US-based Sawgrass LNG & Power has completed the first-ever shore-to-ship LNG bunkering operation at Port Everglades, supplying fuel to a cruise vessel in a regional first.
The operation, carried out on March 26, involved bunkering the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vessel Ilma, and represents a key development in expanding LNG as a marine fuel option in South Florida.
The milestone underscores growing infrastructure readiness in the region to support lower-carbon marine fuels, particularly as LNG continues to gain traction across the cruise and wider shipping sectors.
The bunkering was conducted in coordination with multiple stakeholders, including U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami and local authorities, highlighting the level of planning and regulatory oversight required for LNG operations.
According to Sawgrass, the project reflects increasing collaboration between port authorities, fuel suppliers, and vessel operators to enable safe and reliable LNG delivery.
Port Everglades officials said the operation supports the port’s broader strategy to facilitate next-generation marine fuels for both landside and waterside use.
Sawgrass added that it is positioning itself to supply domestically sourced LNG backed by integrated logistics, as demand for alternative marine fuels continues to grow.
The development comes amid wider industry efforts to scale LNG bunkering infrastructure, particularly in North America, as shipowners look to reduce emissions while maintaining operational flexibility.
