Abstract
This paper outlines the risk analysis framework of LNG bunkering for a passenger ship, covering the complete process from risk assessment to operational execution. The capability of the approach is validated in a real-world case study in Northern Italy. A structured safety analysis was carried out to identify key risks and establish safe operating conditions. These results represent useful guidance for defining procedures, safety measures, and emergency measures for bunkering activities. Additionally, the study documents the conducted bunkering operation, detailing coordination among stakeholders, such as the ship-owner, LNG supplier, maritime authority, classification society, and governmental agencies. The integrated involvement ensured regulatory compliance and effective risk management. Findings from the site-specific assessment confirmed that a rigorous, risk-based approach, combined with multi-stakeholders, enables safer and more efficient LNG bunkering for passenger vessels. The applicative case-study provides practical safety insights for ports and operators, developing LNG bunkering capabilities, in line with the ongoing energy transition paradigm, evidencing the need of further studies as well for explicit rules and procedural guidelines to standardize safety exclusion zones.
