MSC Cruises is set to achieve a reduction in its fleet’s emissions by as much as 15% by 2026, thanks to the introduction of OptiCruise, a cutting-edge itinerary planning optimization tool.
Developed in collaboration with OPTIMeasy, a research company linked to the University of Genoa, OptiCruise employs a new mathematical model that thoroughly evaluates the myriad factors influencing MSC Cruises’ itinerary planning. This model aims to maximize sailing efficiency while ensuring or enhancing guest satisfaction.
Traditionally, global cruise industry voyage planning has focused heavily on the allure of ship destinations for potential holidaymakers. OptiCruise shifts this focus, integrating additional aspects such as port call sequencing, departure and arrival times, ship speed, destination appeal, shore excursions, and operational costs including fuel, port charges, and food provisions.
The algorithms within OptiCruise analyze this comprehensive data to generate optimized itineraries that not only continue to captivate guests but also enhance energy efficiency.
Typically, cruise ship itineraries are planned two years in advance, and the benefits of OptiCruise are anticipated to be realized in 2026, when MSC Cruises’ fleet expands to 24 ships.
The MSC Bellissima was selected to test the prototype over a 12-month period, sailing between 17 ports in the Mediterranean Sea.
MSC Cruises’ commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 focuses on three main areas: ship and engine technology, operational efficiency, and renewable fuels. OptiCruise aligns with the operational efficiency goal by leveraging digitalization to enhance energy consumption.
Michele Francioni, Chief Energy Transition Officer at MSC Cruises, stated, “We have identified and developed this new technology to optimize the decision-making process of itinerary planning with the aim to further reduce emissions across our fleet from 2026.”
“The OPTIMeasy team calculates that the average fuel savings and emissions reductions achieved through OptiCruise are between 10-15%, marking a significant advance towards our net zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050 for our marine operations.”
OptiCruise was developed as part of the European Union’s Project CHEK, which explores low-carbon shipping opportunities, including energy technologies and innovative ship designs. The mathematical model was chosen for development by Project CHEK due to its potential to significantly reduce emissions for MSC Cruises and the broader cruise industry.
The CHEK Project is part of the EU’s Horizon research and innovation programme, led by the University of Vaasa in Finland. The project consortium includes MSC Cruises, the World Maritime University, Wärtsilä, Cargill, and Lloyds Register, among others.