Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

SIX REASONS TO SAIL NORTHEN EUROPE THIS WINTER ON MSC EURIBIA

Geneva, Switzerland - October 26, 2023 – MSC Cruises is offering 7-night sailings to some of the most sought-after destinations in Northern Europe this winter onboard MSC Euribia, the line’s newest flagship. From November 2023 through April 2024, guests can embark on a journey sailing to Hamburg (Germany), Rotterdam for Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Zeebrugge for Bruges and Brussels (Belgium), Le Havre for Paris (France), and Southampton for London (UK).

Guests looking for an extended stay on board will have the opportunity to embark on a 21-night unique itinerary in January to the Northern Pearls with added stops in Portugal, Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands, all full of rich cultural sites and stunning natural marvels.

MSC Euribia is MSC Cruises’ second vessel powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), which is the cleanest marine fuel commercially available at scale, and is one of the most energy-efficient ships in the industry. The ship features a range of technologies and solutions that minimize the impact on the air and marine environment. These include advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. The ship has also been designed with the future in mind, allowing for the opportunity to easily incorporate future fuels, such as synthetic or bio-LNG, as they become available at scale.  

Whether it’s exploring each destination’s renowned historical landmarks, admiring winter landscapes, or enjoying the ship’s fantastic amenities, world-class entertainment, and gourmet dining options, MSC Euribia’s winter sailings offer guests the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Itinerary highlights include:

1.      EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF WINTER IN NORTHERN EUROPE

The winter season provides a wonderful opportunity to discover the magic of Northern Europe’s cities with fewer crowds during one of the most festive times of the year. MSC Euribia’s itineraries will offer guests the chance to explore stunning destinations, showcasing the best of the region with a wealth of enriching adventures and cultural attractions to discover. From strolling alongside the enchanting canals of Amsterdam to exploring the medieval charm of Bruges and visiting Hamburg’s charming Christmas markets, MSC Euribia offers memorable experiences for every type of traveler.

2.      WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT

On board, MSC Eurbia offers round-the-clock entertainment for guests of all ages. During the 7-night itineraries, the ship will host incredible shows in the Delphi Theatre and Carousel Lounge—including live music from one of the largest big bands at sea—along with leisure activities throughout the day to unwind and enjoy the ship. For guests looking to etch their names in the record books, Guinness World Records will be on board with unique live shows and opportunities for guests to break records.

3.      ENRICHING FAMILY OFFERINGS

MSC Cruises brings its award-winning family offerings to new heights on MSC Euribia, with seven rooms filled with entertainment options for children and teenagers. The revolutionary kids’ area features more than 7,500 square feet of interior space with each room catering to different age groups from 0 to 17 years old. For the first time in the fleet, the ship features MSC Foundation Lab with a slate of activities dedicated to educating children and teenagers on environmental subjects. Extended space in the Teens Club makes room for activities including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, VR, foosball and table tennis. Plus, the toys onboard are selected to ensure they are as environmentally friendly as they are fun.

4.      ELEGANT WINING & DINING

Guests can expect plenty of delectable dining and drink experiences on board. Five of the 10 dining venues are specialty restaurants like the brand-new Le Grill, a stylish French bistro-meets-steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi & Robatayaki, a spin on one of MSC Cruises’ mainstays featuring Robatayaki for the first time. Guests looking for cocktails can head to one of the ships’ 21 bars and lounges, featuring five outdoor and 16 indoor venues. The new Helios Wine Bar allows guests to discover the story behind their favorite glass of wine using state-of-the-art multi-touch tables activated by digital coasters. The cutting-edge bar allows guests to dive into the history, grape varieties, and wine-making region for the glass in hand.

5.      AN ARRAY OF SHOPPING POSSIBILITIES

A modern and vibrant shopping experience awaits guests on MSC Euribia, boasting the largest retail area of any cruise ship, full of immersive and unique spaces. Guests can treat themselves to the ship’s new Luxury Plaza, offering workshops, discovery sessions, one-to-one consultations with a personal shopper, and tastings. Whether it’s discovering some of the most sought-after watchmaking brands from prestigious Maisons in the TimeVallee boutique, indulging in Davidoff cigars and an extensive selection of distinctive Scottish Single Malt whiskies in The Liquors and Cigars area, or choosing from the widest selection of tech in the fleet in the Shopping Gallery, there’s something for everyone.

6.      LUXURIOUS MSC YACHT CLUB

Guests seeking the ultimate luxury cruise experience can enjoy the MSC Yacht Club, a “ship within a ship” concept on MSC Euribia providing exclusive areas on board with plenty of personalized service including 24-hour butler and concierge service. A stay in the MSC Yacht Club comes complete with an array of lavish suite options, private facilities including a dedicated pool and sundeck, and a high-end restaurant.

To find out more about MSC Euribia’s northern Europe itinerary options, please click here.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

FIVE REASONS WHY THE MSC YACHT CLUB IS THE ULTIMATE WAY TO CRUISE

Geneva, Switzerland – October 19, 2023 – The MSC Yacht Club is a ‘ship within a ship’ concept offered onboard many MSC Cruises ships, providing guests with an unparalleled cruise experience full of complete serenity and exclusivity. This private area of the ship is only accessible to MSC Yacht Club guests, offering stylish facilities and lavish accommodations with a host of dedicated amenities, such as a panoramic lounge, high-end restaurant, elegant pool and secluded sun deck.

Guests staying in the MSC Yacht Club benefit from a range of privileges and personalized service. These perks are available around-the-clock and are designed to cater to guests’ specific needs and preferences, ensuring a seamless luxury experience at sea. The MSC Yacht Club also offers numerous dedicated leisure and entertainment possibilities, allowing guests to enjoy the exclusivity of a private club while also having access to the countless recreation and entertainment options available throughout the ship.

Whether guests are looking for a relaxing escape or a lavish vacation, the MSC Yacht Club provides exclusive areas to savor the sophistication and elegance of a luxury cruise experience, ensuring the utmost privacy and comfort where every detail is designed to surpass guests’ expectations and create memories of a lifetime. 

MSC Yacht Club is available on more than half of MSC Cruises’ modern fleet, allowing guests to experience the same level of exceptional, personalized services across many destinations.

Highlights of the MSC Yacht Club benefits include:

1.24-HOUR PERSONALIZED SERVICE

MSC Yacht Club’s all-inclusive experience is fully personalized with dedicated 24-hour butler service and a concierge, making the cruising experience truly personal and tailored to each individual guest’s needs. The butler will quickly get to know each guest’s personal preferences, providing the highest level of customized service to ensure all guests feel pampered and relaxed. Meanwhile, the dedicated concierge is on hand to facilitate any request, from organizing shore excursions and making reservations for the spa, to arranging for a newspaper to be brought to the cabin each morning.

2.PRIVILEGED ACCESS

MSC Yacht Club is sure to exceed expectations with a host of privileges that create an effortless experience, from the moment guests step on board to the moment they depart. This luxurious cruise experience offers a dedicated priority check-in and check-out, ensuring a seamless and quick embarkation and disembarkation, so guests can start enjoying their vacations as soon as possible. They will also receive the full VIP treatment with a variety of offerings including tailored shopping sessions in the onboard boutiques outside regular opening hours, embarking on exceptional private excursions, or the complimentary use of the Thermal Suite and MSC Aurea Spa to decompress while at sea.

These private-access areas extend ashore in a number of destinations:

• MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, The Bahamas – MSC Cruises’ private island, founded on a strong commitment to the preservation of marine resources and the conservation of coral reefs, has a private beach area exclusively reserved for guests of the MSC Yacht Club. With privileged access to enjoy sunbeds and cabanas with butler service, the private area of the island also features a dedicated restaurant to relax, sip a cocktail and enjoy a 3-course dedicated lunch surrounded by sea breezes.

• Sir Bani Yas Island, United Arab Emirates – A beach lover’s paradise just off the southwest coast of Abu Dhabi offers guests a stunning tropical oasis to unwind. The island features an MSC Yacht Club zone with premium sunbeds and dedicated transportation, barbecue lunch and bar service to ensure the utmost comfort and privacy for guests during a day ashore.

