Beginning May 8, 2006, the Viking Princess will be powered by a blend of "Bio-diesel."

Bio-diesel is made from recycled vegetable oils and is comparable in energy output to petroleum-based fuels.  It has some advantages over diesel in lubrication of injectors and reduced particulate emissions.  The burning of Bio-fuels is much friendlier to the environment because it does not release fossil carbon into the atmosphere (one of the greenhouse gases).

The main disadvantage is cost.  At as much some times as $5 per gallon, it is not in widespread use.  Through pilot programs such as ours, we may be able to promote the use of alternative energy, encourage conservation, and reduced emissions of greenhouse gases.