First-Hand Look at MSC Seaside
CP visits MSC Cruises New Ship: MSC Seaside
Caitlin Gardner, Director of Public Relations, was one of the Cruise Planners representatives invited to the one-night inaugural and christening ceremony onboard MSC Seaside in PortMiami
There were so many great memories when sailing on MSC’s newest ship, the MSC Seaside. When pulling into PortMiami, she stands out among other ships because of her design with a fresh, fun condo look and feel reminiscent of a Miami Beach high rise.
Key features of the new MSC Seaside
The MSC Seaside features include the Waterfront Boardwalk around the ship, a South Beach pool, aqua park with multiple slides, the longest zip line at sea and a small bowling alley. Overall the ship is stunning with new hardware. A favorite of mine was the Swavorski crystal staircase while a favorite of my husband's was the chocolate waterfall fountain.
We were invited for a one-night inaugural sailing and since we were only on board for a short time, we did a quick self-guided tour of the common areas, dining venues and pool before settling into our balcony stateroom. Similar to other balcony staterooms my husband and I have stayed in before, it’s cozy and they make good use of storage space.
What is a Ship Christening?
What was unique about this event is that is was the naming ceremony and christening of the ship. They ushered us off the ship to a shoreside party, which was a star-studded affair:
- Mario Lopez emceed
- Andrea Bocelli performed
- Ricky Martin shook his bon bon
- Dan Marino talked about how the ship will homeport in Miami yearround
- Sofia Loren was godmother and smashed the symbolic bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull as a blessing – the true symbolic crescendo of the entire evening
Back on board, we enjoyed a multiple-course lobster dinner and saw some live entertainment at the multi-level atrium. While we didn’t get a chance to experience the whole ship in just one day, and would love to go back on and try the zip lining, check out the spa and take advantage of the kid’s club. Also, as a new mom, the fact that they had partnered with Chicco for the infant room appealed to me.
Sailing on MSC
For a week-long cruise, I would recommend at least a balcony while sailing. If you are traveling with family, consider a suite! Want top-notch service? Stay in the MSC Yacht Club, which offers, butler service, private dining venue and more.
Cruise Planners COO, Vicky Garcia, also sits on the advisory board for MSC Cruises and annually attends their summit to give a voice for Cruise Planners travel agents and their guests. In an interview with Travel Pulse, Vicky noted that the ship is a great choice for all ages. "With the kids’ clubs, Aqua Park and ziplining for the youngsters, and the MSC Yacht Club and a beautiful spa for more seasoned travelers, they have something for everyone,” she said.
Interested in sailing on MSC, talk with your local Cruise Planners travel agent today!
