By
Laura Hyde |
MSC Cruises has ordered four new cruise vessels, with the option for two additional ships, from German shipbuilder, Meyer Werft. The order secures full capacity at the Papenburg shipyard in Germany for the next decade.
The ‘New Frontier’ vessels will have capacity for a maximum of 5,400 passengers. The first ship is scheduled to be delivered in 2030, with the remaining vessels to follow annually.
The agreement was signed at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin, Germany, by Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruise Division, and Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Werft, alongside German government ministers Katherina Reiche, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, and Olaf Lies, Energy Minister-President Lower Saxony.
“Meyer Werft’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding,” said Vago. “Together, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering. The New Frontier class will enable us to design new and exclusive itineraries, offer exceptional guest experience and will feature next-generation environmental technologies that will advance our net-zero 2050 commitment.”
Eikens added: “This new order marks a significant milestone in the 230-year history of Meyer Werft. We are delighted to welcome MSC Cruises as a new customer and strategic partner, and we are truly honoured by the trust they have placed in us. This long-term partnership with MSC Cruises ensures sustainable growth and job security for many years to come. Today is a truly positive and significant day for everyone at Meyer Werft – our employees and our partners alike.”