MSC Cruises will be the first cruise line in the world to install a new, advanced air sanitation technology called “Safe Air” to further improve air quality and cleanliness on board for passengers and crew. Safe Air will be implemented on MSC Seashore, one of the largest and most technologically advanced ships built to date in Italy. Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, it is scheduled for delivery in July 2021 and will be the first of two ships in the Seaside Evo class.
The next-generation air sanitation system, Safe Air, bases its technology on UV-C lamps, which are ultraviolet C rays combined with the ship's air conditioning system. This system irradiates the airflow at the source with short-wavelength light that impacts organic particles and prevents the circulation of airborne contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, and mold.
The 'Safe Air' air purification system was created by Fincantieri's engineers and designers in collaboration with the virology laboratory of the International Centre for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (ICBIE), a world-leading research institute based in Trieste, Italy. The ICIE provides scientific support to companies in developing innovative technological solutions for viral infection control, which is particularly relevant given the current global pandemic.
MSC Cruises' effective response to the health challenges facing tourism worldwide has been to establish the highest safety standards with a health and hygiene protocol that has been in place since August 16, when the MSC Grandiosa resumed operations in the Mediterranean. To date, it has completed nine voyages with more than 16,000 passengers. This week, the MSC Magnifica has also joined the fleet, offering longer 10-night itineraries in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.
The new health and hygiene protocol has consistently exceeded the guidelines of the relevant authorities in the countries where the ship operates and has set a new standard, establishing universal testing, in the cruise industry, travel in general, tourism, and leisure. All passengers undergo a three-step health screening before boarding: a temperature check, a personal health questionnaire, and a COVID-19 antigen test. In addition, the crew undergoes up to three screenings before beginning work. Other aspects of the health and hygiene protocol include: deep cleaning and sanitation, protected "bubble" excursions, mandatory face masks, and social distancing. Furthermore, there are enhanced medical facilities, daily health checks, and a robust contingency plan.
The protocol was designed by MSC Cruises specialists in the areas of medical services, public health and sanitation, hospitality services, ventilation, other onboard engineering systems, information technology, and logistics. A Blue-Ribbon COVID-19 expert group was also created. It comprises a panel of highly qualified international professionals whose role is to inform and review the MSC Cruises protocol to ensure that the company's actions are appropriate, effective, and based on best practices in science and health.
MSC Seashore will also feature the latest technology and best-in-class solutions to reduce its environmental footprint. This includes, in particular, a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system and an Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) system, both state-of-the-art. The SCR reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 90% thanks to advanced emissions control technology, while the AWT systems transform wastewater, through a comprehensive purification and filtration process, into near-tap-quality water.
MSC Seashore will also have shore-to-ship connection capability, allowing the vessel to connect to the local power grid while docked, further reducing air emissions.
