Law firm Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised MSC Cruises on the delivery of the ‘MSC Euribia’, from Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
She is expected to be the world’s best-performing cruise ship, exceeding the latest IMO Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements, while her maiden voyage is set to be the world’s first net zero gas emissions sailing.
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, it was claimed.
The 22nd vessel to join MSC Cruises’ fleet, the ‘MSC Euribia’ embarked on her maiden voyage to Copenhagen for her naming ceremony on 3rd June, 2023.
On board were energy efficiency specialists from both MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique to monitor and optimise every aspect of the trip. Nordic producer of biogas and processor of biodegradable waste, Gasum is also supporting MSC Cruises.
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.
Widdrington 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 de-carbonisation. Helping our clients achieve their green goal is important to us as we continue to promote sustainability in the maritime sector.” she said.
