MSC Cruises’ most exciting and anticipated ship to date, MSC Poesia, will make her debut in Dover on 5th April 2008, with a VIP star studded event to mark the first ever launch of an MSC Cruises ship outside of Italy.

As the part of the ‘Musica’ class, the MSC Poesia, which translates as poetry, will see her first night in Dover celebrated by live performances from headline acts including the celebrated Andrea Bocelli. Italian opera legend Bocelli, having recently received a standing ovation at the Grammy awards, captures the spirit and lyricism of the new ship. In addition, multi award winning singer/songwriter KT Tunstall will be on stage in the grand new music hall as will jazz supremo, 20 year old, Peter Grant, accompanied by the renowned Ronnie Scott band.

Throughout the evening, US artist Brian Olsen, will provide entertainment with his unique style of dramatic performance art, which encompasses all of the senses. His paintings of famous musicians, actors and politicians are choreographed in an extraordinary auditory and visual performance.

Festivities will continue late into the night, with BBC Radio One DJ, Fearne Cotton, controlling the ships other decks, to ensure celebrity revellers and guests can enjoy the splendour of the MSC Poesia and its warm Mediterranean hospitality.

Peter Pate, Chairman of MSC Cruises UK and Ireland commented: “2008 is an important milestone in the development of the company. With the christening of the MSC Poesia in Dover we fulfil our promises made to the trade - offering a tangible demonstration of our long term commitment to the UK market. Our investment in new ships allows us to provide itineraries and products that cater for British holidaymakers looking for a European cruise experience. This is what sets MSC Cruises apart from the traditional product available today.”

Claudia Baino, Managing Director at MSC Cruises UK, said: “Christening the MSC Poesia in the UK will provide the opportunity for both the local trade and media to experience firsthand what MSC cruises is all about and allow us to demonstrate the true spirit of our company. It is indeed a very exciting time within our company’s growth and development plans for the UK market.”

At 89,600 tonnes and 1275 cabins with double occupancy for 2550 passengers, MSC Poesia has a wonderful blend of cutting edge technology, elegant surroundings, exciting entertainment venues and tantalising dining opportunities. MSC Poesia will be a sister ship to the popular MSC Orchestra and MSC Musica (launched in 2007 and 2006 respectively). She will become the ninth ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, which has experienced the industry’s largest fleet expansion in the last three years.

After the launch event, she will set sail on her 13 night pre-inaugural voyage from Dover to Venice, visiting Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, and finally Italy, arriving in Venice where she will be positioned for the summer of 2008.