MSC Orchestra Maiden Arrival in New York

(May 6, 2009) – Start spreading the news – MSC Cruises introduces its brand of sophisticated European-style cruising to New York City and will be returning in the Fall of 2010 with a series of Canada/New England itineraries.

MSC Orchestra arrived in New York City Tuesday morning to a warm welcome from city officials. Her historic arrival marks the first time one of the Italian-owned cruise line’s ships has called in the “Big Apple.” The ship docked overnight at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal before departing today on an eastbound transatlantic crossing to Copenhagen, where she will sail Northern Europe itineraries during the summer months.

On Sept. 22, 2010, the line’s newest ship MSC Magnifica (currently under construction in France) arrives in New York for the line’s inaugural season of Canada/New England itineraries, roundtrip from New York City and Quebec City. It is estimated that the ship’s calls in NYC can potentially have an indirect revenue impact on the city valued at more than $2.7 million.

“It has been decades since vacationers have been able to sail from New York on a European-owned cruise line with the classic style and elegance that only the Italians know how to deliver,” says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc.

“We are excited to make this memorable experience readily accessible to the residents of the Northeast.” He adds, “With the most modern and fastest growing fleet in the cruise industry, MSC Cruises feels right at home in this, the crossroads of the world. We look forward to strengthening our position in New York City in future years.”

MSC Cruises offers itineraries in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America and the Caribbean, as well as transatlantic sailings. Each itinerary features the out-of-the-ordinary port calls for which MSC Cruises has become known.

No matter what the sailing region, MSC Cruises offers guests an authentic Italian/European cruise experience, from the superb cuisine featuring regional Italian specialties (as well as perennial, All-American favorites) to the warmth and generosity of the Italian officers and international crew and the European-style entertainment that is suitable for the entire family.

MSC Cruises is no stranger to New York City. The U.S. headquarters of the cruise line’s parent company, Mediterranean Shipping Company, have been based in New York City for nearly 25 years.