ABOUT MSC CRUISES

MSC Cruises UK & Ireland has rolled out a new travel agent incentive for CLIA Cruise Week. Agents can win a mini cruise each day of this week by booking cruises on MSC Euribia for winter 2023/2024 or any summer 2024 sailings. Each day of the week, travel agents will have the opportunity to win a sailing for two in a balcony cabin on board MSC Virtuosa.  Sailings can be up to four nights, departing from Southampton during the summer 2024 season. To be automatically entered into the prize draw, agents must complete bookings via the MSC Cruises agent portal, MSC Book, by 26 September. Steve Williams, Director of Sales at MSC Cruises UK & Ireland said: "CLIA Cruise Week showcases to customers what a versatile break cruises can be and how they can appeal to every age group.” “We are incredibly pleased to offer this incentive to our agent community who work tirelessly to champion the MSC Cruises brand." The winners will be announced on the MSC Cruises Travel Agents UK and Ireland Facebook page on 26 September and will be contacted by their sales manager or trade support. To access MSC Book, agents can visit www.mscbook.com The cruise prizes are for up to four nights and exclude half terms and summer holidays onboard MSC Virtuosa from Southampton during summer 2024. Winners need to confirm their choice by 31 December 2023.

MSC Cruises UK & Ireland has bolstered its team to support the company's UK market growth. Simone Clark joins as Business Analyst. Clark has enjoyed an impressive 30-year career in the travel industry.  In her new position, Simone will report to Antonio Paradiso, MSC Cruises UK & Ireland MD, and is responsible for analysing market trends and operational performance. "We are excited to welcome Simone to our team. Her background and skills align perfectly with our commitment to innovation and excellence," Paradiso said. Clark was previously Iglu MD. The appointment coincides with the imminent arrival of MSC Euribia, the line's latest flagship. Euribia is scheduled to dock in Southampton port this October for the upcoming winter season. Simone said: "I'm thrilled to return to the cruise industry with MSC Cruises. I will be contributing behind the scenes to enhance efficiency at MSC Cruises."

MSC Cruises will add new ports of call for two of its three sailing itineraries in the Middle East during the winter 2023-24 season. The line will also back up its Middle East cruise expansion with 80,000 return air seats as part of its 'Fly&Cruise' programme with leading airlines. MSC Virtuosa will sail 17 new seven-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf from Dubai to Doha, Manama in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island. International guests have a choice of three embarkation ports: Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi. MSC Virtuosa will also serve as a cruise ship hotel for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. MSC Opera returns to the region with 22 seven-night sailings in 2023-24 from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Muscat and more. MSC Orchestra will operate a new Middle East cruise tinerary from Safaga in Egypt with 20 seven-night sailings to Jeddah, Aqaba for Petra in Jordan, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Cairo. The 'Fly&Cruise' product for MSC Orchestra's Red Sea sailings will provide more than 20,000 return air seats throughout the season.  

EXPLORA I, the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, has departed on its maiden voyage. The seven-night sailing from Copenhagen visits Lerwick, Shetland Islands and Kirkwall, Orkney before heading to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upcoming itineraries will span three continents. EXPLORA I will also call at the port of Copenhagen on 15 August 2023 with a sailing to Hamburg, Germany. The luxury ship will spend several weeks in Northern Europe on a range of diverse itineraries and will then cross the Atlantic. It spends the winter in North America and the Caribbean before returning to Europe in summer 2024. Michael Ungerer, CEO Explora Journeys said: "A new era of transformative luxury ocean travel begins now with the first sailing of EXPLORA I.” EXPLORA II is currently being built in Italy and will come into service in August 2024. EXPLORA III will become the first of two LNG powered vessels to join the Explora Journeys’ fleet.

