Latest news with #PierfrancescoVago
Zawya
9 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
MSC Group's Cruise division publishes 2024 sustainability report
United Arab Emirates - MSC Group's Cruise Division today published its 2024 Sustainability Report reaffirming its commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, accompanied by an independently verified Energy Transition Plan (ETP) to clearly show how it is working to achieve this ambition. The report, now in its sixth edition, highlights milestones in environmental innovation, responsible tourism, and social impact. It reflects MSC Group's Cruise Division's integrated approach to sustainability for its MSC Cruises' and Explora Journeys' brands. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group's Cruise Division, said: 'As a family business, we do not operate ships just for tomorrow. We sail them for future generations, designed for fuel flexibility, guided by innovation, and powered by people who share our long-term vision. 'The Cruise Division in 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a bold and transparent sustainability strategy that balances environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic resilience.' Report highlights include: Launching of the Energy Transition Plan for the fleets of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, outlining interim absolute emissions reduction targets. This is a published roadmap to achieving net-zero GHG emissions from marine operations by 2050. Avoiding 50,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions through fleet-wide optimisation tools (OptiCruise and Oceanly Performance) which support real-time operational efficiency and itinerary planning. An increase in shore power connections from 44 in 2023 to 142 in 2024, across 13 ports. All new ships since 2017 are shore-power ready with retrofitting continuing across the fleet, and the Cruise Division remains committed to using shore power wherever it's available. An increase in crew retention rate to 89%, up from 83% in 2023, demonstrating the commitment of the Cruise Division to employee engagement and development. The formation of a Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee, underlining a strong commitment to workforce equity across over 140 nationalities. Continued investment in destinations like Ocean Cay, where environmental stewardship has enabled marine wildlife to thrive and coral restoration is underway. Whale strike prevention training for 469 key crew members in conjunction with marine protection charity ORCA to understand more about the species of whale at risk, how to identify them, and take steps to reduce the risk. More than 4,500 shore excursions offered in 84 countries, including 284 'Protectours', low-impact experiences. The report also shows that in 2024 the fleets of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys together carried 4.6 million guests and sailed to 341 itineraries in 90 countries. Looking Ahead As MSC Group's Cruise Division looks to the future, it remains focused on scaling clean energy solutions, retrofitting existing ships, advocating for port infrastructure investments, and collaborating across the maritime sector to accelerate the global energy transition. 'There is no single solution to decarbonisation. It is a puzzle we solve piece by piece - with new technology, operational excellence, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to move forward,' added Mr Vago. The full 2024 Sustainability Report is available at: -Ends- The Cruise Division of MSC Group, the privately-owned world leader in transportation is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland with two distinct brands - MSC Cruises, covering the contemporary and premium segments and Explora Journeys dedicated to the luxury segment. MSC Cruises is the world's third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America. A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality. For more information visit: Explora Journeys, launched in 2023, is the luxury ocean travel brand redefining the experience for a new generation of discerning travellers. The fleet, currently comprising two ships and expanding to six by 2028, offers effortless yet refined luxury. Guests embark on transformative journeys, connecting with the sea through exceptional itineraries that inspire discovery in all its forms. For more information visit : For interviews scheduling or any media enquiry, please contact: Ghida Abou Zaki ghida@
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MSC Cruises signs orders for two new world class ships to be built in France by Chantiers de l'Atlantique
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – MSC Cruises today signed two new orders for their globally successful World Class ships. The order with French ship builder Chantiers de l'Atlantique, will see the total number of World Class ships in the MSC Cruises fleet expand to six. The two new ordered vessels – currently referred to as World Class 5 and 6 – will be delivered in 2029 and 2030 respectively and demonstrates the Company's ongoing commitment to France and European shipbuilding. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises, said, 'The confirmation of the orders for the two new World Class ships marks a new milestone in our remarkable journey of shipbuilding in France and the continuation of our long-term industrial plan. This milestone underscores our commitment to building some of the highest performing ships in the world, creating a legacy of excellence and innovation in collaboration with the Chantiers de l'Atlantique – our long-term partners of more than 20 years. The highly successful World Class platform combines the very best in environmental technology with the latest advancements in guest experiences.' Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l'Atlantique added, " We thank MSC Cruises for their continued trust. It is the synergy of our two companies' expertise that has led to the creation of this high-potential World Class series, meeting the challenges both in terms of passenger experience and environmental performance. World Class V and VI mark a milestone in the history of the cruise industry, with the best energy efficiency.' The new ships will join MSC World Europa and MSC World America along with MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic, which are currently under construction and will enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively. The World Class ships are already the most energy efficient ships in service, significantly outperforming the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the new vessels will continue to uphold the high energy efficiency standards set by their sister ships. All World Class ships are ready for a variety of alternative fuels including bio and synthetic LNG. Additionally, they will feature a new configuration of the latest generation dual fuel internal combustion engines, which feature new technology to further reduce methane slip. The new vessels will feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the IMO, new advances in waste management, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimise engine use and hotel energy needs to further reduce emissions. As with the other World Class ships, the new vessels will seamlessly blend MSC Cruises' signature elegant European design with comfort to offer an unparalleled guest experience centred around a districts concept with facilities, and experiences tailored to the needs of different types of traveller. Each new ship MSC Cruises builds offers something new and distinctive and World 5 and 6 will be no different. The two new orders will be subject to access to financing, as per industry practice. NOTES MSC Cruises' first LNG ship, MSC World Europa was launched in November 2022 and the latest ship in this class, MSC World America entered service in April 2025 and is operating in the North American cruise market. There are currently two vessels under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire in France, MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic. These ships will be delivered in 2026 and 2027 respectively. All World Class ships feature dual engines and as bio and synthetic fuels become available at scale, emissions from MSC Cruises' World Class vessels will be further reduced. LNG is key to the development of low carbon solutions for shipping as emerging technologies such as fuel cells can be operated with LNG until zero emissions bio and synthetic LNG become available at scale. MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l'Atlantique are actively involved in several projects to develop and make these technologies viable in partnership with regulators, academia, and industry. About MSC Cruises Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the privately-owned MSC Cruises is the world's third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America. A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality. About Chantiers De L'Atlantique Thanks to the expertise of its teams and its network of subcontractors, combined with top industrial technology, Chantiers de l'Atlantique is a key leader in the design, integration, testing and precise delivery of cruise ships, naval vessels, electrical substations for offshore wind farms and fleet services. The company is a pioneer in the challenges of tomorrow. Thanks to its research and development, Chantiers de l'Atlantique offers ships with the highest environmental performance, as well as equipment for offshore wind farms, making it a major player in global energy transition. For further information, please contact: Ghida Abou Zaki | Elise Nacouzi Belarabi Group ghida@ | elise@
Ya Biladi
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Ya Biladi
GNV orders four LNG-powered Ropax ships to redefine Mediterranean travel by 2030
GNV has just placed an order for four new RoPax ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Guangzhou Shipyard International in China. These vessels, among the largest and most sustainable in the Mediterranean, will be able to accommodate up to 2,500 passengers with 500 cabins and will offer 3,500 linear meters of garage space for vehicles. With this order, GNV increases the number of new ships expected by 2030 to eight, marking an acceleration in its fleet renewal plan. Pierfrancesco Vago, the company's executive chairman, emphasizes that this strategic investment aims to support ambitious growth by placing sustainability and safety at the heart of its model. The first deliveries will begin in 2028, with one ship every six months. Each vessel will measure 237 meters long and 33 meters wide, with a gross tonnage of 71,300 tons. Powered by LNG, these ferries will incorporate the latest technologies to reduce CO2 emissions per transported unit by more than 50% compared to the previous generation. Designed to offer optimal comfort, these ships will feature spacious panoramic cabins, family areas, digital services, as well as zones reserved for children and pets. The stated goal is to redefine the standards of maritime transport in the Mediterranean. Matteo Catani, CEO of GNV, states that this strategy of expansion and innovation aims to consolidate the company's role as an essential maritime infrastructure, serving both passengers and the territories it connects.
Ya Biladi
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- Ya Biladi
GNV orders four LNG-powered Ropax ships to redefine Mediterranean travel by 2030
GNV has just placed an order for four new RoPax ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Guangzhou Shipyard International in China. These vessels, among the largest and most sustainable in the Mediterranean, will be able to accommodate up to 2,500 passengers with 500 cabins and will offer 3,500 linear meters of garage space for vehicles. With this order, GNV increases the number of new ships expected by 2030 to eight, marking an acceleration in its fleet renewal plan. Pierfrancesco Vago, the company's executive chairman, emphasizes that this strategic investment aims to support ambitious growth by placing sustainability and safety at the heart of its model. The first deliveries will begin in 2028, with one ship every six months. Each vessel will measure 237 meters long and 33 meters wide, with a gross tonnage of 71,300 tons. Powered by LNG, these ferries will incorporate the latest technologies to reduce CO2 emissions per transported unit by more than 50% compared to the previous generation. Designed to offer optimal comfort, these ships will feature spacious panoramic cabins, family areas, digital services, as well as zones reserved for children and pets. The stated goal is to redefine the standards of maritime transport in the Mediterranean. Matteo Catani, CEO of GNV, states that this strategy of expansion and innovation aims to consolidate the company's role as an essential maritime infrastructure, serving both passengers and the territories it connects.