3.PRIVATE AND LUXURIOUS LEISURE AMENITIES 

MSC Yacht Club guests have exclusive access to a range of private and elegant spaces to enhance their cruise experience. The dedicated Top Sail Lounge offers panoramic views for guests to sit back and relax in a sophisticated setting, while indulging in an array of gourmet finger foods, delicious drinks and high tea service, as well as live music every evening. The club’s private sundeck, complete with a pool, hot tub, sundeck and bar, offers guests the chance to soak up the sun and enjoy complimentary refreshments in complete comfort, while taking in the best views on board across the bow of the ship and out to sea.

4.LAVISH ACCOMMODATION

Experience the finest luxury accommodation with the MSC Yacht Club’s wide variety of suites to meet all guests’ preferences. The stylish and spacious accommodations set themselves apart and include options with stunning ocean views from the cabin’s private balcony, as well as options like the Duplex Suites, Royal Suites and Owner’s Suites, offering a private hot tub on the balcony. From Myform Memory mattresses and crisp Egyptian cotton bedding to an indulgent Dorelan pillow menu, luxurious marble bathrooms and complimentary minibars, the MSC Yacht Club suites provide unparalleled comfort for an unforgettable vacation.

5.CULINARY DELIGHTS FROM DAY TO NIGHT

With a dedicated restaurant, the MSC Yacht Club offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures of an exquisite fine-dining experience with five-star service. Offering sophisticated cuisines with an à la carte menu, guests can savor an array of the finest dishes served exclusively for them from a dedicated kitchen staff, accompanied by a spectacular selection of drinks, including fine wines from around the world with a dedicated sommelier available to further enhance the food and wine pairing experience. The private restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can dine at any time that suits their needs.

A toast to relaxation, MSC Yacht Club guests can also enjoy the finest spirits with the premium drink package included in their booking.

Note to editors:

MSC Yacht Club is an all-inclusive experience with a host of privileges:

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out as well as priority departure and return on excursion days

• 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge

• Unlimited drinks throughout the ship with the Premium Extra package

• Unlimited dining within the MSC Yacht Club

• Inclusion of the Browse Internet package with unlimited data for two devices

• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa

• Tailormade shopping experiences

• Private excursions available with priority departures and returns to and from the ship

• Complimentary welcome bottle of either wine, Spumante, Champagne or spirit

• A complimentary personalized mini bar offering juices, soft drinks, water, and beer replenished daily, and complimentary snacks

• Room service available 24 hours

• Other personal touches such as luggage unpacking and packing service, newspaper delivered to the cabin each day and something different delivered at turn down each night - a different selection of sweet or savory canapés each day

Private facilities on the ship only accessible to MSC Yacht Club guests:

• Suites featuring a pillow menu and Egyptian cotton sheets with memory-foam mattresses for the most comfortable night’s sleep

• Panoramic Top Sail Lounge with bar, afternoon tea service, light bites available day and night and live entertainment in the evening

• Gourmet restaurant with a la carte dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner where guests can dine at a time that is convenient for them

• A private and spacious pool deck that offers whirlpool baths and sunbathing area and outdoor bar

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC MERAVIGLIA ARRIVES AT ROYAL NAVAL DOCKYARD ON INAUGURAL BERMUDA ITINERARY FROM NEW YORK

• Guests will enjoy several days in port exploring the beauty of Bermuda during 5- and 6-night itineraries from New York

• MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest and fastest-growing cruise line, with a fleet of 22 ships offering itineraries across the globe

Bermuda – August 23, 2023 – MSC Meraviglia arrived at Heritage Wharf in Bermuda this morning on her inaugural sailing to the island country known for pink-sand beaches and turquoise water. MSC Cruises’ award-winning ship offers guests several days to immerse themselves in all Bermuda has to offer during 5- and 6-night itineraries, sailing from her homeport in New York City. Guests can also embark on a 16-night cruise to Bermuda, Canada and New England starting Sept. 18.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “MSC Meraviglia’s arrival in Bermuda is a great milestone for MSC Cruises as we continue expanding our presence in the North American market. When we launched cruises from New York City, one of our goals was to allow guests to visit a wider variety of destinations. The response to these itineraries has been strong, which means we’ll be bringing thousands of visitors to Bermuda this season. We look forward to continuing to work with local leaders to provide our guests with a distinctive and immersive cruising experience.”

MSC Meraviglia is one of the world’s largest cruise ships and the largest vessel to dock at Heritage Wharf this season when measuring by gross tonnage. According to data from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), her new Bermuda itineraries are expected to generate a significant economic impact with up to $11 million spent in the destination over the course of the season.

The Hon. Wayne Furbert JP, MP, Minister of Transport, Government of Bermuda, said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, we extend a very special welcome to Captain Maurizio Ruggiero and his Officers, crew and the 5,179 guests on board the MSC Meraviglia. As we celebrate with MSC the inaugural call of the Meraviglia to Bermuda, we wish MSC Cruises much success in all that they have planned in North America in the years to come.”

During MSC Cruises’ Bermuda itineraries, guests will enjoy endless fun on board the modern megaship as well as two or three days in port. With expanded time in Bermuda, guests will get to dive deeper into the island’s culture and heritage, experiencing the sights and sounds of the region – from the music of gombey whistles and beating drums to inspiring art and beautiful seaside paths. Whether they are looking to relax or experience adventure, natural wonders await every type of traveler with Bermuda’s famous beaches, stony cliffs and lush greenery.

MSC Cruises’ Bermuda itinerary is sailing now through October 2024. During other parts of the year, MSC Meraviglia sails from New York City to Canada, New England, Florida and The Bahamas. To learn more about the wide variety of itineraries MSC Cruises offers from the northeast, click here.

About MSC Meraviglia 

At 1,036 feet long and 213 feet tall, with an impressive 19 decks and capacity of more than 5,700 guests, MSC Meraviglia is a vacation destination in its own right—packed with innovative features to provide an unforgettable experience, including: 

• 10 different types of staterooms to choose from, including solo cabins, popular balcony cabins, and stylish suite accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club – the premium ‘ship within a ship’ featuring butler service, along with an exclusive restaurant, lounge, and pool area. 

• Galleria Meraviglia, a promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars that stretches more than 315 feet and is lined with an impressive LED sky screen. 

• 20 bars and 12 restaurants, including the popular Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Ocean Cay, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina, and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki. 

• Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, together with one of the most intricate water parks at sea, featuring three twisting slides and an intricate ropes course—the Himalayan Bridge.

• Seven different shows in the 985-seat Broadway Theatre and the famous Carousel Lounge. 

• The extensive MSC Aurea Spa, providing massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, and a dedicated thermal area. 

• The 6,000 square-foot gym featuring state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym™ framed with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, overlooking the main pool deck.

• Entertainment area including the MSC Formula Racer, a full-sized bowling alley with two lanes, an interactive XD cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade.

• Sportsplex with facilities for basketball, tennis, squash, volleyball, Pickle Ball, mini golf and five-a-side soccer.

• MSC Kids’ Club for children 0-17 years old, with dedicated areas for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers, plus the Lego® Experience.

Environmental Features

MSC Meraviglia is fitted with innovative technology and solutions to minimize her environmental footprint. These include an exhaust gas cleaning system for cleaner emissions; an advanced wastewater treatment system; smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to recover heat from machinery spaces; and LED lighting and smart devices to significantly save energy. This is part of MSC Cruises’ commitment to provide its guests with the best holiday experiences at sea in a sustainable manner. 

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC MERAVIGLIA EMBARKS ON NEW ITINERARIES TO BERMUDA, CANADA AND NEW ENGLAND JUST IN TIME FOR CHANGING OF THE SEASONS

• 5- and 6-night itineraries to Bermuda begin August 21

• 10- and 11-night itineraries to Canada and New England begin September 24

• MSC Cruises to sail to 25 ports from the U.S. this fall

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – August 21, 2022 – Autumn is right around the corner, and MSC Meraviglia is changing course to chase the shifting winds and falling leaves. Today MSC Cruises’ New York-based ship departed on its first sailing to Bermuda, with voyages to Canada and New England to follow next month. Coming off a successful first season homeporting in New York City with sailings to the Bahamas and Florida, these new itineraries will take MSC Meraviglia, the ship for all seasons, to regions renowned for historic architecture, scenic landscapes and leaf-peeping.

