I was kindly invited by MSC Cruises to attend the official naming ceremony of their newest flagship MSC Virtuosa in Dubai. Having sailed from Southampton during her maiden season this summer I was looking forward to being back onboard this stunning ‘Masterpiece at Sea’ ahead of her winter season in the United Arab Emirates.
If you’ve been to Dubai before you’ll already know that this incredible city doesn’t do things by half, and this naming ceremony was no different. The dockside of the Port Rashid cruise terminal looked stunning as the sun set and the lanterns and candles illuminated the pathway towards the seating area. There were plenty of photo opportunities on the short walk from the ship with various Arabic nibbles and refreshing juices on offer. There was even a falcon, the national bird of the United Arab Emirates, sitting majestically on the arm of his falconer.
As the numerous dignitaries made their way to their front row seats the band of the Dubai police force kicked off the celebrations marching towards the stage. What followed were a series of speeches from the leadership team of MSC Cruises including the Executive Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago, as well as the CEO, Gianni Onorato. We also heard from dignitaries from the United Arab Emirates who were clearly very proud to see the biggest ever ship to be christened in the Middle East docked majestically behind them. Among the VIP guests was Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum who had just been onboard for a tour of this brand new vessel.
“Dubai’s glorious seafaring legacy, which is an integral part of its cultural heritage, has inspired its development as a major global maritime destination. The emirate’s status as a leading international maritime hub has significantly strengthened its position as a pivotal global trade and tourism centre. Dubai’s renewed growth as an international cruise tourism hub, overcoming the repercussions of global challenges in the industry, is testament to the vision of the leadership to create an infrastructure that surpasses the world’s best. The accelerated rebound of its cruise industry also reflects Dubai’s ability to adapt rapidly and flexibly to the evolving global situation and take advantage of new opportunities emerging in a changing environment.”
Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
There was plenty of entertainment during the ceremony with the Carousel Productions at Sea cast putting on an impressive display of extravagant acrobatic feats, giving us a taster of what guests can enjoy in the Carousel Lounge during this brief snippet of the two brand-new shows AJEDREZ and ARKYMEA. The MSC Showtime singers also performed an emotional rendition of Andrea Bocelli’s “Con Te Partirò” as the officers of MSC Virtuosa made their way to the stage for the traditional officer’s parade.
One of the highlights of the evening’s entertainment was sand artist Shayma Al Mughairy. Her incredible work was projected on the main screen for all to see, as she created an ever changing, dynamic masterpiece with just sand. Shayma rose to fame following her appearance on Arabs Got Talent where she was amongst the 12 finalist of the 1st ever season of the show. The entertainment didn’t end here as the ceremony was drawn to a close by English singer Rag’n’Bone Man who performed some of his hit songs with the stunning backdrop of the newly christened MSC Virtuosa.
MSC Virtuosa Naming Ceremony Ribbon Cutting
The culmination of the MSC Virtuosa naming ceremony saw Hollywood superstar Madame Sophia Loren arrive on stage accompanied by the ship’s captain Francesco Saverio Veniero. As has become customary, Sophia Loren had the honour of being the ship’s godmother, she was joined on stage by the MSC Cruises leadership team and Emirati dignitaries as she blessed the ship and all who sail on her and cut the ribbon to officially name her MSC Virtuosa. What followed was a spectacular fireworks display which illuminated the night sky and completed what was an impressive ceremony and fantastic evening of celebrations.
Dubai welcomes MSC Virtuosa to the United Arab Emirates
Now that she has been officially christened, MSC Virtuosa is ready to welcome guests onboard during her maiden season cruising in the Emirates. MSC Virtuosa will be embarking on week long sailings visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas island and Doha in Qatar. With overnights onboard in Dubai this is the perfect cruise for those looking to soak up some last minute winter sun.
