MSC Cruises To Retire the MSC Melody.

MSC Cruise MSC Melody Reportedly Sold

MSC Cruises has announced that the MSC Melody will be removed from the MSC fleet almost immediately. When I checked the website tonight, the ship has been removed.

The MSC Melody was one of the building blocks for the MSC cruise fleet when she was first introduced in 1997.

Built at  C.N.I.M. in France for $100m, the 35,143gt MSC Melody has capacity for just over 1,000 passengers in 532 cabins.

She began her career as the Atlantic for Home Lines in 1982 and ran many years on the New York to Bermuda run. She later was sold to Premier Cruises and sailed as the Starship Atlantic from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. In 1997, she joined the MSC Fleet sailing on her maiden voyage on May 1, 1997.


The MSC Melody has faithfully served MSC Cruises but has been outclassed by larger ships, featuring many balcony cabins, atriums and other popular amenities.

MSC Cruises said it will be contacting passengers booked on summer cruises to offer them alternative choices.

 The MSC Melody is reportedly available for sale.

======================================================= 

 

 Check Out Our Other Sites

NYCruiseInfo.com Website   
NortheastCruiseGuide.com    
Blog on Cruises From New York, Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk & the Northeast
Free Cruise Newsletter

New Ships For 2013

AIDAStellar Under Construction at Meyer Werft Shipyard, Germany

Although the construction of new cruise ships has slowed - there are a number of new ship expected to be introduced in 2013.

Below is a brief listing of the ship expected to be introduced in 2013.

Company - Ship Name - Delivery - Builders

• MSC Cruises - MSC Preziosa - March 2013 - STX Europe
• AIDA Cruises - AIDAStella - March 2013 - Meyer Werft
• Carnival Cruises - Carnival Sunshine - April 2013 (Major Refit Carnival Destiny). Fincantieri
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises - Europa 2 - May 2013 - STX Europe
• 
  
• Norwegian Cruise Line - Norwegian Breakaway - May 2013 - Meyer Werft
• Princess Cruises - Royal Princess - June 2013 - Fincantieri
• Compagnie du Ponant - Le Soleal - July 2013 -Fincantieri

======================================================= 

 

 Check Out Our Other Sites

NYCruiseInfo.com Website   
NortheastCruiseGuide.com    
Blog on Cruises From New York, Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk & the Northeast
Free Cruise Newsletter

MSC Cruises Transforms Buffet Restaurants on Select Ships

MSC Cruises Redesigned Buffet Area and menu

MSC Cruises’ has transformed the buffet restaurants on board MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia and MSC Poesia.

With the help of famous Italian food designer Paolo Barichella from food and lifestyle designers Enocultura, the buffet area has been restyled around new concepts of presentation and service, offering guests a sensational casual dining experience morning, noon and night.

The buffet is the most visited dining area on board, particularly during breakfast and lunch, and continually enhancing this area is a priority for a company which prides itself on making each cruise a culinary voyage of discovery.

“The idea behind the new buffet was not only to increase the quality of service and variety of fresh choices but also to create a real culinary experience and reshape the way we present food on board,” said Enrico Borniotto, general manager of MSC Italcatering. “Guests can now enjoy watching our skilled chefs prepare a range of fresh dishes, from MSC’s signature authentic Italian pizzas and breads to perfect sautéed pasta and tasty cuts of meat.”

“Aside from redesigning the area in terms of decor, we tried to bring on board the concept of the visible kitchen,” he continued. “Some guests cannot imagine that most of the food is fresh on such big ships and that pasta, pizza, bread and desserts are handmade. This is an extraordinary added value to be proudly presented to guests.”
  
“Restyling the buffet areas of the MSC fleet was an exciting project for me,” said food designer Barichella. “I am used to working with restaurants and chefs from all over the world, but this was my first experience with a cruise company. This restyled area will enable guests to discover MSC’s high quality, fresh products in a holistic way.”

The redesigned buffet now includes many different specialty corners, arranged with a more intuitive feel for guests trying to decide what delicious dishes to select. 

======================================================= 

 Check Out Our Other Sites

NYCruiseInfo.com Website   
NortheastCruiseGuide.com    
Blog on Cruises From New York, Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk & the Northeast
Free Cruise Newsletter

MSC Cruises Offers Cyber Monday Discounts.

MSC Cruises - MSC Poesia Offer  Cyber Monday Sale

Guests who book a select MSC Cruises 2012-2013 Caribbean sailing online on Cyber Monday will receive special fares and up to a $200 shipboard credit.

