MSC Cruises has officially inaugurated its new flagship, MSC Seashore, at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas. Having departed from PortMiami, this was the first-ever cruise ship christening ceremony on a private island and was presided over by Hollywood star Sophia Loren, who served as godmother of an MSC Cruises ship for the sixteenth time.
The event was attended by travel agents and media representatives from around the world, as well as other prominent figures and company partners. Guests had the opportunity to experience everything the glamorous new ship and the company's stunning private island have to offer, including the endless onboard activities and entertainment, and its incredible array of bars and restaurants. The evening's events took place both onboard and on the island, as the ship remained docked throughout the night. These included an elegant gala dinner and live entertainment by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and three-time Grammy winner Nile Rodgers and his band Chic.
The MSC Seashore ceremony also served to formally inaugurate Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, which opened in December 2019 and closed shortly thereafter due to the pandemic. Following the event, MSC Seashore, the newest and most innovative ship to be deployed at PortMiami next season, will begin its inaugural 7-night cruise and U.S. season on November 20.
MSC Seashore is the first Seaside EVO ship from MSC Cruises, renowned for its innovative design features and intended to connect passengers more deeply with the sea. This ship class is an evolution and improvement of the Seaside class, designed in the style of Miami's finest beachfront developments. Having been reimagined, 65% of MSC Seashore's public areas will offer a wealth of new spaces, features, and experiences for passengers. The ship also boasts the most generous outdoor space of any ship in the fleet, with nearly 13,000 square meters.
The highlights of MSC Cruises' new flagship MSC Seashore are:
- The largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club area in the fleet
- 11 different types of cabins and suites with balconies
- Six swimming pools
- Five specialty restaurants in Chef's Court
- The exclusive Top 19 Solarium
- A children's area
- a casino of 1,100 square meters
- The 'Safe Air' air purification system,
MSC Seashore will be MSC Cruises' third US-based ship, offering a variety of voyages of varying lengths, from 5-night cruises to regular 7-night itineraries and longer sailings of up to 16 nights. With the arrival of MSC Seashore, MSC Meraviglia will now relocate to Port Canaveral for the remainder of the season, and MSC Divina will move to PortMiami. MSC Seashore will remain in Miami for the summer of 2022.
As part of MSC Cruises' journey towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from its marine operations by 2050, MSC Seashore showcases the latest environmental technology. Its wastewater treatment systems have been designed in accordance with International Maritime Organization Resolution MEPC 227(64) and achieve purification standards that are higher than most land-based wastewater treatment facilities. The new flagship is also equipped with shore-to-ship power connectivity, allowing it to connect to local electricity grids while docked in ports where this infrastructure is available.
OCEAN CAY MSC MARINE RESERVE
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a private island-like destination that opened in late 2019. Featuring a 64-square-mile marine reserve designed to showcase MSC Cruises' strong recognition and commitment to the environment, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is dedicated to restoring marine resources and the ongoing conservation of marine life.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve also offers a slice of paradise to passengers with multiple white sand beaches to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach and soak up the spirit of The Bahamas, while surrounded by panoramic views of beautiful crystal clear waters.
All MSC Cruises ships departing from PortMiami and Port Canaveral stop at Ocean Cay and often remain on the island until late at night or even overnight, giving passengers ample time to discover all that the island has to offer.
