MSC Fantasia, the largest ship ever built for a European shipowner –continues its sea trials.
MSC Cruises’ flagship left Penhoet Quay of Aker Yards France Friday to reach the Forme Joubert dock, where it departed for 48 hours of sailing in the open sea. The ship is scheduled for return to the shipyard on the afternoon of Monday, Oct. 27. Four tugboats were used to move and transfer MSC Fantasia to the Forme Joubert dock. Approximately 400 people will be involved during the sea trials.
Once the sea trials and interior fitting are completed, the flagship will be delivered to the shipowner; the same day, the flag changing ceremony will be performed. MSC Fantasia will leave the shipyard on Wednesday, Dec. 10 and head toward Naples, where it will be christened by Sophia Loren – the company’s godmother – and celebrated at the big event planned for Thursday, Dec. 18.
The new flagship of the MSC Cruises fleet is a large jewel of the sea, 1,092 FEET long, 124 FEET wide, 196 feet tall and with a gross tonnage equal to 133,500 tons. The new ship will launch a new sea holiday concept: it will be the first ship in the line featuring an exclusive VIP area – MSC YACHT CLUB – with 99 luxurious suites, dedicated common areas, reserved access to the on-board MSC AUREA SPA and a special service with true English-style butlers to satisfy the guests’ needs.
