European Boating Industry (EBI) has launched a new roadmap to support the decarbonisation of recreational boating and the development of marina infrastructure.
‘Energy Transition for Recreational Boating in Europe: A roadmap for alternative fuel infrastructure’ sets out industry and policy recommendations, highlighting the need for a technology-neutral and multi-pathway approach to the energy transition.
The EBI points out that while recreational boating accounts for only approximately 0.4% of EU transport greenhouse gas emissions, the sector is proactively contributing to Europe’s climate objectives and preparing for the transition towards sustainable propulsion solutions.
The roadmap identifies marinas as central enablers of the transition and calls for coordinated action between industry, marina operators, EU institutions, national authorities and regional stakeholders.
Potential of drop-in fuels
The strategy highlights the immediate potential of sustainable drop-in fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which can reduce lifecycle CO₂ emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil diesel and also reduce particulate and NOx emissions.
It also emphasies that fact that electric propulsion and hybrid systems are expanding rapidly, particularly for smaller boats and inland waterways, while future opportunities linked to hydrogen and methanol continue to be explored for larger vessels.
The roadmap aligns with the objectives of the EU Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) and the Industrial Maritime Strategy, which highlighted the position of recreational boating and marina infrastructure within Europe’s broader transport and maritime policy framework.
Solutions are being developed
“The recreational boating sector is committed to contributing to Europe’s energy transition,” said Philip Easthill, EBI secretary-general.
“Our 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.”
EBI has called for targeted support measures, investment tools and innovation funding to help marinas and the recreational boating sector contribute to Europe’s decarbonisation and competitiveness objectives.
The publication also stresses the economic realities facing Europe’s estimated 10–20,000 marinas, many of which are SMEs or municipally operated facilities with limited capacity for major infrastructure investments.
