New build heralds a brand new era
Legendary actress Sofia Loren christened MSC’s first-ever new build, Lirica, in Naples in April, 2003.
The 58,600-ton ship heralded the start of a major expansion by MSC, with the Opera arriving in 2004 and two more new vessels being built to replace the ageing Monterey, Rhapsody and Melody.
MSC founder Gianluigi Apontes hasd set abouyt his ambition to make MSC a more high-profile player in the European/Italian cruise market by revitalising the fleet. This he has duly done.
Passenger capacity based on lower beds is 1,586, with total capacity of 2,200 all berths. Lirica operatates in the Mediterranean from spring through to autumn and in the Caribbean for the winter season.
The ship boasts 763 cabins including 132 suites with balconies, and a number of excellent facilities including two restaurants with ocean views, two swimming pools, gym, jogging track, two hot tubs, sauna, childrens Mini Club, virtual reality centre and an Internet cafe
PASSENGERS : 1712
BERTHS : 861
CREW : 710
FACILITIES : Two restaurants, Pizzeria Grill, theatre , casino, Mini-Golf, gymnasium and sauna, jogging area, 2 adult swimming pools, 2 whirlpools, virtual reality center, Internet Cafe with 16 terminals, Wi-Fi in specific areas, disco, shopping gallery, Childrens Club