Starting today, guests can embark on sailings featuring an extended call in Bermuda. These itineraries include several nights with MSC Meraviglia docked at Heritage Wharf too allow guests ample time to explore the island’s gorgeous pink sand beaches and enjoy excursions like water skiing, windsurfing and bicycling.

On September 24, MSC Meraviglia’s first sailing to Canada and New England will depart from New York City, just in time for guests to watch the changing of the seasons in some of the most sought-after autumn destinations. Vacationers looking for a longer trip that provides the best of both worlds can sail to Bermuda, Canada and New England starting September 18 with a combined 16-night itinerary.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “We launched sailings from New York to give our guests and travel advisors more options, and it’s exciting to see these itineraries come to life onboard the award-winning MSC Meraviglia. These new sailings are an important growth milestone for us in the North American market and provide a unique cruising experience for guests who want to explore new destinations. Fall is the perfect time to visit the shores of the Northeast or get away to the beaches of Bermuda, and MSC Meraviglia is the perfect ship to sail through the seasons with its abundance of indoor and outdoor entertainment options.”

The Canada and New England itineraries feature picturesque ports, world-famous historical sites, and vibrant autumn leaves. Shore excursions in each port include:

• New York City: Visiting the city that never sleeps will provide guests with endless unforgettable experiences from seeing the iconic Empire State Building to marveling at world-class museums and enjoying a relaxing stroll in Central Park, all complemented by the fantastic fall foliage.

• Newport: This stunning waterfront town in Rhode Island offers unparalleled views of the beautiful rocky shoreline surrounding a beautiful bay, along with iconic mansions and architecture.

• Boston: This historic city blends rich culture with modern touches, from the famous Freedom Trail lined with historic landmarks to cutting-edge architecture. Guests can revel in the beauty of the city or visit Fenway Park, the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball.

• Portland: Known for its wealth of cultural attractions and natural beauty, enchanting lighthouses and fresh seafood await guests looking to immerse themselves in New England culture. The Portland Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection and the Old Port District offers stunning views to be enjoyed while tasting a world-famous Maine lobster roll.

• New Brunswick: Home to the historic port city of Saint John, New Brunswick is full of outdoor adventures with striking coastlines and lush forests full of wildlife including moose, whales and seals. Whether guests are looking for a relaxing walk through nature or a stroll through city streets, New Brunswick offers it all.

• Nova Scotia: Full of iconic spots and charming beaches, Nova Scotia is a captivating destination that showcases Canada’s natural beauty. Halifax, the seaside capital city, features outstanding restaurants and cultural activities that will immerse visitors in Canada’s charming fishing villages. Sydney, the largest urban center in the region with a past linked to mining, offers attractions related to the area’s Scottish heritage.

• Charlottetown: Colonial architecture and elegant Victorian-style buildings await guests sailing into Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island. From passing through the most iconic places in the city to enjoying the view across the sea to Fort Amherst, there is an abundance of sights to be seen on this celebrated island.

For travelers looking for a shorter getaway this fall, sailings to Bermuda will offer guests the opportunity to sail to one of the world’s most distinctive island destinations and enjoy several days in port. After arriving in Kings Wharf, guests can participate in activities like snorkeling, island tours and golf, or relax on the island’s beautiful beaches.

Whether heading to beautiful Bermuda beaches or the stunning New England coast this fall, guests will enjoy sailing on MSC Meraviglia, known as “The Ship for All Seasons.” With expansive outdoor public spaces and a pool deck with a roof that opens and closes depending on the weather, the ship offers modern amenities that can be adjusted based on the destination. While onboard, guests will enjoy 20 bars and 12 restaurants; seven different shows in the Broadway Theatre and Carousel Lounge; treatments in the relaxing Aurea Spa; and indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, all part of the unparalleled MSC Cruises experience.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC CRUISES PUBLISHES 2022 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT DETAILING PROGRESS ON PATH TO NET ZERO CRUISING

Report outlines key milestones and steps taken toward Company’s sustainability commitments

 Geneva, Switzerland – July 20, 2023 – MSC Cruises published its 2022 Sustainability Report on Thursday, detailing progress on the company’s environmental and social practices throughout the year. The 64-page report lays out accomplishments including a substantial reduction in fleetwide carbon intensity, the introduction of new technology in the march toward net zero operations by 2050, growth in sustainable tourism efforts, and the development of a more diverse workforce.

Progress under MSC Cruises’ Sustainability Action Plan is divided into four key pillars, which are subdivided into six workstreams to which the company has publicly pledged to remain accountable. Below is a summary of progress toward each:

PLANET

• Workstream: Transitioning to Net Zero Emissions

• 33.5% reduction in fleetwide carbon emissions intensity since 2008

• First LNG ship introduced to the fleet (MSC World Europa)

• First solid oxide fuel cell system installed on a large cruise vessel

• Development of new itinerary optimization software to reduce emissions of existing fleet

• Workstream: Local Air Quality

• Two ships delivered with shore power capability (MSC World Europa and MSC Seascape)

• Two existing ships retrofitted with shore power capability (MSC Poesia and MSC Preziosa)

• Workstream: Scrutinizing Resource Use and Waste

• 9% reduction in water consumption per guest compared to 2021

• Two ships delivered fully compliant with the most stringent water treatment and discharge standards (MSC World Europa and MSC Seascape)

• 6.5% increase in waste segregated for recycling (now over 25% of total onboard waste)

PEOPLE

• Workstream: Supporting Our People

• New recruitment strategy expanding diversity of workforce

• Average of 26 hours of training performed per person

PLACE

• Workstream: Supporting Sustainable Destinations

• Miami and Barcelona terminals on track to receive LEED certification upon completion

•  Provided workshops on sustainable operations for tour operators

• Began using new tool to assess biodiversity impact of shore excursions and other activities

PROCUREMENT

• Workstream: Procuring Sustainably

• Renewed focus on removal of single-use plastic by 2024

• Substantial increase in positive environmental credentials for onboard retail products

Linden Coppell, Vice President of Sustainability & ESG, MSC Cruises, said: “To ensure the appropriateness and continued relevance of our Sustainability Strategy and our Sustainability Action Plan, we are in ongoing dialogue with our employees, guests, and key external stakeholders. Through this listening exercise, we can ensure that our current focus areas are appropriate and identify any new areas as they arise – while we closely monitor the progress on the six key pillars of our action plan.”

MSC Cruises’ sustainability strategy is informed by a materiality assessment carried out in 2019 and revisited in 2021. The assessment ensures attention is focused on the issues most important to external and internal stakeholders, and where the company’s impact on the world means it has a responsibility to act. The Sustainability Advisory Board oversees these efforts for the entirety of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, which includes the MSC Cruises brand, and is chaired by Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises.

Additional details of MSC Cruises’ progress within its Sustainability Action Plan include:

PLANET - Transitioning to net zero emissions, improving local air quality and scrutinizing resource use and waste

MSC Cruises is fully committed to playing its part in addressing climate change and promoting ocean biodiversity, and the company is accelerating efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Through close collaboration with technology companies, shipyards and fuel providers, the cruise line strives to push the limits of innovation and explore new possibilities. A momentous step in this crucial journey was the delivery of its first LNG-powered ship in 2022, marking a significant milestone on the path to a more sustainable future. MSC Cruises remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more environmentally responsible cruise industry.

PLACE - Supporting sustainable destinations, developing terminals

MSC Cruises allows guests to visit some of the most beautiful and exciting destinations the world has to offer, and the company strives to deliver positive social and economic outcomes in the places it serves. Investments in sustainable cruise terminals are creating jobs and encouraging more visitors. MSC Cruises is also an active supporter of destination stewardship and continues to work collaboratively with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and other cruise lines to manage visitor numbers and support sustainable tourism. The line is a member of the CEO-led Sustainability Committee and the Sustainability Task Force of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), working closely with travel industry partners to develop and implement sustainable solutions for the industry.

PEOPLE - Supporting our people and enhancing crew well-being

MSC Cruises’ number one priority is keeping guests and crew safe and well. The company takes pride in the healthcare options aboard MSC Cruises ships and continues to maintain strict sanitation practices in the wake of COVID-19. MSC Cruises also has a comprehensive safety management system in place to identify risks before incidents occur. The crew onboard plays an important role in making the guest experience a success, and the cruise line knows how important it is to support their well-being. The company provides crewmembers with the training required to do a good job and supports those with high potential who want to grow their careers from within.

