Watson Farley & Williams (“WFW”) has advised MSC Cruises on the delivery of the MSC Euribia, which was delivered at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The vessel is expected to be the best-performing cruise ship in the world, exceeding the latest IMO Energy Efficiency Design Index requirements and her maiden voyage is set to be the world’s first net zero gas emissions voyage.
Using bio-LNG via a mass-balance system, the most environmentally efficient method of delivering the benefits of renewable biogas, the MSC Euribia will demonstrate that net-zero cruising is possible today. The ship’s design can also accommodate drop-in renewable fuels with retrofits that will enable MSC Cruises to use renewable fuels not currently available such as green methanol. When in service, the vessel will emit up to 19% less greenhouse gas emissions per passenger per day than traditional cruise ships.
The 22nd vessel to join MSC Cruises’ fleet, the MSC Euribia embarked on her maiden voyage to Copenhagen for her naming ceremony on 3 June 2023. On board will be dedicated energy efficiency specialists from both MSC Cruises and the ship’s constructor Chantiers de l’Atlantique to monitor and optimise every aspect of the journey. Leading Nordic producer of biogas and processor of biodegradable waste, Gasum is also supporting MSC Cruises. Managing Partner Lindsey Keeble attended the delivery in France.
The WFW London Assets & Structured Finance team advising MSC was led by Partner Emily Widdrington, assisted by Associate Lottie Lymer. Partner Robert Platt assisted on shipbuilding matters.
Emily commented: “We are delighted to have assisted long-standing client MSC on the delivery of the MSC Euribia and wish her all the best on her ground-breaking maiden voyage. This is a remarkable feat and proof that the cruise sector, and the maritime industry as a whole, can adapt to centre decarbonisation. Helping our clients achieve their green goal is important to us as we continue to promote sustainability in the maritime sector”.