“Cyber Monday Sale” rates on select 7-night roundtrip Caribbean sailings of MSC Poesia from Fort Lauderdale begin at $399 for an interior stateroom, $619 for an ocean view, $819 for a balcony and $1,269 for a suite.

In addition, residents of the United States and Canada who book interior and oceanview staterooms will receive $25 per person (maximum of $50 per stateroom) in shipboard credits; balcony staterooms receive $50 per person (maximum of $100 per stateroom) and suites receive $100 per person (maximum of $200 per stateroom).

This special offer applies to the following sailings:

•    Western Caribbean: Dec. 21, Jan. 12, Jan. 19
•    Eastern Caribbean: Dec. 28, Feb. 23 and March 9

“Cyber Monday Sale” rates can only be booked online on Monday, Nov. 26. All cruise-only rates are non-refundable, per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional for each guest.

MSC Poesia features 2 pools, 4 hot tubs, a 12,000 sq ft. Balinese-inspired spa and fitness center, four restaurants (including Sushi Bar and authentic pizzeria), 12 bars and lounges, outdoor cinema and much more.

On each sailing, guests can enjoy the line’s renowned white-gloved service, elegant and pristine décor, delicious cuisine (including regional Mediterranean specialties) and highly acclaimed world-class entertainment.

For more information about MSC Cruises, visit us online at www.msccruisesusa.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional and ask for the “Cyber Monday Sale” promotion.

=======================================================

 Check Out Our Other Sites

NYCruiseInfo.com Website   

NortheastCruiseGuide.com    

Blog on Cruises From New York, Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk & the Northeast

Free Cruise Newsletter

MSC Cruises Offers Discounts on Holiday Sailings Booked By October 31st

MSC Cruises MSC Poesia Holiday Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

There is still time to book a Caribbean holiday celebration on the luxurious MSC Poesia and receive a complimentary balcony upgrade valued at up to $220 per person.

MSC Cruises’ special “Holidays On Sale” rates are available now through Oct. 31, 2012, offering guests complimentary upgrades from oceanview to balcony staterooms or from balcony standard to balcony superior staterooms.

The cruise-only rates are per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional for all guests.  Plus, kids traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom sail for only $99.  MSC Cruises’ ships are kid friendly, offering daily entertainment and plenty of space for running, exploring, diving, swimming and playing.

“Holidays on Sale” rates are available on the following MSC Poesia roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale:

• 7-night Christmas in the Caribbean: departs Dec. 21, 2012, calling at Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Isla de Roatan, Honduras. Balcony staterooms from $809.
•  7-night New Year’s Colors of the Caribbean: Eastern Caribbean itinerary departs Dec. 28, 2012, calling at St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Freeport, Bahamas. Balcony staterooms from $909.
•  7-night Presidents Day: departs Feb. 16, 2013, calling at Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $699.
• 5-night Passover Cruise: departs March 25, 2013, calling at Georgetown, Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $629.
• 7-night Easter Cruise: departs March 30, 2013, calling a Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Falmouth, Jamaica, Balcony staterooms from $699.

While spending the holidays onboard a Caribbean MSC Poesia sailing, guests will enjoy a truly international experience that draws upon MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage, complete with the exotic MSC Aurea Spa, international cuisine, and world-class entertainment that is appropriate for the entire family.

Stress-Free Vacations for Adults, Fun Activities for Kids

On MSC Cruises, adults can truly enjoy a stress-free vacation. While they are working out in our gym, enjoying the sports center, getting pampered in the spa or swimming on deck, their kids are absorbed with a variety of supervised activities, ranging from a Stone Age dinosaur-themed play area, treasure hunts, dance competitions, sports challenges, theatre activities, and for those technology enthusiasts, an arcade, Microsoft Xbox Kinetic® and Nintendo Wii®.  Four separate Kids’ Club programs are available for young guests, each tailored to a specific age group, ranging from 3 to 17 years of age. Recently, MSC Cruises also introduced a daily Nanny’s Hour from 9-10 a.m., with games and activities for toddlers ages 10-36 months and their parents.

=======================================================

 Check Out Our Other Sites

NYCruiseInfo.com Website   
NortheastCruiseGuide.com    
Free Cruise Newsletter 

.

MSC Cruises Celebrates ‘World’s Largest Cruise Event’ with Limited-Time Shipboard Credit Offer

MSC Cruises' MSC Lirica - MSC Offering Limited Time Cruise Discounts

As part of the much anticipated National Cruise Vacation Week, which is sponsored by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world’s largest cruise industry organization, MSC Cruises is offering a shipboard credit of as much as $200 per stateroom for guests who book a 2013 cruise this month.