PROCUREMENT – Procuring with a responsibility to the environment

Every year, MSC Cruises procures thousands of different items to support its ships and guests, ranging from engine parts to hand soap, and from crew uniforms to food and drink. Each of those items eventually has to be loaded onto a constantly moving fleet of ships. In 2022, the company’s Sustainable Procurement Committee initiated a comprehensive review of its processes to identify opportunities to find and move those items more sustainably. The cruise line wants to go beyond specific programs – such as eliminating single-use plastics onboard – and shift its mindset so that every purchasing decision is made with the environment and worker wellbeing in mind.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Declared Mission Blue 'Hope Spot' in Recognition of Ongoing Conservation Efforts

 Geneva, Switzerland – July 12, 2023 – MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, has been officially designated a “Hope Spot” by Mission Blue, the non-profit organization founded by renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle to promote the protection of marine ecosystems. Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Foundation Board Member and Executive Committee Chair, and Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, has also been selected as the island’s Hope Spot Champion.

With this prestigious recognition, Ocean Cay joins Mission Blue's global network of 154 Hope Spots, which are recognized as places critical to ocean health with the ultimate goal of achieving the status of Marine Protected Areas. Nominations are carefully evaluated by the marine scientists and policy experts on the Hope Spot Council, ensuring the final selection is both rigorous and reflective of global marine conservation needs.

When MSC Cruises took responsibility for Ocean Cay in 2015, the island had suffered from decades of industrial use, including aragonite sand mining. The company embarked on an ambitious restoration initiative, collaborating with the Government of The Bahamas, leading universities, marine scientists, and conservationists to restore the island's ecosystems.

Through substantial investment, the restoration project has already achieved significant progress. Nearly 5,000 trees and 75,000 indigenous plants, flowers and shrubs have been planted on the island, revitalizing the terrestrial environment. Meanwhile, the health of the surrounding waters is demonstrated by flourishing marine life, including the presence of loggerhead sea turtles. The ‘Hope Spot’ recognition shines a light on the critical role that restored ecosystems, like Ocean Cay, play in enhancing biodiversity and improving the overall health of our oceans.

The Marine Restoration Program covers 25 square miles of marine waters and ecosystems around Ocean Cay. It was expanded in 2019 when the MSC Foundation started its Super Coral Program to restore the island’s coral reefs. This initiative harnesses scientific collaboration and advanced research to identify coral genotypes known as “super corals,” which have evolved to better withstand thermal stress. They are then strategically outplanted to create hardier reefs which are more resilient to the extreme heat events of climate change.

The MSC Foundation is committed to furthering this work and continuing to raise awareness of the urgent need for ocean conservation efforts worldwide. This large-scale restoration and public information effort underscores the MSC Foundation’s commitment to restoring ocean health, enriching biodiversity and fostering a sustainable future for our Blue Planet.

Dr. Sylvia Earle, President and Chairman of Mission Blue, expressed her excitement about the designation, stating: "This recognizes the comprehensive restoration efforts and commitment to protecting marine biodiversity. Led by Pierfrancesco Vago, the restoration of Ocean Cay has been a multidisciplinary effort to re-establish the ecological balance in this limestone island and its surrounding marine estate. Ocean Cay will inform thousands of people weekly about the crucial importance of growing and outplanting thermally tolerant corals for marine conservation, ocean health and human wellbeing."

Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Foundation Board Member and Chair of the Executive Committee, and Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, responded: “Being designated a Hope Spot is an important recognition for Ocean Cay Marine Reserve and helps focus attention on how we all have an important duty as caretakers of our Blue Planet. That responsibility is why the scientific research and restoration efforts of our Super Coral Program aim not just to create resilient coral reefs around Ocean Cay and in The Bahamas, but to simultaneously contribute to conservation knowledge and initiatives worldwide. I thank Dr. Sylvia Earle and Mission Blue for their tireless efforts, which inspire us all to cherish and safeguard the rich biodiversity of our oceans.”

This new acknowledgement reaffirms the status of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and the MSC Foundation Super Coral Program as frontrunners in nature conservation efforts, underscoring their pioneering role in marine conservation.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Celebrates First Coral Nursery

 MSC Cruises is excited to share that the brand’s private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve was featured on NBC’s TODAY Show this morning in celebration of the successful beginning of its first coral nursery in the Bahamas in conjunction with the MSC Foundation.

MSC Foundation established the Super Coral Program as part of Ocean Cay’s focus on sustainability. The program’s goal is to reverse the worldwide decline in coral populations, and it involves growing sample specimens on so-called “coral trees” just under the surface of the protected waters surrounding the island. Coral trees are grouped into a nursery where researchers monitor specimens of critically-endangered species to determine how they cope with ocean conditions—in hopes of saving existing coral populations and ultimately re-growing coral that is strong enough to withstand the stresses of climate change.

As featured in the segment, several of the trees in these coral nurseries are now filled with coral and showing promising results. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and MSC Foundation plan to expand these coral nurseries to 13 trees in 2023, which can produce over 1,100 coral fragments per year.

MSC Cruises is thrilled that viewers had the chance to learn about the brand’s commitment to sustainability this morning and is looking forward to welcoming many more first-time visitors to Ocean Cay to experience the island first-hand.

For more information about MSC, please send us an email!

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC CRUISES OFFICIALLY NAMES ITS NEWEST FLAGSHIP, MSC EURIBIA, TONIGHT IN COPENHAGEN – MARKING SIGNIFICANT STEP TOWARD COMPANY’S NET ZERO 2050 PLEDGE

• MSC Euribia is the most energy-efficient cruise ship design ever - powered by LNG and featuring a range of technologies and solutions that minimize impact on the air and marine environment

• Tonight’s traditional maritime ceremony will be attended by distinguished guests, key travel partners and international media

• MSC Euribia to set sail for her inaugural season in Northern Europe, offering guests a wide variety of new and enriching experiences never before seen at sea

 Copenhagen, Denmark – June 8, 2023 – MSC Cruises will welcome its much-anticipated new flagship to the fleet tonight during a Naming Ceremony taking place in Copenhagen. The traditional maritime ceremony will honor traditional maritime heritage and pay tribute to the environmentally advanced MSC Euribia, which is designed to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship ever.

MSC Euribia is MSC Cruises’ second vessel powered by LNG, the cleanest marine fuel currently commercially available at scale. On board, she boasts a range of best-in-class environmental technology, including advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. She has also been designed with the future in mind, allowing her to easily incorporate future innovations in sustainability, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels as soon as they are available at scale.

MSC Euribia is expected to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship design in the world at the time of her launch.[1] During her maiden voyage, MSC Euribia completed a net zero GHG emissions journey from Saint-Nazaire to Copenhagen, benefiting from the emissions reductions allowed by bio-LNG and application of the mass balance approach.

Renowned Danish television host, actress and model Sarah Grünewald will oversee the Naming Ceremony. Joining tonight’s festivities are distinguished guests from around the world, key travel partners and international media, as well as top management from MSC Cruises and its parent company, MSC Group.

Godmother of MSC Cruises’ fleet and globally recognized screen legend Sophia Loren will also be in attendance to officially name the ship, continuing her long-standing and close relationship with MSC Cruises.

The momentous occasion will include live entertainment and speeches combined with the important maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon to break a bottle of champagne over the ship’s bow. Guests will also be treated to a gourmet gala dinner and unforgettable performances, including a spectacular DJ set by Bob Sinclar, internationally acclaimed French DJ and record producer, who will close out the evening.

The special event will give guests a first look at the revolutionary new ship’s cutting-edge design and various world-class guest experiences.

MSC Euribia begins sailing in Northern Europe this summer with 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark to the captivating Norwegian Fjords, including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.

To find out more about MSC Cruises’ Northern Europe itinerary options, please click here.

About MSC Euribia

MSC Euribia is the 22nd vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet, standing 19 decks high and 141 feet wide, with 2,419 cabins and boasting 37,6736 square feet of public space. MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia, who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, furthering the vision of the ship to master the deployment of state-of-the-art technologies to protect and preserve the precious marine ecosystem.

