MSC Cruises announced recently named MSC Sunshine new build – due to debut in 2017 – will be based year-round in Miami.
It is the first of two new generation ‘Sunshine class’ ships for the Europe based line as it looks to beef up its presence in the US market.
The 154,000-ton MSC Sunshine will be the line’s first to be christened in the US and will have a capacity for 4,140 passengers.
It is part of a huge $5.3 billion expansion program for seven new ships by 2022 that will effectively double capacity.
The line has also struck an agreement with PortMiami to use a dedicated berth for the ship which is says is “a testament to the company’s growing ambitions in the North American market and to providing guests with the best service possible,” according to a news release.
“Today is a very exciting day for the company as this is the first major announcement related to the company’s new builds. It demonstrates our enthusiasm and long-term commitment to continuing to expand our presence in North America,” said chief executive Gianni Onorato at Cruise Shipping Miami.
“MSC Cruises has the unique opportunity to provide guests with a Mediterranean-style cruise experience that no other line is able to offer.”
