MSC’s newest ship, the MSC World Europa, was christened Sunday night in Doha, Qatar. The event was a traditional maritime ceremony and was attended by Master of the Vessel, Captain Marco Massa, executives from the Qatar Foundation, Qatar Airways, MSC Cruises, and several guests.
The christening was hosted by comedian Hamad Al Amari. Guests enjoyed local artists, a drone show, and Matteo Bocceli who presented his solo work for the first time ever in Doha. The evening ended with a fireworks show and a gourmet dinner in the ship’s elegant restaurants.
The ceremony was part of the overall commitment of MSC, along with Qatar Airways, to Qatar to boost tourism.
MSC Cruises executive chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago, said, “Over the years, we have proven our commitment to supporting Qatar’s economic diversification, which is guided by Qatar National Vision 2030. And of course, to further develop Qatar’s global tourism destination profile. Qatar has a wonderful tourism offering to meet a huge variety of interests, and an array of destinations. In 2016, our own MSC Fantasia became the first major cruise ship to call at Doha. We have been reliable partners ever since. And today, we renew our commitment to Qatar by homeporting our most modern and innovative ship in Doha.”
The MSC World Europa is considered the most environmentally advanced cruise ship in the MSC Cruises fleet. She is the first cruise vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) which virtually eliminates air pollutants by up to 85%. She is currently the largest LNG-powered cruise ship in the world.
The passenger ship will remain in Qatar and will be used as one of three floating hotels during the FIFA World Cup which takes place from November 20 to December 18. On December 20, MSC World Europa will begin her season with a special four-night voyage from Doha to Dubai. From there she will remain in the Middle East offering various 7-night cruises.