Shell Marine has successfully completed its first LNG bunkering operation for TUI Cruises in Barcelona, marking a major milestone in the decarbonization of cruise shipping and strengthening Barcelona’s position as a key LNG hub in Europe and the Mediterranean.
The operation was carried out using Shell’s LNG bunker barge, the Haugesund Knutsen, which safely and efficiently supplied liquefied natural gas to the Mein Schiff Relax, a state-of-the-art cruise ship operated by TUI Cruises. This operation reflects growing industry momentum toward alternative fuels and represents a key step in Shell’s global expansion of LNG marine fuel capabilities.
“We’re proud to support TUI Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group in their decarbonization journey,” said Dexter Belmar, GM and Head of Global Downstream LNG at Shell Marine. “Port of Barcelona is more than a world-class cruise destination—it’s now a strategic LNG supply point, and this successful operation underscores our shared commitment to accelerating the maritime energy transition.”
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Port of Barcelona Emerges as LNG Powerhouse
The milestone bunkering comes amid record LNG bunkering growth at the Port of Barcelona. In 2024, the port conducted 491 LNG bunkering operations, more than doubling its 2023 figure of 199. This included 89 barge deliveries totaling 184,324 m³ and 402 truck deliveries providing 45,427 m³, culminating in a total of 229,751 m³ of LNG bunkered—up significantly from 143,000 m³ in 2023.
This rapid growth is the result of targeted infrastructure investments, a strong policy push for clean fuels, and collaborative efforts with major industry players like Shell Marine, Knutsen, Royal Caribbean Group, TUI Cruises and local port authorities. Barcelona’s surge in LNG activity cements its reputation as a regional leader in low-carbon maritime fuel solutions.
“Barcelona is not only rising as a cruise capital but also leading the way in sustainable marine fuel adoption,” added Belmar. “We are excited to contribute to this transformation with safe, efficient LNG supply solutions.”
Shell Marine’s Global LNG Bunkering Network
The success in Barcelona is part of Shell Marine’s broader LNG bunkering strategy, which now includes 26 active LNG bunkering locations across the globe. These include high-traffic cruise and cargo ports such as Bahamas, Canaveral, Everglades, Jamaica, Miami, Singapore, Southampton, and Tenerife.
LNG continues to emerge as the preferred alternative fuel for the cruise and broader shipping sectors, offering significant reductions in SOx, NOx, and particulate matter, as well as a long-term pathway to net-zero emissions through bio-LNG and synthetic LNG.
Shell’s investments in bunkering vessels, infrastructure, and digital solutions are designed to support operators navigating complex regulatory changes and increasing environmental pressures.
“Whether you’re already operating LNG dual-fuel vessels or planning the transition, we’re here to help you meet today’s requirements and prepare for tomorrow’s IMO goals,” said Belmar.
This landmark LNG bunkering operation in the Port of Barcelona not only demonstrates Shell Marine’s operational capabilities and customer partnerships, but also highlights the Port of Barcelona’s rise as a central hub in Europe’s clean shipping transformation. As global demand for low-emission marine fuels continues to rise, Barcelona—and industry leaders like Shell Marine, are setting a strong example of what sustainable maritime logistics can look like.
About Shell Marine
Shell Marine is at the forefront of the maritime energy transition, delivering innovative solutions to meet the sector’s evolving fuel and emissions challenges. From advanced lubricants and alternative fuels to technical services and digital tools, Shell Marine supports customers in driving efficiency, reliability, and sustainability across their fleets.
With a clear focus on collaboration, Shell Marine is empowering the maritime sector to navigate the shift to cleaner energy sources, including LNG, biofuels, and other emerging alternatives.
Source Shell Marine