MSC Cruises UK & Ireland just opened sales for 2025 summer cruises. The opportunity is extended to all UK & Irish travel agents, with a comprehensive programme of UK cruise itineraries. Highlights include: MSC Virtuosa returns to Southampton: For the fourth consecutive summer, MSC Virtuosa will call Southampton' home in 2025. The ship will sail UK cruises ranging from two to 14 nights. Sailings visit Northern Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, the Atlantic Coast, and Canary Islands. Extended Mediterranean voyages with MSC Musica: Extended 10-night cruises in the western Mediterranean. Iceland & Norwegian Fjords with MSC Preziosa:  Sailing from Hamburg, itineraries are focused on Iceland and the Norwegian Fjords, offering voyages of 10 to 14 nights. Eastern Mediterranean Ports: MSC Opera presents eastern Mediterranean itineraries, with ports of call including the Island of Kos. Customers can also choose longer nine-night cruises from Trieste on MSC Fantasia. Early bookings benefit from various combinable discounts, including up to 10% off using Voyagers exclusives. Also, targeted discounts are on offer for young & young, seniors, all in one, and healthcare professionals. Steve Williams, director, MSC Cruises UK & Ireland said: "We are thrilled with the continued success of MSC Virtuosa.” “Her return for the fourth summer season is attracting returning cruisers and both new-to-cruise and new-to-brand travellers."

MSC Cruises has introduced an upgraded 'Future Cruise Program.’ It is designed to benefit travel agents when a customer who books with an agency then reserves their next sailing while onboard. The original travel agent will receive full commission for any new booking made at sea. MSC Cruises says the new procedure will allow agency resources to be better allocated. New aspects of the program for guests include a reduced 'onboard-only deposit' starting from £100 per person for their next cruise. There is also greater flexibility so a reservation can be changed to suit the customer's needs prior to final payment Additionally, there is an extended 'best price guarantee'. Benefits of the line's existing 'Future Cruise Program' will continue. It currently offers up to £200 in shipboard credit for the next cruise and double MSC Voyagers Club loyalty points. Achille Staiano, SVP Global Sales, said, "We believe that the new Future Cruise process is an extension of an agency's business as we at MSC Cruises continue to build loyalty with our valued travel agent partners.” MSC Cruises' ships have dedicated onboard Future Cruise teams and every new booking will generate an email confirmation to an agent

 

New scheme set to benefit travel agents and the line’s guests

  MSC Cruises has introduced a new and improved ‘Future Cruise Programme’ designed to benefit travel agents and the line’s guests when a customer who had used an agency for their holiday at sea books their next sailing while onboard.   The original agents will receive full commission for any new booking made on board and MSC Cruises believes the new plan will allow agency resources to be better allocated and provide funds to foster new opportunities and customers.   New aspects of the programme for guests include a reduced ‘onboard-only deposit’ starting from £100 per person for their next cruise, greater flexibility so a reservation can be changed to suit the customer’s needs prior to final payment and an extended ‘best price guarantee’ timeframe.   Benefits of the line’s existing ‘Future Cruise Programme’ will continue. These include up to £200 in shipboard credit for a customer’s next cruise, double points for the line’s loyalty programme MSC Voyagers Club, the ability to combine market offers with the rewards scheme and guests can also choose from the best selection of cabins and suites.   Achille Staiano, SVP Global Sales, MSC Cruises, said, “We believe that the new Future Cruise Programme is an extension of an agency’s business as we at MSC Cruises continue to build loyalty with our valued travel partners.   “We are confident that this new initiative will be a win-win for both the trade and cruise holidaymakers as we know that highly satisfied guests on board our fleet of 22 ships means that travel agents have highly satisfied customers.   “Guests of our ‘ship-within-a-ship’ premium concept MSC Yacht Club have a strong propensity to book their next cruise while onboard and benefit greatly from the ‘Future Cruise Programme’ and looking ahead I can see the scheme’s enhancements being of even wider appeal to agents and consumers alike.”   Guests onboard MSC Cruises’ ships have access to information and best offers through its dedicated onboard Future Cruise teams and every new booking will generate an email confirmation of the booking to an agent to help them continue to manage the relationship with their customers when they return home from their sailing.   Full details of the new ‘Future Cruise Programme’ are available at the line’s website for travel agents, MSC Book.

