Alternative propulsion technologies for fishing vessels: A case study

Marine diesel oil (MDO) is a vital but expensive input cost for the fishing industry, accounting for a large amount of the running costs of a fishing vessel. The aim of this study is to highlight the most promising technologies for the propulsion of the Italian fishing fleet, in order to reduce fuel costs and air pollution, mainly by using alternative fuels such as LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). The performance comparison between MDO and LNG engines, driving fixed pitch propellers as well as controllable pitch propellers, is described in order to analyze possible fuel cost savings within the typical mission profile of an Italian fishing vessel.