Meyer Werft secures future with giant MSC Cruises deal

Meyer Werft has won a four, option two, contract from MSC Cruises which will “redefine the cruise experience” and “keep Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering”. So said Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of the cruise line as the multi-billion euro order for up to six New Frontier-class ships  was announced  at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin.

The 180,000-gt cruise ships will have capacity for 5,400 passengers. Annual deliveries will start in 2030. The massive contract will secure thousands of jobs in the Lower Saxony and Papenburg regions of Germany. More than 3,200 people are employed directly at Meyer Werft and as many as 20,000 jobs in the wider region have ties with the shipyard’s operations.

“Meyer Werft’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding,” declared the MSC executive chairman, Vago. “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.”

Meyer Werft CEO, Bernd Eikens, commented: “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.”