AIDA Powers the Future: Transitioning to Bio-LNG with 3,300 Tons and Embracing Shore Power

In the first half of 2025, AIDA Cruises made significant advancements in sustainability by utilizing over 3,300 tonnes of ISCC EU-certified bio-LNG on its ship, AIDAnova. Deliveries of this biofuel took place in key ports such as Hamburg, Kiel, and Zeebrugge.

By the end of August 2025, AIDA had established over 250 shore-power connections across its fleet, with expectations to exceed 400 by the end of the year. These initiatives are part of AIDA’s comprehensive decarbonization and modernization strategy under its "Evolution" program. This program also includes plans for new vessels that will be delivered in spring 2030 and winter 2031-32, designed for multi-fuel propulsion, allowing for the use of both bio-fuels and e-fuels when they become widely available.

In addition to biofuels, AIDA has been testing extremely low-emission biofuels. Notably, in 2024, AIDAprima operated on 100% residual biofuel (BMF 100), achieving over a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions during tests.

Shore power has become integral to AIDA’s operations, with the fleet logging 381 connections in European ports during 2024, a substantial increase from 65 in 2023. Ports in Germany, as well as in Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, are now equipped for this service, enabling AIDA ships to shut down their main engines and utilize local port electricity for onboard systems. This practice can lead to emission reductions of up to 98%, contingent on local energy sources and infrastructure.

AIDA is also implementing other efficiency measures, such as a 10 MWh battery storage system on AIDAprima for peak energy distribution, which helps reduce fuel consumption. The fleet continues to invest in improvements involving air conditioning, refrigeration, waste heat recovery, LED lighting, and the use of data analytics and AI to optimize energy usage.

Overall, AIDA’s ongoing upgrades in technology, fuel sourcing and readiness, and the integration of shore power exemplify the company’s commitment to achieving climate goals established by the EU and the IMO, aligning with its own aspirations for net-zero emissions.

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