Silversea to launch first hybrid powered ship

Ultra-luxury brand Silversea will become the first cruise line to launch a “hybrid powered” ship in 2023 as part of parent company Royal Caribbean Group’s plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The new class of ship, known as ‘Project Evolution,’ will operate using a trio of power sources including a fuel cell system, battery technology and dual fuel engines using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as the main fuel.

This allows the ship to be free of local emissions while at port – which it claims is another industry first. 

The new hybrid technology not only helps in port, but also allows Project Evolution to achieve a 40% overall reduction in its greenhouse gas emissions per double occupancy when compared to the brand’s previous class of ships.

The ship class is also projected to achieve an Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) rating approximately 25% better than applicable International Maritime Organisation (IMO) requirements.

Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Richard Fain said: “Silversea’s newest ship class is a significant leap forward in our commitment to sustainable ship design and our journey to reduce our environmental footprint.

“We first announced our fuel cell ambitions several years ago. Through dedication and perseverance, we are now proud to introduce the first ship with large-scale fuel cell technology capable of achieving emission-free port operations.”

Roberto Martinoli, President and CEO, Silversea Cruises, added: “Being at the forefront of sustainable shipping design and innovation is a testament to our team’s drive for continuous improvement.

“These advancements support our desire to showcase the world to our guests and to do so in a mindful and environmentally responsible way.” 

Royal Caribbean also announced its "Destination Net Zero" Program – a comprehensive decarbonisation strategy that includes pledging to establish Science-Based Targets (SBT) and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Over 18 to 24 months, the cruise company will develop goals to be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which it claims to be the first such pledge for the cruise industry.

The work will begin following the publication of SBTi's marine transport methodology. Science-based targets show companies how much, and how quickly, they need to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to help limit global warming.

Along the journey to net zero, key milestones will include the delivery of a net zero cruise ship by 2035.