Launch of GNV Virgo, the first LNG-powered vessel in the GNV fleet

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Bay of Palermo, on 11th December 2025 the event brought together innovation, culture and emotion in a truly memorable celebration. Hosted by Beppe Fiorello, the ceremony featured a refined artistic programme, including a captivating performance by Eleonora Abbagnato — étoile of the Paris Opéra Ballet and Director of the Corps de Ballet of the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma — who also danced alongside her daughter Julie, symbolising the passing of artistic excellence from one generation to the next.

A particularly moving moment was marked by the presence of Federica Pellegrini, who served as godmother of the vessel, lending further prestige to an event that represents a significant milestone in the sustainable development of maritime transport.

The ceremony was attended by GNV Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Matteo Catani, together with senior representatives of the MSC Group and numerous national and local institutional authorities. Among those present were Donato Liguori, Director General for Ports at the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport; Roberto Lagalla, Mayor of Palermo; Annalisa Tardino, Extraordinary Commissioner of the Western Sicily Sea Port Authority; and Alessandro Aricò, Regional Minister for Infrastructure and Mobility of the Sicilian Region.

The event further reaffirmed the strategic role of the Palermo Cruise Terminal as a centre of excellence for major international events and as a prestigious showcase for the city of Palermo and the wider territory of Western Sicily.