MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, MSC Euribia, has successfully completed deep-water intensive systems tests during a four-day trial in the Atlantic Ocean. The second liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ship in MSC Cruises fleet, MSC Euribia, features innovative and advanced marine technology to minimise her environmental footprint. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers and is set to sail on her inaugural season in Northern Europe from her homeport in Kiel, Germany, starting in June.
One of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale, LNG plays a key role in the transition to the decarbonisation of international shipping. It reduces local air pollutant emissions by up to 99% for sulphur oxides and up to 85% for nitrogen oxides. Moreover, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%, paving the way for sustainable non-fossil fuels such as bio- and synthetic LNG uptake. As bio and synthetic fuels become available, MSC Euribia’s emissions will be further reduced.
MSC Euribia also features shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems, comprehensive waste recycling, an 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 reduce emissions further.
MSC Euribia’s hull artwork, painted by German graphic artist Alex Flämig following an international competition, aims to stimulate discussion on the importance of protecting the delicate and complex ecosystem of the oceans. Entitled “#SavetheSea,” the visual masterpiece celebrates MSC Cruises’ ongoing dedication to the sea and commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia, who harnessed the winds, weather, and constellations to master the seas, illustrating the vision of the ship to deploy advanced sustainable solutions to do the same.
Designed with an ocean-inspired colour palette, Flämig’s hull artwork hopes to inspire others to find innovative solutions to safeguard the future of the ocean. According to Flämig, “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.”
MSC Euribia will be officially named on 8 June in Copenhagen, Denmark, before sailing a maiden inaugural season in Northern Europe from her homeport in Kiel, Germany. The ship will offer 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germany, and Copenhagen, Denmark, to the captivating Norwegian Fjords, including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.
To learn more about MSC Euribia and MSC Cruises’ commitment to protecting the environment, visit their official website at msccruises.com.au or msccruises.co.nz.
In conclusion, MSC Euribia’s successful sea trials and striking hull artwork demonstrate MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to sustainability and the protection of the oceans. With innovative marine technology and sustainable fuel, MSC Euribia sets the standard for the future of international shipping.
WRITTEN BY: ANNE KEAM