MSC SEAVIEW & MSC BELLISSIMA
MSC Cruises is renowned for hosting star-studded christenings that celebrate the coming into service of their new ships. The two most recent events were no exception with glittering ceremonies, live entertainment and gala dinners. However one thing remains constant - Sophia Loren, the company’s permanent Godmother. The 4,132-passenger MSC Seaview was christened by her in Genoa in June 2018, while the 4,490-passenger MSC Bellissima was christened by the screen legend in Southampton this March.
MSC Seaview features the highest ratio of outdoor spaces in the fleet - every element of the ship enables guests to enjoy the outdoors in all aspects of life on board, from cabins and suites with outdoor spaces such as terraces and balconies; eating and drinking in true Mediterranean alfresco style; to outdoor fitness and open air luxury spa cabanas. There are no fewer than ten eateries to choose from, including five sophisticated speciality restaurants; while for the perfect pre-dinner aperitif, late night drink or daytime refreshment, there is a choice of 19 bars and lounges, each with its own unique atmosphere.
MSC Seaview undertakes 7-night Mediterranean cruises and offers six embarkation options including the popular ports of Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona as well as Naples, Messina in Sicily and Valetta in Malta. This is a unique aspect of MSC Cruises but most British passengers opt to join the week-long cruises in Genoa.
The sixth-largest ship in the world, MSC Bellissima has lower-berth accommodation for 4,490-passenger but when all bunks are used the maximum capacity rises to 5,686. This is the first MSC ship to feature the cruise line's new voice-activated cruise assistant ‘Zoe’ who can speak seven languages and answer over 800 of the most commonly asked questions. The social hub of the ship is Galleria Bellissima crowned by an illuminated 260 ft long LED sky dome, displaying atmospheric visuals and digital magic. In the evening the promenade comes to life with a street party vibe. The MSC Aurea Spa provides a tranquil place for complete relaxation onboard. This Balinese inspired spa offers a range of signature treatments to pamper body and soul.
Spending her inaugural season in the Mediterranean, MSC Bellissima will offer seven-night cruises from Barcelona, Genoa, Marseilles and Naples to popular ports. Next winter the ship moves to the Arabian Gulf for cruises from Dubai.
- 5th March 2019
Gary Buchanan
Edinburgh-born Gary Buchanan has been a travel writer for over 30 years. He has been a specialist cruise writer for 25 years contributing to leading British publications including national newspapers and consumer magazines. He is the author of five books about cruising and spends over seven months every year at sea sailing the world’s oceans.