| MSC Lirica, the last ship completed under the Renaissance Programme, is ready to sail again |
MSC Cruises, the world's largest privately owned cruise company and market leader in Europe, South America, and South Africa, announced yesterday that its recently completed Renaissance Program has delivered four refurbished ships. These ships will spearhead the company's new direction, positioning itself in new markets and further strengthening its leadership in those where it already holds a leading position.
Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, stated at a press conference aboard MSC Lirica – the latest ship to complete the “Renaissance Program” – that this project reinforces the elements that distinguish the MSC Cruises experience: improved services and amenities for families; a varied and delicious culinary offering; all-day entertainment; numerous relaxation and wellness options and much more, all with a touch of Mediterranean style and flavor.
Detailing some of the innovations and improvements on board, Onorato stated that much of the Renaissance Program was carried out with families in mind, so on each ship there are five clubs for younger travelers up to 17 years of age, including two that have been designed and equipped by Chicco and Lego.
Mealtimes are now even more flexible, with a wide range of menus and restaurants; guests can enjoy the cruise at their own pace, with buffet options available 20 hours a day.
On each of the ships, the entertainment offering has also been further enhanced with a 20-hour daily program, featuring day and night activities, live music and dance, themed events, and theatrical performances.
Beauty and wellness services have also undergone a makeover, with more massage cabins at MSC Aurea Spa, whirlpool baths, and a spa doctor/therapist for discreet and personalized care.
At the close of the press conference, Onorato commented: “The Renaissance Program is the first pillar of the second phase of MSC Cruises’ growth, while the second pillar is the next generation of seven new ships, which we will launch between 2017 and 2022. The Renaissance Program has delivered four refurbished ships that will operate in strategic segments of the global cruise market with the experiences, amenities, and services that are now synonymous with MSC Cruises.”
The Renaissance Programme, representing a new frontier in marine engineering, has been immortalized in a new photo book, which was also launched yesterday. Produced by the Italian publisher Gribaudo (Feltrinelli Group), “Renaissance” will be available for purchase on board the four ships renovated as part of the Renaissance Programme and in bookstores internationally from November 26.
The deployment of the Renaissance ships in China
MSC Lirica will be based in Shanghai starting in May 2016. The ship has been customized to serve Chinese customers, with the introduction of pioneering figures in the industry: Cruise Ambassadors. These highly qualified hospitality and tourism professionals will ensure MSC Lirica guests receive benefits and a wide range of options for relaxation, discovery, and entertainment.
Cuba
Havana will be MSC Opera's homeport starting in December 2015. MSC Cruises is the first and only global cruise line to offer Caribbean cruises that begin and end in Cuba's iconic capital. There, travelers will spend two nights enjoying the island's culture and cuisine.
Western Mediterranean
MSC Armonia, based in Civitavecchia, will sail a variety of itineraries throughout the Western Mediterranean. This ship is ideal for all Mediterranean cruise ports, including some less accessible to larger ships, such as Ibiza and Mahón in Menorca.
Eastern Mediterranean
MSC Sinfonia will depart every Saturday from Venice, for an itinerary through the Eastern Mediterranean starting in June 2016, with flights included from Barcelona or Madrid.
The context of the Renaissance Program
Work on the €200 million Renaissance Program began in August 2014, marking the first step in the €5 billion fleet expansion plan. In terms of capacity, the Renaissance Program adds 800 new cabins, most with balconies, increasing MSC Cruises' capacity by 2,000 passengers. This plan also includes seven new ships, to be delivered by STX France and Fincantieri between 2017 and 2022. Since 2003, MSC Cruises has grown by more than 800% and carried 1.67 million passengers in the last year. Furthermore, fleet capacity will double by 2022, when 3.4 million people will be able to book their MSC Cruises vacation each year.
