MSC Cruises has marked a milestone in its North American sustainability program as MSC Meraviglia successfully connected to shore power at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Following commissioning tests conducted on October 26th, the vessel completed its first plug-in in New York, drawing electricity from the local grid to operate all onboard systems while its engines remained idle—an achievement that significantly reduced emissions during its port stay.
The cruise line emphasized that this connection reflects continued collaboration between MSC Cruises, port authorities, and city officials in advancing clean-energy solutions across U.S. ports. Company representatives stated that MSC remains committed to utilizing shore power wherever available as part of broader efforts to enhance air quality and reduce carbon output.
The New York City Economic Development Corporation noted that the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal’s upgraded shore power infrastructure is part of a wider initiative to electrify the city’s waterfront. Recent projects, including improvements at Brooklyn Marine Terminal and an upcoming master plan for the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, are intended to ensure a more sustainable and efficient cruise industry in the region.
MSC Cruises has equipped all newly built vessels with shore power capability since 2017 and continues to retrofit older ships across its fleet. Of its 23 vessels, 16 can now connect to local grids, with 17 expected to be operational by the end of the year. Recent plug-ins have taken place at La Spezia and Le Havre.
The company’s luxury brand, Explora Journeys, also tested shore power for the first time in Europe when EXPLORA II connected at the same port the day after MSC Meraviglia’s successful operation.
MSC first utilized shore power in the United States in April 2025 when MSC World America connected at PortMiami. Over the course of 2024, the company conducted 142 plug-ins across 13 ports—more than triple the total recorded the previous year.