MSC Cruises marks a significant occasion with the maiden call of MSC Bellissima in Shanghai, China. This momentous event signifies MSC Cruises’ triumphant return to mainland China, making them the first international cruise line to resume operations since the pandemic.
A Celebration of Commitment and Innovation
To commemorate this milestone, MSC Cruises hosted a grand event aboard the magnificent MSC Bellissima. This gathering welcomed esteemed guests, including government officials, travel agents, media representatives, and valued partners. The event offered them the opportunity to experience the unparalleled offerings of MSC Cruises’ Asian flagship firsthand.
The celebration didn’t end there. MSC Cruises also unveiled their exciting deployment plans for the region, showcasing their unwavering commitment to the Chinese market. Here’s a glimpse into what lies ahead:
Summer 2024: Throughout the summer season, MSC Bellissima will grace the ports of Shanghai, Keelung, and Shenzhen, serving as a homeport for exhilarating voyages.
Winter 2024-2025: To further amplify their presence, MSC Cruises will introduce a second vessel, MSC Splendida, operating from Shenzhen and Xiamen during the winter season (December 2024 – April 2025). Meanwhile, MSC Bellissima will return to its Shanghai homeport in January 2025.
This strategic deployment makes MSC Cruises the only international cruise brand to operate two ships across four major Chinese ports within the first year of their return. This robust presence signifies their dedication to catering to the growing demand for high-quality cruise experiences in China.
A Leader in Environmental Sustainability
MSC Cruises remains a frontrunner in environmental stewardship within the cruise industry. Both MSC Bellissima and MSC Splendida boast shore power capability. This cutting-edge technology allows them to switch off their engines when docked in port, effectively eliminating local emissions. This aligns perfectly with MSC Cruises’ unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and its vision for a greener future in cruising.
A Celebration Fit for a Flagship
The celebratory event aboard MSC Bellissima resonated with an air of grandeur. To elevate the experience for guests, MSC Cruises enlisted the culinary expertise of world-renowned chefs, Enrico & Roberto Cerea from the acclaimed restaurant DA VITTORIO. These culinary maestros crafted a bespoke menu for the ceremony and the ship’s inaugural voyage, tantalizing the taste buds of all attendees.
The celebration continued with a mesmerizing drone light show, adding a touch of futuristic spectacle to the festivities. Additionally, captivating onboard entertainment further enriched the evening, marking a triumphant homecoming for MSC Cruises in mainland China.
Quote:
Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises: “MSC Bellissima’s maiden call in Shanghai reaffirms our commitment to a market that continues to play an important strategic role for us… We are dedicated to further investing in China and benefiting the local economy. We want to push high-quality development of the cruise industry in the region…”
A New Chapter for Cruising in China
MSC Cruises’ return to mainland China signifies a new era for the cruise industry in the region. Their commitment to offering modern Asian flagship vessels, paired with their strategic deployment plans, promises an exciting future for cruise travel in China. Additionally, their focus on environmental responsibility aligns with the growing demand for sustainable tourism experiences. With MSC Cruises at the helm, the future of cruising in China appears bright, brimming with possibilities for exploration, adventure, and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the region.
FAQs:
Q: When did MSC Cruises resume operations in mainland China?
A: MSC Cruises resumed operations in mainland China with the maiden call of MSC Bellissima in Shanghai in 2024.
Q: Where will MSC Bellissima and MSC Splendida operate in China?
A: During the summer of 2024, MSC Bellissima will operate as a homeport vessel in Shanghai, Keelung, and Shenzhen. In the winter season (December 2024 – April 2025), MSC Splendida will operate from Shenzhen and Xiamen, while MSC Bellissima will return to its Shanghai homeport in January 2025.
Q: What sustainability measures do MSC Bellissima and MSC Splendida use?
A: Both MSC Bellissima and MSC Splendida boast shore power capability, enabling them to turn off their engines while docked in port, thereby minimizing local emissions.
