Bookings have opened for MSC Cruises’ second ship to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG).
MSC Euribia, touted as the line’s most environmentally advanced ship, is due to be delivered in early June 2023.
The vessel will sail its inaugural season in northern Europe from the German port of Kiel with a seven-night itinerary to the Norwegian fjords.
LNG will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25% on MSC Euribia compared to standard fuels while also “virtually eliminating” other air emissions.
The company is committed to powering at least three upcoming ships with LNG at a cost of more than €3 billion.
MSC Euribia will utilise an advanced wastewater treatment system, as well as an underwater radiated noise management system to minimise the effects of vibrations on marine life. Multiple energy efficiency features help reduce and optimise engine use.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of the cruise division of MSC Group, said: “In response to the growing need to protect the ocean for future generations, we have made it our mission to equip our ships with the latest and most advanced environmental technologies and solutions, with MSC Euribia showcasing the best of them to-date.”
He added that a contest to design the hull for the latest LNG ship was launched “to help us communicate our unwavering commitment to the environment as this ship sails the world”.
MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, according to the line.