Havila Polaris begins historic low-emission coastal voyage

Biogas bunkering marks a breakthrough for greener shipping

The Havila Polaris has taken on 200 cubic meters of liquefied biogas in Hammerfest, supplied by Barents Naturgass — the first step in a landmark journey that shows how climate-neutral coastal cruising can become reality today. A further 150 cubic meters will be bunkered in Bergen by Molgas Energy.

A significant milestone for sustainable cruising

During its upcoming round trip along Norway’s coast, the Havila Polaris will use a total of 350 m³ of biogas. For Havila Voyages, this is a defining moment.

Preliminary calculations show:

• Almost 92% lower CO₂ emissions
• Zero NOx and SOx when running on biogas
• Batteries + biogas enable nearly climate-neutral operation

Biogas: a ready-to-use solution

Authorities such as FuelEU Maritime highlight biogas as a fuel capable of reducing emissions close to zero. Since LNG-powered ships are already widespread, switching to biogas can have immediate impact — without retrofitting fleets. Havila Voyages also stresses the importance of a broader energy mix, including efficiency improvements, carbon capture, hydrogen, ammonia and methanol.

Circular economy benefits for coastal communities

Norway currently produces around 800 GWh of biogas each year. Havila’s four ships combined would require roughly half of this volume to operate on biogas year-round. Biogas from waste and manure offers combined benefits:

• solves waste and methane challenges
• creates coastal jobs
• produces valuable by-products like biofertilizer

Captain Kurt Nærbø confirms that biogas behaves exactly like natural gas: “The ship operates exactly the same — the properties of natural gas and biogas are identical.” He says he is proud to command the first nearly climate-neutral voyage of Havila Polaris.

More on Havila Voyages.

Header: © Ronny M. Olsen Havila Voyages