Trilogy’s Switch to Biodiesel

Sailing has always been a way that humans have harnessed renewable energy to travel, to explore the seas, and to enjoy a thrilling ride. But is there a way to make boating even more environmentally friendly?

Trilogy decided to take our commitment to sustainability a step further. We are excited to announce that we are now using biodiesel to power our boats when using only wind power is not feasible.

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Our biodiesel is provided by Pacific Biodiesel, a local company headquartered here on Maui. Biodiesel  is a renewable alternative fuel created from vegetable oils, animal fats, and greases through a chemical process. The chemical process involves reaction of natural oils with an alcohol, and then refining the mixture to create molecules that can be easily burned in a diesel engine.

Compared to conventional diesel, emissions from burning biodiesel have up to 48% less carbon monoxide, 100% less sulfates, and 67% less total unburned hydrocarbons released into the atmosphere. Even by mixing biodiesel with conventional diesel fuel, it is possible to reduce total harmful emissions in lesser percentages.

In addition to lowering the amount of pollutants released from engine emissions, using biodiesel also takes a load off our island’s already overtaxed landfills. The creation of biodiesel by Pacific Biodiesel diverts previously unmanageable quantities of used cooking oil and trap grease from our landfill, while also providing an alternative fuel with less harmful properties and environmental risks than traditional fossil fuels. Trilogy Excursions thought that this seemed like a win- win situation, and is excited to become part of such a promising endeavor.

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Trilogy has currently converted one boat, Trilogy V out of Ma’alaea Harbor, entirely to biodiesel as a pilot test, and plans to assess expanding to using biodiesel for the rest of the Trilogy fleet once biodiesel fuel delivery is available in Lahaina and Ka’anapali. The boat was converted in November 2014, after a new permit made biodiesel delivery possible in Ma’alaea Harbor.

Though slightly more expensive, Trilogy has converted to biodiesel simply because it’s the right thing to do. “Our switch to biodiesel was an easy decision for our company”, says LiAnne Coon, Director of Sales and Marketing. “As stewards of our environment, we commit to low-impact-consumption and maximizing renewable resources. When our vessels aren’t being powered by the wind, running off locally produced biodiesel is our next best option”.

Now, passengers experiencing a trip on Trilogy V can enjoy an exhilarating day on the ocean while also knowing that they are also making the environmentally responsible choice and doing their part to protect our oceans. To join us on a sail, contact us at tel:808-874-5649 or at https://www.sailtrilogy.com/tours.