Reykjavík, Iceland – August 5, 2025 – In a landmark moment for sustainable maritime energy, Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady made her inaugural call to the Port of Reykjavík, receiving the first-ever biofuel bunkering of a cruise ship in Iceland. The operation was carried out by Icelandic energy company Skeljungur, which delivered 100 tonnes of pure biofuel, positioning the Port of Reykjavík and Associated Icelandic Ports (Faxaflóahafnir sf.) as a growing clean fuel hub for North Atlantic shipping.
This operation marks a pivotal shift in marine fuel dynamics, as regional suppliers begin to bridge global supply gaps in second-generation, waste-based biofuels—long sought after by cruise and deep-sea shipping operators aiming to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions.
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A Fully Green Supply Chain in Action
Skeljungur delivered approximately 100 tonnes of pure biofuel directly to the Scarlet Lady. Uniquely, the fuel was transported using Skeljungur’s own fleet of trucks powered by the same biodiesel being bunkered onboard—demonstrating an end-to-end commitment to sustainability across its entire logistics chain.
From Miami to Reykjavík: Collaboration Born from Vision
Þórður Guðjónsson, CEO of Skeljungur, attended the Scarlet Lady’s traditional plaque exchange ceremony, marking the vessel’s maiden call at the Port of Reykjavík. In a brief address, he reflected on the collaboration’s international origins.
“This delivery represents a significant milestone for both the cruise industry and Iceland as a bunkering location,” Guðjónsson said. “Our engagement with Virgin Voyages began during a discussion in Miami, where we outlined our ability to supply advanced, sustainable marine fuels in Iceland. The response was clear: reliable access to second-generation biofuels in this region was not expected—yet urgently needed.”
He continued “This operation demonstrates what’s possible when ambition aligns with capability. It underscores Skeljungur’s commitment to enabling cleaner shipping through practical, locally sourced energy solutions that meet international environmental standards.”
Tackling the Global Shortage of Clean Biofuels
The limited global availability of truly sustainable marine biofuels remains a major challenge for the cruise industry’s decarbonization goals. While cruise lines are investing in fuel-flexible newbuilds and alternative energy sources, supply chain constraints—especially for advanced biofuels made from waste—have slowed adoption.
With this successful operation, Skeljungur and the Port of Reykjavík demonstrate Iceland’s emerging role as a credible supplier of next-generation marine fuels. The precedent set here could inspire other ports to follow suit—fueling a cleaner global shipping future.
Virgin Voyages: A Trailblazer in Sustainable Cruising
Virgin Voyages has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of sustainable maritime innovation. With a strong commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, the company has integrated advanced green technologies and alternative fuels into its fleet operations. The biofuel bunkering of Scarlet Lady in Reykjavík represents a significant step in Virgin Voyages’ ongoing strategy to decarbonize cruise travel, demonstrating its leadership in adopting cutting-edge clean fuels. This collaboration with Skeljungur reinforces Virgin Voyages’ mission to pioneer sustainable cruising experiences and sets a benchmark for the wider cruise industry.
About Skeljungur
Skeljungur hf. is a leading Icelandic energy and fuel solutions provider, committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy services across land, sea, and air. The company plays a key role in the country’s energy infrastructure, offering products and services to commercial, agricultural, maritime, aviation, and construction sectors.
A holder of the Icelandic Equal Pay Certification, Skeljungur emphasizes equity, safety, and sustainability in its operations and workforce. As Shell’s official reseller in Iceland, Skeljungur also manages several affiliated brands, including Barkur, EAK, Fjölver, and Ecomar, with approximately 60 employees nationwide.
Through strategic investment in cleaner fuels and responsible logistics, Skeljungur is positioning itself as a key partner in the transition to lower-emission marine energy—starting with the historic delivery to Scarlet Lady.
Why Choose Skeljungur?
- Marine Fuels and lubricants delivered by truck, bunker barge, or onsite pumps.
- Convenient, schedule-tailored services.
- Environmentally friendly distribution, exemplified by the recent biofuel delivery.
- Supply in Iceland and select foreign ports.
- Technical support for marine engines.
- High-capacity bunkering with flow rates up to 400 m³/hour.
- Flexible availability to meet diverse operational needs.
- Simultaneous cargo loading/offloading (SIMOPS) during bunkering, saving port time.
- Comprehensive sludge and waste oil removal.
- Quiet and discreet operations minimizing passenger disturbance.
Skeljungur’s Vessel Service also supports fisheries vessels, offering expert advice on marine fuel, lubricants, documentation, engine assessments, and lubricant monitoring to optimize performance.
Source Skeljungur hf.