MSC Releases 2024 Report, Reaffirms Net-Zero Goal by 2050

The MSC Bellisima cruise ship in port at night
Environment Corporate News Cruise Industry
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MSC Group’s Cruise Division has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, reinforcing its long-term goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.

Accompanying the report is an independently verified Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which outlines how the cruise division is progressing toward its decarbonization objectives.

Now in its sixth edition, the report highlights key progress made in areas such as environmental innovation, community impact, and responsible tourism. It also provides insight into the sustainability practices of both MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys.

“As a family business, we do not operate ships just for tomorrow. We sail them for future generations, designed for fuel flexibility, guided by innovation and powered by people who share our long-term vision,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division.

“The Cruise Division in 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a bold and transparent sustainability strategy that balances environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic resilience,” he added.

Key achievements featured in the report include:

  • The launch of a comprehensive Energy Transition Plan for both MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, with specific interim emissions reduction goals
  • Avoiding 50,000 tonnes of CO₂ through fleet-wide efficiency measures using tools like OptiCruise and Oceanly Performance
  • Expanding shore power connections from 44 in 2023 to 142 in 2024 across 13 global ports; all newbuilds since 2017 are shore-power capable, with retrofit work ongoing
  • Increasing crew retention from 83% to 89% year-over-year
  • Establishing a Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee
  • Continuing environmental restoration efforts at Ocean Cay, including coral reef revitalization and marine life protection
  • Providing whale strike prevention training to 469 essential crew members, in partnership with marine conservation group ORCA
  • Offering more than 4,500 shore excursions across 84 countries, including 284 “Protectours,” designed as low-impact experiences

According to a press release, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys collectively welcomed 4.6 million guests and operated 341 unique itineraries across 90 countries in 2024.

The company reiterated its dedication to advancing clean energy solutions, upgrading existing ships, promoting investment in port infrastructure, and collaborating with industry partners to accelerate the maritime energy transition.