Berlin, Germany | December 15, 2025 – In a move that decisively reshapes the landscape of global cruise shipbuilding and secures Germany’s position as a maritime engineering powerhouse, MSC Cruises has announced a landmark agreement with MEYER WERFT for up to six new vessels. The order, comprising four firm cruise vessels and two additional options, marks the highly anticipated launch of MSC Cruises’ all-new “New Frontier” platform.
This monumental deal was unveiled at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by Federal Minister Katherina Reiche, Energy Minister-President Olaf Lies, alongside MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and MEYER WERFT’s CEO Dr. Bernd Eikens. The contract guarantees full capacity at the shipyard in Papenburg well into the next decade.
A New Era of Sustainable Cruising
The “New Frontier” class ships will redefine the guest experience while serving as crucial advancements in MSC Cruises’ commitment to environmental stewardship.
Speaking on the order, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, stated: “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.”
The ships are designed to be colossal yet efficient:
- Gross Tonnage: Approximately 180,000 GT
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 5,400 maximum guests
- Delivery Schedule: Annually, beginning in 2030
The vessels are expected to incorporate highly advanced environmental systems, building upon MSC’s existing commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. This likely includes the use of highly fuel-flexible engine technologies capable of operating on conventional fuels, transitional fuels like LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), and future renewable marine fuels (such as bio-LNG and synthetic renewable LNG) as they become commercially viable.
German Shipbuilding Secured
For MEYER WERFT, the order is a momentous occasion, solidifying a long-term strategic partnership with the world’s third-largest cruise line.
Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO of MEYER WERFT, remarked on the historical significance: “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 honored by the trust they have placed in us.”
The agreement delivers a decisive boost to the regional economy. It ensures sustainable growth and job security for thousands of people in Germany, particularly in the Lower Saxony region where MEYER WERFT is a cornerstone employer, supporting its extensive network of suppliers and partners. With deliveries stretching well into the 2030s, the order reinforces Papenburg’s indispensable role as a strategic global hub for cutting-edge maritime manufacturing.
Key Ship Specifications at a Glance
- New Ship Class: “New Frontier” Platform
- Order Size: 4 Firm Vessels + 2 Options (Total of up to 6 Ships)
- Delivery Start: Annually, beginning 2030
- Gross Tonnage (GT): Approximately 180,000 GT
- Maximum Passenger Capacity: 5,400 Passengers
- Shipbuilder: MEYER WERFT (Papenburg, Germany)
- Fuel/Environmental Focus: Next-Generation Environmental Technologies, specifically designed to support MSC Cruises’ Net-Zero 2050 commitment.
About MEYER WERFT
MEYER WERFT, headquartered in Papenburg, Germany, is one of the world’s leading shipyards. Founded in 1795, the company is renowned for building highly advanced cruise ships and specialized vessels, combining centuries of shipbuilding expertise with continuous technological innovation. The company has private and state-owned shareholders and serves as a vital strategic hub for maritime manufacturing in Europe.
About MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is a privately-owned global cruise line recognized as the world’s third-largest by passenger capacity and the clear market leader in Europe, with a strong and growing presence in North America. Operating a modern fleet of 23 ships, MSC Cruises is a truly global brand, offering guests cruises across five continents, visiting more than 100 countries and over 300 destinations worldwide, all while providing the finest hospitality and opportunities for unforgettable memories.
Source: MSC Cruises