P&O Ferries Achieves Milestone with Biofuel-Powered North Sea RoPax Pride of Hull

P&O Ferries has set a new benchmark on the North Sea, with its Pride of Hull becoming the first ferry on the busy Hull–Rotterdam route to permanently operate on lower-carbon biofuel.

After a successful trial, the vessel now runs exclusively on B30, marking a significant step in the company’s strategy to reduce emissions across its fleet.

The Pride of Hull can carry up to 1,360 passengers and 400 freight vehicles along the vital trade and travel corridor between the UK and Europe. With the shift to B30, the ferry is cutting lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by around 20% compared to conventional marine fuel—while maintaining the same reliable service.

Fleet director Stewart Hayes said:
“By embracing biofuels, we’re supporting our freight and passenger customers in achieving their climate objectives, while helping to make supply chains and journeys cleaner. This is another step towards creating a more sustainable future for ferry travel and trade, aligning with DP World’s wider target to reduce emissions by 42% by 2030—an ambition that goes beyond current European standards for limiting global temperature rise.”

Following detailed consultation with engine manufacturer Wärtsilä and leading fuel suppliers, B30 was identified as the most effective transitional solution—able to deliver meaningful emissions cuts without the expense of extensive vessel modifications.