Port Canaveral marked a major milestone this week by completing the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering of Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and the world’s largest cruise ship. The fueling operation took place on August 14, just ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage on August 16.
The LNG transfer was carried out by Seaside LNG using its Jones Act-compliant bunker barge Clean Everglades, with additional support from JAX LNG and Pivotal LNG. The ship received enough fuel to operate for several weeks, with the entire seven-hour operation closely monitored to ensure safety.
Canaveral Fire Rescue deployed its specially equipped Fireboat 2, while the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and the U.S. Coast Guard supervised the bunkering. LNG is considered one of the maritime sector’s cleanest fuels, offering significant environmental benefits, including the complete elimination of sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, up to 85% lower nitrogen oxide (NOx), a 95% reduction in particulate matter, and around 20% less carbon dioxide (CO₂) compared to conventional marine fuels.
Built at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard, Star of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Icon class and is fully powered by LNG. The vessel also incorporates advanced energy-efficiency technologies, aligning with the company’s “Destination Net Zero” strategy.
Port Canaveral’s continued investment in LNG bunkering infrastructure, safety procedures, and emergency response capabilities has positioned it as a leading hub for the growing fleet of LNG-powered cruise ships.
Following its maiden voyage on August 16, Star of the Seas will begin offering regular seven-night cruises to The Bahamas and the Caribbean from August 31.