In a move towards sustainable cruising, MSC is set to embark on the industry's first net zero greenhouse gas emissions cruise with its new flagship, MSC Euribia. The liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered cruise ship is currently being built in Saint-Nazaire, France, and will sail to Copenhagen, Denmark, for its naming ceremony.
Departing on 03JUN and scheduled to arrive on 07JUN, the four-day voyage marks a significant milestone in the company's decarbonization efforts.
“This industry-first net zero gas emissions voyage of our latest flagship MSC Euribia heralds another significant step on our decarbonization journey and demonstrates more than anything the extent of our commitment,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group.
MSC Cruises has purchased 400 tonnes of bio-LNG, making it the first deep-sea ocean cruise operator to use this renewable fuel source that reduces emissions. According to MSC Cruises, the supply chain for the bio-LNG fuel is fully compliant with the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive and each batch has been certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification.
"Given the absolute importance of alternative fuels for our industry as well as for other sectors across civil society to achieve decarbonization, we all need to work together to increase their availability at scale," said Vago. "We can not do this alone, however."
The zero-emissions cruise is supported by the Nordic biogas company Gasum. Additionally, the speed and itinerary of MSC Euribia’s inaugural sailing were designed specifically to minimize fuel consumption. Energy efficiency specialists from both MSC Cruises and Chantiers de L’Atlantique will be onboard the ship during its net-zero sailing, while MSC Cruises’ shore-based energy efficiency experts will continuously monitor and optimize all systems on board throughout the voyage.
“This is just the beginning," said Michele Francioni, SVP, MSC Cruises. “MSC Euribia’s first voyage will be an incredible feat and represents years of commitment and determination. It should prove that we have the capability to operate on a net zero greenhouse gas emissions basis with existing ship technology."
More information on MSC Cruises can be found at www.msccruises.ca.
