MSC Euribia has completed sea trials ahead of its inaugural season in northern Europe.
MSC Cruises’ 22nd ship and its second powere by liquefied natural gas (LNG) passed its deep-water intensive systems tests during a four-day trial in the Atlantic Ocean, the line announced.
The ship will be officially named in Copenhagen on June 8 before offering seven-night sailings to the Norwegian fjords from both Copenhagen and Kiel, Germany.
The vessel is now set to receive its finishing touches at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, before being delivered on May 31.
The line described its new vessel as “environmentally advanced”, pointing to its use of LNG fuel as well as other ‘green’ elements.
It said: “The ship will feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the United Nations’ shipping body the International Maritime Organization, comprehensive waste recycling, underwater radiated noise management system to help limit disturbance to marine life and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimise engine use and hotel energy needs to further reduce emissions.”
As bio and synthetic fuels become available, MSC Euribia’s emissions will be further reduced, the line added.
The ship’s maiden season will include visits to Geiranger,Ålesund, and Flaam.
Its hull bears artwork aiming to “stimulate discussion on the importance of protecting the delicate and complex ecosystem of the oceans”, MSC Cruises said.
The design, created by German graphic artist Alex Flämig, was chosen following an international competition.
He said: “To witness my design finally come to life across MSC Euribia’s hull is an incredibly proud moment and even more so, to soon have my artwork sailing the world’s oceans.
“I hope it can serve not only as a testament to MSC Cruises’ commitment to protecting the important marine ecosystem, but also as an inspiration for those working on finding innovative solutions to safeguard the future of the ocean.”