Port Canaveral has hosted the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering of Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and world’s largest cruise ship. The fueling took place on August 14, just days before the ship’s maiden voyage on August 16.
The LNG operation was completed by Seaside LNG, which deployed its Jones Act-compliant bunker barge Clean Everglades. The process was supported by JAX LNG and Pivotal LNG, with the supply providing the ship enough fuel to last for a few weeks.
According to the port, the entire operation lasted about seven hours. The fueling was closely monitored to ensure safety at every stage.
Canaveral Fire Rescue’s Fireboat 2, a specially equipped marine firefighting rescue vessel, was deployed on-site, while the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and the U.S. Coast Guard also supervised the bunkering.
LNG, one of the maritime industry’s most advanced fuels, was chosen to power Star of the Seas. The fuel is odourless, colourless, more environmentally friendly, and less costly compared to traditional fuels. However, it requires larger, specially designed storage tanks as well as custom-built refuelling barges and firefighting support vessels.
Environmental benefits of LNG include the complete elimination of sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, up to 85% lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, a 95% reduction in particulate matter, and as much as 20% less carbon dioxide (CO₂) compared with conventional fuels.
The Star of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Icon class and was built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. The ship runs fully on LNG and incorporates advanced energy efficiency systems, forming a key part of Royal Caribbean’s “Destination Net Zero” strategy.
The port’s investments in LNG infrastructure, safety procedures, and emergency response protocols have prepared it to handle the growing number of LNG-powered cruise ships entering service.
Star of the Seas embarked on its maiden voyage from Port Canaveral on August 16 after bunkering. Beginning August 31, the ship will launch regular seven-night cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean.
References: bunkermarket, manifoldtimes
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