MSC Cruises and MEYER WERFT sign landmark agreement

MSC Cruises has signed a major new shipbuilding agreement with MEYER WERFT in Papenburg for the construction of four next-generation cruise vessels, with two additional options, marking the launch of the company’s new “New Frontier” platform. The order secures MEYER WERFT’s production capacity well into the next decade.

The agreement was announced in Berlin in the presence of senior German government officials, including Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche and Lower Saxony Minister-President Olaf Lies, alongside Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, and Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO of MEYER WERFT.

The “New Frontier” class represents a brand-new ship platform for MSC Cruises, designed to redefine the cruise experience while incorporating next-generation environmental technologies in support of the group’s net-zero emissions target by 2050.

“MEYER WERFT’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises. “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 an exceptional guest experience and feature next-generation environmental technologies,” he add“This new order marks a significant milestone in the 230-year history of MEYER WERFT,” said Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO, MEYER WERFT. “We are delighted to welcome MSC Cruises as a new customer and strategic partner. This long-term partnership ensures sustainable growth and job security for many years to come.”

The agreement provides a major boost to the regional economy in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg, where MEYER WERFT is a cornerstone employer. More than 3,200 people are directly employed at the shipyard, with over 20,000 additional jobs supported across its wider supplier network.

With deliveries extending into the 2030s, the deal reinforces Papenburg’s position as a global hub for cruise shipbuilding and ensures long-term continuity for one of Europe’s most advanced maritime manufacturing ecosystems.

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