Madrid, January 24, 2019 – The countdown has begun for the launch of MSC Cruises' new flagship, MSC Bellissima, which will celebrate its christening ceremony on March 2. Just over a month before this event, MSC Cruises, the world's largest privately owned cruise company, headquartered in Switzerland, today announced further details of the spectacular lineup planned for this inaugural event, which will take place in Southampton. This event will serve as a prelude to an inaugural cruise that will call at three Spanish cities: A Coruña, Valencia, and Barcelona, which will welcome this innovative ship on March 6, 11, and 12, respectively.
The ceremony, it was revealed today, will revolve around the essence of the ship's name, Bellissima, which means "great beauty that delights the senses." This is a spirit the company has embodied in this unique vessel. The inauguration event will include a series of live performances that are sure to impress guests from around the world.
Among these shows, the presentation of two brand-new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows stands out: VARÉLIA and SYMA, created exclusively for MSC Bellissima. Guests will be able to enjoy a first-ever performance by Cirque du Soleil at Sea – an internationally renowned entertainment company – which will be presented for the first time at a ship's launch. This performance will be a preview of both shows, which MSC Cruises passengers will find on board MSC Bellissima.
As master of ceremonies, they will have the popular British television presenter and ITV star, Holly Willoughby, who will bring her own charming and elegant style to the stage. In the evening, live music will be provided by Nile Rodgers, a three-time Grammy-winning artist whose image is already enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This singer boasts a long and distinguished career, with decades of catchy hits to his name. Without a doubt, Nile Rodgers and his band Chic will make it a memorable night.
And, as is tradition at MSC Cruises christening ceremonies, they will have their spectacular godmother, Sophia Loren . The award-winning actress, who has received an Honorary Oscar among other accolades, will cut the ribbon to officially name the spectacular MSC Bellissima
MSC Bellissima is the fourth ship MSC Cruises has launched in less than two years. The next will be MSC Grandiosa, which will enter service this November. This state-of-the-art ship will feature the most innovative technology at sea with the introduction of ZOE, the first virtual personal assistant on board a cruise ship. ZOE takes at-sea connectivity to the next level.
Ramón Freixa will have a new restaurant on board: ¡HOLA! Tapas Bar
Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of this innovative ship will be its culinary offerings, which will have a distinctly Spanish flavor. Chef Ramón Freixa, awarded two Michelin stars, will present a new specialty restaurant concept, ¡HOLA! Tapas Bar by Ramón Freixa. Here, passengers can enjoy some of the most characteristic dishes of Mediterranean cuisine, reinterpreted by this acclaimed Catalan chef. Tradition and innovation will come together in dishes perfect for sharing in a contemporary and inviting space.
In addition, MSC Bellissima will feature a new restaurant specializing in French cuisine, L'Atelier Bistrot; and the chocolate shop and Chocolate Bar of award-winning pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury.
A state-of-the-art ship that will offer—in addition to fine dining—top-notch entertainment, relaxation at the MSC Aurea Spa, and other fantastic services for the whole family, organized in collaboration with LEGO and Chicco. It will also feature the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, as well as an iconic 96-meter-long deck, crowned by the largest LED dome ever seen at sea and boasting a shopping arcade with more than 200 brands.
MSC Bellissima will have Barcelona as its port of embarkation
The inaugural MSC Bellissima cruise , departing from Southampton for Barcelona on March 4, will call at two other Spanish cities: A Coruña on March 6 and Valencia on March 11, before arriving in Barcelona for the first time on March 12. The Catalan capital will be a key port of call for the MSC Bellissima , which will embark from Barcelona and offer weekly 7-night Mediterranean itineraries starting March 17 and continuing throughout the summer of 2019.
More information about MSC Bellissima:
https://www.msccruceros.es/es-es/Barcos-De-Crucero/MSC-Bellissima.aspx