CLIA’s National Cruise Vacation Week, scheduled for Oct. 21-27, 2012 offers the industry’s most  exclusive promotions and features a wide array of special events and offers from CLIA-member cruise lines.

MSC Cruises is marking the event with a month-long “World’s Largest Cruise Event” offer available to residents of the United States and Canada who book select 2013 MSC Cruises sailings of five or more nights by Oct. 31, 2012. South American itineraries are excluded from this promotion.

The amount of shipboard credit is based on the following:

•  Inside and oceanview staterooms: $25 per person (maximum of $50 per stateroom);
•  Balcony standard and superior staterooms: $50 per person (maximum of $100 per stateroom); and
•  Suites and MSC Yacht Club accommodations: $100 per person (maximum of $200 per stateroom).

Guests can enjoy MSC Cruises’ heritage on a Mediterranean sailing, explore the beauty and mystery of Northern Europe or escape to tropical islands on a Caribbean cruise. On each sailing, guests are treated to the line’s white-gloved service, elegant and pristine décor, delicious cuisine (including Mediterranean specialties) and acclaimed world-class entertainment as they visit popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Check Out Our Other Sites:

• Information on Cruises From New York - NYCruiseInfo.com
• Cruises from the Northeast - Northeast Cruise Guide.com - Website
• For the latest News on Ships Sailing From the Northeast  - NortheastCruiseGuide Blog.

 Sign Up for our Free Cruise Newsletter

‘Baseball Greats’ on MSC Cruises’ 2012-2013 Caribbean Sailings

MSC Cruises MSC Poesia Baseball Theme Cruises

Baseball fans will have the opportunity of a lifetime to cruise with baseball legends representing leading teams on select 2012-2013 Caribbean sailings of MSC Poesia.

Guests can interact with former Major League Baseball stars as they sail to incredible Caribbean destinations onboard MSC Poesia on several “Baseball Greats” theme cruises.

This is the ninth year MSC Cruises has hosted these popular cruises with a changing lineup of players.

Special “Summer Sale” rates begin at $799 for the 10-night “Baseball Greats” cruise and $549 for 7-night cruises. Fares are per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional. Bookings must be made by Sept. 30 to receive “Summer Sale” rates.

Host and emcee for all of the onboard activities on each cruise is former New York Yankees star pitcher, Stan Bahnsen. “Baseball Greats” cruises offer free guest/player activities including a player-hosted trivia game, a question-and-answer session, a guest pitching contest and a lively storytelling session.

Baseball players host hitting, fielding, base running, and defense strategy clinics. A free autograph session is one of the most popular aspects of the “Baseball Greats” experience.

These Caribbean cruises sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale and feature the following itineraries and baseball greats (the lineup of participating players is subject to change):

• 10-night “Southern Caribbean Dream,” calling at San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. John’s, Antigua; Fort-de-France, Martinique; Roseau, Dominica; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and Freepost, Bahamas, with 3 days at sea. Jesse Barfield, Glenn Beckert, Bill Russell, Dave Campbell and Stan Bahnsen. Dec. 11, 2012

• 7-night “Eastern Caribbean Enchantment,” calling in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Nassau, Bahamas, with 3 days at sea.

• Feb. 9: Ken Griffey Sr., Jim Fregosi, Stan Bahnsen, Ed Herrmann, Larry Parrish
• Feb. 23: Tommy Davis, Cookie Rojas, Stan Bahnsen, Clarence Jones, Juan Marichal
• March 9: Gorman Thomas, Gary Peters, Stan Bahnsen, Wallace Johnson, Rico Petrocelli

• 7-night “Colors of the Caribbean,” calling at St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Freeport, Bahamas, with 3 days at sea. Randy Hundley, Stan Bahnsen, Jack Billingham, Ellis Valentine. April 6, 2013

MSC Cruises Offers Discount on Select Holiday Cruises

MSC Cruises' MSC Poesia Holiday Sailings Discounts

Celebrate the holidays surrounded by Caribbean sunshine and the warmth of Mediterranean ambiance with a complimentary balcony upgrade from MSC Cruises on holiday sailings of the luxurious MSC Poesia.

Special “Holidays On Sale” rates offer guests complimentary upgrades from oceanview to balcony staterooms or from balcony standard to balcony superior staterooms. The cruise-only rates, available for bookings made by July 31, 2012, start at $699 (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional for all guests) for select 7-night cruises and $629 on a select 5-night cruise.

