The latest wonder in the
MSC Cruises fleet,
MSC Meraviglia, was christened in a glittering ceremony by international screen legend and godmother of all of MSC Cruises’ ships, Sophia Loren.
“We have an ambitious vision for the future and MSC Meraviglia marks the start of the second phase of growth for our Company,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman. “For this reason, the christening is an extremely proud moment for all of us at MSC Cruises as we see the first of our next-generation ships being named.”
“The new ships that will come into service over the coming 10 years are purpose-built connected ships, featuring innovation in both product and design, as well as the very latest-cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable holiday experiences at sea for guests of all ages. MSC Meraviglia is the first to make this vision come to life, as it sets a new standard for cruise ships as a destination in itself.”
MSC Meraviglia is the Company’s new flagship and the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet as well as the first of 11 new MSC Cruises ships due to come into service over the next 10 years under an industry-unprecedented €9 billion investment plan.
Both the ship herself and the event was inspired by the wonders of the world, as “Meraviglia” means “wonder”. The crowning moment of the evening was the parade of the ship’s officers, when Sophia Loren cut the ribbon and named
MSC Meraviglia, to a time-honoured crescendo of the smashing of champagne on the name and fireworks.
The event concluded with a delicious Michelin-star gala dinner, a sophisticated blend of high quality ingredients and culinary art prepared by two-star Michelin chef, Hélène Darroze. The menu takes inspiration from Darroze’s passion for combining the flavours of France with those of the UK to create a simple yet elegant gourmet experience for the guests. MSC Cruises and Darroze hope to extend the collaboration beyond this evening and work is underway to establish a partnership.
MSC Meraviglia then commenced her maiden voyage from Le Havre to Genoa where she will cruise continuously around the Western Mediterranean for seven nights visiting Civitavecchia, Palermo, Valletta, Barcelona and Marseille.
Godmother Sophia Loren cuts the ribbon with MSC Group Executive Chairman Gianluigi Aponte
