European Boating Industry (EBI) has published a roadmap titled Energy Transition for Recreational Boating in Europe: A roadmap for alternative fuel infrastructure, setting out industry and policy recommendations relating to the decarbonisation of recreational boating and the development of marina infrastructure across Europe.
The document highlights the need for a technology-neutral and multi-pathway approach to the energy transition, recognising the diversity of Europe’s recreational boating fleet of more than 6.5 million vessels and the operational realities of marinas across coastal and inland waters.
According to EBI, recreational boating accounts for approximately 0.4 per cent of EU transport greenhouse gas emissions. The roadmap examines how the sector is preparing for a transition towards alternative propulsion technologies while contributing to wider European climate objectives.
Marinas are identified as a key component of that transition. The roadmap calls for cooperation between industry, marina operators, EU institutions, national governments and regional stakeholders to ensure infrastructure development keeps pace with changes in propulsion technology.
Philip Easthill, secretary-general of European Boating Industry, says: “The recreational boating sector is committed to contributing to Europe’s energy transition. Our Energy Transition for Recreational Boating in Europe roadmap shows that the solutions are being developed and a multi-pathway approach is the way forward. Europe’s diverse boating ecosystem requires a pragmatic and technology-neutral approach supported by the right infrastructure, investment, and regulatory framework.
“We look forward to presenting the Roadmap to the EU institutions and cooperating with all players to make progress in the coming years to support sustainability and competitiveness of the sector.”
The roadmap identifies sustainable drop-in fuels, including Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), as an option that can be used in most existing diesel engines without major modifications or additional infrastructure.
According to EBI, HVO can reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions by up to 90 per cent compared with fossil diesel, while also lowering particulate and NOx emissions.
Electric and hybrid propulsion systems are also highlighted, particularly for smaller vessels and inland waterways. Hydrogen and methanol are being explored as potential future options for larger boats.
Download the roadmap: EBI Roadmap