Plus, kids traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom sail for only $99.

While spending the holidays onboard a Caribbean MSC Poesia sailing, guests will enjoy a truly international experience that draws upon MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage, complete with the exotic MSC Aurea Spa, Mediterranean cuisine, and world-class entertainment that is appropriate for the entire family.

Adults can relax knowing that, while they are working out in the gym, being pampered in the spa or swimming on deck, the youngsters are enjoying themselves, too, participating in activities and facilities designed especially for them under the watchful eye of trained counselors.

“Holidays on Sale” rates are available on the following itineraries of MSC Poesia, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale:

• Christmas Cruise: departs Dec. 21, 2012, calling at Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Roatan Islands Honduras. Balcony staterooms from $809.

• New Year’s Cruise: departs Dec. 28, 2012, calling at St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Freeport, Bahamas. Balcony staterooms from $909.

• Presidents Day: departs Feb. 16, 2013, calling at Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $699.

• 5-night Passover Cruise: departs March 25, 2013, calling at Georgetown, Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $629.

• Easter Cruise: departs March 30, 2013, calling a Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Falmouth, Jamaica, Balcony staterooms from $699.

 Be certain to ask for the “Holidays on Sale” promo. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Check Out Our Other Sites:

• Unique Articles On Cruises & Cruise Ship History - Nick Cruise Corner Blog
• Information on Cruises From New York - NYCruiseInfo.com
• For New York Cruise Updates - NYCruiseInfo Blog.
• Cruises from the Northeast - Northeast Cruise Guide.com

 Sign Up for our Free Cruise Newsletter

MSC Cruises Offers Cruise Holiday Cruise Discounts

MSC Cruises - MSC Poesia Holiday Cruises Discounts

Celebrate the holidays surrounded by Caribbean sunshine and the warmth of Mediterranean ambiance with a complimentary balcony upgrade from MSC Cruises on holiday sailings of the luxurious MSC Poesia.

Special “Holidays On Sale” rates offer guests complimentary upgrades from oceanview to balcony staterooms or from balcony standard to balcony superior staterooms. The cruise-only rates, available for bookings made by July 31, 2012, start at $699 (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional for all guests) for select 7-night cruises and $629 on a select 5-night cruise.

Plus, kids traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom sail for only $99.

While spending the holidays onboard a Caribbean MSC Poesia sailing, guests will enjoy a truly international experience that draws upon MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage, complete with the exotic MSC Aurea Spa, Mediterranean cuisine, and world-class entertainment that is appropriate for the entire family.

Adults can relax knowing that, while they are working out in the gym, being pampered in the spa or swimming on deck, the youngsters are enjoying themselves, too, participating in activities and facilities designed especially for them under the watchful eye of trained counselors.

“Holidays on Sale” rates are available on the following itineraries of MSC Poesia, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale:

• Christmas Cruise: departs Dec. 21, 2012, calling at Falmouth, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Roatan Islands Honduras. Balcony staterooms from $809.

• New Year’s Cruise: departs Dec. 28, 2012, calling at St. John’s, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Freeport, Bahamas. Balcony staterooms from $909.

• Presidents Day: departs Feb. 16, 2013, calling at Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Falmouth, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $699.

• 5-night Passover Cruise: departs March 25, 2013, calling at Georgetown, Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Balcony staterooms from $629.

• Easter Cruise: departs March 30, 2013, calling a Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and Falmouth, Jamaica, Balcony staterooms from $699.

 Be certain to ask for the “Holidays on Sale” promo. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Check Out Our Other Sites:

• Unique Articles On Cruises & Cruise Ship History - Nick Cruise Corner Blog
• Information on Cruises From New York - NYCruiseInfo.com
• For New York Cruise Updates - NYCruiseInfo Blog.
• Cruises from the Northeast - Northeast Cruise Guide.com

 Sign Up for our Free Cruise Newsletter
 

MSC Cruises Offers Discounts Through June 30th.

MSC Cruises - MSC Fantasia

MSC Cruises is making it possible to visit Europe during the height of the vacation season and into the fall on its elegant fleet of ships – including the new MSC Divina – with limited-time-only rates that begin at $449.

Available only for bookings made by June 30, 2012 on select sailings, these special cruise-only rates (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional) begin at $449 for select 7-night summer cruises and at $499 for select 7-night fall itineraries.

