Galveston Port introduces LNG marine bunkering services for cruise and other vessels

The Port of Galveston is now among the first U.S. ports to make liquefied natural gas (LNG) services available for ships. The recently built Carnival Jubilee cruise ship was fueled with LNG for the first time at its home port on the Gulf Coast before setting sail on December 30th.

“Providing LNG fuel at the port opens opportunities for the Port of Galveston to attract newer, technologically advanced cruise and cargo ships,” said Rodger Rees, the Galveston Wharves port director and CEO. “As LNG continues to gain traction globally as a commercial marine fuel, the port and the community will reap environmental and economic benefits. Fueling more ships with safe, clean-burning LNG improves air quality and creates more jobs.”  

Carnival Jubilee, the inaugural newly built ship to homeport in Galveston, has secured fuel services from two companies: Stabilis Solutions for LNG production and delivery, and Seaside LNG for loading from a specialized barge. The ship also retains the option to run on traditional marine diesel fuel.

Galveston Wharves, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Galveston Fire Department, the Port of Galveston Police Department, Carnival Cruise Line, Stabilis, Seaside, along with other entities, collaborated in obtaining approvals and preparing for the LNG fuel services. The comprehensive process included studies, emergency response planning, training, and implementing additional port security measures to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

LNG’s environmental benefits are considerable, including an 85% decrease in nitrogen oxide emissions compared to traditional fuels.