7-10-09. It is a new era in European cruising as the two newest and largest ever ships built for the European cruise market, the MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia, both landed in Mallorca just ahead of the planned christening ceremony for MSC Splendida in Barcelona on Sunday, July 12th.

The MSC Splendida christening ceremony will feature legendary film star Sophia Loren, who is godmother to both ships. Spanish operatic lyric tenor Jose Carreras will also join in the celebration, entertaining guests from throughout the world with his internationally renowned voice.

The ships met up in Mallorca on Friday. This was the first meeting between the two 137,936-gross registered ton sister ships, each the largest ever commissioned by a European owner. MSC Fantasia sailed from the STX Europe shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, last January.

The MSC Splendida, like her sister MSC Fantasia boasts elegant style, traditional European service and innovative features. Each ship gives guests their choice of four distinctive restaurants serving outstanding cuisine and a remarkable array of recreational, shopping and entertainment venues featuring the best entertainment at sea to enhance the cruise experience. Both ships also feature the exclusive MSC Yacht Club where guests enjoy the ultimate in luxurious suite accommodations, amenities and service in a private enclave.

CruiseMates is tracking the voyage of MSC Splendida in a daily diary heading up to the christening ceremony.

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