Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ Europa 2 is one of the most energy efficient ships, according to a German ship classification society.

The ship is the first worldwide to receive the award for independent Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) certification – this is achieved by meeting a high environmental standard for vessels.

According to the cruise line, the ship has been fitted with an SCR catalytic converter, which reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 95 percent. Additionally, it has optimized water treatment technology.

According to the cruise line, the use of the latest technical standards and a hydrodynamic hull helped create an environmentally friendly ship.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises chief executive Karl Pojer said: “The EUROPA 2 does not only set the highest, 5-star-plus standards in terms of its design, accommodation and dining facilities, its technical features are also first rate, ensuring that resources are conserved as much as possible.”

The EEDI will become compulsory for new cruise ships commissioned after 1 January 2013.