New MSC Cruises ship, MSC Virtuosa, has arrived in Southampton ahead of its maiden cruise around the British Isles.

The ship will signal the start of a summer of UK staycation sailings by 12 cruise lines when it departs Southampton on 20 May.

MSC Virtuosa has become the third ship back in service for the European cruise line, joining MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa, the latter of which has been sailing since last August in the Mediterranean.

The new MSC ship will initially sail from the City Cruise Terminal in Southampton, before relocating to the soon-to-open Horizon Terminal at a later date.

MSC Virtuosa features a 112-metre promenade with an LED Sky Dome, MSC Starship Club with robotic bartender, Rob, plus deck-top aquapark.

The line’s UK managing director Antonio Paradiso said: “The arrival of our flagship MSC Virtuosa into Southampton today is an exciting moment, as we prepare to welcome UK guests back on board from May 20 for her inaugural season around the British Isles.

“We are proud to be the first cruise line to set sail from UK waters this summer and offer holidaymakers the chance to experience all of the new and incredible features on board our latest and most innovative ship.”

MSC Virtuosa’s summer sailings from Southampton are on sale now – click here to find out more.

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