Moscow River Shipping Company and United Shipbuilding Corporation are about to sign a contract on construction of a cruise ship (graphics)

Moscow River Shipping Company (MRSC) and United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) are set to sign a contract on construction of a cruise ship of new project. As MRSC Director General Konstantin Anisimov told IAA PortNews, the contract is under the procedure of signing. The keel-laying is expected in 2016. No final decision has been taken on the shipyard to build the vessel. Shipyard Lotus is a likely candidate. 

A source close to the deal told IAA PortNews that leasing mechanism is to be applied.

Cruise ships for 300 and 500 passengers had been designed by Marine engineering Bureau.

Moscow River Shipping Company OJSC offers services on transportation of freight and passengers along inland water ways in the European part of the Russian Federation. The Company’s fleet numbers over 150 cargo ships and over 20 passenger ships as well as handling and production equipment. From 2012 the MRSC includes a subdivision engaged in transportation of crude and oil products – MRP-Tanker.

United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC OJSC) is the largest shipbuilding company in Russia. It was set up in 2007 with 100% federal ownership. The holding comprises 60 companies and organizations (major shipbuilding and shiprepairing companies as well as leading design bureaus). Currently, USC consolidates about 80% of the domestic shipbuilding complex. The Russian market is the main focus of the state corporation though it also exports its products to 20 countries worldwide.