Aurora Expeditions Trials Biofuel on Sylvia Earle Ship: A Step Towards Sustainable Travel in Spain

Aurora Expeditions, based in Australia, has successfully conducted its first biofuel trial aboard the expedition vessel Sylvia Earle, marking a significant move toward sustainable maritime operations. This trial took place in May 2025 at Port Valencia, Spain, where the ship operated fully on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a biofuel derived from used cooking oil. Early results showed a remarkable reduction in fuel-related emissions by as much as 90% compared to traditional marine fuels.

The conversion process involved an extensive cleaning of the fuel tanks before switching to HVO. Following the change, the ship sailed along the Spanish coastline for several days without any performance issues, confirming HVO’s technical viability for expedition conditions. This achievement aligns with Aurora Expeditions’ commitment to minimizing the environmental impact of its voyages.

The significance of this trial goes beyond the Sylvia Earle, as HVO is a renewable fuel that supports a circular economy by utilizing waste materials, thereby contributing to greenhouse gas emission reductions. This trial aligns with global goals under the Paris Agreement and regulations from the International Maritime Organization aimed at curbing maritime emissions. The successful implementation of biofuels could be crucial in helping the cruise industry adhere to decarbonization targets.

As the first expedition vessel of its kind to undergo such a trial in Spain, the Sylvia Earle sets a precedent in cleaner maritime operations. Aurora Expeditions plans to continue testing biofuels when its fleet returns to Europe in 2026, aiming to integrate fuel innovations with broader emissions-reduction strategies. This initiative aims to ensure that exploring remote coastal and polar regions remains sustainable and compatible with global carbon limitations.

This inaugural trial not only highlights a shift in expedition cruising but also illustrates the feasibility of cleaner fuels in maritime activities, reducing the industry’s reliance on fossil fuels and appealing to eco-conscious travelers.

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