From Fossil Fuels to Shore Power With the Port of San Diego
The maritime industry has evolved to integrate renewable energy, emissions reduction strategies, and eco-efficiency within every aspect of its operations. From cruise efforts to create an inviting and welcoming environment to streamlining cargo and trade operations with modern technologies and sustainable systems, the Port of San Diego’s latest shore power efforts and milestones serve as a prime example of how small shifts within daily operations can make a huge impact on delivering cleaner air and streamlined logistic processes.
Shore Power and the Port of San Diego
To start, shore power is an emissions reduction system that allows vessels to shut down their diesel engines while at berth and access landside electrical power. This action of recharging by use of electrical power significantly reduces release of harmful air pollutants and greenhouse gases like nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and diesel particulate matter (DPM), as well as greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e).
Port of San Diego Milestones
• The Port of San Diego’s shore power journey began in 2010 with the installation of the first shore power outlet available for ocean going vessels. This milestone is celebrated as a “Famous First” for California.
• A second shore power plug was installed in 2023 allowing for two ships to simultaneously use shore power and in 2024, the cruise shore power system was further expanded to enable vessels with starboard connections to access shore power, adding further versatility to the Port’s existing systems.
• Partnering with Pasha Automotive Services, in 2025 the Port of San Diego commissioned a new shore power system to support the country's first connection for a roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel, the Jean Anne, at the National City Marine Terminal.
Who is Jean Anne? Pasha Hawaii’s MV Jean Anne is a Jones Act-qualified (U.S.-built, owned, flagged and crewed) ro-ro vessel that carries cars, trucks, heavy machinery and more between the Port of San Diego and the Port of Honolulu.
In 2026, the Port proposed the installation of three shore power connection points for commercial harbor craft vessels at Fish Harbor Pier located along the Embarcadero adjacent to Seaport Village.
Collective Efforts Toward a Cleaner Future
In addition to the reduction of harmful air pollutants and greenhouse gases, the Port of San Diego’s shore power systems support efficient, modern and sustainable maritime operations. For example, when implemented alongside sustainable efforts like the previously mentioned Jean Anne, the streamlined efficiency and effect is significant. Shore power installations also reinforce the Port's commitment to the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) At-Berth Regulation.
This message is sponsored by the Port of San Diego.
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Maritime Executive.
Disney and Port of San Diego Extend Homeport Through At Least 2031
Disney Cruise Line and the Port of San Diego today announced a new agreement through at least 2031, which will approximately double the number of Disney cruises out of San Diego each year.
For guests, this means more opportunities to embark on magical vacations to Catalina Island, Baja and the Mexican Riviera, with a broader range of seasonal itineraries and more frequent departures.
“San Diego has been an important part of our West Coast operations for more than a decade, and a place our guests love sailing from,” said Jose Fernandez, Vice President of Port Strategy, Development & Operations, Disney Cruise Line. “This new agreement supports our long-term growth and helps us continue contributing to the region’s economy.”
“We are grateful to continue our long-standing relationship with Disney Cruise Line,” said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “This agreement not only enhances business operations between the Port, Disney and all our cruise line partners – it also supports a thriving cruise industry that injects millions into the region’s economy and welcomes thousands of visitors to our waterfront each year.”
The agreement secures Disney non-exclusive priority access to the Port’s North and South berths at the B Street cruise terminal, enhancing the arrival experience for passengers while also helping the Port better plan and maximize the use of its cruise ship terminals. This announcement comes as the Port is seeing an upward trajectory in cruise calls and passengers.
More than 1 million Disney passengers are anticipated through the Port during the course of the agreement, representing the first time in more than 20 years that a cruise line has offered a minimum annual guarantee at the Port of San Diego. Disney Cruise Line's seasonal call on San Diego will continue to bring meaningful economic benefits for the region, supporting local businesses and fueling jobs tied to cruise operations, tourism and port activity.
Disney Cruise Line has been a proud member of the San Diego community since it first began sailing from the Port in 2012 and remains committed to making meaningful and positive impacts in the region. This work includes collaborations with local nonprofits that focus on youth empowerment and environmental conservation.
Most recently, Disney Cruise Line provided career development and financial literacy opportunities to local students from Junior Achievement of San Diego and collaborated with San Diego Coastkeepers to help protect the natural beauty of the California coastline.
Representing the latest wave in Disney Cruise Line’s period of unprecedented global growth, this agreement ensures that San Diego remains a primary gateway for Disney’s signature brand of storytelling at sea.
San Diego will soon welcome two Disney Cruise Line ships for the 2026-2027 season, significantly expanding West Coast sailing options for the cruise line. The Disney Magic arrives in October, offering three- to seven-night voyages through November followed by a 14-night Panama Canal transit to Galveston. The Disney Wonder will homeport in San Diego from October 2026 through April 2027, sailing three- to seven-night itineraries to destinations including Catalina Island, Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada and Puerto Vallarta.
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
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