MSC Meraviglia was christened in Le Havre, France, on 3 June 2017 by silver screen legend Sophia Loren.
At 171,598 gross tonnes and with a guest capacity of 5,714, MSC Meraviglia is the largest in the MSC Cruises fleet and is the cruise line’s new flagship.
“We have an ambitious vision for the future and MSC Meraviglia marks the start of the second phase of growth for our company,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman. “For this reason, this is an extremely proud moment for all of us at MSC Cruises as we see the first of our next-generation ships being named.”
“The new ships that we are building – between 2017 and 2020 alone, we will receive six new ships – are purpose-built, featuring innovation in both product and design, as well as the very latest cutting-edge marine and consumer-facing technology to create unforgettable holiday experiences at sea for guests of all ages. MSC Meraviglia is the first to make this vision come to life, as it sets a new standard for cruise ships as a destination in itself.”
The christening ceremony was hosted by comedian Gad Elmaleh and saw performances by internationally renowned singer Patrick Bruel and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, Kids United. Following a parade of the ship’s officers, Sophia Loren cut the ribbon and christened MSC Meraviglia with the smash of a champagne bottle and a crescendo of fireworks. Sophia Loren has held a close relationship with MSC Cruises for over a decade, since becoming the godmother of MSC Lirica in 2003. She has since blessed every new ship in the fleet.
MSC Meraviglia will spend its inaugural season in the Mediterranean. Itineraries are on sale now.