Royal Caribbean Testing Biofuel Blends on Two Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean International’s Symphony of the Seas. Photo source: Royal Carribean.

Royal Caribbean Group, a leading global cruise company, is set to make a significant breakthrough in alternative fuel use this summer, as two of its cruise ships, Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex and Royal Caribbean International’s Symphony of the Seas, will embark on a journey in Europe powered by sustainable biofuel.

The groundbreaking test will not only contribute crucial data and research but also provide insights into the fuel’s capabilities and the supply chain infrastructure required to advance the industry’s alternative fuel ambitions.

Celebrity Apex will depart from the port of Rotterdam, while Symphony of the Seas will set sail from the port of Barcelona during the three-month trial.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex. Photo source: Royal Carribean.

Both ships will be fueled with a biofuel blend that effectively reduces carbon emissions. This unique blend is created by purifying renewable raw materials such as oils and fats and combining them with fuel oil, resulting in a cleaner and more sustainable alternative fuel.

“We take great pride in continuing to push our industry forward in exploring innovative fuel solutions that reduce carbon impact and preserve the vibrancy of the oceans we sail,” said President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group Jason Liberty.

After this summer’s trials, the company plans to scale up the utilization of alternative fuels, including biofuels, in upcoming European summer sailings.

Navigator of the Seas. Photo source: Royal Carribean.

This significant step toward alternative fuels comes on the heels of a successful biofuel trial conducted on Royal Caribbean Group’s Navigator of the Seas, which became the first cruise ship to sail from a U.S. port using renewable diesel fuel last fall.

With a sustainability journey spanning over three decades, Royal Caribbean Group has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and the pursuit of solutions for a better future.

By exploring biofuels and building on a portfolio of technologies that enhance energy efficiency, water treatment, and waste management, the company moves closer to its vision of achieving Destination Net Zero—a goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

Navigator Travel exclusively represents Royal Caribbean Cruises in Greece and Bulgaria.