Sail Amsterdam, FincoEnergies take first steps in decarbonizing iconic event

Photo: FincoEnergies

Sail Amsterdam and FincoEnergies announced in August their collaboration in making the 2025 edition of the world-renowned maritime event more sustainable.

For the first time in the event’s history, a selection of support and hospitality vessels were powered by sustainable marine biofuel delivered by FincoEnergies during the spectacular Sail In parade Aug. 20.

The initiative marks a tangible first step toward the long-term ambition of making Sail circular and climate neutral.

By introducing renewable fuels into the operational heart of the event, Sail and FincoEnergies aim to demonstrate that meaningful decarbonization of the maritime sector is not only possible, but that it is also already underway.

“We’re honored to contribute our expertise to an event that celebrates the spirit of the sea,” said Stephan Lintjer, commercial manager at FincoEnergies.

“This collaboration shows that even large-scale events can make real, measurable steps towards sustainability without compromising on performance or experience,” Lintjer added.

During the Sail In parade, FincoEnergies supplied GoodFuels HVO100 (100 percent hydrotreated vegetable oil), a sustainable marine biofuel, to several key vessels.

This drop-in fuel can directly replace conventional diesel and offers up to 90 percent CO2 reduction compared to fossil alternatives without requiring modifications to engines or infrastructure.

In addition to its climate benefits, the fuel significantly reduces local emissions such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur oxides (SOx), contributing to cleaner air around the event area.

“This first step demonstrates that reducing emissions in the maritime sector is indeed achievable,” said Eline Elbersen, the sustainability manager at Sail Amsterdam.

“By showcasing the possibilities of this transition to a broad audience—together with FincoEnergies—we aim to inspire others in taking action as well,” Elbersen said.

The HVO100 supplied during Sail Amsterdam is a sustainable marine biofuel from GoodFuels, a FincoEnergies brand.

It is produced from certified waste and residue feedstocks, such as used cooking oil, and contains no fossil components.

GoodFuels HVO100 meets strict sustainability criteria, like ISCC certification and beyond, and is reviewed by an independent sustainability board.

The collaboration is a first step in embedding decarbonization activities of the event for next editions.

Leading by example, Sail aims to inspire other global sailing events to make the switch.