Steel cut for MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises’ second LNG-powered vessel

Named after the ancient Greek goddess of mastery of the seas, it is set to enter service in 2023, making it the 22nd vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet. 

Attending the naming event alongside Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique was Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman, MSC Cruises who stated, ‘Just as the ancient goddess harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, our vision is for MSC Euribia to master the deployment of sustainable technologies to protect and preserve our precious marine ecosystem.

‘This ship marks a new milestone in our journey towards net zero impact operations and is testament to our commitment to foster and develop next generation environmental technologies.’ 

He went on to add, ‘As a family with over 300 years of seafaring heritage, we always seek to protect the environment to safeguard our way of life and protect the planet for future generations. With our first LNG-powered vessel already under construction, MSC Euribia will further reduce emissions using the latest available technology. She will be one of the world’s most environmentally high-performing contemporary vessels.’

€3bn investment in more sustainable cruise operations

MSC Cruises’ three planned LNG-powered vessels represents an investment exceeding €3bn. The first of these, MSC World Europa is also under construction in Saint Nazaire and set to enter service in October 2022.

Construction of MSC Cruises' third LNG vessel is set to commence in early 2023.

Development of fuel technology

MSC Euribia’s engines have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to standard fuels and with the subsequent availability of bio and synthetic forms of LNG, the line is working towards decarbonised operations. The line, Chantiers de l’Atlantique and a consortium of energy and technology companies are working on the development of a pilot LNG-powered, solid oxide fuel cell technology for cruise ships that will achieve further greenhouse gas emissions. 

Reduced emissions 

MSC Euribia will have four Wärtsilä (12V and 16V) dual fuel engines running on LNG or occasionally on 0.1% sulphur marine gasoil so there's no need for exhaust gas cleaning systems. 

Also installed will be a selective catalytic reduction system that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90% when the ship runs on MGO. However, according to the line, the ship will meet International Maritime Organization Tier III standards regardless of the fuel it uses. 

Additionally, it will have shore-to-ship power connectivity, allowing the engines to be switched off and the vessel to connect to local power grids at ports. 

'Baltic Standard' waste water treatment system 

An advanced wastewater treatment system, compliant with the IMO’s stringent 'Baltic standard' MEPC 227(64) Resolution will be utilised. An advanced ballast water treatment system will prevent the introduction of invasive species in the marine environment, complying with the IMO’s Ballast Water Management Convention. 

An underwater radiated noise management system will be employed, with the ship’s hull and engine room designed to minimise acoustic sound impact and reduce impact on marine mammals.

Energy savings

In partnership with the shipyard, MSC Euribia will be fitted with automatic data collection systems for remote energy monitoring and advanced analysis, allowing real-time shoreside support to optimise operational efficiency on board.

LED lighting will be controlled by smart management systems, and smart ventilation and advanced air conditioning systems with automated energy recovery loops that redistribute heat and cold to reduce demand will also feature.