MSC Lirica

MSC Lirica is a cruise ship operated by MSC Cruises and the lead ship of the Mistral class, also marketed by MSC as the Lirica class. Delivered in 2003 by Chantiers de l'Atlantique at Saint-Nazaire, France, she was the first newbuild ordered by MSC Cruises, which until then had operated a fleet of second-hand vessels. She now measures roughly 65,600 gross tons at 275 metres across 13 decks.

Her delivery marked the start of the company's transformation from a small operator of converted ships into one of the largest cruise lines in the world, and began a building programme that has continued without a substantial pause ever since.

In 2015 Lirica was lengthened at Fincantieri in Palermo under the Renaissance Programme, receiving a new 24-metre midsection along with additional cabins, an expanded buffet, new water features and refurbished public areas. Facilities include a main theatre, two dining rooms, a spa and thermal area, a casino, and pool and sports decks.

The ship was christened in 2003 with Sophia Loren as godmother. It was the first MSC ship she named, beginning an association that has since extended to nearly the entire fleet and become one of the company's most recognisable traditions.

Lirica has spent her career largely in the Mediterranean, with seasonal deployments to Northern Europe, the Arabian Gulf and Asia.