Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/838705
maltatoday, SUNDAY, 18 JUNE 2017 Events 43 The latest wonder in the MSC Cruises fleet, MSC Meraviglia was christened in a glitter- ing ceremony by international screen legend and godmother of all of MSC Cruises' ships, So- phia Loren. At 171,598 GRT and with guest capacity of 5,714, MSC Meraviglia is the biggest ship to be built by a European ship own- er, MSC Cruises and also the big- gest ship to come into service in 2017. MSC Meraviglia will be the first MSC cruise liner to fly the Mal- tese flag and has chosen Malta as one of its main ports of call. It sailed into Malta for the first time on Wednesday. It will give 170 Maltese holiday makers each week the unique op- portunity to cruise around the Mediterranean from Malta to Malta on this largest-ever cruise liner to enter Malta. "We have an ambitious vision for the future and MSC Merav- iglia marks the start of a new era for our Company," said Pierfranc- esco Vago, MSC Cruises' Execu- tive Chairman. "This is an ex- tremely proud moment for all of us at MSC Cruises as we see the first of our next-generation ships being named." "The new ships that will come into service over the coming ten years are purpose-built connect- ed ships, featuring innovation in both product and design, as well as the very latest-cutting edge technology to create unforget- table holiday experiences at sea for guests of all ages. MSC Mer- aviglia is the first to make this vi- sion come to life, as it sets a new standard for cruise ships as a des- tination in itself." MSC Meraviglia is the Com- pany's new flagship and the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet as well as the first of 11 new MSC Cruises ships due to come into service over the next 10 years un- der an industry-unprecedented €9 billion investment plan. Both the ship herself and to- night's event have been inspired by the wonders of the world, as Mer- aviglia literally means wonder. The christening ceremony itself was hosted by one of Europe's most loved comedians, Gad Elmaleh. The audience was also entertained by internationally renowned art- ist Patrick Bruel who performed a selection of his most loved songs. UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors Kids United will be performing to represent a diverse world, promot- ing peace and tolerance. The crowning moment of the evening was the parade of the ship's officers, when Sophia Loren cut the ribbon and named MSC Meraviglia to a time-honoured crescendo of champagne and fireworks. Loren has held a close relationship with MSC Cruises for over a decade, when she first became godmother of MSC Liri- ca, in 2003. As the MSC Cruises fleet continued to grow, she blessed each and every new ship, reflecting MSC Cruises' belief not only in loyalty, but also in Loren's unique beauty, talent and elegant style – the same elements that distinguish every aspect on board an MSC Cruises ship. MSC Meraviglia is able to call in most of the world's international cruise ports and is set to become one of the hottest destinations at sea. Some of the unique features that set MSC Cruises' newest flagship apart include: • World-class entertainment from Cirque du Soleil with two exclusive Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows created just for MSC Meraviglia with two performances six nights a week, guests can enjoy a unique show & dinner or show & cocktail experience • Widest range of dining op- tions and bars on any MSC Cruises ship to-date with 12 dining venues and 20 bars • As a family-owned com- pany, kids' activities and services are at the very core of the guest offering and the dedicated family deck area includes a brand new entertainment offering and cutting-edge facilities for the whole family. • MSC for Me, the new digital experience designed for guests to get the most out of their holiday, connecting them to the experiences that matter to them • The MSC Yacht Club with new features and luxurious accommodations spanning three decks, private facilities and butler service round- the-clock • The longest LED Sky Screen at Sea at 80 metres long encompassing a stunning 96 metre long Mediterranean- style promenade, designed to become the social hub of the ship • Comfortable and innovative accommodations to meet every need demonstrating the way that MSC Cruises puts the guest at the heart of its designs and ship building and with 10 different types of cabin to choose from, there really is something for everyone. MSC Meraviglia sails into Malta Like a breeze of freedom, Les Beiges de Chanel has made natu- ral a style in itself. Inspired by the singular light that shines on fresh skin, this healthy glow has broken away from the rhythm of fashions and seasons to adopt outdoor beauty all year round. It's time to take a moment for yourself, regardless of the hour, to free yourself from the diktats of day and night. A break to give a second wind to your complexion and your mood. Today, Les Beiges expands with three new products, as in- tuitive and on-the-go as ever, to set your watch to the beige hour whenever you wish. A breeze of freedom Les Beiges de Chanel Godmother Sophia Loren cuts the ribbon with MSC Group Executive Chairman Gianluigi Aponte