The trailblazing ship is the second LNG-powered vessel in the fleet and the most innovative and environmentally advanced ship to date. She is adorned with an exclusive customized mural titled #SaveTheSea, which is painted on her exterior to celebrate MSC Cruises’ ongoing dedication to the ocean and commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. As a Meraviglia-Plus class ship, MSC Euribia offers an abundance of dynamic guest experiences with innovative features, facilities and enriching entertainment for the whole family.

Key highlights include:

• NEW! Located in the aft of the ship, The Carousel Lounge is reinvented with a new layout, offering even more stunning panoramic ocean views. It allows guests to relax during the day or participate in a range of leisure activities, as well as enjoy a variety of live music every evening including from the Big Band at Sea - one of the largest live music groups sailing the world’s oceans.

• A revolutionary kids’ area will feature 7,534 square feet of interior space entirely dedicated to kids and teenagers. It features seven rooms, each catering to different age groups from ages 0 – 17. For the first time, it will include the NEW! MSC Foundation Lab, offering a brand-new kids area and program of activities dedicated to educating children and teenagers about environmental topics.

• NEW! Guests can choose between 10 dining venues, including five specialty restaurants with the exciting new Le Grill, a stylish French bistro meets steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi & Robatayaki, a mainstay of MSC Cruises that features a Robatayaki for the first time.

• NEW! Experience the artwork, Street. 2023, by renowned British artist Julian Opie in l’Atelier du Voyageur bar. The artwork, commissioned specifically for MSC Euribia, is an expansive 36 x 6 ft purpose-built LED screen featuring walking figures in Opie’s distinctive style.

• An impressive five pools and the ship’s very own coral-themed Ocean Cay AquaPark, one of the largest and most elaborate waterparks at sea, with three water slides for endless fun.

• The 945-seat Delphi Theatre offers world-class live entertainment every evening with a full seven-day program of big-production shows.

• The ship offers 21 bars and lounges with five outdoor and 16 indoor areas to meet the needs and preferences of everyone on board.

• Guests will have the opportunity to explore and connect at Galleria Euribia, the longest LED Dome at sea, with an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment to discover.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

UNWTO and MSC Foundation to Deliver Sustainable Tourism Education at Sea

 Geneva/Madrid – June 5, 2023 – UNWTO is working with the MSC Foundation to deliver a series of sustainability-related education courses on board the MSC Euribia cruise ship. The initiative builds on the success of the first Global Youth Tourism Summit, held in Sorrento, Italy, in 2022, and will see the creation of the MSC Foundation Youth Lab, a specially equipped venue on the advanced new eco-ship.

One of the core programs to be offered in the Youth Lab will be "GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations,” designed in close partnership with UNWTO.

The program will deliver 12 daily two-hour activity sessions on key subjects ranging from ocean health, recycling and climate change to sustainable tourism and social media, all focused on the “sustainability challenge.” The activities have been designed to offer kids the opportunity to learn, create and express themselves according to their interests and ideas for the future.

Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director, said: “We are proud to build on the tremendous success of the Global Youth Tourism Summit in Sorrento by extending our partnership with UNWTO to promote youth empowerment and sustainability education. The new MSC Foundation Lab on MSC Euribia will offer an innovative venue for children and teenagers to engage in sustainability-focused activities. Our new custom-designed program, ‘GYTS for MSC: A Sustainable Future for Our Next Generations,' has been specially conceived to empower young people to learn, create, and express themselves while addressing key sustainability issues such as marine conservation, climate change and responsible tourism. By making our young guests the center of these activities, we aim to raise awareness of the challenges facing humanity and equip our next generations with the tools they need to create a better world."

Matteo Mancini, MSC Cruises Senior Manager Kids Entertainment, said: "For MSC Cruises, keeping the younger generations entertained on a cruise means listening to them and taking real note of their interests and wishes. Last summer, during the Global Youth Tourism Summit, young people from all over the world also asked us for the space and time to discuss these topics on board our ships. We welcomed their request, believing it our duty to join with Gen Z youth to create a high-impact edutainment, creation and sharing program with the power to generate concrete results. It’s an immense honor for us to join with UNWTO to achieve this, bringing the young people on our ships the latest information and powerful resources to build a sustainable future."

Alessandra Priante, Director of the Regional Department for Europe at UNWTO, said: “After the immense success of our first Global Youth Tourism Summit, which brought together children from every corner of the world, we are very excited that GYTS will not only go across borders but also across the seas and oceans. We are grateful to the MSC Foundation for their continued support in highlighting the central role that youth can play in building a sustainable tourism of the future. We are proud to support MSC Cruises as they continue to educate and empower children and youth to become more conscious, committed and engaged.”

The MSC Group is committed to taking comprehensive action through the MSC Foundation to raise awareness of the big challenges facing humanity and to provide its young MSC Cruises guests with tools that inform and motivate through an understanding of its programs and initiatives across four focus areas: the Environment (including marine conservation), Education, Community Support and Emergency Relief. This includes inviting young cruise guests to become Junior Ambassadors of the Foundation and running dedicated activities that equip them to voice the right of our younger generations to live in a better world.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

NatureMetrics, MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation Join Forces to Advance Understanding of Most Endangered Marine Species

 Geneva, Switzerland - May 30, 2023 - MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation announced an innovative partnership today with NatureMetrics, the pioneering nature intelligence and environmental DNA specialists.

The primary goal of this visionary project, named “eBioAtlas: Biodiversity Sampling from Cruise Liners using eDNA,” is to collect comprehensive biodiversity data for marine species using the innovative technique of DNA sampling. By collecting eDNA from seawater while on board and sending it to NatureMetrics for analysis, the team will discover and record the marine wildlife present across MSC Cruises’ routes.

The project has global reach with the data contributing to the eBioAtlas, a global program by NatureMetrics and IUCN. The eBioAtlas unlocks the vast reach of the global community, now including MSC Cruises and MSC Foundation, to come together and provide a new, harmonized biodiversity data layer that will drive informed decision-making for the benefit of both people and nature. 

Recognizing the urgent need for improved data to mitigate biodiversity loss and accelerate progress toward a nature-positive future, eBioAtlas will help move the needle for global priorities such as climate mitigation, adaptation and food security. Through close collaboration with local stakeholders, marine non-governmental organizations (NGOs), national governments, and the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, this initiative will enable up-to-date marine species assessments and reassessments in the North Atlantic.

Dr Kat Bruce, Founder at NatureMetrics, said: “Collaboration is crucial in our quest to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by the end of the decade. MSC Cruises’ pioneering work to collect and share biodiversity data with our eBioAtlas program will unlock nature insights that allow us to make informed decisions on marine conservation globally. The time for decisive action is now, and with organizations like MSC Cruises leading the way in the travel industry, we can create a world where businesses and nature can make meaningful progress in harmony.” 

The eBioAtlas program will acquire biodiversity data from three different MSC Cruises itineraries, providing accurate information for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This valuable data will be made accessible to third parties free of charge through the eBioAtlas partnership between NatureMetrics and IUCN, fostering conservation and restoration efforts throughout the Northern Atlantic.

Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, said: “The MSC Foundation is committed to advancing ocean conservation through science. It was therefore only natural for us to join forces with NatureMetrics to support vital biodiversity mapping, assisting the International Union for Conservation of Nature to perform the assessments that are critical indicators of global biodiversity health.”

Seawater samples will be collected from the vessels' seawater intakes using specially designed eDNA collection kits. These samples will then be sealed and sent to NatureMetrics for DNA analysis. The results, along with location details, will be shared with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to enhance their understanding of global ocean biodiversity.

The maiden ship to participate in the sampling initiative will be MSC Euribia, which will commence data collection in the Nordic region (Norway and North Sea) followed by MSC Poesia (Iceland and Greenland) and MSC Preziosa (Iceland, Norway and Svalbard).

Coppell Linden, VP of Sustainability and ESG at MSC Cruises, said: "Our innovative partnership with NatureMetrics is more than just a strategic alliance. It's a commitment to harnessing advanced eDNA technologies and global collaboration to drive our sustainability and conservation efforts. It's about utilizing our resources wisely and optimizing processes to make the best possible decisions for our planet's future. We are proud to be supporting this vital work by taking samples on four ships over 11 cruises, for a total of 114 sampling days this year."

