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Meyer Group's new ship concepts receive great interest at the Seatrade Cruise Global

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 15 April 2024 15 April 2024

At the Seatrade Cruise Global event that ended in Miami last week, Meyer Group's visionary ideas and the company's technological leadership in maritime industry products were presented. For the first time, sketches of the climate-neutral cruise ship concept under development in Meyer Turku's NEcOLEAP research project were also on display. In addition, Alfred Maritime, part of the Meyer Group, presented the Meyer energy management system based on artificial intelligence. Meyer Floating Solutions' floating docks and terminals and the visionary future concept Origin completed the offer of the Meyer stand.

The climate-neutral cruise ship will be developed until 2025

The outlines of the climate-neutral Avatar cruise ship concept are the result of research projects of the NEcOLEAP project. MEYER Turku's goal is to develop a climate-neutral cruise ship concept by the end of 2025 and to be ready to build one in 2030. "The Business Finland-funded research and development project NECoLEAP and Meyer's work on a climate-neutral ship concept were presented at the exhibition stand. We also revealed the outlines of our new concept, which will make cruises more sustainable in the future," says Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku. The Avatar concept includes, among other things, automated logistics, alternative materials, more sustainable cabin design and more energy efficiency optimization. The holistic approach extends to the end of the product's life cycle, emphasizing material choices, recycling and circular economy principles.

Unique product selection in the industry

Meyer also presented its unique product range at Seatrade Cruise Global. Meyer Floating Solutions' innovative floating docks and cruise terminal selection and the Icon of the Seas ship model were included. In December 2023, Meyer Turku delivered the Icon of the Seas ship, which is one of the world's most innovative and efficient cruise ships. "Meyer is the only shipyard that can offer a complete range of river cruise ships to large ocean liners such as Icon of the Seas. With our tradition of innovation and new products, such as Meyer Floating Solutions' floating docks and terminals, we can create added value for ship owners and port operators," says Meyer Group Sales Director Thomas Weigend.

The Meyer Energy Management System platform was developed by Alfred's IIoT and data experts together with the Meyer Energy Efficiency Team, and its purpose is to increase the efficiency of ships' operations. The Meyer energy management system helps ship operators and crew to understand and analyze the ship's performance. The platform offers the crew useful suggestions for optimizing energy efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. Combined with accurate performance forecasts and multiple onboard systems, it helps the crew reduce the ship's emissions.

The newest future concept is called Origin. It meets the housing needs of the future and responds to global trends with weather-independent features that work all year round. The key point of the design concept is a ship without the typical "ship-looking" exterior and interior.

DFDS plans to deploy fleet of battery electric vessels on the English Channel

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 14 April 2024 14 April 2024

DFDS reaffirms commitment to the electrification of cross-channel transport after meeting with UK Minister for Investment and Regulatory Reform, Lord Dominic Johnson. DFDS's long-term goal is to have up to six battery-powered vessels operating on its routes on the Channel, with the first two in service by 2030.

Earlier this week, the UK Minister for Investment and Regulatory Reform visited DFDS headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark to discuss decarbonisation of the shipping sector and the electrification of maritime traffic across the English Channel.

DFDS will deploy two battery-powered vessels in the Eastern Channel by 2030. This is a part of a program to invest in six green vessels – two methanol, two ammoniac and two electric – for a total of around DKK 7.3bn over the next six years. The long-term goal is to introduce up to six fully electric vessels on the channel, which would be the world's largest electric ferries.

Because of the relative short distance between the UK and the European continent, the routes on the channel are optimal for electric ferry transport. The English Channel is one of the busiest shipping corridors in the world. It links two of the world’s biggest economies and accounts for 33% of the trade between the EU and the UK.

UK Minister for Investment and Regulatory Reform, Lord Dominic Johnson said: “With its superb infrastructure, technological advances and proximity to Denmark, the UK is the partner of choice for green investments like this. DFDS’ commitment highlights the value of our trading relationship and the strategic importance of the English Channel shipping route.”

“The UK Government remains steadfast in its aim to reach net zero by 2050 and the green transition of the cross-Channel shipping will create British and Danish jobs and strengthen both our economies.”

The green transition of maritime transport on the Channel not only relies on the ships at sea. A sufficient power supply on land and infrastructure to accommodate recharging facilities in ports are equally important to be able to complete the fleet electrification.

“We have a shared ambition with the UK Government to decarbonise maritime traffic across the channel. The transition is not going to be easy. It requires significant investments in innovation, technology and infrastructure, and collaboration and partnerships between the public and private sectors. But I am confident that we will succeed. DFDS will invest in green vessels and cooperate with ports and governments on both sides of the channel to decarbonise cross channel transportation,” says Torben Carlsen, CEO of DFDS.

