MSC Cruises has replaced regulatory default methane slip figures with independently verified measurements from two LNG-fuelled vessels, recording 1.67% on MSC World Europa and 1.48% on MSC Euribia. The case shows how ship-specific operational data can give owners more accurate emissions reporting under FuelEU Maritime and a clearer basis for managing regulatory exposure.
MSC Cruises has completed a large-scale methane measurement campaign on two LNG-fuelled cruise ships, using actual engine performance data to replace default emissions assumptions under FuelEU Maritime.
The campaign covered MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia, both fitted with Wärtsilä 46DF dual-fuel engines and operating on routes covered by the European regulation.
MSC Cruises recorded methane slip of 1.67% on MSC World Europa and 1.48% on MSC Euribia. Both results are below the 3.1% default figure specified in FuelEU Maritime Annex II.
The measurements were taken from the vessels’ Wärtsilä 12V, 14V and 16V46DF engines during normal operations. Engine load data and exhaust gas measurements were then used to produce vessel-specific methane files.
The results were independently verified, with a Statement of Compliance issued to recognise the measurements and support FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS reporting.
The distinction matters because methane is accounted for in European maritime emissions rules. Using verified operational data instead of a higher default figure can reduce the emissions reported by a vessel when its actual engine performance is better than the regulatory assumption.
Michele Francioni, Chief Energy Transition Officer, MSC Cruises, said: “This certification marks an important step forward in how methane emissions are measured and reported in our industry. By replacing default assumptions with independently verified data based on real-world ship performance, we are strengthening the accuracy and credibility of emissions reporting under FuelEU Maritime.”
Bureau Veritas also described the case as evidence of the role of independently verified operational data in emissions reporting.
Paillette Palaiologou, Senior Vice President of East Europe, Mediterranean Sea, Middle East, India and Africa (EMA), Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “This industry-first verification demonstrates the value of using independently verified operational data to improve the accuracy and transparency of methane emissions reporting.”
The case gives shipowners a practical example of how onboard measurements, engine data and independent verification can be combined to produce more precise emissions records rather than relying solely on standard regulatory assumptions.
