MSC Cruises announces the construction of six new cruise ships in Germany
On December 15, MSC Cruises, a subsidiary of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) group, took a significant step by signing its very first shipbuilding contract in Germany. This announcement reveals not only the expansion strategy of the Italian-Swiss company but also the growing importance of German shipyards in the cruise industry.
An unprecedented partnership with Meyer Werft
Traditionally, MSC Cruises has collaborated with Italian shipyards, notably Fincantieri, for the construction of its ships. However, this new order at Meyer Werft, located in Papenburg, marks a turning point. The agreement includes the construction of four new cruise ships, with the possibility of adding two more, for a potential total of six units. These ships will enter the New Frontier class, which is distinguished by modern and innovative features.
Large capacity ships for a promising future
The new New Frontier cruise ships will have a tonnage of approximately 180,000 gross tons and will have the capacity to accommodate up to 5,400 passengers. Although these giants of the seas are impressive, they will be smaller than the ships of the World class, already under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique. The latter can carry up to 6,760 passengers and have a weight of 216,000 tons, with the first of this class, MSC World Europa and MSC World America, already delivered.
The delivery of the new ships of the New Frontier class is scheduled at a rate of one per year starting in 2030. This initiative is part of a long-term strategy to update MSC’s fleet, aiming to gradually replace older ships, such as the MSC Armonia and the MSC Sinfonia, which were launched in 2001 and 2002, respectively.
A response to growing demand
The cruise industry is experiencing strong demand, prompting companies to expand their fleets. The Chantiers de l’Atlantique, which have a significant workload with the construction of the World class, cannot meet all of MSC’s requests. That is why the company decided to diversify its suppliers, turning to Meyer Werft for this historic order.
Meyer Werft is no stranger to the construction of large cruise ships. The shipyard is already engaged in the construction of several ships, including for other major companies like Royal Caribbean. This strategic choice allows MSC to ensure efficient production and meet the growing demand for sea travel.
Impact on the local economy and the maritime industry
The order from MSC Cruises is beneficial not only for the company but also for the local and regional economy. The Papenburg shipyard employs about 3,200 people, and the order for new cruise ships is expected to generate thousands of indirect jobs in the region, thus supporting the maritime industry in Lower Saxony.
Meyer Werft also has a well-filled order book, including projects for other big names in the industry, such as the Carnival Festivale cruise ship and several ships for the Disney group. This diversity of projects contributes to the stability and growth of the maritime sector in Europe.
A promising future for MSC Cruises
With the acquisition of these new ships, MSC Cruises is well-positioned for the future. The company, which currently operates a fleet of 23 cruise ships, including the first two ships of Explora Journeys, is on track to strengthen its market presence. The new ships of the New Frontier class will not only modernize the fleet but also meet the growing demand for luxury and sustainable cruise experiences.
In conclusion, this order announcement marks a turning point in the history of MSC Cruises and highlights the importance of innovation and diversification in the cruise sector. With a clear vision and ambitious projects, the company is well-placed to navigate towards a prosperous future.