Marina Anselme, Secretary General at the MSC Foundation, explained: "The MSC Foundation is delighted to facilitate and fund this groundbreaking partnership with NatureMetrics and MSC Cruises. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to protect our oceans and create a nature-positive future for generations to come."

The partnership between NatureMetrics, MSC Cruises and the MSC Foundation highlights these organizations’ commitment to promoting marine conservation, supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework and building a sustainable future. Together, they strive to establish a solid foundation for informed decision-making and to inspire individuals to appreciate and protect the precious species that inhabit our shared spaces

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC WORLD AMERICA—MIAMI’S NEXT NEW MEGASHIP—CELEBRATES KEY CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE WITH TRADITIONAL COIN CEREMONY EVENT

• MSC Cruises celebrates MSC World America Coin Ceremony at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard alongside the Delivery Ceremony of MSC Euribia

• Milestones for two newest ships exemplify MSC Cruises’ continued expansion as world’s third-largest and fastest growing cruise line

• Both ships feature latest environmental enhancements as part of line’s continued commitment to sustainability

 Saint Nazaire, France – May 31, 2023 – MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest and fastest growing cruise line, celebrated a key milestone today in its strategic U.S. expansion and commitment to sustainability with the Coin Ceremony for MSC World America. The event took place alongside the delivery of MSC Euribia at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in France and marked a key phase of construction of MSC World America, the brand’s second ship in its innovative World Class and the first ship specifically designed for the U.S. cruise market powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).

The time-honored maritime ceremony saw commemorative coins placed within the keel of MSC World America by two godmothers, MSC Cruises’ Silvia Turbia and Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s Séverine Blandin, as a sign of blessing and good fortune. When she begins sailing from MSC Cruises’ new, state-of-the-art terminal at PortMiami in April 2025, MSC World America will be the brand’s largest ship in North America.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “Our commitment to bringing our largest, most innovative and environmentally advanced ships to the North American market is stronger than ever, and all of us at MSC Cruises are looking forward to welcoming guests on board MSC World America. The ship’s long list of new spaces and experiences will set a new standard for Caribbean cruising when she arrives in the U.S. in 2025. All of MSC World America’s itineraries include Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our beautiful island destination that highlights the natural beauty of The Bahamas and our focus on marine conservation. She will join our growing U.S. fleet amid our ongoing homeport expansion, which saw the recent addition of Port Canaveral and New York City with plans for Galveston on the horizon. Together, these initiatives will allow our guests to experience MSC Cruises’ unique international flavor on more ships in more places, and we’re proud to have MSC World America leading the way.”

MSC World America will build on the success of MSC World Europa and become the second World Class ship with key innovations tailored to the North American market, including The Harbor—a brand new outdoor destination that combines a water park, interactive water features, new thrills, and comfortable areas to relax with delicious food and cool beverages for the whole family to enjoy.

Guests will discover a new world of cruising with exciting new restaurants and bars, along with more than 420,000 square feet of public space that combines MSC Cruises’ glamorous European design with American comfort. Sailing exclusively to the Caribbean on 7-night itineraries during her inaugural season—with stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC World America will further solidify MSC Cruises as an industry leader in the U.S., offering the most modern cruise experience with cutting-edge environmental technology.

Henri Doyer, Chantier de l’Atlantique MSC Program Director, commented: “This 19th ship—the second of the World Class series—is the result of a long partnership between MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique. I am thrilled to announce that MSC World Europa, MSC Euribia, and MSC World America are the 3 most energy efficient, most environment-friendly ships of the cruise industry.”

In addition to commemorating the Coin Ceremony for MSC World America, the cruise line also celebrated the delivery of MSC Euribia, which is “built for the future” and is the most energy-efficient cruise ship design ever. The vessel is the second ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet to be powered by LNG, the cleanest and most efficient fuel currently available commercially at scale. She will feature additional state-of-the-art environmental technologies, including advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems, waste management handling, energy efficiency measures as well innovative underwater radiated noise management systems to reduce the potential impact on the marine environment.

In an industry first, following the Delivery Ceremony, MSC Euribia will complete a net zero greenhouse gas emissions voyage. The ship will sail to Copenhagen, Denmark for the ship’s Naming Ceremony on June 8 utilizing a bio-LNG using a mass-balance system and other efficiency measures to demonstrate that net zero cruising is possible today.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, said: “With the delivery of MSC Euribia, we have taken yet another huge step towards our net zero GHG emissions goal. Alongside her many best-in-class environmental innovations, MSC Euribia features a truly groundbreaking energy efficient design that will deliver huge reduction in GHG emissions throughout her lifetime. Often the focus of decarbonization is solely on supply side measures, and although they are an important part of the energy transition, we must not forget the essential role that energy efficiency will play in reducing energy demand today. The cleanest energy is the energy that we don’t use and MSC Euribia has been constructed with this principle at its heart. This is why she marks with her coming into service such an important milestone toward our goal of achieving net zero CGH marine operations by 2050.”

During her inaugural season, she will offer incredible 7-night itineraries sailing to the Norwegian Fjords with weekly departures from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark.

About MSC World America

MSC World America will create an eye-catching silhouette against the Miami skyline with her signature plumb bow rising vertically from the waterline and Y-shaped aft that opens onto the impressive outdoor World Promenade. The new World Class ship, which is now available to book, will span 22 decks, measure more than 150 feet wide, feature 2,626 cabins, contain more than 420,000 square feet of public space, and offer top-of-the-line features and facilities, including:

• The Harbor—a brand new outdoor destination designed for kids and families to play and relax together

• A re-imagined outdoor World Promenade, where unique dining, lounging and entertainment options are paired with stunning ocean views and unmatched LED light shows

• The indoor World Galleria—lined with bars, restaurants, shops and boutiques—topped with a state-of-the-art LED and kinetic light ceiling

• 13 restaurants including six specialty restaurants, four main restaurants, two buffets and Luna Park Pizza & Burger – a complimentary casual fast-food spot

• 20 bars and lounges, including the Sports Bar, Comedy Club, The Gin Project, Elixir mixology bar and more

• A striking 11-deck-high dry slide made of stainless steel, giving guests a fun way to reach the lower decks in style

• Six pools and 14 hot tubs, including a spacious indoor pool with retractable roof and twin adults-only Zen pools at the aft of the ship

• Expansive water park with water slides that include a VR experience

• Kids Clubs featuring dedicated facilities for age groups ranging from infants to 17 years old

• Three entertainment venues with all-new live entertainment and theater shows

• Stylish and comfortable staterooms and suites, including Infinite Ocean View cabins, balconies that overlook the outdoor World Promenade and connecting family staterooms

• The MSC Yacht Club, featuring spacious suites, a dedicated lounge and restaurant, a private pool and sun deck facilities, luxurious suites, and 24-hour concierge and butler service

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

THE CRUISE DIVISION OF MSC GROUP’S NEW FLAGSHIP – MSC EURIBIA - TO SAIL WORLD-FIRST CRUISE WITH NET ZERO GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

 Geneva, Switzerland – May 25, 2023 – The Cruise Division of MSC Group will operate the industry’s first cruise with net zero greenhouse gas emissions next week with MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, the liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered MSC Euribia. The voyage will the ship’s first upon leaving her shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France – where she is currently being built – as she sails to her naming ceremony in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The new ship—the 22nd in MSC Cruises’ fleet—will sail for four days from Saint-Nazaire to Copenhagen, achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions to demonstrate that net zero cruising is possible today. MSC Euribia will depart from France on June 3 and is scheduled to arrive in Denmark on June 7.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, said: “This industry-first net zero gas emissions voyage of our latest flagship MSC Euribia heralds another significant step on our decarbonization journey and demonstrates more than anything the extent of our commitment.”

MSC Cruises purchased 400 tons of bio-LNG toward the pioneering net zero gas emissions voyage to show its commitment to the deployment of drop-in renewable fuels and energy transition measures. The line is the industry’s first deep sea ocean cruise operator to buy bio-LNG as a fuel source that has significant lifecycle emissions reductions.

Mr. Vago continued: “We cannot do this alone, however. Given the absolute importance of alternative fuels for our industry as well as for other sectors across civil society to achieve decarbonization, we all need to work together to increase their availability at scale. Our purchase of bio-LNG will send a clear and meaningful signal to the market that there is demand from cruise lines and the broader maritime industry for cleaner fuels, but we need governments, producers, and end-users to collaborate and scale-up the availability of these much-needed and new sources of power.”

