MSC Cruises orders two new LNG-powered cruise ships

Switzerland-based MSC Cruises has placed firm orders for two new LNG-powered cruise ships with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l'Atlantique, it said on November 13. The two ships, currently referred to as World Class 3 and 4, will be delivered in 2026 and 2027.

The company already owns two LNG-powered cruises, MSC World Europa and MSC World America, and its new flagship, MSC Euribia, can be powered by bio-LNG.

The new ships will also be ready for a variety of alternative fuels, including bio and synthetic methane, and green methanol. They will also be fitted with the next generation dual fuel internal combustion engines with reduced methane slip, MSC said.