New Ship from MSC Cruises Christened in New York City

MSC Cruises has welcomed its newest ship, MSC Seascape. Yesterday evening, the ship was officially named during a traditional ceremony and gala at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City. The new flagship vessel is the 21st ship of the MSC Cruises fleet. 

MSC Seascape is the first vessel of the cruise line to be named in New York. The location marked NYC becoming MSC Cruises' newest U.S. homeport. Come April 2023, MSC Meraviglia will call Manhattan Cruise Terminal home, sailing Canada, Bermuda, and Caribbean itineraries. 

“As the first MSC Cruises ship to be named in New York City, MSC Seascape represents a pivotal moment for the brand as we commit to further growing our presence in North America,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA. Our latest flagship will serve as a great representation for all that we stand for at MSC Cruises, including sustainability, ground-breaking technology and modern design combined with an immersive and enriching guest experience delivered with European flair. Our guests will enjoy all of these wonderful amenities when she begins her sailings from Miami after the naming ceremony.”

(L) Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises (R) International Tenor Matteo Bocelli - Photos by MSC Cruises

Over 3,000 guests were on hand to celebrate the launch of MSC Seascape. One of the highlights of the evening was a performance from international singer-songwriter Matteo Bocelli, who performed at the naming ceremony of MSC World Europa in Doha, Qatar last month.

Godmother of the MSC Cruises fleet and global icon Sophia Loren joined virtually to bless MSC Seascape with Alexa Aponte-Vago (daughter of MSC Group’s founder and executive chairman Gianluigi Aponte), who was on hand in NYC to perform the traditional ribbon cutting.

Alexa Aponte-Vago officially cuts the ribbon for the launch of MSC Seascape - MSC Cruises

“One of the highlights of the past 20 years has been to officiate the christening of MSC Cruises fleet not only because the Apontes have become like family to me but also because MSC has always occupied a special place in my heart. Let me bless the MSC Seascape, her great crew and all her passengers,” remarked Loren. 

Following its launch events, MSC Seascape will reposition to its new homeport of Miami where it will sail Caribbean and the Bahamas itineraries for its inaugural season. Eastern Caribbean voyages will call on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Nassau, San Juan, and Puerto Plata. Western Caribbean voyages will call on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel, George Town, and Ocho Rios. 

Next up for MSC Cruises is the launch of its second LNG-powered vessel. The new MSC Euribia will make its debut in June 2023. 

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