AIDA's New Ships to Feature Future-Proof Fuel Systems

AIDA Cruises has confirmed that its upcoming ships will be powered by multi-fuel engines, enabling them to operate using a variety of fuel types, according to CEO Felix Eichhorn.

In a recent interview with Hamburger Abendblatt, Eichhorn explained that while the ships will initially run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), they are being built to support alternative fuels like bio-LNG, e-LNG, and e-methanol as these become more widely available.

The new vessels, weighing in at 150,000 gross tons, are set to be constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy following an order placed in April. Delivery is expected in 2030 and 2032.

“We are preparing for various scenarios because governmental and international decisions on the framework conditions are still pending,” Eichhorn said.

He added, “It is currently impossible to predict which fuel will ultimately prevail in which region and will then be available in sufficient quantities and at affordable prices.”

AIDA is also exploring alternative energy technologies, including batteries and fuel cells. Eichhorn highlighted the installation of a 10-megawatt-hour battery onboard the AIDAprima, calling it the most powerful of its kind currently in use in the maritime industry. This system enables emission-free cruising for short periods, such as when navigating fjords or leaving ports.

In addition, the company has been testing methanol fuel cells aboard the AIDAnova to gain firsthand knowledge and regulatory approval for their use.

AIDA is aligned with the broader maritime goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Eichhorn noted that while the industry is moving in a positive direction, technical and political uncertainties still pose challenges.

“The market is moving positively, but many framework conditions, both political and technical, remain unclear. We need a mix of measures: new technologies, but also improved energy efficiency in the existing fleet and further route optimization,” he said, referring to the AIDA Evolution upgrade initiative.

Thanks to advancements in ship design and efficiency, AIDA’s new vessels consume two-thirds less energy per passenger compared to ships launched two decades ago.

Eichhorn added, “A one-week cruise on the AIDAnova from Hamburg to Norway emits no more CO₂ per guest than a one-way flight from Hamburg to Palma de Mallorca or Lisbon.”