Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Cruise News: Sophia Loren Christens MSC Divina During Star-Studded Ceremony

MSC Divina, the 12th jewel in the MSC Cruises fleet, was welcomed during last Saturday’s gala ceremony in Marseille, France, and was officially christened by Sophia Loren, godmother to the MSC Cruises fleet.

The celebration included aerial artists Captens Aerobatic Display Team and the Brietling Jet Team, local folk group La Poulido de Gèmo and a medley of MSC Divina’s theatrical shows. The event’s featured performer was critically acclaimed Italian singer, pianist and composer Paolo Conte.

Gerard Depardieu, one of Europe’s most accomplished actors and talented leading men, narrated the events and the story of MSC Divina. Also in attendance were numerous international stars, including classical performer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Maxim Vengerov, a supporter of the joint MSC Cruises and UNICEF Get on Board for Children initiative which funds a project for education equality for disadvantaged children in Brazil that has raised more than $1.3 million to date. Vengerov took to the stage with local children and released hundreds of UNICEF balloons and delighted guests with a violin solo.

The highlight of the evening was the floodlit ceremony and parade of the ship’s officers, when Sophia Loren—godmother of the MSC Cruises’ fleet—cut the ribbon and named MSC Divina to a crescendo of champagne, confetti, and sparkling fountains.

Discover Sophia Loren’s Royal Suite
Every MSC ship christened by the screen legend has a Sophia Loren suite and lucky guests staying in suite number 16007 (pictured above) on MSC Divina’s deck 16 can revel in the glamour and style of a suite designed for and with the help of Ms Loren. Rich reds, specially designed lamps and a wild heather and red carpet have been chosen by her, while stunning photographs of her most memorable roles decorate the walls. A replica of the dressing table Ms Loren uses in her own home allows suite guests to prepare for an entrance like a film star.

Coming To The Caribbean
So, you may be yawning right about now... an Italian cruise line christens their new ship in France... and what’s the big deal? Here’s what we have to look forward to in North America... MSC Cruises will be bringing MSC Divina to its newest departure port—the Port of Miami—beginning in the fall of 2013. Cruise Diva, for one, can’t wait.

Photo Courtesy of MSC Cruises

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