Port Canaveral First LNG Bunkering for Star of the Seas

Port Canaveral recently reached a historic milestone with the first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering of the Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International's newest Icon-class vessel and the world’s largest cruise ship. The bunkering operation took place on August 14, 2025, just days ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage on August 16, 2025, demonstrating the port’s readiness to serve LNG-powered ships. Seaside LNG, in partnership with JAX LNG and Pivotal LNG, facilitated the seven-hour refueling using the Jones Act-compliant bunker barge Clean Everglades.

Safe and Efficient LNG Bunkering Operations

The LNG fueling process supplied the Star of the Seas with multiple weeks’ worth of fuel and was conducted at berth under strict safety oversight from Canaveral Fire Rescue’s Fireboat 2, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, and the U.S. Coast Guard. LNG, known for its cleaner emissions profile, is odorless and colorless, and offers significant environmental benefits including zero sulfur oxide emissions, up to an 85% reduction in nitrogen oxides, a 95% decrease in particulate matter, and roughly 20% lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.

LNG operations require specialized infrastructure such as large storage tanks and purpose-built bunkering assets like the Clean Everglades barge. The operation was additionally supported by JAX LNG whose Jacksonville facility can liquefy up to 360,000 gallons of LNG per day and offers approximately four million gallons of storage, ensuring reliable fuel supply for regional cruise and maritime operations.

Port Canaveral’s Investments in LNG Infrastructure

Port Canaveral has made extensive infrastructure upgrades and implemented comprehensive safety measures to accommodate LNG-powered vessels. With updated emergency response protocols and targeted training programs, the port has positioned itself as a leader in LNG cruising innovation. These investments mirror the growing adoption of LNG across the cruise industry, addressing both environmental concerns and operational efficiency.

The Star of the Seas: A Sustainability-Focused Flagship

Built at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard, the 250,800-gross-ton Star of the Seas operates exclusively on LNG and integrates advanced energy efficiency systems as part of Royal Caribbean’s Destination Net Zero strategy. After preview sailings earlier in August, the vessel embarked on its maiden voyage on August 16, 2025, and will commence its regular seven-night Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from Port Canaveral on August 31, 2025. On August 20, 2025, the ship was christened at an official ceremony where research astronaut Kellie Gerardi served as godmother.

Industry Shift Toward LNG Adoption

The debut of the Star of the Seas underscores a growing trend in the cruise industry toward LNG-powered ships, driven by regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. Port Canaveral’s successful implementation of LNG-ready infrastructure sets a model for other ports worldwide as LNG gains further traction in the maritime sector.

For Royal Caribbean and its industry peers, LNG represents an important step in reducing emissions while ensuring enhanced guest experiences. Harmonizing environmental stewardship with operational efficiency stands to provide significant economic and reputational benefits for cruise lines and the ports that support them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is LNG, and why is it important for cruise ships?

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a cleaner-burning fuel alternative to traditional marine fuels. It completely eliminates sulfur oxide emissions and significantly reduces nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide emissions. Its use in the cruise industry supports global sustainability goals and adherence to international emissions standards.

How did Port Canaveral prepare for LNG bunkering operations?

Port Canaveral has invested in specialized LNG infrastructure, including safety protocols and emergency response training, to ensure a safe and efficient fueling process. These preparations are part of the port's broader strategy to transition to more sustainable maritime practices.

What makes the Star of the Seas unique?

The Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s largest and most advanced vessel, operating solely on LNG. Constructed at the Meyer Turku shipyard, the ship features innovative energy efficiency systems that support Royal Caribbean's Destination Net Zero strategy.

What infrastructure does JAX LNG provide for LNG bunkering?

JAX LNG’s Jacksonville facility is equipped to liquefy up to 360,000 gallons of LNG per day and offers four million gallons of storage capacity. It supplies Jones Act-approved bunker barges, such as the Clean Everglades and Clean Canaveral, which are crucial for supporting LNG-powered cruise operations.

What is the cruise schedule for the Star of the Seas at Port Canaveral?

The Star of the Seas launched preview sailings earlier in August and embarked on its maiden voyage on August 16, 2025. It will begin regular seven-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Port Canaveral starting August 31, 2025, operating year-round thereafter.