Cross-border team advises Société Générale on export credit financing and delivery of cruise vessel “MSC World Europa”

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised Société Générale and a syndicate of international banks on the BpiFAE-backed financing arrangements and delivery of MSC Cruises’ latest vessel, “MSC World Europa”.

The vessel, which is the first iteration of MSC Cruises’ newest class of vessel, was delivered at Chantiers de l'Atlantique’s yard in Saint-Nazaire on 24 October 2022. MSC World Europa is the world’s largest liquefied natural gas-powered cruise ship and is said to be the most environmentally high performing cruise vessel operating today.

Demonstrating both the yard’s and MSC’s commitment to sustainability, the vessel incorporates a range of cutting edge technologies designed to minimise the vessel’s impact on the air and marine environment, including the use of fuel cell technology.

Norton Rose Fulbright partner Simon Hartley, who led the London team advising Société Générale, commented:

“It’s been a privilege to support Société Générale on the financing of this important project. The vessel’s sustainability credentials represent an important step in driving the cruise industry forward and minimising emissions across the shipping sector.”

The London team also included counsel Michelle Tsui, senior associate Matthew Bambury, associate Stephanie Koh and trainee Emma Borch. The Paris team, advising on the French law aspects, was led by partner Christine Ezcutari, assisted by senior associate Ayaka Millet and associates Lorraine Viard and Emilie Jacques.