Travelbiz E-Zine
22
April
2025

Irish Ferries moves to sustainable HVO on the Dublin – Holyhead route with the Dublin Swift

#Traveltradetogether

Irish Ferries has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainability and innovation with the transition of its Dublin Swift service on the Dublin–Holyhead route to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) supplied by Circle K, Ireland’s leading fuel and convenience retailer.

As the first known international ferry company in the UK & Ireland to transition to HVO to power one of its ferries, this groundbreaking move marks a major milestone in the ferry sector, showcasing Irish Ferries’ dedication to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing environmental stewardship.

The Dublin Swift travels between Dublin and Holyhead in just 135 minutes making it the fastest service across the Irish Sea. Dublin Swift re-commences its seasonal operation on 16th April, 2025, when it will transition to using HVO.  Over the season, Irish Ferries aims to ramp up usage of HVO as a diesel alternative to 100% on all four engines, which would result in up to 90% less carbon emissions compared to conventional diesel.  This is part of Irish Ferries’ broader strategy to adopt cleaner energy solutions that reduces the impact of its operations on the environment and is a testament to the company’s proactive approach to integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices.

Irish Ferries mini cruise to France sets sail with Irish trade partners

Reduction of Carbon Emissions

HVO is a completely fossil-free biofuel made from waste by-products and derived products not intended for human consumption from the food industry.  It can be used to power diesel vehicles which means it does not release any additional carbon emissions into the atmosphere and is a cleaner and more sustainable fuel option. By utilising HVO, Irish Ferries is not only reducing its carbon emissions but also contributing to the circular economy by repurposing waste materials.

The transition to HVO is expected to lower the Dublin Swift service’s carbon footprint, making it one of the most eco-friendly ferry services in operation.

Irish Ferries mini cruise to France sets sail with Irish trade partners

Andrew Sheen, Managing Director at Irish Ferries, commented, “We are thrilled to be leading the way in the UK and Ireland ferry sector with the adoption of HVO for our Dublin Swift service. This move not only demonstrates our commitment to innovation but also highlights our dedication to reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment. We are proud to partner with Circle K as a supplier in this endeavour and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this transition.”

Circle K Powers Irish Ferries’ Transition to Renewable Fuel

As a leading supplier of renewable fuels in Ireland, Circle K is providing its certified low-emission diesel alternative, milesBIO HVO100, to power the Irish Ferries’ Dublin Swift service. The company’s expertise in renewable fuels and long-standing commitment to sustainability has made them a valuable partner in Irish Ferries’ journey towards greener operations. The collaboration is part of Circle K’s broader efforts to expand access to low-emission fuel solutions across both road and maritime transport and reflects the importance of industry partnerships in driving environmental innovation and delivering real progress on sustainability goals.

Irish Ferries mini cruise to France sets sail with Irish trade partners

Paul Balfe, Commercial & BCS Director at Circle K, added: “Circle K is proud to support Irish Ferries with their sustainability initiatives. The use of milesBIO HVO100 is a significant step towards cleaner maritime operations, and we are excited to be part of this journey. This partnership is a great example of how collaboration can accelerate progress towards a lower-carbon future and make more sustainable choices a reality in the marine sector.”

For further information or to book with Irish Ferries, visit www.irishferries.com

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Explora Journeys – Three ships. Seventeen visionary trade partners. One bold vision.
    22nd July 2025

    Explora Journeys – Three ships. Seventeen visionary trade partners. One bold vision.

    Explora Journeys brought its Ocean State of Mind to the serene shores of Wineport Lodge, where elegance met innovation.

    Read more
    Princess Cruises Enhances Popular Premier and Plus Packages with New Benefits
    22nd July 2025

    Princess Cruises Enhances Popular Premier and Plus Packages with New Benefits

    Princess Cruises has announced updates to its Premier and Plus packages, now on sale for voyages sailing from 2026. The refreshed packages now include additions such as extra casual dining optio...

    Read more
    Irish Travellers Flock to South Africa, Mexico Riviera and UAE for Winter Sun as Long-Haul Bookings Surge – Travel Counsellors Ireland report
    21st July 2025

    Irish Travellers Flock to South Africa, Mexico Riviera and UAE for Winter Sun as Long-Haul Bookings Surge – Travel Counsellors Ireland report

    South Africa, Mexico's Riviera Maya, and the UAE have emerged as the most in-demand long-haul destinations for Irish holidaymakers seeking winter sun in 2025/26, according to new booking data fr...

    Read more
    Expedia TAAP Empowers Irish Travel Advisors with New Tools to Boost Efficiency and Growth
    21st July 2025

    Expedia TAAP Empowers Irish Travel Advisors with New Tools to Boost Efficiency and Growth

    Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) is proud to announce the launch of several new platform enhancements tailored to support Irish travel advisors. These updates are designed to stream...

    Read more
    Etihad Airways Welcomes 20 Million Passengers and over 100 Aircraft
    21st July 2025

    Etihad Airways Welcomes 20 Million Passengers and over 100 Aircraft

    Etihad gifted couple travelling from New Delhi to visit their children in Canada, with surprise upgrades to The Residence to celebrate the milestone. Etihad’s fleet reaches more than 100 aircraf...

    Read more
    Travel Trade Sparkles with Emirates & Dubai Tourism
    20th July 2025

    Travel Trade Sparkles with Emirates & Dubai Tourism

    What. A. Night! 💃🕺 The Aviva Stadium lit up last night as Anita Thomas, Country Manager for Emirates, alongside Dubai Tourism and 17 fabulous destination partners celebrated support form the I...

    Read more