Dublin Bay Cruises has announced a pioneering move in sustainable maritime tourism by transitioning to Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for their domestic passenger vessel, St. Bridget. This marks a significant milestone as Dublin Bay Cruises becomes the first operator in Ireland to adopt HVO as a marine fuel source, moving away from fossil fuels in a bid to reduce its environmental footprint while offering an eco-friendly marine experience to visitors.
The initiative forms part of the company’s broader commitment to the Circular Economy Policy. Rather than building a new vessel from scratch, Dublin Bay Cruises chose to remanufacture the engines of St. Bridget. This approach not only improved the vessel’s fuel efficiency but also dramatically reduced waste, aligning with the company’s environmental goals. Through this remanufacturing process, co2 emissions are expected to drop by up to 90%, far exceeding the climate targets set by the European Union and Ireland. The eco-friendly transition underscores the company’s dedication to sustainability, marine conservation, and greener tourism practices.
Founder and Managing Director, Eugene Garrihy reflected on the decision, saying, “We faced a crucial choice—whether to invest in a larger vessel for increased passenger numbers or to focus on sustainability. After careful thought, we chose sustainability. It’s not just a business decision, but a responsibility to the environment and the future of our coastal communities. We need to slow things down.”
Garrihy emphasized the unique responsibility of operating within the UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere, a globally recognized marine environment. “We are deeply aware of the privilege and responsibility we have to operate here,” Garrihy added. “This initiative reflects our commitment to preserving Dublin Bay for future generations while still providing an unforgettable and sustainable marine experience for our customers.”
In addition to adopting HVO, Dublin Bay Cruises has invested in green technologies to enhance the energy efficiency of St. Bridget. Solar panels have been installed on board, and other green technologies have been integrated into daily operations to further reduce the vessel’s carbon emissions. The company has also partnered with Failte Ireland’s “Climate Action Programme” and local marine conservation groups to support biodiversity and protect the rich marine life in Dublin Bay.
The transition to HVO is not only a significant step for Dublin Bay Cruises but also a potential inspiration for others in the tourism industry. By leading the way in adopting sustainable fuel alternatives, Dublin Bay Cruises hopes to encourage others to follow suit in safeguarding Ireland’s natural heritage. St. Bridget is set to continue operating for at least another decade with significantly lower emissions, allowing passengers to enjoy the beauty of Dublin Bay while reducing their environmental impact.
Dublin Bay Cruises invites all travelers and marine enthusiasts to embark on this exciting eco-friendly journey, offering a unique perspective of Dublin Bay’s most iconic landmarks. From Dun Laoghaire Harbour and the James Joyce Tower to Dalkey Island, Clontarf, Bull Island, and Howth Harbour, visitors can experience the sights of Dublin Bay with a reduced environmental footprint.
The company’s commitment to sustainability not only aligns with its operational goals but also contributes to the broader movement of decarbonization within the maritime industry, offering a cleaner and greener future for tourism and bunkering alike.
About Dublin Bay Cruises
Dublin Bay Cruises, operated by the Garrihy family, brings decades of maritime experience, especially from the west coast of Ireland. The company also operates four ships through Cliffs of Moher Cruises and Doolin2Aran Ferries. Their 75-minute Dublin Bay Cruise links commuters between Dun Laoghaire and Howth, showcasing scenic views of Dublin’s coastal landmarks. The service is conveniently accessible via public transport, and cyclists can take their bikes aboard to cross the bay, enjoying a seamless and eco-friendly experience.
Source Dublin Bay Cruises