MSC wants to overtake AIDA in the Rostock harbor - luxury cruises when I am coming!

MSC wants to overtake AIDA in the Rostock harbor - luxury cruises when I am coming!

Rostock, Deutschland - The cruise industry in Germany is more dynamic than ever. While AIDA Cruises claims the top position in the Rostock cruise port with 68 attempts, the MSC shipping company is planning ambitious growth strategies with its new CEO Jörg Eichler, ex-Arosa boss and strong connections to the region. The shipping company with the Windsroselogo wants to realize a total of 22 attempts in Rostock this year, which illustrates a clear intention to increase its market shares in northern Germany. In addition, MSC presents the luxury brand "Explora", which is also to be stationed in the Rostock port.

Jörg Eichler emphasizes that the cruise market is on growth course despite the challenges of recent years. MSC pursues the goal of welcoming an estimated 4.5 million guests worldwide by 2024. These growth goals rely on the impressive fleet of currently 23 cruise ships, with six other new buildings being planned. The growth is further supported by the introduction of "Explora" in the luxury segment, since the demand for such offers has increased significantly in recent years.

luxury and environmental protection in focus

The cruise market quickly recovered after the pandemic, which is also reflected in the record numbers for German cruise passengers. In 2023 there was a new maximum value with 2,961,900 passengers, which exceeds the previous record year 2019. The average editions per person for right -wing cross trips were 1,570 euros. Interestingly, 25% of Germans plan to spend more money on vacation trips in 2024, which indicates increasing willingness to invest in cruises.

MSC relies on the development of new ships in the luxury segment. By 2028, six other "Explora" ships, each with 900 passengers, are to be put into service. The Rostock Port also sees a chance to win more luxury guests in the upcoming attempts from MSC and plan to re-expand this area in connection with Rostock Lage Airport.

Connection between market development and environmental awareness

faced with these developments, the cruise industry is also faced with the challenges of environmental protection. Over half of the new cruise ships are based on LNG as a fuel, and the EU calls for the use of country power in ports until 2030. However, 27% of Germans state that environmental pollution is an important reason against cruises. These environmental concerns must be taken into account in the further design of the cruises.

Overall, the Rostock port recorded an increase in attempts, with 167 attempts of 36 cruise ships in 2025. This increase compared to the previous year could set the foundation for a continued positive development in the cruise sector. Aida Cruises remains an important competitor, but MSC is prepared to be successful in this important market.

For more information on these developments, visit the reporting of Ostsee-Zeitung and Kreuzfahr100 .