The MSC Grandiosa recently commenced its inaugural winter season in South America upon its arrival in Brazil. Sailing from the Western Mediterranean, this 4,888-guest ship made its debut at Santos, its new homeport, on November 25.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, MSC Cruises hosted over 2,800 guests aboard the 177,100-ton vessel, marking the largest cruise ship to operate in Brazil.

Adrian Ursilli, MSC’s Brazil Country Manager, expressed immense pride in welcoming such a prestigious vessel, “It is a great source of pride to have a ship like this here, bringing passengers to travel within our country.” He added that Grandiosa represents MSC’s 17th new ship to arrive in Brazil since the introduction of MSC Armonia in 2004.

The ship’s celebration included a symbolic christening, with Marlene Ribeiro, MSC Cruises’ longest-serving Brazilian employee, serving as the godmother, underscoring the company’s familial spirit.

“MSC Cruises is a family company. Everyone is always together and in good spirits. The choice of the MSC Grandiosa godmother is a demonstration of this,” Fabio Gatti, the company’s Global Director of Entertainment said.

As part of a comprehensive six-ship program in the region, the MSC Grandiosa is now offering diverse cruises to various Brazilian destinations. Its regular seven-night itineraries cover Santos, Salvador, Maceió, and Búzios, allowing travelers to embark from any port except Búzios.

This cruise program, slated to continue through late March, showcases the ship’s remarkable offerings. Built in France at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard and entering service in 2019, the Grandiosa is part of MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia Class, boasting a myriad of amenities, including the Galleria Grandiosa—an impressive 112-meter central promenade featuring a massive LED dome. With an array of bars, lounges, a complete water park, and over ten dining venues, the Grandiosa ensures a memorable cruise experience for all aboard.