First Bio-LNG Bunkering for Mein Schiff Relax in Barcelona: A Green Milestone in Maritime Energy

At the end of July, TUI Cruises completed its first bio-LNG bunkering for the Mein Schiff Relax at the Port of Barcelona, advancing its commitment to climate-neutral operations. The Mein Schiff Relax, the newest ship in the fleet and the inaugural member of the InTUItion class, was supplied with 1,875 cubic meters of bio-LNG during a ship-to-ship operation from the Haugesund Knutsen barge, which is operated by Knutsen Scale Gas and chartered to Shell.

The bio-LNG was sourced locally from Enagás’ regasification plant within the port, meeting ISCC EU certification standards. This sustainable fuel, derived from organic waste, has the potential to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 70-100%, depending on the source materials. Its chemical structure is identical to that of fossil LNG, allowing it to be utilized directly in the Mein Schiff Relax’s dual-fuel engines without any modifications.

All new vessels in the Mein Schiff fleet come equipped with dual-fuel engines that are capable of running on lower-emission fuels. Mein Schiff 7, which was delivered the previous year, has also been prepared for the use of green methanol. TUI Cruises representatives have emphasized that this flexibility allows them to adopt the lowest-emission options as soon as they become feasible.

The bunkering operation in Barcelona represents a significant milestone in the company’s climate protection strategy, which aims for climate neutrality by 2050. This initiative relies on the adoption of alternative fuels, the use of green shore power already available in many ports, and various technical measures to enhance energy efficiency. Efforts such as route optimization, digital monitoring tools, advanced hull coatings, and improved voyage planning are all essential components aimed at reducing energy demand.

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