On Location: MSC Seascape is a twin beauty with a robotic twist

MSC Cruises newest ship, Seascape, is just as glamorous as her twin sister Seashore. Except Seascape has a wild side – a first-at-sea Robotron thrill ride.

Robotron is a gigantic robotic arm with three seats that twist and twirl guests up, down and even upside down over the deck and 53 metres above the sea.

The three-minute $10 ride induces shrieks of laughter for those with the courage to buckle up – and fun entertainment for everyone watching.

PAX attended MSC Seascape’s Dec. 7, 2022 naming ceremony at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City with about 3,000 dignitaries, travel advisors and media, as well as a 24-hour ship visit.

Godmother actress Sophia Loren, 88, delivered her blessing by video and the ribbon cutting was performed by Alexa Aponte-Vago, daughter of MSC Group’s founder and executive chairman Gianluigi Aponte.

The 5,800-passenger Seascape (maximum capacity) has six pools, 11 eateries, 19 bars and lounges and much more wrapped up in an elegant New York vibe for your clients to enjoy.

She’s the second Seaside EVO-class ship and fourth and final ship of the Seaside class among MSC’s 21 ships.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman, cruise division of MSC Group, said the company was “pleased to celebrate this momentous milestone in New York which holds a special place in our history.”

“Having developed a meaningful operation out of south Florida, we are now preparing a major strategic expansion across the east coast that will see us launch year-round cruises out of New York in 2023,” Vago said.

Techno-tainment

Complementing the exciting Robotron, there are many cutting-edge virtual reality experiences for thrill-seekers of all ages.

The 360° Flight Simulator and VR Motorbikes make players feel transported into an exhilarating experience.

MSC Formula Racer is ideal for car racing enthusiasts wanting a high-speed rush. Immersive XD Cinema has alternate worlds where you can battle zombies, skeletons and more.

Brandon Briggs, SVP Onboard Revenues said: “Our entertainment options of virtual reality, special effects and simulators ensure unforgettable experiences that leave guests in awe.”

Outdoor spaces

Seascape, like her sisters, has an abundance of outdoor space.

There are six swimming pools flanked by hot tubs – some large enough to seat 20 people.

Seascape’s aft infinity pool is mesmerizing for its glass wall that offers uninterrupted waterscape views. The stunning Bridge of Sighs glass walkway soars high overhead like a crowning tiara.

The Long Island main pool is where the action is due to ample deck space a large stage, varying pool depths and partly submerged sunbeds.

Pirate’s Cove Aquapark delights children with its pirate ship, giant octopus, waterslide, paddling pool, fountains, drenching bucket and rope bridges.

There are two more spiral waterslides on either side of the ship.

Lush faux greenery surrounds the Jungle pool that spans two decks and has padded loungers and large bar.

This popular area includes a retractable roof that can be closed if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Life indoors

Seascape’s multi-deck atrium is graced by six glittering Swarovski crystal staircases that wow guests like they do on sister ships.

It’s also the venue for popular live band and DJ performances that puts people in a party mood.

Nearby is a wide corridor of white marble flooring leading your clients to the luxury shops selling high-end jewellery, clothing and accessories.

The Aurea Spa has 21 treatment rooms and an outdoor area with three cabanas for rent. 

Among the spa treatments, there’s a dry flotation-zero gravity experience, salt room, snow room, Finnish sauna and vertical Kneipp experience that involves special tanks of water that alternate hot and cold temperatures to stimulate the circulation.

Where to eat

There are 11 dining venues, including three main restaurants, the dedicated Aurea restaurant for MSC Yacht Club guests, a 1,169-seat Marketplace buffet and five specialty restaurants like sister Seashore – Butcher’s Cut, Ocean Cay fish restaurant, Hola! Tacos & Cantina and Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar. Many restaurants offer al fresco dining.

Event guests were invited to “bite tastings” at the restaurants and a special gala dinner – topped off with cake that had a chocolate skyline silhouette of New York.

Even lobster was available at the Marketplace for those who preferred a casual meal environment. 

Where to drink

For the event, drinks were included for all guests (guests were over 21) so everyone had a chance to sample any beverages at the 19 bars and lounges.

Five fan favourites are the same ones as those on Seashore. The Sports Bar is bright, energetic and decked out in paraphernalia from tennis rackets to basketballs encased in glass tables. 

Craft beers and classic drinks are ideal for watching sports events on the TV screens and individual TV booths.

The Champagne Bar is a hot spot due to its location in the elegant atrium and it gleams with bright white and chrome features. Choices from around the world are available along with caviar and seafood.

The Wine Cave has a dark, moody atmosphere with walls lined with wine options to pair with cheese.

The Cocktail Bar with its vivid green tile bar and bright floral wall paintings is an ideal place for pre-dinner drinks since it’s located in the Chef’s Court area near the specialty restaurants.

The rooftop Sky Bar is the place to go for gorgeous ocean views while enjoying cocktails and live music.

Six new productions

The two-hour naming ceremony featured international singer-songwriter Matteo Bocelli, son of tenor Andrea Bocelli, as well as a few brief performances showcasing the type of entertainment on board.

Guests also enjoyed a gala dinner and performance by international Grammy Award winner singer/songwriter Ne-Yo.

There are six new onboard productions called Imaginocean, Dreamscape, In Concert, Premier, Shall We Dance and Love Blooms.

Le Cabaret Rouge theatre and bar at the aft is a visual explosion of red leather and velvet decor and inspired by French cabaret lounges of the 1920s. Live performances are featured on the stage.

The nearby tunnel of lights and faux hot air balloon with videos of the Grand Canyon behind are Instagram-worthy stops along the way.

Seascape also provides children with copious options for onboard entertainment, 700 square meters of dedicated spaces based on age and 98 hours of live entertainment per cruise.

Largest MSC Yacht Club   

With about 2,200 staterooms, there are 11 different categories, including aft suites, 50 terraced suites with extended balconies and 32 different suites with private outdoor hot tubs.

For the event, several stateroom types were open to tour.

Seascape has one of the largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club in this class.

Private areas feature a spacious pool, whirlpool, sunbeds, bar and special privileges at their private island Ocean Cay.

Guests also get 24-hour butler service, dedicated concierge, unlimited drinks and dining, access to the spa’s thermal suite, tailormade excursions, private gourmet dining and more.

After the ceremony, Seascape headed to homeport in Miami for the winter where she offers seven-night eastern and western Caribbean itineraries that include their award-winning Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve private island.

Diane Tierney has been on 82 cruises to 47 countries and has 118,000 followers on Instagram @Cruiseguru.

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