Cruise lines advance LNG, hydrogen and shoreside power plans
CLIA members back the IMO’s net-zero target as cruise companies deploy or prepare alternative energy systems.
Cruise Lines International Association and its member companies support the International Maritime Organization’s goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by or around 2050. CLIA also says 90% of new cruise ships currently on order will be capable of connecting to shoreside electricity.
Viking says Viking Libra is scheduled to become the first hydrogen-powered cruise ship in late 2026. The vessel will be equipped with fuel cells capable of using hydrogen to generate zero-emission electrical power. Viking has used hybrid diesel-electric engines and onboard solar panels across its Viking Longships river fleet since 2009.
Liquefied natural gas is already in use across several fleets. Carnival Cruise Line introduced LNG with its Excel class, beginning with Mardi Gras in 2020. Silversea’s Silver Nova and Silver Ray, Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class ships and MSC Cruises’ World-class vessels also use LNG.
Explora Journeys plans to use LNG for Explora III and Explora IV. The company’s subsequent Explora V and Explora VI are intended to incorporate hydrogen fuel cells, with Explora V prepared for a later retrofit and Explora VI expected to enter service fully equipped with the technology.