MSC Lights Up Hamburg’s Elbe River
MSC Cruises christened MSC Grandiosa, its newest, most environmentally-advanced flagship, in Hamburg, Germany, over the weekend.
The cruise line’s largest and longest christening event ever, this was part of MSC Grandiosa’s series of celebrations over 27 days in eight countries and 11 ports.
Following the christening, Grandiosa embarked on a grand tour, visiting Southampton, UK; Lisbon, Portugal; Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France and Genoa, Italy. MSC Grandiosa will then commence its usual seven-night cruises starting Nov. 23.
Designed to ensure even cleaner air emissions and improved overall environmental performance both at sea and ashore, MSC Grandiosa is equipped with advanced cutting-edge technologies and, according to officials, sets a new standard for sustainability at sea.
On board, features include: Two original new shows from Cirque du Soleil at Sea exclusive to MSC Cruises; a 305-ft.-long Mediterranean Promenade lined with international shops and restaurants; an immersive art experience featuring etchings from Edgar Degas’ Danse Dessin series; dedicated children’s areas designed in partnership with Chicco and LEGO; and the world’s first virtual digital cruise assistant – ZOE – in every stateroom.
The traditional christening ceremony took place in different locations across the ship, hosted by actress, TV presenter, model and singer, Michelle Hunziker alongside co-host TV host & actor Jochen Schropp, one of Germany’s favourite entertainers.
A purpose-built “MSC Village” on the banks of the River Elbe brought the festivities to shore, welcoming more than 5,000 locals to experience the christening from land with live music and food trucks.
A special light show and celebratory fireworks display were also held.
MSC Grandiosa begin regular seven-night cruises in the Western Mediterranean starting Nov. 23 with six embarkation ports calling Genoa, Civitavecchia, Italy; Palermo, Sicily; Valetta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain; and Marseille, France.
(photo credit/MSC Cruises Vallbracht)
