A New Goddess Arises: The Naming Celebration of MSC Euribia

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 3:30 PM ET, Wed June 14, 2023

On June 8, in Copenhagen, Denmark, the newest flagship of MSC Cruises, the MSC Euribia was officially named in an impressive gala night of celebration.

The 22nd vessel to join the MSC fleet, MSC Euribia draws her name from the ancient Greek goddess who claimed mastery over the seas, harnessing the winds, tides and constellations. And at 88 years old, another goddess, renowned Italian Oscar-winning actress Sophia Loren was named the ship’s godmother. This is the 19th time she has received this honor followed by a standing ovation from the audience after she cut the official ribbon.

The Naming Ceremony is a time-honored maritime tradition marking a ship’s entry into service. It is also one of utmost importance to the Aponte family from Sorrento, Italy. Gianluigi Aponte, a former ship captain himself is the owner and founder of MSC Cruises.

Sustainability at the Forefront

Copenhagen was chosen as the launch city due to its rich maritime heritage and dedication to sustainability. This falls in line with MSC’s vision as they placed into service their most environmentally advanced ship “Built for the Future.” Powered by LNG- the world’s cleanest marine fuel available of scale and representing the world’s most energy-efficient ship design, MSC Euribia was designed to achieve the cruise lines’ commitment to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

As a matter of fact, her impressively-engineered hull displays the message #SaveTheSea in a design by German graphic artist, Alex Flaeming. Its mantra serves as a visible call to action for marine environmental protection. MSC Euribia is the second ship in the MSC Cruises fleet to be powered with LNG, along with MSC World Europa which entered service in 2022.

MSC Euribia’s maiden voyage from her shipyard berth in Saint-Nazaire, France to Copenhagen represented a net zero greenhouse gas emission leg, the world’s first. And in line with sustainability principles, the Naming Ceremony, held in the ship’s 945-seat Delphi Theater was, of no surprise, heavily focused on environmental responsibility. The ceremony was also streamed across the ship so the entire crew could watch as well.

Danish model and actress, Sarah Grünewald served as Master of Ceremonies. Throughout the event, guests heard from Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC group and many other MSC corporate leaders.

Amazing stage performances by a host of incredibly talented dancers were followed by British singer Tony Hadley who entertained the audience with several songs. World-renowned French DJ and record producer, Bob Sinclar topped off the night with a set of lively dance tunes.

The post-naming gala dinner was held in the ship’s main dining rooms and featured a four-course gourmet dinner selection along with international wines and creative cocktails. And of course, the gala continued late into the night with music, dancing and more celebration.

Inaugural Season Cruises

The modern, classy and elegant MSC Euribia departed from its new home port of Kiel, Germany on June 9 making this her first full cruise of the inaugural season. The 6,327-passenger ship (at full capacity) will feature seven-night Northern Europe itineraries from Kiel and Copenhagen, Denmark to the stunningly beautiful Norwegian Fjords of Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.

Michele Francioni, Senior Vice President, MSC Cruises stated that “MSC Euribia’s first voyage will be an incredible feat and represents years of commitment and determination. It should prove that we have the capability to operate on a net zero greenhouse gas emissions basis with existing ship technology.”

“This is just the beginning” he added. "We are committed to this transition and putting in place everything we can do to facilitate it. It cannot be done without alternative fuels such as bio-LNG, e-LNG, green hydrogen or green methanol being made widely available at scale to fully realize the vision of net zero cruising.”

MSC Euribia Overview

As MSC’s fifth Meraviglia-class ship, MSC Euribia sports a variety of 2,419 cabins and suites ranging from interior and ocean view to balcony and premium accommodations, some with terraces and whirlpools. The upscale MSC Yacht Club rooms offer lavishly-appointed spacious cabins with 24-hour personal butler service and a dedicated concierge along with its own pool and sundeck, elegant lounge and private restaurant.

Guests aboard MSC Euribia have the choice of 10 dining venues and 21 bars and lounges offering unique dining and libation experiences. Five outdoor bars feature breathtaking sea views.

Water activities abound with five unique pools and one of the largest and most intricate waterparks at sea. Coral-themed Ocean Cay Aquapark provides not one, but three twisting water slides for aspiring aquanauts. Sports fans will enjoy Sportplex with a tennis court, basketball, football and volleyball games. Kids and teens will love the Youth Center with seven rooms dedicated to different age groups.

MSC Aurea Spa provides a number of spa and wellness offerings, including a sauna, steam bath and whirlpool.

There’s certainly no shortage of entertainment onboard. Delphi Theater has rolled out seven new theatrical shows with three nightly full-stage performances. Big band fans will love dancing the night away to live music from one of the largest big bands at sea in the stunning Carousel Lounge. If you’re into gambling, the onboard Casino offers many different types of slot and table games.

Likely one of the most stunning features of the ship is the Galleria area with the longest and most spectacular LED Dome at Sea. The indoor promenade Luxury Plaza, the largest shopping area at sea, is lined with specialty restaurants and numerous shopping venues.

Having the opportunity to participate in MSC Euribia’s Naming Ceremony and learning about her environmental commitment was a privilege, as the ship leads the way to the future of cruising.

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