Design and construction
The ship was ordered by TUI Cruises in 2018 as the first of two new concept LNG-powered ships. At the time of the order, it was to be the largest cruise ship built in Italy. [3] The design was based on the Project Mille prototype platform developed by Fincantieri. [3] This new prototype is TUI Cruise's first new design since the Mein Schiff 3 debuted in 2014.
The ship was designed with energy efficiency in mind, with dual-fuel configuration, being able to operate on LNG or Marine Gas Oil, and has the ability to transition to alternatives including bio- or e-LNG when it becomes available in the market. [4] Mein Schiff Relax also features new catalytic converters meeting Euro 6 standards, a generative turbine using residual heat from the diesel generators that ensures almost emission-free operations while in port , and a shore power connection for ports. [5]
The first steel was cut in June 2022, with the bow section being constructed at the VARD shipyard in Tulcea, Romania. [6] The section was later towed to Fincantieri's Monfalcone yard where the ship would be assembled and completed. In October 2023, it was announced that the ship would be named Mein Schiff Relax, a departure from TUI's numbering convention of their past ships. [7]
Mein Schiff Relax was floated out in November 2023 with honorary godmother Elena Sperti, an employee of the shipyard. [8] The ship embarked on its first sea trials in October 2024, traveling from Monfalcone to Palermo, where she was dry-docked before returning to the shipyard for completion. [9] The ship held the second sea trials in December. [10]
On February 7, 2025, the Mein Schiff Relax was officially delivered to TUI Cruises. [4] A handover ceremony was held at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. [5] [11]
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