Cruise Line Cunard Enables Shore Power Capability Across Entire Fleet

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth. Photo source: Cunard.

Cunard, a luxury British cruise line, has achieved a ground-breaking milestone by enabling its entire fleet to connect to shore power.

According to an announcement, all three of Cunard’s ships – Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth – can now plug into shore power when docked, reducing emissions and noise while at port.

Shore power technology enables ships to switch off their on-board engines and operate on electricity sourced entirely from the local electrical grid. This can significantly reduce emissions, including harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. It can also help to improve air quality in port areas.

The ability for Cunard’s ships to connect to shore power is already available at many key ports, including Queen Mary 2’s homeport at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal and Queen Anne’s homeport in Southampton, England. The company plans to continue to work with ports around the world to expand the availability of shore power, as part of its commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

A ship to shore power connect crane at the Southampton port. Photo source: Associated British Ports.

 “By adopting shore power technology, we are taking a significant step in our ongoing commitment to reducing emissions, minimizing our carbon footprint, and fostering healthier port environments,” said Cunard President Katie McAlister.

Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic since 1840, and is considered a pioneer in transatlantic journeys.

The line’s newest ship, Queen Anne, set to debut in May 2024, will have the technology installed before her maiden voyage.

Amphitrion Group of Companies is the sales representative of Cunard in Greece.