MSC Bellissima is the fourth of 11 next-generation ships (either firmed or as options) due to come into service over the next decade.
Speaking at the steel cutting ceremony in Saint Nazaire, Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises executive chairman, commented: 'MSC Cruises and STX France have walked a long path together since the construction of MSC Lirica in 2003. Our current fleet was built at STX France and we are now shaping the future of the modern cruise ship with two new prototypes from STX France. With work nearing completion on MSC Meraviglia, we are delighted to begin construction of MSC Bellissima.'
Vago continued, 'I am delighted with this prototype, which will soon become a beautiful and balanced cruise ship capable of operating everywhere in the world. I am also extremely pleased that my wife, Alexa Aponte-Vago, has been able to join me here in Saint Nazaire to share this important milestone.
Laurent Castaing, STX France ceo, said, 'We are proud to be MSC Cruises’ industrial partner from the beginning and we are very involved in their fleet development. It is very challenging and we have passed an important milestone with the Meraviglia generation. Meraviglia literally means wonder and the four new ships will astonish the public with their elegant and beautiful design.'
With a gross tonnage of 167,600gt and capacity for more than 5,700 guests, MSC Bellissima will be the largest in MSC Cruises’ fleet, along with MSC Meraviglia.
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