Most people don’t worry about fuel outside of filling the gas tank in their car. However, in a world full of environmental problems, it helps to think about the use of oil in other areas of our lives.
If you are a sailing enthusiast, have you ever thought about what kind of ships are used? If not, it may be worth exploring the solution. Fortunately, you will find it right here.
This article will answer this question as well as other aspects of today’s marine fuel consumption.
What Kind of Fuel Do Ships Use?
The simple answer is diesel. Most marine vessels use a special type of diesel fuel called marine diesel oil (MDO) that is designed for marine vessels such as cruise ships. Despite the controversy, diesel continues to be used by many ships today.
However, despite diesel’s negative environmental impact, some cruise lines are working to improve their diesel usage and explore alternatives.
For example, Royal Caribbean is trying to get ahead using renewable fuels on select shipsincluding Navigator of the Seas. Renewable diesel is produced by hydroprocessing of oil, vegetable oil, and waste cooking oil. The result is similar to conventional diesel, with very low emissions compared to other marine fuels.
Popular Tours he has also agreed to change the oil in other places, and the train is coming Edge Series which will include a new type of engine, as well as storage and delivery systems that will make the ship’s fuel more flexible. The new train will use three types of fuel, including methanol, which is good for the environment.
Let’s take a look at some of the diesel conversion options that cruise lines are using – the good and the bad.
Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO)
Traditional ships rely heavily on heavy fuel, also known as bunker fuel. The oil is thick, dark, and resembles tar.
The low cost of heavy fuel oil has made it a major source of fuel for marine vessels – such as cruise ships. However, many people criticize the use of this oil because of the damage it causes to the environment due to oil spills and toxic emissions. That said, it continues to be used on ships today, often combined with diesel.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
Dissolved gas has emerged as the best way to power ships.
LNG is natural gas extracted from the core of the earth and cooled into liquid. LNG fuel is usually methane but is called LNG after it has been liquefied through compressurization or refrigeration.
LNG fuel is colorless, odorless, non-toxic, and cleaner than gasoline or other fuels. Since it burns efficiently, LNG has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly and therefore has a low environmental impact.
The only downside is that LNG is limited because it is a fossil fuel, and we may not have enough energy to last for more than 50 years. Also, production is more expensive than heavy fuel or diesel. Royal Caribbean has a list of upcoming LNG ships, including Symbol of the Seas is Ocean Utopia.
Cruise Ship Fuel Types FAQ
Most ships still run on diesel fuel. Blending with diesel is very common because bunker fuel is considered to be very bad for the environment.
Many cruise lines are building their new ships to run on LNG because it is an environmentally friendly fuel. New cruise ships often come out as LNG, including MSC’s World-class, Carnival’s Excel-class, and Royal Caribbean’s. Symbol of the Sea.
Conclusion: The Future of Marine Fuels
Hopefully, you’ve learned more than just what cruise ships use and are starting to think about the future of marine fuel.
Experts say that electricity will dominate the demand for oil in the future. Although electricity is already taking over our daily lives with electric cars, the shipping industry may be a little behind.
Also Read: How Much Does It Cost to Burn a Ship?
Cruise lines are trying to reduce their carbon footprint and find alternative fuels to power their ships. This may be a slow process, but hopefully, one day they will find a more streamlined way for travelers to enjoy their travels.
