Two legendary Italians who have left their mark in the world of film will be taking part in the May 14 christening ceremony of MSC Cruises newest ship, MSC Orchestra, in Civitavecchia . Celebrating the arrival of the newest star in the MSC Cruises fleet will be Sophia Loren and maestro Ennio Morricone.

Internationally renowned Sophia Loren is a true Italian icon. Since 2003 she has been the official godmother at the MSC Cruises christening ceremonies, serving as godmother to MSC Lirica, MSC Opera and MSC Musica. This year she will cut the ribbon for MSC Orchestra. This year she will be joined by Maestro Ennio Morricone, a key figure in the world of music and film. He has scored several hundred films for such directors as Mike Nicholas, Brian DePalma and Oliver Stone and was nominated for an Academy Award for The Mission in 1986. One of his most famous compositions is the theme to The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

The presence of these two famous artists reaffirms MSC Cruises commitment to all things Italian. This is expressed in every detail on board the new addition to the fleet from the careful design overseen by Studio De Jorio, to the facilities and services, making passengers feel they are at the center of attention.

Music and emotions are the central themes of the christening of the new ship. After an exclusive concert conducted by Maestro Morricone, Ms. Loren will cut the ribbon to signal the christening of MSC Orchestra, this will launch the champagne bottle to break against the side of the ship. A spectacular fireworks display will fill the sky in Civitavecchia with many, while the music and show punctuate the event.

After the christening, MSC Orchestra will depart from Genoa on an inaugural cruise, calling into France, Spain, Portugal and Morocco. On her return, she will reposition herself in the Adriatic to cruise weekly, each Saturday from Venice to Bari on 7-night cruises calling into Greece, Turkey and Croatia.