18 February 2008

Stars come out for MSC ship launch

Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli, pop singer KT Tunstall and Radio 1 DJ Fearne Cotton have been lined up for the launch of MSC Cruises new ship MSC Poesia.

The 2,550-passenger ship will named by actress Sophia Loren at the ceremony in Dover on April 5 'âœ the first of three UK ship launches in less than a month.

P&O Cruises' Ventura and Royal Caribbean International's Independence of the Seas will also be launched in April, both in Southampton.

The MSC event is the first by the line to be held outside its native Italy. Also appearing will be 20 year old jazz musician Peter Grant, accompanied by the Ronnie Scott band.

After the launch event, the 89,600 tonne vessel will sail on a 13 night pre-inaugural voyage from Dover to Venice, visiting Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, and Venice where it will be positioned for the summer.

MSC Poesia is the ninth ship in the company's fleet and the third in its class.

MSC Cruises UK and Ireland chairman Peter Pate said: '2008 is an important milestone in the development of the company.

'With the christening of the MSC Poesia in Dover we fulfil our promises made to the trade - offering a tangible demonstration of our long term commitment to the UK market.

'Our investment in new ships allows us to provide itineraries and products that cater for British holidaymakers looking for a European cruise experience. This is what sets MSC Cruises apart from the traditional product available today.'

UK managing director Claudia Baino added: 'Christening the MSC Poesia in the UK will provide the opportunity for both the local trade and media to experience firsthand what MSC cruises is all about and allow us to demonstrate the true spirit of our company.'

by Phil Davies