110 COMMENTARY The decarbonisation of the cruise and ferry sector is an urgent challenge, and one that demands both innovation and clarity. For passenger shipowners, the choices ahead are both abundant and daunting. The constant evolution of fuels, technologies and regulatory frameworks all influence the next generation of vessels. At RINA, we believe there is no silver bullet to decarbonisation. Instead, success will lie in taking pragmatic steps and keeping an open mind. As someone with years of experience in this industry, I see an increasing number of shipowners facing pressure to select propulsion technologies or fuels today that must remain viable for decades to come. This brings both opportunity and risk, particularly the danger of committing to a path that may not align with future availability or regulations. One principle remains constant: the best energy is the energy you do not use. Efficiency is not a trend; it is a foundation. From propulsion optimisation to HVAC systems, lighting and automation, every kilowatt of energy saved is money earned and emissions avoided. Encouragingly, most operators are making strides here. But there is still room to go further, especially through improved crew training and smarter use of onboard systems. When it comes to alternative fuels, the options are complex. Ammonia, despite its theoretical promise, carries toxicity and operational risks that make it an unlikely candidate for passenger shipping, at least for now. Methanol, meanwhile, offers a more immediate pathway but brings its own hurdles. They include the need for pilot fuels, ANDREAS ULLRICH Naval architect Andreas Ullrich is global market director for passenger ships and ferries at maritime classification, certification and engineering consultancy firm RINA How can we decarbonise shipping? Shipowners must invest in new fuels and technologies to cut carbon emissions and remain compliant with increasingly strict regulations, but which ones offer the most promise for the future?
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