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Which fuel is used to run a ferry?

Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO): also known as ”bunker fuel'', it is the most common type of fuel for passenger and cargo ferries. It is widely used due to its lower price compared to other types of clear fuel.



In 2026, the ferry industry is in the midst of a massive "multi-fuel" transition. While older vessels still run on Marine Gas Oil (MGO) or Heavy Fuel Oil, the majority of modern ferries have shifted to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), which significantly reduces sulfur and nitrogen oxide emissions. However, the biggest trend for 2026 is the rise of all-electric and hybrid-electric ferries, especially for short-haul commuter routes in Scandinavia, Canada, and New York. These vessels utilize massive lithium-ion battery banks that are charged at the dock. For medium-distance routes, Green Methanol has emerged as a top fuel choice in 2026, with operators like Stena Line and Grimaldi leading the way with "methanol-ready" newbuilds. Additionally, a small number of experimental 2026 ferries are testing hydrogen fuel cells, though infrastructure remains a hurdle. The choice of fuel in 2026 is largely determined by the route distance and the availability of shoreside charging or bunkering infrastructure.

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Large catamarans hold 6,000 gallons of fuel, while mono-hull vessels hold 8,000 gallons of fuel. Engine burn rates vary from 320 gallons an hour to 160 gallons an hour when operating at full speed. Vessels are run at lower speeds for greater fuel efficiency whenever possible.

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Passengers must declare all fuel products they're carrying. Spare containers of gasoline are permitted, but only in limited amounts and in CSA-approved containers. The containers cannot exceed 25 litres each and must be secured in the vehicle.

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Toilets on board cruise ships are connected to vacuum suction lines that direct the waste to marine sanitation farms onboard the ship. This siphons out the water from the waste, treats it until it's drinkable, then pumps it into the ocean.

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With its propulsion at each end, the double-ended ferry has excellent stopping power and superior maneuverability, especially if using an azimuthing or cycloidal propulsion system. This all contributes to safety, a critical factor for any ferry.

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Hy-Line's fast ferries can go at speeds of up to 34mph, which if you're talking in proper seafaring terminology is 30 knots an hour (1 knot = 1.151 mph)!

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