Statement by Dr. Monika Griefahn, Chief Sustainability Officer AIDA Cruises

"We roundly reject these accusations. What NABU is doing here is pure manipulation. NABU's measurements are devoid of any scientific basis and are not the result of a recognized testing procedure. AIDAprima features the most cutting-edge environmental technology technically feasible on a passenger ship today. We have already presented this technology to the public over the past weeks. The multi-level system for exhaust treatment is currently being tested; we are still awaiting the legally prescribed approvals. We cannot ignore the legal regulations. I have personally informed NABU of this.
Following the approval by the Hanseatic City of Hamburg's environment agency on May 4, 2016, for the energy supply of AIDAprima using LNG during the ship's time in port, we will already begin the first test operation this Saturday. I am very pleased that Hamburg's environment agency managed to complete the approval procedure in time for AIDAprima's christening during the port anniversary celebration. I thank the agency for its exemplary dedication. It is a continuation of the outstanding working relationship which already proved its worth during the approval procedure for the 'Hummel' LNG barge. Approvals are already in place for LNG-based operation in the ports of Le Havre, Southampton and Zeebrugge."