A first look at MSC Seashore, the Mediterranean's newest 'megaship'
There’s a bumper crop of new cruise ships launching this year, with an already stellar line-up joined by the delayed debuts meant for pandemic-hit 2020.
One to watch out for is MSC Seashore, the 19th vessel to join MSC Cruises’ fleet since the company’s inception in 2003.
Scheduled to make her debut in June 2021, the 5,632-passenger MSC Seashore will be the first of the company's Seaside Evo ships – about 16m (52ft) longer than other MSC ships. Much like sister ships MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore will feature two brand-new restaurants. Other onboard highlights include a new aft pool, a spectacular glass-floored bridge on deck 16 and luxurious suites boasting hot tubs on their balconies.
Telegraph Cruise takes a closer look at the ship, who will spend her inaugural season in the Mediterranean this summer (pandemic permitting), before heading to Miami later this year to sail the Bahamas and the Caribbean.
Make a splash
Calling all water babies. The pool experience on MSC Seashore has been taken to a whole new level with six stunning swimming pools. The infinity pool is one of the largest at sea, offering sunbeds sunken into the water and uninterrupted views of the ocean. There’s also two infinity whirlpools on each side of the promenade on deck eight, big enough for 20 passengers. Meanwhile the main pool, Long Island Pool, has two different depths allowing guests to swim or stand as they choose. When the weather refuses to play ball, head to the Jungle Pool with its large magrodome.
Let’s go outside
MSC Seashore has prioritised personal space meaning, there’s 13,000sqm of outdoor dining and lounging space – even more important to passengers in the era of Covid-19. Standouts include an expansive waterfront promenade that’s ideal for al fresco eating and drinking, or simply taking a stroll to enjoy the fresh sea air. Elsewhere the expansive buffet and Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, one of Seashore’s five speciality restaurants, has outdoor seating for the very first time.
Hey, big spender
Money to burn? Check into the MSC Yacht Club, MSC’s largest ship-within-a ship concept yet. The private space – where passengers enjoy their own separate section of the ship, plus perks including a private butler and dedicated concierge – spans 3,000sqm over four decks that are linked by MSC Cruises’ signature sparkling Swarovski staircase, aka the perfect selfie spot. On Seashore, MSC Yacht Club accommodations have also been increased and now feature two new Owners suites, the largest suites on the ship at 98sqm.
Star bars
Relax. There are over 20 different bars on board in which to raise a glass. At the Sky Bar you’ll be able to eat, drink and chat at the top of the ship. As for Aurea (picture), passengers can enjoy the exclusive Top 19 Solarium with its chic outdoor lounge area and bar. Last but by no means least, there’s a brand-new lounge – step forward Cabaret Rouge – offering new entertainment experiences and encompassing two decks with panoramic views of the sea.
Going green
MSC Cruises is among the major lines taking steps to address cruising's environmental impact. Seashore features hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems and selective catalytic reduction systems, reducing sulphur oxide emissions by 98 per cent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 per cent. The cruise giant – who last summer became the first major cruise line to resume sailing since the Covid-19 shutdown – is also tackling coronavirus head on: MSC Seashore will be the first cruise ship in the world to feature ‘Safe Air’. This new air sanitation system uses UV-C lamp technology to eliminate 99 per cent of viruses and bacteria in a bid to guarantee clean and safe air for passengers and crew alike.
Welcome to Miami
MSC Seashore is set to spend her inaugural season in the Mediterranean calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina as well as Valletta (Malta), Barcelona (Spain) and Marseille (France), before heading to the US where she will home port in Miami. From November 2021, MSC Seashore will sail seven-night eastern and western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, including stops at Ocean Cay, a private tropical island built by MSC Cruises.
Like her sisters, MSC Seashore counts Sophia Loren as her godmother. The legendary Italian actress told The Telegraph: “I’m a godmother [to MSC Cruises’ fleet] because I’m a great friend of the Aponte family [who own MSC Cruises] and they keep me involved. I always like to be very close when there’s a big event in a family that I really respect. It’s very normal, I think. It brings me luck and also the family luck.”
