Challenge
Our pivotal role in transforming the cruise industry is demonstrated by our involvement in key projects worldwide for the construction of large cruise ships, driving innovation and progress across the sector.
Applied expertise
- Magic City, delivered in 2023: we offered crucial services including technical training, technical advice, workshop supervision on behalf of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (SWS), owner’s representative oversight, and project expediting.
- Adora Flora City construction, which has begun in April 2024 and is set for delivery in 2026. We ensure construction supervision and classification, aligning with RINA Class standards, and emphasizes environmental protection with ‘Green Plus’ and ‘HVSC’ class notations, while also incorporating the ‘BIO - SAFE SHIP’ class notation to prevent onboard infection outbreaks.
- In the luxury vessels sector, we are a key player in the Explora class project, a collaboration between MSC and Fincantieri crafting six luxury cruise ships ranging from 64,000 to 72,800 gross tonnage, each accommodating about 1,000 passengers. Our comprehensive services include classification, plan approval, compliance verification, energy efficiency assessment, Flag and statutory support, and LNG bunkering operations coordination. The project’s innovative approach introduces sustainability advancements with every pair of sister ships.
- For Explora I and II, we handled plan approval and environmental compliance, while for Explora III and IV, the transition to LNG propulsion saw RINA verifying LNG as the primary fuel. Explora V and VI will pioneer the installation of fuel cells powered by LNG and/or hydrogen.
- Additionally, we play a vital role with Carnival Corporation and Meyer Werft in the construction of Excel-class ships 10 and 11, the first large LNG-fueled ships for Carnival Cruise Line. We ensure adherence to regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and the effective implementation of LNG technology. From the project’s start, we supported the IGF Code application, aligning ships with current drafts for safe LNG operations, and contributed to the risk assessment process, especially on LNG design and bunkering operations, while providing safety guidelines on LNG tank placement and ventilation. We also offer technical guidance on LNG system layout enhancements and customized crew LNG training. This contribution marks a pivotal development in the cruise industry’s energy transition.
Impact
We play a key role in driving sustainable innovation across the global cruise industry, acting as a strategic partner from concept design to operation. We support shipowners and shipyards in meeting the highest standards of safety, environmental performance, and energy efficiency. Our involvement in landmark projects, from LNG-fuelled and future hydrogen-ready cruise ships to large-scale cruise programs in emerging markets, demonstrates our tangible impact in accelerating the transition toward low- and zero-emission maritime solutions.
