Edison S.p.A., a leading Italian energy company, has successfully concluded the LNG bunkering operation for TUI Cruises’ newest vessel, Mein Schiff Relax, at the Port of Trieste. This milestone underscores the growing importance of the Adriatic Sea as a hub for alternative maritime fuels and showcases Edison’s expertise in LNG supply for the shipping industry.
The Port of Trieste, Italy’s largest and busiest seaport, is rapidly becoming a strategic center for LNG bunkering, with its deep-water access and advanced infrastructure supporting the transition to cleaner fuels in the Mediterranean.
LNG Bunkering with Ravenna Knutsen
The LNG refueling was carried out using the Ravenna Knutsen, a small-scale LNG carrier operating under Edison’s contract. Built by Hyundai Heavy Industries, this vessel boasts a 30,000-cubic-meter LNG capacity and features advanced cryogenic insulation technology. Equipped with dual cargo manifolds, it offers compatibility with various storage facilities and vessels, optimizing LNG bunkering efficiency.
A Next-Generation Cruise Ship with Sustainable Technologies
Mein Schiff Relax, delivered on February 7, 2025, is the first of two state-of-the-art LNG dual-fuel cruise ships built by Fincantieri for TUI Cruises, a leading cruise line based in Germany. Measuring 333 meters in length, with a beam of 42.1 meters and a gross tonnage of 160,000 tons, the vessel integrates cutting-edge environmental technologies. Its dual-fuel propulsion system allows operation on both LNG and low Sulphur marine gas oil (LSMGO), with the potential to incorporate future low-emission e-Fuels.
Advancing Environmental Performance in Cruise Shipping
Further enhancing its environmental credentials, Mein Schiff Relax is equipped with:
- Shore power connectivity for zero-emission port stays
- Euro 6-compliant catalytic converters to reduce NOx emissions
- A waste heat recovery turbine to improve energy efficiency
- An advanced waste treatment system to minimize environmental impact
A standout innovation on board is the Evac HydroTreat system, which uses hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) to convert organic waste into biochar. This process significantly reduces emissions, plastic waste, and harmful gas releases while creating a reusable byproduct, aligning with TUI Cruises’ ambitious sustainability goals.
Edison’s Commitment to a Greener Maritime Future
As the maritime industry accelerates its shift toward greener fuel alternatives, LNG remains a key solution for reducing emissions, including sulfur oxides (SOx), particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and CO₂. Edison’s commitment to LNG bunkering aligns with European and international sustainability regulations, including the upcoming Mediterranean SECA (Sulfur Emission Control Area) standards, which take effect on May 1, 2025.
By concluding this successful LNG bunkering operation, Edison reinforces its role in supporting cleaner energy solutions for the maritime industry. The collaboration with TUI Cruises reflects the cruise sector’s commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction, positioning Edison as a key player in the decarbonization of maritime transportation.
Source Adison | TUI Cruises