I was kindly invited by MSC Cruises to attend the official naming ceremony of their newest flagship, and the first in a new class of ship, MSC World Europa in Doha, Qatar. Thousands of guests and dignitaries lined the quayside by the brand-new Grand Cruise Terminal in Doha to witness the spectacular naming ceremony.
Having walked down the blue carpet, past local craftsmen showcasing handmade handicrafts and numerous Qatar Airways cabin crew who greeted guests as they passed, we took our seats for the ceremony which was hosted by local comedian Hamad Al Amari.
The usual speeches and messages of thanks were accompanied by entertainment from the Qatar Youth Choir and Matteo Bocelli, as well as an impressive video mapping show and an incredible drone show which featured over 600 drones.
“Together with partners Qatar Airways, the celebrations are part of MSC’s overall commitment to Qatar, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the growth of international tourism here, as well as the broader Middle East region”
Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Group Executive Chairman
MSC World Europa Naming Ceremony Ribbon Cutting
MSC World Europa‘s naming ceremony was a break from tradition and rather than Hollywood superstar Madame Sophia Loren acting as godmother, it was the turn of Sheikah Hind Bint Hamad Al Thani, CEO and vice chairperson of the Qatar Foundation, who had the honour of cutting the ribbon, alongside MSC Cargo President Diego Aponte, MSC Group Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and of course Captain Marco Massa.
Doha welcomes MSC World Europa to Qatar
Now that she has been officially christened, MSC World Europa will spend the next few weeks as a floating hotel for football fans attending the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Once the tournament has come to a close she will begin her maiden season sailing in the Emirates visiting ports such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island.
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