MSC Lirica has been showered with praise following a surprise inspection by US public health (USPH) officials.
The vessel was given a perfect score of 100 after a rigorous examination, with inspectors unable to fault the cruise line in terms of its onboard food handling and sanitation proceedures.
Richard E Sasso,
MSC Cruises' president and chief executive said it was a credit to the cruise line and its staff to be consistently recognised for its high standards.
"Our commitment to cleanliness and safety is a priority and we are honored that the USPH has once again acknowledged our achievements with this top-rated score," he added.
USPH representatives inspected a number of areas across the ship, including restaurants, children's areas and laundry facilities.
Among other things the MSC Lirica is home to a luxury health spa, state-of-the-art gym and several bars and restaurants such as the Lord Nelson pub and the Beverley Hills bar.
Written by Fiona Mayers