MSC Bellissima
It’s not often you get invited to a ship launch, but for two of our staff an invitation to the launch event of the latest MSC Cruise ship, Bellissima, was too good to miss. So following (literally) in the footsteps of Holly Willoughby, Rachel and Telina, packed their bags for a nights stay ahead of the ship’s maiden voyage.
Docked at Southampton MSC Bellissima, which means most beautiful, was officially named by another Italian beauty, award winning actress and the ship’s godmother, Sophia Loren, who cut the ribbon. This is the largest ship ever to have been launched from a UK port and we felt incredibly privileged to have been a part of this high profile event. So what’s new?
Committed to protecting the oceans Bellissima features some of the newest technology to lower its impact on the environment. MSC also introduces its newest interactive feature, ZOE, the world’s first artificial intelligence cruise assistant. Located in every cabin, this device can answer all your questions about the ship, help you book restaurants, check your bill and much more.
Cirque Du Soleil have created two unique shows exclusively for MSC. With a £20m custom made, 360 degrees rotating stage and located in the Carousel Lounge, this show gives an immersive and memorable guest experience. There is also a state-of-the-art spa, Aurea, Thermal Area, hair salon and barber shop.
There is plenty to keep the kids, young and old, entertained with a bowling alley, virtual games arcade, VR Maze, XD Interactive Cinema and our favourite – the F1 Simulator! There are also the clubs for babies, children and teens with Lego inspired playrooms for the younger kids and chill out zones for the older ones.
MSC Bellissima is the sixth largest cruise ship in the world, with a capacity of 5686 guests. There are 19 decks, 12 restaurants and a 985-seat theatre. We were lucky enough to be able to sample tasters from the specialty restaurants including the Kaita Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki Restaurant with its authentic Japanese atmosphere as well as Butcher’s Cut for a true taste of America – something for everyone.
We also availed ourselves of bubbly and cocktails from the many stylish bars and lounges around the ship. Check out the Champagne Bar on deck 7 and the Sky Lounge on deck 18, great for the views and for people watching!
After an exhausting day experiencing all MSC Bellissima has to offer it was time to get ready for dinner, recreate Holly Willoughby’s walk down the sparkly staircase filled with Swarovski crystals (each step alone cost £10,000 to make) and dance the night away to Craig David’s DJ set – what an amazing day!
So what was our verdict? Bellissima! MSC Bellissima begins her life sailing a host of seven night itineraries in the Mediterranean with plans to cruise to the Emirates and China to. For information or to book your cruise on MSC Bellissima, call us on 01932 866565