DFDS has 12 routes connecting UK to France, Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark and employs 3,300 people in 5 ports, several logistics offices in the UK and onboard 3 UK flagged vessels.

Bert Hernandez named new President of Silversea, Barbara Muckermann steps down

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 12 April 2024 12 April 2024

Today, Royal Caribbean Group announced that Barbara Muckermann will depart Royal Caribbean Group after 14 years with Silversea to pursue other opportunities, and effective today, Bert Hernandez will succeed her as president of Silversea.

"I have had the pleasure of working with Barbara since 2018 when Silversea joined Royal Caribbean Group, first in her role as chief marketing and commercial officer and later as brand president,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Barbara has helped position Silversea as the world’s top ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, and the brand further solidified its leadership with the official inauguration of Silver Nova earlier this year, a ship hailed as ushering in a new era of luxury at sea.”

"I would also like to congratulate Bert on his appointment as the next brand president of Silversea," Liberty added. "With deep industry knowledge, experience in markets around the world, and past leadership of a luxury cruise line, I know Bert is well positioned to chart a smart course for Silversea’s continued growth and success. At Royal Caribbean Group, we are committed to delivering the very best experiences in the ultra-luxury and expedition space, and I am confident in Bert’s ability to find opportunities to take the brand to the next level.”

Most recently serving as senior vice president, international, Bert has been with the Royal Caribbean Group for the past 20 years and brings to the role tremendous commercial and operational experience. In his current role, Bert works with his team to further position Royal Caribbean International as the vacation brand of choice, across a wide range of travel preferences in more than 80 countries. He also served as president of China operations for Royal Caribbean International, where he built the brand into China’s leading cruise line. Notably, he was chief operating officer for the Group’s former luxury cruise line, Azamara, delivering the line’s most profitable year while it was part of the Royal Caribbean family of brands.

“I have long admired the wonderful brand that Barbara and team have built over 30 years and respect how they have been driven to create the most unique and memorable experiences in travel,” said Bert Hernandez. “The opportunity to lead and grow such a beloved brand is a great honor, and I couldn’t be more excited to work with the experienced Silversea leadership team. The future of the brand has never been brighter as we continue the tradition of delivering best-in class experiences with the arrival of Silver Ray later this year.”

Windstar Cruises to add two new ships to fleet, including first Star-class newbuild

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 April 2024 11 April 2024

Windstar Cruises, an expert in small-ship luxury cruising, has announced the expansion of its fleet with the addition of two all-suite motor yachts, Star Seeker and Star Explorer. The first of the two ships, new-build Star Seeker which is currently being constructed in the WestSEA shipyard, is expected to be delivered in December of 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December, 2026.

“Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this,” says Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. “We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences. This growth reflects the dedication of our incredible crew and team, allowing us to broaden our destination portfolio and even bring one of our Wind Class sail ships back to Tahiti.”

Each ship has 112 suites, featuring full private verandas and infinity windows, ensuring unparalleled views for every guest onboard. Additionally, two new Owner’s Suites with wrap-around balconies have been added to the aft of the ship, perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. With a capacity for 224 guests and a staff to guest ratio of 1:2, the ships maintain an intimate atmosphere, ensuring personalized service at every turn.

Guests will also enjoy access to several newly added Windstar guest favorites, including the brand’s iconic Watersports Platform with all-new staircase access, the cozy Yacht Club café and lounge, a two-story spa and fitness facility, an intimate forward whirlpool on the bow, and a spacious open deck perfect for sunbathing and Windstar’s famous deck barbeques.

As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation (JBF), Windstar’s commitment to exceptional cuisine will continue to be a priority for the guest experience. The re-imagined main dining room, Amphora, will serve a variety of upscale and inventive dishes, including rotating items from James Beard Foundation – affiliated guest chefs. Al fresco dining will now be available at both Amphora and the Star Grill. A no-charge specialty restaurant and 24-hr room service rounds out the four dining options.

Star Seeker and Star Explorer both have ice-strengthened hulls, unlocking access to new destinations. The ships are equipped with the latest technology in safety, propulsion, and navigation, including pump jet thrusters and forward-facing Sonar. To minimize their environmental footprint and uphold the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the ships have tier III Nox rated Rolls Royce engines and can connect to shore power minimizing port emissions. In addition, the ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet all global standards. Every aspect of their design reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to preserving the environment while providing unforgettable experiences to travelers.

Andrew N. Todd, President & CEO of parent company Xanterra Travel Collection said, “As part of our company’s expanding portfolio, Windstar Cruises is poised for remarkable growth and an exciting future ahead. We’re excited about the possibilities of where Windstar will sail and the opportunities it brings our officers, crew and staff, and our guests.”