MSC Cruises is heading back to China next year. It will offer international China cruises aboard the MSC Bellissima from March 2024. A short season will see the ship sailing from the Baoshan Wusongkou Cruise Terminal in Shanghai. It will operate nine China cruises of four or five nights calling at Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Sasebo, Japan. Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “We can really sense a rapid recovery in the country’s cruise industry.” “Our team in China has been working tirelessly to prepare for our return to the Chinese market.” Prior to mainland China, MSC Bellissima will homeport in Taiwan from January 2024.

  MSC Cruises’ autumn programme offers stunning itineraries off the east coast of North America and up to Canada, promising guests a truly unique cruise experience aboard MSC Meraviglia. Guests can embark on an unforgettable journey this September and October 2023 for 10-or 11-night cruises sailing from New York to New England and Canada.   New England and Canada are renowned for incredible scenery and autumn is definitely the best time to visit to witness the beautiful changing of the seasons. Whether it’s visiting world-famous historical sites, admiring the incredible landscapes and spectacular vibrant hues of autumn leaves or savouring the famed mouth-watering cuisines of the East Coast - these unique itineraries aboard MSC Meraviglia have something to offer for everyone.   While sailing the East Atlantic coast, guests can make the most of MSC Meraviglia’s array of exceptional amenities and rich and varied onboard experiences including the ship’s wide range of gourmet dining options, world-class entertainment, award-winning facilities for families and children of all ages, luxurious spa and wellness all whilst relaxing in comfortable accommodations to meet all needs.     MSC Meraviglia is homeporting year-round in New York and will also offer select cruises to New England and Canada in April, May, August and autumn 2024.   MSC Meravalgia fall itinerary highlights include:  

1. TAKE A BITE OF THE BIG APPLE

MSC Meraviglia’s itinerary will set sail from New York City, offering guests the chance to visit the city that never sleeps, full of endless unforgettable experiences. From viewing the iconic Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, marveling at the dazzling Manhattan skyscrapers, getting lost in the city’s lively neighborhoods, visiting world-class museums to a relaxing stroll in Central Park to witness the majestic autumn foliage, this magnificent city is a top destination any time of the year.

2. EXPERIENCE THE ELEGANCE & CHARM OF NEW PORT

New Port, situated On the Southern Coast of Rhode Island, is a charming waterfront town known for its stunning architecture, historic Gilded Age Mansions and beautiful scenic coastal views. The city has a variety of attractions to explore, leaving for memorable experiences including the historic Cliff Walk with a walking trail along the beautiful rocky shoreline, the iconic Newport Mansions, some of the most impressive mansions, once home to America’s wealthiest prominent families and the historic Fort Adams State Park offering gorgeous views of New Port Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

3. WALK THROUGH AMERICA’S HISTORY AT BOSTON’S HISTORICAL SITES

Explore Boston, the capital of Massachusetts – a modern and dynamic city full of rich culture and history. Whether viewing the city’s cutting-edge architecture or taking a walk through Boston’s famous Freedom Trail, lined with historic landmarks including Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, there is a plethora of sites to discover. For sports enthusiast, visit the historic Fenway Park, the oldest and most legendary stadium in Major League Baseball and home to the Red Sox.

4. EXPLORE NOVA SCOTIA’S NATURAL BEAUTY

Nova Scotia, Canada, known for its charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches and captivating shorelines, is the perfect destination to experience a taster of Canada’s natural beauty. Not to be missed on MSC Meraviglia’s itinerary is Halifax, the seaside capital city of Nova Scotia, renowned for its long-standing maritime heritage. Guests can enjoy a stroll on one of world’s longest continuous waterfront boardwalks full of fantastic restaurants and a range of cultural attractions, visit the city’s impressive historical landmarks including its hilltop citadel dating back to the 18th century or head Southwest of the city to the small fishing village of Peggy's Cove, well-known for its picturesque red and white Peggy Cove Lighthouse, one of the most iconic and popular sites visited in Nova Scotia.

