Geneva-headquartered cruise line MSC Cruises has disclosed a major new order for four next-generation cruise vessels and two additional options from shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, marking the launch of its new “New Frontier” platform, a brand-new class of ships.

With a maximum passenger capacity of 5,400 and approximately 180,000 gross tons, the “New Frontier” ships will be delivered annually starting in 2030.

The announcement was made on December 15 at the federal ministry for economic affairs and energy in Berlin by Katherina Reiche, federal minister for economic affairs and energy, and minister-president of Lower Saxony Olaf Lies, alongside MSC Cruises’ executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and Meyer Werft’s chief executive officer Dr. Bernd Eikens.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “Together, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering.”

Dr. Bernd Eikens, chief executive officer of Meyer Werft, added: “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.”

MSC Cruises said the order would support thousands of jobs in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg, where more than 3,200 people are directly employed at Meyer Werft and more than 20,000 jobs in the wider region are linked to its operations. 

Financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.