Celebrity Cruises is set to revolutionise its approach to energy by advancing the use of alternative fuels on its newest ship.
- The collaboration involves Royal Caribbean Group, Wärtsilä, and Chantiers de L’Atlantique in creating a tri-fuel engine system.
- These technological advancements target significant reductions in emissions such as sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides.
- Celebrity Cruises aims for unmatched fuel flexibility, integrating methanol as a key fuel option.
- The initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in the cruise industry.
Celebrity Cruises has announced a bold step towards sustainability with the introduction of alternative fuels on its upcoming fifth Edge-class ship. This initiative includes a collaborative effort with Royal Caribbean Group, renowned technology company Wärtsilä, and shipyard Chantiers de L’Atlantique. Their goal is to integrate a new engine model that provides the capability to utilise three different types of fuel, including methanol as a significant option.
The advanced engine system is designed to offer unprecedented fuel flexibility, a feature highlighted in Celebrity Cruises’ statement. This flexibility is achieved through two converted 8-cylinder Wärtsilä 46F engines that are engineered to operate with multiple fuel sources. The inclusion of methanol not only advances carbon-free cruising but is also instrumental in diminishing local emissions such as sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, articulated the company’s dedication to sustainability, citing the ambitious energy efficiency goals set forth with the launch of the Edge Series in 2018. She noted that working alongside partners has allowed Celebrity Cruises to continue evolving its ships with each new addition to the fleet, achieving technological breakthroughs in the process.
On a similar note, Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty emphasised the importance of evolving both ship design and the fuelling technologies that power them. He pointed out that as low-carbon-based solutions become more viable, the inclusion of tri-fuelled engines will ensure Celebrity Cruises’ fleet can adapt to such innovations, driving the industry towards a sustainable and net zero emissions future.
Earlier this year, Celebrity Ascent, the fourth ship in the Edge Series, marked a significant milestone by touching water for the first time. Scheduled for launch in December 2023, this vessel is already a testament to the ongoing evolution and commitment to energy efficiency that Celebrity Cruises upholds.
Celebrity Cruises’ integration of alternative fuel systems marks a decisive shift towards sustainability in maritime travel.
