About a year ago, Italian cruise line, MSC Cruises, announced its “Seaside” project, in which it would build two advanced new ships, with an option to build a third.
This past month, MSC stated that the first new ship, MSC Seaside, would be delivered in December 2017. In an exciting first for the European company, the new vessel will cater specifically to North American vacationers.
MSC Seaside promises to bring a variety of innovations to the cruise line’s fleet. Currently under construction in Italy, she will be the largest vessel ever built at the Fincantieri shipyard. Designed for the North American market, she will emphasize amenities suitable for cruising the balmy Caribbean. According to company officials, she will be “the ship that follows the sun.”
In an age of increasingly elaborate ship design, MSC Seaside aims to redefine the look and feel of cruising. The ship will resemble a seaside condominium community, complete with sidewalks and outdoor cafes.
An exterior promenade will wrap around MSC Seaside’s lower decks, allowing cruisers to take open-air strolls around the ship and enjoy al fresco dining in several eating establishments. The on-board aqua park will boast five waterslides with a range of features for kids young and old.
MSC Seaside’s more than 460,000 square feet of public space will invite cruisers to explore the countless pubs, boutiques, restaurants, spas, theaters, and other entertainment venues. Inside, the thoughtfully appointed accommodations will provide the perfect place to rest up between all the fun activities. For passengers who want their own personal spa, select suites have private hot tubs.
MSC Seaside will homeport in Miami, Florida, and sail the Caribbean. When she arrives, she will exchange places with her sister-ship, MSC Divina, which will reposition to Rome. MSC’s second Seaside-class vessel will launch in early summer 2018.
