MSC Cruises has taken delivery of its newest ship at a ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France.

MSC Virtuosa, a sister ship to MSC Grandiosa, is scheduled to sail from 16 April, with four cruises in the Mediterranean, before moving to its new homeport of Kiel for Northern Europe itineraries from 8 May. 

Executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said: “My family and I could not miss this opportunity to welcome in person the newest member to our fleet.

“The delivery of MSC Virtuosa at such a challenging time for our industry symbolises how as a family company we continue to look at the longer term and build our future.”

“In doing so, we remain committed to building each time some of the most innovative ships in the world when it comes to their environmental performance, featuring nothing but the most advanced available technology at sea.”

MSC Virtuosa features a hybrid exhaust gas cleaning system that reduces sulphur oxide emissions by up to 98 per cent, according to MSC, as well as  shore-to-ship power connectivity, allowing it to connect to local power grids while at ports.

Vago added: “Our long-term goal is to achieve a zero-impact cruise operation and this is the journey we are on today.

“MSC Virtuosa represents another important step in this direction together with our other investments in the accelerated development of next-generation environmental technology. It also confirms our long-term firm commitment to achieving this ambitious goal.

“Just as importantly, with each new ship we continue to push boundaries and innovate our product offering with new and unique experiences for our guests.

“On MSC Virtuosa, this includes the world’s first humanoid bartender at sea that will be the star of a futuristic, immersive experience using cutting-edge technologies.

“Our exceptional dining offering has been further enhanced with two new restaurant concepts that showcase popular international cuisines to take guests on a gastronomic journey of discovery.”

MSC Virtuosa will be joined by MSC’s 19th vessel in the fleet, MSC Seashore, in August 2021.