They have named the ship MSC Preziosa and it will be the 13th addition to their fleet and the fourth ship to join the fantasia-class of ships.
Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO MSC Cruises said: “The new ship represents an investment of 550 million euros 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.”
The ship will offer everything that you can expect on board the MSC Divina, which includes; four main restaurants and two fine dining restaurants, 21 bars, a casino, four swimming pools and an infinity pool, 12 whirlpools, a bowling alley, a sports area and fitness centre, a children’s area and the signature Aurea Spa.
“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 represents the highlight of European cruising.”
MSC and STX France shipyard have been in negotiations for months over this vessel which unknown previous owners did not want to continue to run.
“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 Cruise’s fleet is a relief and a real pleasure for STX.”
MSC are ensuring that the Preziosa offers a host of ‘green’ features to reduce carbon emissions including a waste water treatment and energy saving systems. The ship looks set to be launched in March 2013.
Find cruises on the new MSC ship at http://uk.cruises.com/
