With the commencement of FuelEU Maritime in 2025, shipowners face the challenge of meeting GHG intensity thresholds or paying penalties. While biofuels offer lower intensities than diesel and also reduce EU-ETS levies, effective measures significantly increase fuel costs. LNG-fueled solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) provide higher efficiency, lower emissions and no methane slip, extending FuelEU compliance timelines and reducing biofuel reliance. This is especially relevant for cruise ships, which operate less efficient four-stroke combustion engines. This study quantifies the advantages of SOFC-hybrid configurations in reducing biofuel requirements, operational costs and environmental levies under EU regulations.