While visiting some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, guests will also enjoy MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage and international experience with world-class entertainment, the exotic MSC Aurea Spa and Mediterranean cuisine on the line’s elegant ships, including MSC Divina, which entered the fleet in May.

Like sister ships MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, MSC Divina features the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, 69-71 suites (depending on the ship) in a “ship-within-a-ship” oasis of tranquility where guests indulge in comfort and convenience, complete with 24/7 Butler and concierge services, complimentary wines and spirits, private restaurant, lounge, pool and relaxation area, private access to MSC Aurea Spa and more.

On all 12 of MSC Cruises’ ships, guests will discover what earned the line Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Onboard International Experience.” Surrounded by elegance and white-gloved service, guests can be pampered with a Balinese massage in the MSC Aurea Spa, dine in the many restaurants featuring international cuisine, sunbathe poolside, gamble in the casino or enjoy the highly acclaimed entertainment in the lounges or the magnificent theater. For guests seeking more activity, there is miniature golf, swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard as well as a wide variety of excursions sure to satisfy the interests of all guests.

Among the roundtrip itineraries available this summer and fall at limited-time-only rates are:

• MSC Divina’s 7-night “Divine Mediterranean” itineraries, sailing from Venice and calling at Bari, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik. Rates begin at $1,049 (select summer sailings) and $599 (select fall sailings).

•  MSC Sinfonia’s 7-night “Sparkling Mediterranean Rivieras” departing Genoa and visiting Civitavecchia, Salerno, La Goulette, Ibiza and Marseille, beginning at $449.

•  MSC Splendida’s 7-night “Splendid Mediterranean” cruises, sailing from Genoa and calling at Civitavecchia, Barcelona, La Goulette, Valletta and Messina. Rates begin at $499.

•  MSC Magnifica’s 7-night “Baltic Castles & Russian Palaces,” calling at Kiel, Stockholm, Tallin, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen. Rates begin at $1,049.

• MSC Musica’s 7-night “Greek Islands in the Sun,” sailing from Venice and calling at Bari, Katakolon, Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus, Corfu and Dubrovnik. Rates begin at $499.

• MSC Opera’s 8-night “Majestic Medieval Europe” itinerary, sailing from Southampton and calling at Ijmuiden, St. Peter Port, La Coruna, Bilbao and La Rochele. Rates begin at $799.

Check Out the MSC Cruises Website for more info.

MSC Cruise and UNICEF Reps Take Part in MSC Divina Christening

MSC Divina, Christening in Marseille, France, on May 26, 2012

As a symbol of collaboration between MSC Cruises' and UNICEF, major UNICEF representatives and guests will be involved in the christening ceremony of MSC Divina, which will take place in Marseille, France, on May 26, 2012.

When MSC Divina takes to the seas, her guests will have the opportunity to support MSC Cruises' long-term partnership with UNICEF and their joint “Get on Board for Children” initiative, which funds the UNICEF-supported “Platform of Urban Centers” in Brazil. The platform focuses on combating poverty and inequality by ensuring better quality and more equal education opportunities for the vulnerable children of the favelas using a bottom-up integrated approach in which the community is seen as a vital part of the solution.

Since 2009, guests on board each ship in the MSC Cruises’ fleet have been invited to “get on board for children” and make a difference by offering a small donation in addition to their cruise fare. Thanks to the generous donations of guests, MSC Cruises has raised over $1.3 million to date for the initiative.

On the day of the christening, critically acclaimed classical performer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Maxim Vengerov will join MSC Cruises’ CEO Pierfrancesco Vago and MSC fleet godmother Sophia Loren for a question-and-answer session with international media directly following a press conference.

Joining an impressive line-up of international stars on stage for the evening’s main events, Vengerov will deliver a speech expected to touch on the importance of his ambassadorial role and the “Get on Board for Children” initiative before releasing hundreds of UNICEF balloons with the help of local children in order to mark the occasion.

Vengerov, one of the world’s most sought-after performers in classical music, will then delight guests with a special performance.

The high-profile christening ceremony is the perfect occasion to highlight the meaningful partnership between UNICEF and MSC Cruises and the tangible results it has already produced for disadvantaged children in Brazil. MSC Cruises looks forward to putting contributions from MSC Divina guests toward the same great cause.

