MSC Cruises’ New Route Optimization Tool Aims to Cut Emissions by 15%

MSC Cruises is set to launch a new route optimization tool, OptiCruise, which is expected to reduce the company’s ship emissions by up to 15% starting in 2026.

Developed in collaboration with OPTIMeasy and funded by the European Union’s Project CHEK, OptiCruise is designed to enhance itinerary planning efficiency. This technology could potentially be adopted industry-wide in the future.

OptiCruise utilizes a mathematical model to optimize port call sequencing, departure and arrival times, ship speed, and other factors such as destination appeal, shore excursions, and operational costs like fuel and port charges.

MSC’s fleet of 24 ships will begin using OptiCruise in 2026, with MSC Bellissima having already tested the prototype technology over the past year. The tool aligns with MSC Cruises’ commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 for its marine operations.