MSC Cruises has announced a significant new order for four next-generation cruise vessels and two additional options from MEYER WERFT in Papenburg, Germany, marking the launch of its “New Frontier” platform—a brand-new class of ships. The order will secure full capacity at the shipyard well into the next decade.
The announcement was made today at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche, Energy Minister-President Lower Saxony Olaf Lies, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago, and MEYER WERFT CEO Dr. Bernd Eikens.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “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.”
Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO of MEYER WERFT said: “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.”
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.
This order represents a decisive boost for the regional economy. It secures thousands of jobs in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg, where MEYER WERFT is a cornerstone employer and sustains work for the shipyard’s extensive supplier network. More than 3,200 people are directly employed at MEYER WERFT, with over 20,000 jobs in the wider region linked to its operations.
With delivery schedules stretching into the 2030’s, the agreement reinforces Papenburg’s role as a strategic hub for global cruise shipbuilding and ensures continuity for one of Europe’s most advanced maritime manufacturing ecosystems.
