This weekend the latest addition to the expanding MSC fleet, Bellissima, arrived in Southampton before embarking on her maiden voyage. She will be the largest cruise ship to be christened in the UK.
Have you sailed with MSC? Do you like these large, modern cruise ships? Let us look at the details on this new kid on the block.
The MSC Bellissima is the world’s sixth-largest cruise ship and was built in Saint Nazaire in France at a cost of $1bn (£750m).
- Gross Tonnage:171,598
- Number of passengers:5,686
- Crew members:1,536
- Number of Cabins:2,217
- Lenght/Beam/Height:315.3 m / 43 m / 65 m
- Maximum speed:22.7 knots
A star-studded guest list was invited along for the celebration, including Holly Willoughby, Sophia Loren, Andrea Bocelli, Craig David and Nile Rodgers. After a small issue due to Storm Freya, where everyone was moved from the marquee on to the ship, the night passed smoothly.
The Bellissima is the 14th ship to be named by Italian singer and actress Loren, 84, for MSC Cruises, for who she fulfils the role of “godmother”.
It has 2,217 cabins with a capacity of 5,686 guests, 19 decks, 12 restaurants and a 985-seat theatre on board.
MSC are really proud of their latest ship, claiming “MSC Bellissima offers a stunning array of features to rival those of her sister ship, MSC Meraviglia. Innovative MSC for Me technology connects you to your fellow guests, the crew and the ship itself. Furthermore, guests will experience the world’s first digital cruise assistant, Zoe, a voice-enabled Artificial Intelligence device fitted in every cabin. The two-deck inside promenade features a spectacular 80-metre-long LED dome, and you can enjoy two exclusive new shows from Cirque du Soleil at Sea.”
This amazing ship features a full-size Bowling Alley, F1 Simulators, a Sportplex and the Polar Aquapark.
Other highlights of this ship are “Galleria Bellissima”, which is a 96 m central promenade is filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing… as well as socialising. And in the evening, it comes alive with music, parties and entertainment. The “Atmosphere Pool”, offering around 10 square metres of public space per guest, poolside space on MSC Bellissima is some of the most plentiful to be found at sea. Beautiful lighting, a giant screen and atmospheric design make the main pool area even more alluring after dark.
If this is tempting you to try MSC, then the other good news is that they are removing the gratuities for all British passengers from next month and if you need any more incentive to give them a try, book a Fantastic grade of cabin and receive a FREE Premium Drinks package.
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