MSC Cruises Orders New Ship Class from MEYER WERFT
Bekanntgabe im Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie in Berlin. Foto: Dominik Butzmann/BMWE/photothek.de
(eap) The European cruise company MSC Cruises and MEYER WERFT in Papenburg, Germany, today announced four next-generation cruise ships and two additional options. Under the name “New Frontier”, a completely new ship will be built and secure the full utilization of the shipyard well into the next decade. With a maximum passenger capacity of 5,400 people and a gross tonnage of around 180,000 per ship, the New Frontier liners are scheduled to be delivered annually starting in 2030.
The announcement was made today at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche and the Minister-President of Lower Saxony Olaf Lies, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of MSC Cruises, Pierfrancesco Vago, and the CEO of MEYER WERFT, Dr. Bernd Eikens.
“MEYER WERFT’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding. Together, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering. 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,” said Pierfrancesco Vago.
Dr. Bernd Eikens emphasized: “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. 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.”
Dr. André Walter will take over as CEO of MEYER WERFT on July 1, 2026.
Only recently, MEYER WERFT also announced a change in its management: As of July 1, 2026, Dr. André Walter is to assume the position of Dr. Bernd Eikens, who will hand over the management of the company to his successor as planned and at his own request. Dr. André Walter is regarded as an experienced manager who has been Chairman of the Management Board of Airbus Aerostructures GmbH and Airbus GmbH in Hamburg since 2022. ■
