The two new “Meraviglia-Plus” ships to feature increased tonnage and overall size
Geneva, Switzerland, February 1, 2016 – Today at the coin ceremony for MSC Meraviglia held in Saint-Nazaire, France, MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line and market leader in Europe, South America and South Africa, confirmed the existing STX France options to build an additional two ships in the Meraviglia class. Furthermore, the two new next-generation ships known as Meraviglia-Plus will feature increased tonnage and overall size, totaling 2,444 staterooms and a double occupancy of 4,888 guests.
The two new units will now be completed respectively in October 2019 and December 2020, thus delivering the last of the now four Meraviglia STX France made-ships by nearly two years earlier than expected. In another MSC Cruises industry-first, the two Meraviglia-Plus ships will feature the first and only classic and contemporary fine art museum at sea. MSC Cruises today also announced that MSC Meraviglia will be christened in Le Havre, France. The MSC Cruises Meraviglia-Plus class is the next-level generation of ships for all seasons.
With cutting-edge design and exceptional features, the elegant side of the Mediterranean is brought to life in the mastery of every detail. Boasting an additional 200 staterooms and a maximum capacity of nearly 6,300 guests, these 1,085 foot-long vessels will be the largest ships at sea able to call at any port, thus maximizing guests’ choices of itineraries and desinations.
The unique public spaces filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing as well as socializing have also been enhanced. The interior promenade is now an impressive 362 feet-long and the now-310 by 20 feet LED sky screen above it will display visual events and vistas around the clock to animate the entire promenade to create an unique atmospheric experience.
Another key distinguishing element of the MSC Cruises experience is its commitment to making the richest array of entertainment available to its guests. With the recently announced partnership with Cirque du Soleil, MSC Cruises and Cirque du Soleil have co-designed purpose-built dining and entertainment venues that center around the theatrical, aecrobatic style of shows that will be performed. In addition to the exciting entertainment, MSC Meraviglia-Plus ships will feature a unique, cultural experience for guests at sea with the first of its kind classic and contemporary fine art museum.
This industry-first feature will now enable guests to discover world culture not only through rich and varied itineraries, but also onboard through the masterpieces on display from around the globe in collaboration with the world’s premier cultural centers, classic and modern art museums as well as public and private institutions. Furthermore, Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus ships will look to set a new standard in smart ships. The recently announced partnership with Samsung will deliver state-of-the-art, next-generation technology.
MSC Cruises guests will be delighted by the latest displays, mobile solutions and medical equipment as well as products for enhanced reality experiences. The two new ships will be worth $1.7 billion, thus bringing MSC Cruises’ investment for the two Meraviglia plus the two Meraviglia-Plus ships to a total of $3.2 billion.
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