After serving as a floating hotel during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the MSC World Europa, a futuristic, lower-carbon-fuelled cruise ship made its first call at Mina Rashid recently. The vessel began its new winter season with a 4-night sail from Doha to Dubai, reinforcing Mina Rashid and the Emirate’s position as the region’s most preferred destination for leisure marine activities. Carrying over 4,500 passengers, the vessel and its crew, led by Captain Marco Massa, were welcomed by Esam Ahmad, Senior Manager – Business management, P&O Marinas. The captain was presented with a custom-made plaque celebrating the event, in front of senior officials representing MSC and DP World. The cruise ship is scheduled to make 14 calls to Mina Rashid, bringing in over 189,000 tourists to the Emirate, underscoring Dubai’s position as the gateway for regional and international cruise itineraries. Powered by LNG, the MSC World Europa emits 99% less sulphur dioxide (SO2), 85% less nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and 20% less carbon dioxide (CO2), compared to non-LNG powered ships, making it one of the most futuristic vessels in the world. The MSC World Europa is also the first in its class to accommodate an LNG-powered fuel cell, helping cut its carbon emissions further. The 50-kilowatt fuel cell runs on solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology and uses LNG to produce electricity and heat. This technology helps the vessel reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% when compared with ships powered by conventional LNG engines alone. Esam Ahmad, Senior Manager – Business management, P&O Marinas said: “The arrival of the MSC World Europa at Mina Rashid is a significant milestone for the cruise terminal. It reaffirms our capabilities in accommodating vessels that …
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