MSC Cruises welcomed MSC Seascape to its fleet of innovative and glamourous ships. The line’s newest flagship was officially named at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City in recognition of the addition of New York as a new homeport in April 2023 bringing even more choice of North American embarkation ports and itineraries for MSC Cruises guests from both North America and the rest of the world.
The event was attended by more than 3,000 guests including VIPs, key travel partners and global media as well as top management from the entire Cruise Division of the company and its parent MSC Group.
One of the highlights of the traditional maritime ceremony was a stunning performance from international singer-songwriter Matteo Bocelli, hot off the heels of his performance at the naming ceremony of MSC World Europa last month.
Godmother of the MSC Cruises fleet and international movie icon Sophia Loren blessed the ship virtually whilst Alexa Aponte-Vago, daughter of MSC Group’s founder and executive chairman Gianluigi Aponte, performed the traditional cutting of the ribbon to officially name the ship. Loren shared her good luck wishes for the new ship and commented:
“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.”
Following the ceremony, the guests enjoyed a gourmet gala dinner and standout performance by international Grammy Award winner singer/songwriter Ne-Yo.
MSC Seascape becomes the 21st ship in the MSC Cruises fleet and the second ship to be launched in less than one month after MSC World Europa launched in November. She will be closely followed by the line’s second LNG-powered vessel MSC Euribia, due to come into service in June 2023.
