Costa Smeralda: First LNG Cruise Ship Refueled in Dubai
Costa Cruises has made a significant milestone in the cruise industry. The Costa Smeralda has become the first cruise ship to refuel with liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Dubai. This event marks a major step towards sustainable cruising in the region. The refueling took place during the ship’s winter season of cruises in the United Arab Emirates. This achievement highlights Costa’s commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation in maritime travel.
Successful LNG Bunkering in Dubai
The successful refueling of the Costa Smeralda was made possible through a collaboration between Costa Cruises, Monjasa, a logistics provider, and the Dubai Port Authority. The operation involved the “Green Zeebrugge” tanker ship, which filled the Costa Smeralda’s three LNG tanks with 3,000 cubic meters of the fuel. These tanks are specially designed and constructed with cryogenic steel. This material is crucial for maintaining the LNG at a constant temperature of -155 degrees Celsius, which keeps it in a liquid state. This technology ensures that the ship can operate efficiently and sustainably.
With a full tank of LNG, the Costa Smeralda can operate for at least 2.5 weeks. This capability allows the ship to offer extended voyages without the need for frequent refueling. Giuseppe Carino, the senior vice president of sea-land experience operations at Costa, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable cruising. He noted that Costa was the first cruise line to introduce LNG as a fuel source and is now leading the way in Dubai. The use of LNG significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional marine fuels, making it a cleaner alternative for the environment.
Winter Season and Future Plans
The Costa Smeralda arrived in Dubai on December 21, 2024, after a repositioning cruise that circumnavigated Africa from the Mediterranean. During her winter season in the Emirates, the ship will offer one-week cruises from Dubai. These itineraries will include stops in Muscat (Oman), Doha (Qatar), and Abu Dhabi. This season provides travelers with a unique opportunity to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the Middle East.
On March 1, 2025, the Costa Smeralda will depart from Dubai for a 37-day cruise back to the Mediterranean. This journey will include planned stops in Oman, Mauritius, South Africa, Namibia, the Canary Islands, Morocco, Spain, and France (Corsica). The ship is scheduled to arrive in Genoa on April 7, 2025. As Costa Cruises continues to innovate and expand its fleet, the company is also focusing on developing shore power technology and exploring biofuels and alternative fuels. This commitment to sustainability positions Costa Cruises as a leader in the cruise industry, paving the way for a greener future in maritime travel.
Source: Cruise Industry News
