P&O Ferries begins first biofuel-based operations on North Sea ferry

Following a successful trial, Pride of Hull is now running entirely on Biofuel B30 – a blended fuel, containingn 70% conventional fossil fuel and 30% biodiesel, a fuel derived from biological sources including vegetable oils or used cooking oil.

With the transition to Biofuel B30, P&O says the ferry is cutting lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 20% compared with conventional fossil-based marine fuel.

P&O linked the transition to B30 directly to compliance with the EU’s FuelEU Maritime regulation, which came into force in January 2025 and requires ships over 5,000 gross tonnes (gt) to progressively reduce their greenhouse gas intensity.

P&O Ferries fleet director Stewart Hayes said “This transition shows that meaningful emissions reductions are possible today – even on one of the largest ferries in Europe. By adopting biofuels, we’re helping our freight and passenger customers meet their climate goals while making journeys and supply chains cleaner.”

Following consultation with engine manufacturer Wärtsilä and fuel suppliers, P&O said it selected the biofuel B30 as "the most practical transitional fuel - reducing emissions without the need for costly vessel conversions". Use of lower-carbon alternatives to biodiesel such as methanol and ammonia would require significant engine modifications or replacements, the company pointed out.

At 215-m long, Pride of Hull carries up to 1,360 passengers and 400 freight vehicles on the busy Hull–Rotterdam corridor, a critical trade and travel link between the UK and Europe.