5. VISIT THE GREAT OUTDOORS OF NEW BRUNSWICK

New Brunswick, the beautiful maritime province in Canada, is a must-visit this autumn for outdoor adventures with its striking coastline and lush forests as well as its various wildlife including moose, whales and seals. Guests can explore the charming and historic port city of Saint John, located in the Bay of Fundy, offering a range of attractions for sightseers and nature lovers. Whether it’s admiring the beautiful historic streets, going for a hike or bike ride in the beautiful nature trails of Rockwood Park or witnessing the incredible views of the Bay of Fundy, home to some of the highest tides in the world, there’s a host of attractions to meet the preferences of all.

6. DISCOVER THE BEST OF PORTLAND’S CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS

The quaint city of Portland, Maine, offers a wealth of cultural attractions and beautiful views of the Atlantic coast. Travelers can explore the city’s enchanting lighthouses, historical architecture, varied outdoor activities in the breathtaking nature as well as taste some of the freshest seafood in the country. Some of the city’s top attractions include the Old Port District, where guests can take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets full of historic buildings, boutiques and excellent restaurants and bars to discover. Art lovers must stop at the Portland Museum of Art featuring an impressive collection of artworks from local and world-famous artists from around the globe. Make sure to take the time to sample the local beer and try out the world-famous Maine lobster.

MSC Cruises new flagship MSC Euribia has been officially named in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Naming Ceremony event was presented by Danish television host and actress Sarah Grünewald. The ship’s Godmother is screen legend, Sophia Loren. The ship is MSC Cruises' second LNG cruise ship. Sustainable innovations include onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. The ship can also incorporate future innovations, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels. During her maiden voyage, MSC Euribia completed a net zero GHG emissions journey from St Nazaire to Copenhagen. MSC Euribia begins sailings in Northern Europe with seven-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen to the Norwegian Fjords.

The MSC Group Cruise Division has revamped its structure for the UK & Ireland market. It aims to enhance support to travel agent partners by bringing sales functions and other resources for Explora Journeys under the same umbrella alongside MSC Cruises. Antonio Paradiso, MD for MSC Cruises UK & Ireland, will now assume in-market responsibility for Explora Journeys. Commercial agreements in place with travel agent partners will be unchanged. Commercial conditions for the two brands will remain distinct and also unchanged. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division of MSC Group, said, "This is another demonstration of how we aim to develop the relationship with the travel trade community.” "This more simplified structure will provide easier access for our trade partners, especially travel agents, leading to mutual and rewarding benefits." In UK & Ireland, Explora Journeys will still have its own dedicated specialist team for sales, marketing, contact centres and PR. Additional brand-dedicated resources will support each market. A similar structure will also be adopted in Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Brazil, China and Japan. Explora Journeys' first ship EXPLORA I makes her maiden journey on 17 July from Southampton

MSC Cruises will next week operate what it calls the industry's first net zero cruise. It takes place on new MSC Cruises flagship, the LNG-powered MSC Euribia as it leaves the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The ship sails to Copenhagen, Denmark for a naming ceremony. The 22nd vessel to join MSC Cruises' fleet sails for four days from Saint-Nazaire to Copenhagen. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, said: "This industry-first net zero gas emissions voyage heralds another significant step on our decarbonisation journey." MSC Cruises purchased 400 tonnes of bio-LNG fuel The line is the industry's first deep sea ocean cruise operator to buy bio-LNG as a fuel source. The entire supply chain will be fully compliant with the European Union's Renewable Energy Directive, commonly known as RED II. MSC Cruises is being supported by Nordic energy company Gasum for the net zero greenhouse gas emissions voyage. MSC Cruises' newbuilds are fuel flexible ships that can accommodate a variety of renewable fuels.