The Port of Naples has successfully conducted its inaugural ship-to-ship LNG bunkering for a cruise vessel, signaling a significant advancement in Italy’s transition to alternative marine fuels. The operation, which involved the Sun Princess from Princess Cruises, utilized the Green Zeebrugge bunkering tanker and took place on May 24, 2026.
This historic LNG transfer was executed in partnership with several key authorities, including the Port System Authority of the Central Tyrrhenian Sea and the Port Authority of Naples. It marks a pivotal moment for Naples, as it becomes the first Italian port to facilitate LNG bunkering for cruise ships, reflecting a broader trend towards increasing LNG utilization in the nation’s ports.
The successful operation signifies a commitment to reducing emissions in maritime shipping while enhancing port fuel infrastructure for cleaner operations. Italian ports are progressively developing their capabilities for ship-to-ship LNG refueling, with Naples joining the ranks of other ports in the country where LNG bunkering is gaining traction, particularly in the cruise and ferry sectors.
