UK-based green tech innovation company SulNOx says it has made its first public foray into the rapidly expanding cruise market.
The company’s products are aimed at helping the shipping industry reduce emissions, lower fuel costs and meet sustainability targets. Crystal’s fleet-wide adoption follows a successful evaluation by the cruise company of SulNOx’s core decarbonisation product, SulNOxEco Fuel Conditioner.
The Crystal Symphony, a Nassau-registered 51,068gt vessel powered by six Wärtsilä-Sulzer diesel engines, took three deliveries of SulNOxEco Conditioner while berthed in Greece in April 2024, Germany in August and Italy in November. An evaluation between May and December 2024 showed an average fuel saving of 3.4% across the full period.
Data collected noted a significant reduction in black smoke from Symphony’s stacks. This result is particularly important for cruise line operators, both when located in ports and in gaining access to fjords for the sizeable Norwegian cruise market. By reducing particulate matter, SulNOx helps ensure cleaner engine performance and enhances the onboard experience.
Emissions monitoring with Crystal reflects similar results witnessed by other major shipping groups evaluating SulNOxEco. SulNOx reports significant progress in signing major clients operating bulkers, tankers, containers and cruise ships in Asia and Europe.
Crystal is now adopting the use of SulNOxEco across its fleet. It follows Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS), one of the largest privately owned shipping groups, which in recent weeks announced adoption in an initial 30 vessels in its 300-strong fleet. In addition, EPS made a significant investment in SulNOx through EPS Ventures. The EPS partnership with SulNOx came within weeks of an investment by US-based shipbroker and consulting group McQuilling Partners. This group joined the growing list of international marine industry heavy hitters and former senior commodity traders backing SulNOx after an eight-fold share price hike in 18 months.
Working with Crystal is seens as a key milestone for SulNOx as it accelerates its reach into the shipping industry. The cruise market is estimated to grow from US$ 9.2bn in 2023 to US$ 25.4bn by 2033, at a compound annual growth rate of 10.6% during the projected period, according to figures from Spherical Insights & Consulting.
SulNOx CEO Ben Richardson said: “We are excited to be working with a well-known brand in the fast-growing cruise ship market. The flip side of this increasingly popular leisure activity is the existing and potential level of environmental pollution from some extremely large vessels. SulNOx is pleased to be part of the solution for the industry, helping to reduce emissions significantly, while delivering fuel cost savings and supporting ship operators to meet ESG and CII goals.”
Roberto Fazi, SVP Marine Operations, Crystal Cruises, added: “The results of the tests carried out after the introduction of SulNOxEco onboard have proven to be very promising. We observed measurable fuel savings, cleaner engines, and reduced emissions. As sustainability becomes a key driver for growth in the cruise sector, this innovation helps us enhance operational efficiency, reduce our environmental impact, and provide a more sustainable experience for our guests.”
Angus MacDonald, SulNOx master distributor A&S International director, said: “It has been a pleasure working closely with the Crystal team and the Crystal Symphony crew, demonstrating the emission reduction and fuel saving capabilities of SulNOxEco over the extensive evaluation. The real-world benefits are plain to see, and we’re excited to continue supporting the maritime industry’s journey toward a greener future.”
SulNOx’s organic, biodegradable products are believed to offer a zero-capex, immediate transition solution for major industries under pressure to cut emissions, meet regulatory targets and reduce fuel consumption.
Image: ‘Crystal Symphony’ (source: SulNOx)
