on a fuel demonstration project and study to explore the challenges and benefits of using sustainable marine fuels at scale.

“For the past 20 years, we have worked closely with the Port of Seattle to pioneer shore power and secure the cruise industry’s role as a vital economic engine for the region,” said Josh Weinstein, chief executive of Carnival Corporation.

Carnival Corporation owns major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princes Cruises, Holland America Line and Cunard. During 2023, 140 of its ships called at Seattle, nearly half of the total cruise calls.

Last month, Holland America Line announced the start of a long-term biofuel test on its flagship vessel, bio, which will use 100% low-carbon biofuel when sailing the Norwegian fjords.

Biofuels are seen as one of the best ways to reduce shipping emissions in the short-to-medium term as they can either be blended with conventional fuel or used as a drop-in fuel with minimal adjustment to engines.

Over the long term, alternative fuels such as green methanol or ammonia are likely to supplant biofuels but, for now, port infrastructure remains nascent in most regions.