CAISSA Touristic Group and MSC Cruises have released new details on planned experiences for MSC Lirica's China cruises. The ship is set to homeport in Shanghai starting in May 2016, serving the Chinese home market.
MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato said that the company has created a new Cruise Ambassador role for MSC Lirica and added additional customized offerings that draw on CAISSA's local knowledge of Chinese customers.
For dining the ship will serve cuisine created by celebrity Chinese Chef Jereme Leung in an Asian fusion restaurant called Jia Yao, offering meals from around China, including the chef's trademark "hot pot."
Additionally, Chef Leung will provide MSC Lirica’s chefs with specialized training in his traditional cooking methods, while front-of-house staff will also undergo specific Jereme Leung training around the cuisine and clientele they will serve.
Groups and families will also be able to book private dining options in the Ippocampo restaurant.
For entertainment, guests will be able to enjoy a round-the-clock program of live music and dance shows, fun activities, leisure and games.
Daytime schedules will be packed with a range of options, including five kids clubs for different age groups. Daytime activities will include favorites such as arts and crafts, European history and culture lectures, language classes, yoga, tai-chi and fitness sessions.
In the evenings, the ship will offer stage shows, live music, dancers, illusionists, cabaret artists and more. Throughout the ship’s lounges and bars, 12 musicians will perform American, European and Chinese numbers. The theater will offer three nightly sittings with magic shows, a professional tenor, full dance troupes and variety artists. Guests can also attend a choice of themed evenings, such as Hollywood Night, Italian Night or Rock Star Night, or participate in fun games, such as Dancing With the Stars and Karaoke Superstar.
Finally, the ship's new Cruise Ambassadors will each be assigned to specific guests during their cruise, acting as social host, fixer, guide and information point as required. The Cruise Ambassadors, who will speak Mandarin as well as English, will provide round-the-clock access to information and assistance.
Other highlights revealed include a casino with Chinese favorites and classics, plus a private baccarat and sic bo room. A range of boutiques will carry high-end European brands, including but not limited to, Gucci, Bulgari, Longines and Tag Heuer.
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