A selection of global results from the UNICEF-supported ‘Platform of Urban Centres’ to date includes:

•     198 youth ambassadors are using communication tools to mobilize their communities
•     6,000 children and adolescents are participating in supporting activities
•     470 educators have been trained in sports and citizenship
•     3 municipalities have committed to the rights of children, with 20 clear goals
•     94 communities are preparing and/or implementing action and communication plans,    representing about 400,000 children and adolescents

  -----------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog

MSC Cruises MSC Divina Dining Options

MSC Cruises MSC Divina Dining Options

The divine dining experience awaiting guests of MSC Cruises’ newest ship will be celebrated in appropriate style at MSC Divina’s christening ceremony in Marseilles, France, on May 26, when renowned French Chef Christian Constant will delight guests with two signature menus created especially for the event.

Chef Constant, who is also a favorite on the European version of the popular Top Chef program, runs three stylish Parisian restaurants, each known for its individual style, ambiance and menu.

A sneak preview of Chef Constant’s christening menus reveals culinary gems such as Medallion of Spiny Lobster accompanied by diced Niçoise vegetables flavored with horseradish, and Crispy Supreme of Mediterranean Sea-Bass with almonds accompanied by caper Ravigote sauce and a salad of spinach sprouts.

An impressive selection of France’s best wines has been carefully chosen to accompany the menu, and for dessert guests will savor the delicious Christian Constant mille-feuille Divina with half-salted butter caramel.

MSC Cruises wholeheartedly believes that delicious, authentic cuisine lies at the heart of a wonderful vacation and that a cruise should always be a gastronomic tour of discovery. MSC Cruises also knows that for guests to make the most of MSC Divina’s fabulous design, innovative new features and breathtakingly beautiful ports of call, they must be nourished with the finest dishes made from the freshest, best quality, ethically sourced, and locally inspired ingredients.

That’s why, when the christening ends and guests board the ship, they will be dazzled by the multiple dining options available and by MSC Divina’s ability to provide something delectable to meet all tastes and moods.

New and unique to MSC Divina and a highlight for many guests will be Galaxy, a fashionable new panoramic restaurant in the disco. Based on the style of famous 1950s Italian nightclubs such as La Capannina and Forte dei Marmi, Galaxy takes La Dolce Vita and the theme of light as its inspiration and appeals to all of the five senses.

Galaxy’s theme of light also means that the overall space has been created around specially designed lamps. Refined, elegant and reflecting modern minimalism, the stylish black, grey and Bordeaux color scheme means that the fabulous cuisine will look, as well as taste, wonderful whatever time of day.

Providing a fabulous brunch menu for late risers, including the delectable eggs Benedict, savory croissants and tasty Parma ham, a selection of fresh juices, and the “bubbles” menu including spumante, champagne and rosé, Galaxy will be the perfect kick-start to a day on board or on shore.

In the evening, diners will indulge in fabulous Mediterranean fusion cuisine such as roasted scallops on a cream of courgette and basil soup with porcini mushrooms and fried leeks, or succulent sea bass tartare with fresh goat cheese, crispy sesame seed wafers and liquorice sensation.

The emphasis is on sampling the food, enjoying the music in red, grey and black surroundings, while watching the stars and sipping a Galaxy cocktail or a high quality wine from the sommelier selection, which can be purchased by the glass.

It could be difficult to come back to earth after tasting one of Galaxy’s delightful meals, but luckily MSC Divina’s six other restaurants, including the exclusive MSC Yacht Club restaurant
Le Muse, the Sacramento Tex Mex and the Sacramento Hamburger House, offer a whole range of exciting and sumptuous dining options to keep guests’ taste buds entertained for the whole length of their cruise.

 ------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog

MSC Cruises Bases the MSC Divina To Homeport in Miami

MSC Cruises MSC Divina to Sail From Miami

MSC Cruises will be bringing its newest ship, MSC Divina, to its newest departure port – PortMiami – beginning in the fall of 2013.

When MSC Cruises begins its inaugural season homeporting at PortMiami, MSC Divina, which becomes the twelfth ship in the MSC Cruises fleet in May 2012, will sail a series of itineraries featuring Caribbean destinations.

Named in honor of MSC Cruises’ “godmother,” Italian film icon Sophia Loren, MSC Divina features the exclusive MSC Yacht Club ship-within-a-ship concept found on the line’s two other Fantasia-class ships, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida.

“We’re very excited to kick off our new relationship with PortMiami with the newest of our Fantasia-class flagships,” said Richard E. Sasso, President and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc.

“In addition to enjoying the sophisticated design, international entertainment, Mediterranean cuisine, exotic MSC Aurea Spa and international experience that are the hallmarks of MSC Cruises, guests will now have the opportunity to depart from Miami to enjoy the MSC Yacht Club private haven of luxury suites that previously had only been available on European sailings,” Sasso said.

