What's Happening?
Fincantieri has delivered the Star Princess, the last cruise ship ordered before the pandemic, to Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation. The ship, built at Fincantieri's Monfalcone shipyard in Italy, is the second LNG-powered vessel for Princess Cruises and one of the largest ever constructed in Italy. The Star Princess, weighing 177,800 gross tons, can accommodate 4,300 passengers and 1,600 crew members. It features over 30 dining venues and bars, and is equipped with advanced energy-efficient systems. This delivery marks the end of pre-pandemic orders for Carnival Corporation.
Why It's Important?
The delivery of the Star Princess signifies a milestone in the cruise industry's recovery from the pandemic. As the last pre-pandemic order, it represents a return to normalcy and the resumption of growth in the cruise sector. The ship's LNG propulsion system highlights the industry's shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies. This development is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of cruise ships and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. The successful delivery also reinforces Fincantieri's position as a leader in shipbuilding innovation.
What's Next?
The Star Princess will embark on its inaugural voyage in the Mediterranean before transitioning to the Caribbean for the winter season. As the cruise industry continues to recover, Carnival Corporation and other operators are expected to focus on expanding their fleets with more sustainable ships. Fincantieri will continue to play a key role in this transformation, with several new orders already in the pipeline. The industry's focus will likely remain on enhancing passenger experiences while minimizing environmental impacts.
