Cruising in Fantasy-land
When Naples played host to the christening of MSC Cruises Fantasia in December 2008, the first of the Fantasy-class ships was the largest ship ever built for a European cruise line.
The spectacular launch event featured internationally acclaimed artists with Neapolitan origins – Renzo Arbore and the Orchestra Italiana, Lucio Dalla and Pino Daniele – who performed in a specially created high-tech arena.
And in what is now a tradition for MSC Cruises, the ribbon was cut by screen goddess Sophia Loren.
Fantasia, which is taller than the Leaning Tower of Pisa and longer than the Eiffel Tower, combines traditional Italian elegance with ground-breaking technological features, all dedicated to superior guest comfort and unprecedented environmental protection.
Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO of MSC, said: MSC Fantasia is not only a beautiful ship, but also a triumph of environmentally-friendly design and technological innovation, where every step taken on board holds the promise of exciting new experiences. Naples is famous for its vibrancy, creativity and professionalism, qualities that have greatly contributed to MSC Crocieres success over the years, and which are amply reflected in tonightâs event. I offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been involved in making this fantasy a reality.
MSC had received Fantasia at a hand-over ceremony at the STX France shipyard in St Nazaire, France, a week earlier. At the tender age of four, the godmother at the flag ceremony was Asia Aponte, granddaughter of MSC Cruises owner Gianluigi Aponte.
Fantasia, based in Genoa sailing the Mediterranean year-round, is the largest ship in the fleet with a total passenger capacity of 3,959, and introduces a new class of cruising with MSC Yacht Club, a luxury area with 24-hour butler and concierge service.
PASSENGERS : 3959
BERTHS : 1637
CREW : 3274
FACILITIES : Restaurants, sushi bar, bars, Pizzeria Grill, theatre (713 seats), casino, Mini-Golf, gymnasium and sauna, Jogging Area, five swimming pools (one with magradome),Turkish baths, Internet Cafe, disco, theatre, cinema, card room, shopping area, library, beauty salon, cigar room, Childrens Club