The net zero sailing will utilize bio-LNG by virtue of a mass-balance system, the most environmentally efficient method of delivering the benefits of renewable biogas. The entire supply chain will be fully compliant with the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive, commonly known as RED II, and each individual batch of the total bio-LNG produced has been certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification.

Michele Francioni, SVP, MSC Cruises, added, “MSC Euribia’s first voyage will be an incredible feat and represents years of commitment and determination. It should prove that we have the capability to operate on a net zero greenhouse gas emissions basis with existing ship technology. This is just the beginning. We are committed to this transition and putting in place everything we can do to facilitate it. It cannot be done without alternative fuels such as bio-LNG, e-LNG, green hydrogen or green methanol being made widely available at scale to fully realize the vision of net zero cruising.”

MSC Cruises is being supported by Nordic energy company Gasum for the net zero greenhouse gas emissions voyage, a leading producer of biogas and processor of biodegradable waste fractions in the Nordic region.

The speed and itinerary of MSC Euribia’s maiden voyage has been designed specifically to optimize the configuration and loads of the engines to minimize fuel consumption. Dedicated energy efficiency specialists from both MSC Cruises and the ship’s constructor, Chantiers de L’Atlantique, will be on board the net zero sailing to monitor and optimize every aspect of this journey. They will work with the Master of the Vessel, Captain Stefano Battinelli, and MSC Euribia’s Chief Engineer, Pasquale Mastellone. 

MSC Cruises’ shore-based energy efficiency experts based in London will continuously monitor and optimize all systems on board to minimize energy demand, identifying additional opportunities to improve energy efficiency in real-time while maintaining high comfort for all guests on board.

This will include a range of measures from the configuration of the engines down to the speed of individual air-conditioning fans in guest cabins, together with the itinerary and speed optimization.  

All of the combined initiatives will save energy to reduce fuel consumption.

MSC Cruises’ newbuilds are fuel flexible ships that can accommodate a variety of renewable fuels available today and expected in the future. The use of fossil LNG already achieves up to a 20 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions when compared to conventional marine fuels, and virtually eliminates all sulphur oxide and particulate emissions while also reducing nitrogen oxides by 85 percent.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC CRUISES REVEALS DETAILS AHEAD OF MSC EURIBIA’S NAMING CEREMONY IN COPENHAGEN

• Oscar-winning Sophia Loren will name her 19th MSC Cruises ship

• The traditional event will officially launch MSC Cruises’ most environmentally advanced ship to-date, the second LNG powered ship to join the fleet

 Geneva, Switzerland – May 17, 2023 – With less than one month to go, MSC Cruises today unveiled details of the Naming Ceremony for the launch of the line’s most environmentally advanced ship to-date, MSC Euribia, which will take place on June 8 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Scandinavian capital was chosen as the launch location for the ship due to its rich maritime heritage and dedication to sustainability. MSC Euribia is symbolic of the line’s vision for a sustainable future and a deep respect and commitment to protect and preserve the marine environment.

MSC Euribia is “Built for the Future” - she is the most energy-efficient cruise ship design ever. The vessel is the second ship in MSC Cruise’s fleet to be powered by LNG, the cleanest and most efficient fuel currently available commercially at scale.  She will feature additional state-of-the-art environmental technologies, including advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems, waste management handling, energy efficiency measures, and innovative underwater radiated noise management systems to reduce the potential impact on the marine environment.

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

MSC Cruises will invite guests to the Naming Ceremony of this innovative new ship, bringing together local dignitaries, key travel partners, international media, and various household names, including Hollywood icon and Oscar-winning actress, Sophia Loren. Madame Loren holds a long-standing personal relationship with the line and will carry out her role as Godmother for her 19th MSC Cruises ship.

Sarah Grünewald, a well-known Danish television host, actress and model will serve as the Master of Ceremony. Guests can expect the time-honored tradition of breaking a bottle of champagne over the bow of the vessel, a beautiful gala dinner, as well as live entertainment and performances, including a special DJ set to top off the night from world-renowned French DJ and record producer, Bob Sinclar.

After the event, MSC Euribia will commence sailings in Northern Europe this summer with 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark to the captivating Norwegian Fjords including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.

To find out more about MSC Cruises’ northern Europe itinerary options, please click here.

ABOUT MSC EURIBIA

This unforgettable occasion will offer guests a first glimpse to discover more about the innovative ship’s exceptional features, amenities and varied onboard experiences.

Some key highlights include:

• NEW! Experience the artwork, Street. 2023, by renowned British artist Julian Opie in l’Atelier du Voyageur bar. The artwork, commissioned specifically for MSC Euribia, is an expansive 11 x 2 m purpose-built LED screen featuring walking figures in Opie’s distinctive style.

• NEW! Located in the aft of the ship, The Carousel Lounge is reinvented with a new layout, offering even more stunning panoramic ocean views, allowing guests to relax during the day or participate in a range of leisure activities. Here, they can also enjoy a variety of live music every evening including the Big Band at Sea.

• A revolutionary kids’ area will feature 7,534 square feet of interior space entirely dedicated to kids and teenagers with seven rooms, each catering to different age groups from 0 – 17 years old. For the first time, it will include the NEW! MSC Foundation Lab - offering a brand-new kids area and program of activities dedicated to educating children and teenagers on environmental subjects.

• NEW! Guest can choose between 10 dining venues, which include five specialty restaurants with the brand-new Le Grill, a stylish French bistro meets steakhouse, as well as Kaito Sushi & Robatayaki, a staple specialty restaurant of MSC Cruises that will feature a Robatayaki for the first time.

• An impressive array of five pools and the ship’s very own coral-themed Ocean Cay AquaPark, one of the largest and most elaborate waterparks at sea, with three water slides for endless fun.

• The 945-seat Delphi Theatre offers world-class live entertainment every evening with a full seven-day program of big-production shows.

• The ship offers 21 bars and lounges with five outdoor and 16 indoor areas to meet the needs and preferences of everyone on board.

• Guests will have the opportunity to explore and connect at Galleria Euribia, featuring the longest LED Dome at sea, with a variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment to discover.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC CRUISES ANNOUNCES EXTENSION TO FORMULA 1® GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP DEAL

Geneva, Switzerland – May 4, 2023 – MSC Cruises announced today that the world’s fastest-growing cruise line has extended its global partnership deal with Formula 1®. The announcement took place in Miami on the eve of the Formula 1® Grand Prix and will see MSC Cruises continue as Official Cruise Partner of Formula 1® through to the end of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

The continuing growth of interest in Formula 1® around the world, which has been particularly strong in key markets for MSC Cruises, has seen the existing global partnership agreement achieve strong results for the brand and its product portfolio. Encouraged by the success of bringing these two premium brands together, MSC Cruises will seek to further activate the partnership through an expanded program.

As part of the agreement, MSC Cruises will bring ships during select Grand Prix weekends to offer a unique hospitality experience from track to ship. The first of these will launch when MSC Virtuosa makes her way to Abu Dhabi for the final round of the 2023 Formula 1® season, offering unique all-access accommodation, hospitality and transportation packages for fans and VIPs. This initial product offering will grow under the extension of the partnership with more ships and races to come during the 2024 season and beyond.

MSC Cruises was also confirmed as the title sponsor of the 2023 Formula 1® Belgian Grand Prix and the brand will have an engaging activation for racegoers within the fan zone. Further title sponsorships will be revealed at selected Formula 1® Grands PrixTM during the 2024 World championship season.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman MSC Cruises commented, “Formula 1 and MSC Cruises are great partners on many levels and our successes are founded in teamwork. Not only this, but we are both driving towards sustainable change. We want to build the future of our industries and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. We are both working at the forefront of our industries and helping to make a real difference. And this is why we are committed to Formula 1 for the long term and have extended our sponsorship as Global Partner. We look forward to this special partnership going from strength to strength.”

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, said, “We're excited to extend our partnership with MSC Cruises, as both our brands share a commitment to innovation and excellence. This collaboration has brought exceptional results, and we look forward to enhancing our relationship further. Together, we'll continue pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in sports and hospitality.”