The expansion also allows Windstar to bring back one of its beloved Wind Class ships, Wind Star, to Tahiti, where it will join Star Breeze in 2027, adding more capacity to meet the growing demand for French Polynesian sailings. With more than 36 years’ experience operating cruises in French Polynesia and a longtime guest favorite, travelers will now have a choice between sailing among the islands on a Wind or Star Class ship.

Full itineraries and booking details for Star Seeker will be announced in late June 2024.

MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l'Atlantique mark two milestones for new World-class ships

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 10 April 2024 10 April 2024

MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique marked two important milestones today in the construction of the innovative World-class ships, MSC World America and MSC World Asia, during a press conference at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami.

MSC World America celebrated a major milestone with the completion of its float out ceremony at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France on Sunday, April 7, 2024. The ultramodern flagship is now in her final phase of construction and will be officially named on April 9, 2025 at MSC Cruises’ new state-of-the-art PortMiami terminal, followed by a celebratory sailing to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Ocean Cay is the cruise line’s private island in The Bahamas, is home to the MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Program, and has been designated a 'Hope Spot' by Mission Blue.

Meanwhile, the steel-cutting ceremony for the company’s third World Class ship marked the start of that vessel’s construction. MSC Cruises revealed the name of the new ship – MSC World Asia – with anticipated delivery in 2026. Following the format of the other World Class ships that pay homage to different continents, MSC World Asia will symbolize the global nature of MSC Cruises. While details of where the ship will operate are yet to be revealed, MSC World Asia will feature signature design touches, experiences and features inspired by its continental namesake.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises commented, “MSC World America is another example of the incredible professional partnership between us and the Chantiers de l’Atlantique with whom we have designed five distinct and innovative prototypes – the most recent being the ground-breaking World Class platform. With each and every ship we strive to improve and enhance not only the environmental technology but also new features that enrich the experience for the guest as we design for the future holiday experience. MSC World Asia continues in this tradition and with this important milestone of the steel cutting we are pleased to confirm that she will offer even more advanced new features in terms of future-proof marine and onboard hospitality technologies as well as guest experiences.”

Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique commented, "We are very proud to begin construction on MSC World Asia. The third ship in the World Class series will feature cutting-edge technologies, making it one of the cleanest, most energy-efficient ships in the world. She embodies MSC Cruises’ and Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s long-term partnership and commitment toward the environment.”

The remarkable MSC World America will be MSC Cruises’ largest ship to serve the U.S. and its first in the region to be powered by LNG. MSC World America is the second of the line’s groundbreaking World Class ships and is specially designed with the North American guest in mind, featuring unique restaurants, bars and experiences that seamlessly blend European design with American comfort. Spanning 22 decks, measuring more than 150 feet wide and featuring 2,614 staterooms, MSC World America will be the centerpiece of the Miami skyline when she is named in 2025.

The World Class ships are distinguished by their eye-catching silhouette and signature plumb bow rising vertically from the waterline, with a stylish Y-shaped aft that opens onto an impressive outdoor promenade. These ships are an ultramodern urban metropolis at sea, offering a world of different experiences and spanning 22 decks, offering more than 2,600 cabins and suites, and providing more than 420,000 square feet of public space and featuring MSC Cruises’ largest Yacht Club to-date. The exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept offers unparalleled levels of comfort, with a private lounge and restaurant, stylish suites and substantial outdoor areas with a sun-deck spanning two decks that offers panoramic views of the ocean.

MSC World Europa and MSC World America currently deliver one of the lowest carbon footprints in the cruise industry, as per the International Maritime Organization’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI). MSC World Asia will be an evolution of these high performing ships, with an even further reduced carbon footprint.

MSC World Asia will become the fourth Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) ship to join the MSC Cruises fleet, as LNG continues to be seen as a critical pathway toward maritime decarbonization. Fossil LNG offers immediate Green House Gas (GHG) emission reductions compared to conventional marine fuels, along with a direct pathway to drop in renewable substitutes like Bio and Synthetic LNG, which MSC Cruises’ LNG ships are ready to use as soon as the fuels become commercially available at scale.

New generation dual-fuel internal combustion engines will help to reduce emissions and reduce methane slip by 30 percent versus current technology. MSC Cruises is part of an EU-funded project called GREEN RAY, that is working to minimize methane slip by developing new technologies that can be installed onto new and existing ships. Initial tests of the new combustion concept have shown encouraging results.

MSC World America and MSC World Asia, as with all new MSC Cruises ships, will be fitted with shore power connectivity as standard. This reduces emissions by allowing the ship’s engines to be switched off while calling at ports providing shore power. Smart technology is used throughout the ship to ensure guests can travel in comfort while keeping energy and water use low. A robust onboard recycling program minimizes waste, and even the propellers are designed to reduce noise and avoid disturbing marine life.