Fincantieri has entered into a 'green' construction loan agreement, securing up to US$461 million from Intesa Sanpaolo (IMI Corporate & Investment Banking Division) and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP).
The funds will support the construction of the Mein Schiff Relax, the first of two innovative dual-fuel inTUItion class cruise ships (utilizing Liquid Natural Gas - LNG and Marine Gas Oil - MGO) commissioned by TUI Cruises, a joint venture between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises.
This marks Fincantieri's inaugural pool transaction of this nature. The financing is deemed 'green' as it aligns with the climate change mitigation objectives outlined in the European Taxonomy.
Mein Schiff Relax qualifies as a 'low carbon emission ship,' significantly contributing to climate change mitigation.
This is evidenced by its EEDI index value, which is 10% lower than the applicable requirements, and utilization of fuels with zero direct emissions or sourced from renewable sources.