Axpo and Vitol launch LNG bunkering at Italy's largest cruise port

Axpo and Vitol have completed the first LNG bunkering operation at Italy’s Port of Civitavecchia, refueling a flagship vessel from a major international cruise line. The port joins Genoa and Naples in offering LNG refueling services, marking a milestone for alternative maritime fuel infrastructure in Italy. The operation was carried out ship-to-ship at berth 18 using Axpo’s LNG bunkering vessel Green Pearl, a 7,500 m vessel brought into service in 2026. Green Pearl is dedicated to ship-to-ship and ship-to-truck bunkering operations in Italian ports. Axpo Italia CEO Simone Demarchi said the move supports the decarbonisation needs of shipping and cruising, and Vitol’s Stefan Dubbeldam added that LNG and bio-LNG can reduce emissions from bunkering.