Finland to design climate-neutral cruise ship

The shipyard’s goal with the NEcOLEAP project is to develop a climate-neutral cruise ship concept by 2025 and to achieve carbon neutral shipbuilding by 2030. A billion-euro cruise ship order is expected as a result of the project.

Research will focus on four areas: the cruise ship itself, the shipyard’s operations, and the introduction of smart technologies and open-minded professionals of the future. In addition to environmentally friendly energy solutions, the project will explore circular economy solutions and resource efficiency of materials.

The NEcOLEAP project is expected to cost approximately EUR 100 million, of which Business Finland’s financial contribution to Meyer Werft is EUR 20 million, and Meyer Turku’s own contribution is EUR 30 million. Business Finland has also set aside EUR 50 million for companies, research institutes and universities involved in the ecosystem.

Many parties have already expressed interest. In addition to large companies, a large number of SMEs and startups are expected to participate in the project. The Meyer Turku cooperation network now includes about 1,350 partner companies, and with the project that figure is expected to grow to 1,500.