It is safe to say that MSC Cruises has big and bold plans in place for the future, with recent announcements outlining intentions to launch as many as ten new ships over the next eight years. The line is already the largest independently-owned line in the industry, with as many as 13 vessels currently in operation around the world. Unlike brands such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean – both of which own multiple cruise lines – MSC Cruises focusses solely on one product the line now has intentions to become a global player.
Fortunately for cruisers in the UK, the British Isles will play a big part in this. MSC Magnifica and MSC Preziosa both already operate sailings out of the UK, with other vessels positioned elsewhere throughout the continent. Now, the line has made a real statement of intent to British cruisers following their announcement to christen new ship, MSC Bellissima, in the UK.
The new ship will launch in March 2019 and will become the second ship of the fleet’s iconic Meraviglia class. Joining MSC Meraviglia, which launched in May 2017, the ship will offer many dazzling amenities including an 80-metre LED ceiling, Cirque de Soleil at Sea, 12 dining venues, ten dancing venues, three water slides and bowling lanes. Weighing in at 171,600 gross tonnes and with capacity for 4,500 passengers, this will be a family-friendly ship with plenty to see and do on board.
This mesmerising new vessel will dock in Southampton for three days from 1-3 March 2019, with the official naming ceremony being conducted on the 2nd March 2019. Over the three days, members of the trade and passengers will have a chance to wander the various areas of the ship and get a feel for what she has to offer.
While renowned film star, Sophia Loren, has traditionally been the godmother for all of the MSC Cruises vessels currently in operation, MSC Cruises’ UK Managing Director confirmed the line would be looking for a British celebrity to conduct the ceremony. He also confirmed the decision to christen the ship in the UK outlined the line’s commitment to the British market.
“We carefully select where to hold our christenings and choose locations which are key to our growth. We see an opportunity to grow our UK business massively.
“The UK has gone from strength to strength so the christening is the icing on the cake.”
Following the event, the ship will embark on her inaugural sailing on the 4th March, taking passengers to Genoa on a seven-night Western Mediterranean sailing. For the winter season, the ship will reposition to Dubai and operate sailings within the region during the later months of 2019 and the early months of 2020.
MSC Cruises is committed to offering family-friendly cruising experiences in the Mediterranean, with a range of ships operating sailings out of the UK every year. If you love cruising and are looking for a business opportunity that enables you to share your passion for travel with others, why not get in touch with GoCruise?
Contact us via the number above or complete an Online Enquiry Form.