“We look forward to the arrival of the MSC Divina to PortMiami,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez.  “We are honored to have MSC as a new cruise brand at our Port and appreciate the positive economic impact the company will have on our county.”

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Rebeca Sosa, chair of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners committee overseeing the seaport, joined Commission Chairman Joe A. Martinez in welcoming MSC Cruises and its newest vessel to South Florida.   

"MSC brand is known worldwide for its sophisticated, international service,” Commissioner Sosa said.  “MSC Divina will offer cruise passengers sailing from PortMiami a very special vacation experience.”

Port Director Bill Johnson said the MSC Divina is a great addition to the Port’s fleet.  “What a fantastic way to introduce a new brand to our Port than with its newest vessel.”

With 1,751 staterooms hosting 3,502 guests (double occupancy) on the 139,400-ton ship, MSC Divina will be the largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet.

Like her sister ships, MSC Divina will feature the exclusive MSC Yacht Club. With 69 suites in this “ship-within-a-ship,” guests indulge in comfort and convenience, from their own personal butler to complimentary wines and spirits available any time of the day in the MSC Yacht Club’s exclusive lounges and pool area. This oasis of tranquility includes several private venues, including Le Muse panoramic restaurant, Top Sail Lounge, pool and relaxation area as well as private access to MSC Aurea Spa.

All MSC Divina guests have access to three restaurants and a Tex-Mex alternative dining restaurant, Aqua Park (with 150 fountains and water jets, whirlpools and pool bar), MSC Aurea Spa with Balinese-inspired treatments, children’s and teen areas, interactive 4-D Cinema, virtual Formula 1 auto racing, acclaimed international entertainment in the 1,603-seat Pantheon Theater and much more.

Among the new features on the ship are The Garden infinity pool and Zen area in the aft, with spectacular views of the ship’s wake, and cutting-edge technical advancements that assure less environmental impact.

 -------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog

MSC Cruise May 13th Chocolate Lovers Cruise

MSC Cruise MSC Opera Chocolate Lover's Cruise

MSC Cruises has joined forces with Gerry Wilton, international chocolatier and founder of the world’s first chocolate-themed hotel, the chic and unique Chocolate Boutique Hotel in Bournemouth, United Kingdom, to offer a voyage of discovery with a difference for guests on board MSC Opera from May 13-23, 2012.

Combining visits to Northern Europe’s most fascinating Baltic capitals with a veritable “choc fest,” guests will witness the transformation of MSC Opera into a chocolate factory as she departs from Southampton for an 11-day cruise, visiting Amsterdam, Tallinn, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen before returning to Southampton.

During the four full days at sea, Wilton will host a series of four mouth-watering, two-hour-long chocolate classes, starting at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day. These are not your typical theory classes in which the teacher holds court, but rather “hands-on” tutorials where the emphasis is on interactive fun.

Guests will learn all about the history of chocolate and the production process from bean to bar while enjoying every chocolate-filled minute. They will taste samples from all over the world, learn how to make both molded chocolates and Belgian truffles and even paint portraits of themselves – using delicious white, dark and milk Belgian chocolate - which will then be framed for them to take away.

The 4-session series can be booked onboard at a cost of €34 per person.

 ------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog

MSC Cruises Announces Their new Ship MSC Preziosa

MSC Cruises continues its rapid expansion with the announcement that the company has finalized negotiations with STX France and signed a contract to take over a 139,400-ton cruise ship following the termination of the agreement with the original owner.

The new ship is named MSC Preziosa and will become the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet, as well as the precious fourth vessel in the series of Fantasia-class ships, which include MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida and the long-awaited MSC Divina. MSC Divina, the sister ship of MSC Preziosa, is currently having her final touches applied in the STX ship yard in St. Nazaire, France before her christening in May 2012.

“The new ship represents an investment of €550 million and will be delivered at the end of March 2013. Negotiations with STX France have lasted over nine months; a significant but understandable period of time considering the importance of the investment and the unexpected nature of the takeover,” said Mr. Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO, MSC Cruises. “When MSC Preziosa is delivered we will have four ships of every class, giving us a total capacity of over 40,000 berths and the strength to sail in all seas. MSC Preziosa herself will sail the Mediterranean, exploring the beauty of Greek Islands, which represent the highlight of European cruising.”

