Rolls-Royce Unveils Novel Personal LNG Bunkering Solution for New Hybrid Yacht Concept

Blue Shadow can operate as a dedicated LNG bunker barge for Crystal Blue. Image Credit: RR

In what may be a sign of the future for the shipping industry, Rolls-Royce plc (RR) says it has designed a new luxury yacht concept, Crystal Blue, to showcase the advantages of "advanced ship intelligence solutions" and hybrid propulsion based on liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel and battery power.

"Although LNG fuel is increasingly specified for commercial vessels, particularly coastal ferries, the size of the fuel tanks and a lack of LNG bunkering infrastructure has been a major barrier to the yacht sector embracing the cleaner, odourless fuel," explained RR.

In order to address the lack of infrastructure, Crystal Blue features its own 42 metre, remotely-controlled support vessel, Blue Shadow.

In addition to transporting and launching the mother ship’s tender, helicopter, and any other "toys" that the yacht owner may have, the shadow boat can operate as a dedicated LNG bunker barge.

"Burning LNG has clear advantages over Marine Diesel Oil for the yacht sector," said Henrik Alpo Sjöblom, Project Manager in the Rolls-Royce Blue Ocean team, adding: "there is no smoke, it doesn't emit any unpleasant odours or fumes and it meets stringent emissions regulations, allowing yachts to enter otherwise prohibited ecologically sensitive waters.

"We have dimensioned Crystal Blue fuel tanks for a range of 3000 nautical miles without refuelling but with the Shadow's additional fuel capacity, the range increases to 4400 nautical miles, meaning that most of the typical yachting areas are accessible."

In September, RR announced plans for an autonomous, single role, naval vessel that will feature electric propulsion.