Viva Energy Launches Australia’s First Biofuel Trial for Cruise Shipping

Viva Energy Australia, a leading energy company, has launched the country’s first commercial cruise ship biofuels trial, marking a major step in the push toward sustainable maritime fuel solutions. On April 5, 2025, Royal Caribbean Group’s Celebrity Edge departed from Sydney Harbour powered by a marine biofuel blend as part of the pilot program. The voyage was supported by Viva Energy’s marine fuel infrastructure at Port Jackson, in partnership with Polaris Marine.

The initiative is designed to demonstrate the practical application of biofuels in large-scale commercial cruise operations and aligns with broader efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of maritime transportation.

“We are proud to collaborate with Royal Caribbean Group on this landmark trial from our Sydney Harbour operations—the first operation of its kind to supply marine biofuel to a cruise ship in Australia,” said Richard Xin, Viva Energy’s General Manager Specialities, Marine & Defence. “Viva Energy is deeply committed to helping our customers lower their carbon footprint through the introduction of cleaner fuels and innovative supply chain solutions. While biofuel supply is well established in international markets, this trial marks a pivotal step toward making lower-carbon marine fuels a reality in Australia.”

B20 Biofuel Composition and Sustainability Credentials

The fuel used in the trial is B20, a blend composed of 80% conventional marine distillate and 20% B100 biodiesel. The B100 component was produced from locally sourced used cooking oil and carries International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC+) accreditation. This ensures the fuel meets global standards for traceability and sustainability.

The biodiesel was supplied by Just Biodiesel, an Australian manufacturer, highlighting the role of local supply chains in enabling more sustainable fuel solutions. B20 can be used in existing marine engines without significant modifications, offering a practical, low-barrier option for shipowners seeking to reduce emissions.

Contribution to Maritime Decarbonisation Goals

The successful use of B20 in this trial is viewed as a promising development in the effort to decarbonise the maritime sector. As global regulatory pressure mounts—driven by initiatives such as the International Maritime Organization’s 2050 emissions reduction strategy—alternative fuels are becoming a central focus for shipping and cruise operators.

Biofuels like B20 offer an immediate, scalable pathway to lower emissions, particularly for vessels that may not be ready to adopt fully electric or hydrogen-based propulsion systems. Trials such as this provide valuable real-world data to support future adoption and regulatory planning.

Viva Energy’s Broader Role in Marine Fuels

As one of Australia’s largest marine fuel suppliers, Viva Energy is actively exploring both conventional and alternative fuel pathways for its customers. This trial underscores the company’s role in supporting the maritime industry’s transition to lower-emission operations.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to offer diverse fuel solutions and to ensure Australian ports and ship operators are prepared for the evolving global fuel landscape. With local partners and infrastructure in place, the company is positioning itself as a key player in the shift toward more sustainable bunkering practices.

Royal Caribbean Group’s Commitment to Maritime Decarbonisation

Royal Caribbean Group, one of the world’s largest cruise operators, has been actively advancing its sustainability agenda with a strong focus on maritime decarbonisation. The company’s participation in Australia’s first commercial cruise biofuel trial reflects its broader strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its global fleet.

By partnering with fuel suppliers like Viva Energy and supporting the use of alternative marine fuels such as B20, Royal Caribbean is contributing to the industry’s transition toward cleaner energy. This trial builds on the Group’s ongoing investments in next-generation ships, energy-efficient technologies, and low-emission operations, reinforcing its goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in alignment with International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets.

About Viva Energy

Viva Energy is a leading energy company supplying approximately a quarter of Australia’s fuel needs. The company imports, refines, blends, and distributes fuels, lubricants, solvents, and bitumen across national and international supply chains.

Viva Energy is the exclusive Australian licensee of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants, operating a network of around 1,350 Shell and Liberty service stations. The company provides energy solutions to a wide range of sectors, including transport, marine, mining, aviation, manufacturing, defense, and construction.

With a strong focus on reliability, safety, and innovation, Viva Energy plays a critical role in supporting the fuel demands of Australian motorists and industries, while actively contributing to the country’s transition toward lower-emission energy sources.

Source Viva Energy Australia