“STX France is delighted with this successful outcome after months of negotiations. The length of time necessary to settle them is the perfect illustration of the challenges faced by the cruise industry in terms of financing, which impact our industry directly. It’s the new Achilles’ heel, after competitiveness, on which our efforts are now focused,” said Laurent Castaing, STX France General Manager. “In this context, the integration of X32 into the prestigious MSC Cruises fleet is a relief and a real pleasure for STX.”

MSC Preziosa will boast 1,751 staterooms, 17 guest elevators – including a private elevator for MSC Yacht Club guests – and 14 guest decks. Guests will be able to enjoy four main restaurants, including two speciality restaurants, 21 bars, a casino, four swimming pools, including an infinity pool, 12 whirlpools, mini-bowling, a sports area with game courts, a Fitness Center, a children’s area and the superb MSC Aurea Spa.

An exclusive feature of MSC Preziosa – and of all Fantasia-class ships – is the MSC Yacht Club. Privileged guests staying in the 69 exclusive MSC Yacht Club suites will be able to take advantage of the private sun deck which includes The One Pool & Bar as well as two whirlpools; and the spectacular glass-walled Top Sail observation lounge with amazing ocean views. Butlers provide assistance with luggage during embarkation and debarkation; unpack and pack guests’ belongings upon request; serve traditional English afternoon tea; arrange for fine cigars, wines and spirits; and make dining room reservations as well as reservations for MSC Aurea Spa services; coordinate ad hoc shore excursions; and even plan private parties.

Forty-five percent of MSC Preziosa’s total construction is now complete, and her mechanical zones are 70% complete. The best, however, is yet to come! MSC Cruises will soon begin the fitting and furnishing of the 1,094-foot long, 124-foot wide ship and work its unique Mediterranean magic on turning MSC Preziosa into a stylish masterpiece and a perfect mix of advanced technology, elegance and exclusive services.

Cruise guests who want to play their part in reducing carbon emissions can also relax in the knowledge that MSC Preziosa’s green features, including an advanced waste water treatment system (AWT) and advanced energy saving systems, with a focus on air-conditioning, will gain the same impressive industry-leading ecoship and cleanship credentials as her sister ship MSC Divina.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog

MSC Cruise Countdown to the Arrival of the MSC Divina

When MSC Divina joins the MSC Cruises fleet in May, she will take the line’s flagship Fantasia-class of ships to another level.

Named in honor of MSC Cruises’ “godmother,” Italian film icon Sophia Loren, and with decks named after the Gods of Ancient Greece, MSC Divina will feature several design enhancements that make her truly a “divine goddess,” as MSC Cruises continues its successful partnership with award-winning De Jorio Design International.

Among the differences between MSC Divina and sister ships MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida are:

Increased capacity, with 1,751 staterooms hosting 3,502 guests (double occupancy) on the 139,400 ton ship, making it the largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet.
Infinity Garden Pool and “beach zone” in the aft, with spectacular views of the ship’s wake
Cutting-edge technical changes that include more powerful propulsion motors, new alternators and state-of-the-art HVAC chillers
A new fresh water production system requiring 40 percent less power, assuring less environmental impact

Like her sister ships, MSC Divina will feature the exclusive MSC Yacht Club. With 69 suites (verses 72 on sister ships) in this “ship-within-a-ship,” guests indulge in comfort and convenience, from their own personal Butler to complimentary wines and spirits available any time of the day in the MSC Yacht Club’s exclusive lounges and pool area. This oasis of tranquility includes several private venues, including Le Muse panoramic restaurant, Top Sail Lounge, pool and relaxation area.

All MSC Divina guests have access to three restaurants and a Tex-Mex alternative dining restaurant, Acqua Park (with 150 fountains and water jets, whirlpools and pool bar), MSC Aurea Spa with Balinese-inspired treatments, children’s and teen areas, interactive 4-D Cinema, virtual Formula 1 auto racing, acclaimed international entertainment in the 1,603-seat Pantheon Theatre and much more.

Following her May 26 christening in Marseille, France, MSC Divina sails May 27 on a 6-night cruise to Venice, calling at Civitavecchia, Messina, Valetta and Dubrovnik. The ship will then begin a series of 7-night Eastern Mediterranean roundtrip itineraries from Venice and Bari, calling in Katakalon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik, through October 2012.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Links:

Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Main Page
Cruises From New York and New Jersey - Cruise News

Cruises From Boston
Cruises From Baltimore
Cruises From Norfolk

Sign Up for Free Cruise Newsletter

Nick's Cruise Corner Blog