Viking Line expands use of bio bunker fuel to three vessels on Helsinki routes

Viking Line on Thursday (16 January) said it has expanded its bio bunker fuel-based initiative for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from conference trips to three vessels on its Helsinki routes.

One year ago, Viking Line was the first Baltic Sea shipping company to launch its Green Sea Conference, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions from conference trips by about 90%. 

The reduction in emissions is achieved by Viking Line buying renewable biofuel corresponding to the amount of fuel consumed by groups that opt for a Green Sea Conference and then using it on the climate-smart vessels Viking Glory and Viking Grace.

Starting in late spring 2025, the company said it will be possible for all these conference trips bought in Finland to be completed with 90% fewer emissions when the company’s Green Sea Conferences are expanded beyond the Turku route and made available on all routes. 

During that time, Green Sea Conferences will also be available on the company’s three other vessels – Gabriella, Viking Cinderella and Viking XPRS.

“Each year we hold thousands of conferences on board our vessels, with a total of some 200,000 participants. If all our conference customers chose the Green Conference alternative, that would mean a reduction in emissions equivalent to the annual greenhouse gas emissions of about 2,000 Finns,” said Viking Line’s Head of Sales, Philip Sjöstrand.

In 2024, 1,800 passengers held meetings with low emissions on Viking Glory or Viking Grace, and interest in this new product is growing. Among those choosing the Green Sea Conference product are companies, public sector organizations and non-profit associations.

“Large companies that include sustainability in their strategy have shown the biggest interest. The green alternative is a natural choice for them. After the first year, we can note that this product is here to stay,” said Sjöstrand.

Photo credit: Viking Line
Published: 21 January, 2025