MSC ORCHESTRA

Flagship that strikes a new chord

Screen goddess Sophia Loren starred as the official godmother of MSC Cruises' latest ship MSC Orchestra at its christening in the Italian port of Civitavecchia on May 14, 2007.

Ms Lauren launched her first ship, Lirica, for MSC Cruises in 2003 and maintains close connections to the cruise line Ð the fastest-growing independent cruise brand in the world. As well as being godmother to several of the ships,she and her family often cruise with MSC on their own holidays.

And to reaffirm MSC Cruises' commitment to all things Truly Italian, at the christening Ms Loren will be joined for the first time by another Italian icon, composer Ennio Morricone, who not only conducted a concert prior to the christening but his music then accompanied a spectacular firework display.

After the christening, MSC Orchestra departed from Genoa on an inaugural cruise, calling into France, Spain, Portugal and Morocco. On her return she will be repositioned in the Adriatic to cruise weekly from Venice to Bari, calling into Greece, Turkey and Croatia.

The 89,600 ton MSC Orchestra can accommodate 3,013 guests in 1,275 cabins, the majority of which have balconies. The vast range of stylish onboard facilities include three swimming pools, theatre, cinema, mini golf, tennis, children's clubs, spa/beauty centre, library, casino, restaurants and bars.