Steel cut on MSC Meraviglia

MSC Cruises has started work on its ‘Vista Project’ generation of ships by revealing the name of the vessel at its steel cutting ceremony in France.

The ship, which is named Meraviglia, which means wonder in Italian, will carry up to 4,500 passengers. Bookings are due to open in June this year.

Speaking at the ceremony, Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Crusies, said: “MSC Meraviglia will be the biggest and most innovative cruise ship ever built by a global European-based cruise line.”

“We chose a name that denotes a sense of awe and wonderment, because of the many stunning features planned. Today, building started on a true maritime marvel.”

The build heralds the start of an €5.1 billion operation that will incorporate the construction of seven ships, doubling the line’s capacity by 2022.

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises chief executive officer added: “This steel-cutting event is a milestone in the company’s development plan. By investing €5.1 billion on up to seven new ships MSC Cruises will double its capacity by 2022.”

“MSC Meraviglia will be one of the greenest and safest ships in the industry, as well as one of the most technologically advanced. We are thrilled that in just a few weeks guests can start booking this truly remarkable ship, which will take cruise guests to the most exciting destinations around the world in outstanding comfort and style.”

Laurent Castaing, STX France general manager said: “Since March 2014, more than 400 people from our various teams have been working tirelessly to define the special features of a ship that, I am certain will set the standard for its generation. This extraordinary project is testament to MSC Cruises’ visionary approach, and we are proud to collaborate with them through our capacity for innovation and know-how.”