Itinerary planning tool to slash emissions of MSC Cruises fleet by up to 15%

The line developed the mathematical model with OPTIMeasy, a research company affiliated to the University of Genoa, comprehensively examining numerous factors that influence the planning of each of MSC Cruises’ itineraries to achieve the optimum level of efficiency for a sailing while maintaining or enhancing guest satisfaction.

OptiCruise

OptiCruise takes into account sequencing of the port calls, departure and arrival times at ports, a ship’s speed, the appeal and attractiveness of destinations for a holidaymaker, shore excursions, and operational costs such as fuel, port charges and food provisions.

The tool’s algorithms use all of the information to identify optimised itineraries, which continue to appeal to customers, while allowing for energy efficiency.  

Cruise ship itinerary planning typically takes place two years before a sailing and OptiCruise’s benefits will be evidenced in 2026 when MSC Cruises’ fleet will number 24 ships.

MSC Bellissima was chosen to evaluate the prototype technology over a 12-month period as the ship sailed around 17 ports in the Mediterranean Sea.

Major step towards net zero

Michele Francioni, the line’s chief energy transition officer, said, ‘We have identified and developed this new technology to optimise the decision-making process of itinerary planning with the aim to further reduce emissions across our fleet from 2026.

‘The OPTIMeasy team calculates that the average fuel savings made, and emissions reduced by using OptiCruise are in the range of 10-15% which is a significant step forward in our ambition to achieve our net zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050 for our marine operations.’ 

MSC Cruises’ strategy to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 is focused on three key areas: ship and engine technology, operational efficiency and renewable fuels. 

OptiCruise comes under the operational efficiency focus with the cruise line making greater use of digitalisation to drive efficiencies in energy consumption.  

Project CHEK

OptiCruise was developed as part of the European Union’s funded Project CHEK, established to investigate and trial several low-carbon shipping opportunities. 

The model was accepted for development by Project CHEK as it was recognised as a factor that could substantially reduce emissions, not just for MSC Cruises but throughout the cruise industry.