November 29, 2021 | MSC Cruises celebrated the christening of the MSC Virtuosa in Dubai
- The christening ceremony took place yesterday evening in Dubai's Port Rashid in the presence of members of the royal family, ministers, government officials, diplomats from overseas as well as media representatives and tour operators from all over the world.
- The film legend Sophia Loren was the godmother of MSC Virtuosa.
- The highlights of the event were the traditional smashing of the champagne bottle and a spectacular fireworks display against the backdrop of Dubai.
MSC Virtuosa © Photo MSC Cruises
The ship's christening was hosted by TV presenter Omar Butti from the United Arab Emirates, and Hollywood icon Sophia Loren was on stage with him to christen her 17th MSC Cruises ship. The celebration was celebrated with spectacular fireworks in front of the breathtaking skyline of Dubai. This was followed by a festive gourmet dinner in one of the ship's elegant restaurants.
The ship is equipped with the most modern technologies. MSC Virtuosa is one of the world's most environmentally friendly cruise lines. MSC Cruises shares the United Arab Emirates' goal of zero emissions by 2050. MSC Virtuosa is a milestone on this path.
The new building, which can accommodate 6.334 passengers, will spend its premiere season in the Gulf region until March 2022. Destinations in the Gulf region are served from the home port of Dubai: Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Iceland and Qatar. On November 28, MSC Virtuosa, commanded by Captain Francesco Veniero, broke from Dubai off on her first cruise. A maximum of 1.704 crew members will ensure the well-being of the passengers during the coming voyages.
The MSC Virtuosa - a holiday destination at sea
The deck plan of the MSC Virtuosa names 19th decks. The ship has ten restaurants, 21 bars and lounges and five swimming pools. The highlight of the ship is the 112 meter long promenade under an impressive LED sky. The Mediterranean promenade offers ship guests boutiques, bars and restaurants. It is the social center of the ship.
Highlights of the MSC Virtuosa - the newest flagship from MSC Cruises
MSC Virtuosa is one of the most environmentally friendly ships in the MSC Cruises fleet. The following are to be emphasized:
- The improved MSC Yacht Club with exclusive areas and cabin types. These include a panorama lounge, a gourmet restaurant as well as a private pool and sundeck.
- MSC for Me - the digital multi-channel experience. It helps guests make the most of their vacation experience.
- Two brand new specialty restaurants - HOLA! Tacos & Cantina and Indochine.
- The new MSC Starship Club with the world's first humanoid robotic bartender offering a futuristic bar and entertainment experience.
- A 945-seat theater that hosts live productions and shows every evening.
- Extensive children's facilities with LEGO® play areas and a Chicco Baby Club.
- Five swimming pools, including a large Magrodome pool and a 1.000 square meter aquapark.
- An entertainment area with an F1 simulator, bowling and XD cinema.
- The luxurious MSC Aurea Spa with a wide range of treatments and the ultra-modern MSC Gym by Technogym®.
- The largest shopping area at sea with 1.168 square meters of retail space, eleven boutiques and 250 brands.
Latest environmental technologies on board
In line with MSC Cruises' goal of zero emissions ship operations by 2050, MSC Virtuosa has some of the most advanced technologies available. These include hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS), state-of-the-art selective catalytic reduction systems (SCR), wastewater treatment systems, and shore power connections. Novel systems that reduce underwater noise in order to reduce negative effects on marine life are useful.