MSC Cruises Pledges to Cut Fleetwide Emissions
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MSC Cruises plans to cut its fleetwide emissions by up to 15% by 2026 using a new itinerary planning tool called OptiCruise, according to a press release.
OptiCruise was developed in collaboration with OPTIMeasy. This advanced model examines multiple factors in planning MSC Cruises’ itineraries, aiming to boost efficiency while enhancing guest satisfaction, the company stated.
The MSC Bellissima will be the first to test this technology over a 12-month period, sailing between 17 Mediterranean ports.
Michele Francioni, chief energy transition officer at MSC Cruises, said: “We have identified and developed this new technology to optimize the decision-making process of itinerary planning with the aim to further reduce emissions across our fleet from 2026.”
Francioni added, “The OPTIMeasy team calculates that the average fuel savings made, and emissions reduced by using OptiCruise are in the range of 10-15%, which is a significant step forward in our ambition to achieve our net zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050 for our marine operations.”
Traditionally, cruise voyage planning has emphasized the appeal of destinations to travelers. OptiCruise broadens this approach by evaluating various factors affecting itinerary efficiency. These include the order of port calls, departure and arrival times, ship speed, destination attractiveness, shore excursions, and operational costs such as fuel, port charges, and food provisions.
The tool uses advanced algorithms to analyze this data and create optimized itineraries that maintain guest appeal while improving energy efficiency.
MSC Cruises aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 through advancements in three key areas: ship and engine technology, operational efficiency, and renewable fuels. OptiCruise falls under the operational efficiency category, focusing on enhancing energy consumption via increased digitalization.
OptiCruise is part of the European Union’s Project CHEK, which explores low-carbon shipping technologies and innovative designs.