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

MSC CRUISES OPENS SALES FOR STUNNING ITINERARIES IN JAPAN FOR THE 2023/2024 WINTER SEASON

• MSC Cruises is celebrating 15 years in Japan and the start of MSC Bellissima’s summer season out of Yokohama

• First-ever winter season means guests can now sail year-round in the region with MSC Cruises

• The cruise line now offers the largest capacity of cruise passengers from Japan

Geneva, Switzerland, May 1, 2023 – MSC Cruises hosted a special event on board MSC Bellissima in Yokohama, Japan to mark the start of the 2023 summer season and to celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the line’s presence in the country. Sales have opened today for MSC Cruises’ first ever winter season in Japan, starting in 2023. With cruises now year-round from Japan, MSC Cruises offers the largest cruise capacity in the region, setting the line on track to become the number one cruise line in the country.

The new winter program on MSC Bellissima will commence from November 2023 with an 6-night, 9-night and 11-night cruise from Yokohama. From January to March 2024, MSC Bellissima will homeport in Naha/Okinawa offering guests from around the world the opportunity to experience Japan’s stunning landscapes and beaches, rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, and modern attractions with multiple destinations – all without having to repack a suitcase.

The Winter 2023 and 2024 season will see MSC Bellissima sailing within Japan and to Keelung, Taiwan (China), offering cruises of 4- to 5- nights, with varying itineraries visiting destinations such as:

• Okinawa, Japan - The fifth largest island of Japan that is known for its balmy tropical climate, expansive beaches, and stunning coral reefs, as well as historical sites.

• Ishigaki, Japan – Another stunning beach destination with incredible snorkeling, diving and surfing sites. Guests can also enjoy Shiraho Reef's rare blue coral in Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park.

• Keelung, Taiwan (China) - Keelung City is surrounded by inspiring mountains and is home to a bustling waterfront, where street-food stalls at Miaokou Night Market offer traditional snacks and seafood. Several forts surround the area and offer breath-taking views out to sea.

• Miyako Island, Japan – Known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, guests can enjoy the scenery and try local foods, including sweet mangoes, or go out looking for adventure in the many underwater caverns.

This summer, MSC Bellissima is now offering 8- to 9- night summer sailings out of Yokohama, Tokyo – with one-of-a-kind opportunities to discover the beauty of the region. Some itineraries still have availability – for more information visit here.

About MSC Bellissima

MSC Bellissima is the second innovative cruise ship of the company’s Meraviglia class. Designed as the ship for all seasons and rich in onboard features, MSC Bellissima offers guests an unforgettable MSC Cruises experience with highlights including:

• 12 dining venues and more than 20 bars and lounges, guests will be spoiled for choice including a French specialty restaurant L’Atelier Bistrot. The ship will also feature acclaimed pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury’s Chocolate & Café, dedicated entirely to unique and elegant chocolate creations and desserts and a delight for anyone with a sweet tooth.

• An award-winning family offering with kids’ activities and services from partners LEGO Group and Chicco with a dedicated family deck area.

• Exclusive shows in the intimate state-of-the art venue: The Carousel Lounge combining awe-inspiring acrobatics, dance and music all to create multi-sensory entertainment experience with light, sound and dazzling acrobatic performances.

• The MSC Yacht Club with luxurious accommodations spanning three decks, private facilities, and butler service round-the-clock.

• A spectacular LED Sky Screen at Sea at 262 feet long encompassing a stunning 315-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade, designed to become the social hub of the ship.

• Comfortable and innovative accommodations to meet every need demonstrating the way that MSC Cruises puts the guest at the heart of its designs and ship building and with 10 different types of cabins to choose from, there really is something for everyone.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

Image Source, Port Canaveral

Image Source, MSC Cruises

Port Canaveral, FL – April 27, 2023 – Port Canaveral’s newest homeported ship, the MSC Cruises MSC Seaside has arrived to begin sailing three and four-night cruises to The Bahamas, and seven-night sailings to Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, Belize. All sailings include stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

"We are excited to welcome the MSC Seaside to Port Canaveral, yet another beautiful ship in the MSC Cruises line up to call Port Canaveral home,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. "We are proud of our relationship with MSC Cruises, and delighted to be the homeport for this new vessel class. Our Port is setting the standard for excellence in the industry. We’re committed to delivering a world-class experience for all cruise guests."

In a traditional maritime ceremony, Kevin Markey, Chairman of Canaveral Port Authority and Port officials presented MSC Seaside Capt. Michele Di Mauro with a plaque commemorating the cruise ship's first call to the Port.

"The arrival of the MSC Seaside is another great milestone for Port Canaveral and the Space Coast region, further solidifying our position as the top cruise port in the world," said Canaveral Port Authority Chairman Kevin Markey. "We are committed to continuing our efforts to responsibly grow our Port to promote the economic growth and prosperity of our local community and the state of Florida."

MSC Cruises began year-round service from Port Canaveral in 2021 with the inaugural arrival of the MSC Divina. Recognizing the convenience of easy access for cruise guests and modern terminals and amenities that make it an excellent homeport for the cruise line, MSC Cruises added the MSC Meraviglia to the Port Canaveral rotation for U.S. sailings. MSC Meraviglia, now homeported in New York, returns to Port Canaveral weekly for provisioning calls.

“We built MSC Seaside specifically for Caribbean cruising, with an incredible amount of outdoor space and a sweeping waterfront promenade that allows guests to truly connect with the sea during their time on board,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA. “It’s a privilege for MSC Cruises to play a role in Port Canaveral’s growth with the deployment of yet another large and modern ship in our U.S. fleet. MSC Seaside’s beautiful amenities go hand in hand with our international heritage and the natural beauty and sustainability of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our private destination in The Bahamas, to represent our unique vision for Caribbean cruising. We’re thrilled to share that experience with guests sailing from Port Canaveral.”

The MSC Seaside offers a wide variety of impressive amenities, including a seafront promenade, two glass-floor catwalks, and panoramic elevators. Passengers sailing the Seaside will also have the opportunity to upgrade to MSC's exclusive Yacht Club or Aurea Spa cabin categories.

The Seaside boasts nine restaurants, including the Pan Asian Market Kitchen by Roy Yamaguchi, and 19 bars and lounges, including the Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar and Venchi 1878 Gelato & Creperie.

There is no shortage of entertainment options on the Seaside, with the Metropolitan Theater, Forest Aquaventure Park, two full-sized bowling alleys, and clubs for kids among a multitude of options. The ship's impressive sea views and outdoor spaces make the MSC Seaside a vacation experience for all ages.

The MSC Seaside, built in 2017, is a 1,060-foot Seaside-class cruise ship with a distinctive aft design and guest capacity for approximately 4,000 passengers double-occupancy.

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

Please note: some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site

---

THE ENVIRONMENTALLY ADVANCED MSC EURIBIA COMPLETES SUCCESSFUL SEA TRIALS

Image Source, Viking

04/24/2023 -- MSC Cruises’ second liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ship has successfully completed her deep-water intensive systems tests during a four-day trial in the Atlantic Ocean. MSC Cruises’ latest flagship will next receive her finishing touches at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France before being officially delivered to MSC Cruises on May 31. 

will be MSC Cruises’ 22nd ship to join its fleet and be able to accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.  The ship will be officially named on June 8 in Copenhagen, Denmark before sailing a maiden inaugural season in Northern Europe from her homeport in Kiel, Germany. 

will feature innovative and advanced marine technology, as well as LNG fuel - one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale - to minimize her environmental footprint. She will also strike a new silhouette with an exclusive customized fresco painted on her exterior that celebrates MSC Cruises’ commitment to protect and preserve the marine environment.   

Designed by German graphic artist Alex Flämig following an international competition, the recently completed hull artwork aims to stimulate discussion on the importance of protecting the delicate and complex ecosystem of the oceans.  

MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Euribia, who harnessed the winds, weather, and constellations to master the seas, illustrating the vision of the ship to deploy advanced sustainable solutions do the same. Designed with an ocean-inspired color palette, Flämig’s visual masterpiece entitled “#” is a representation of MSC Cruises’ ongoing dedication to the sea and commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.  

LNG is one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale and is set to play a key role in the transition to the decarbonization of international shipping. It substantially reduces local air pollutant emissions like sulphur oxides by up to 99 per cent and nitrogen oxides by up to 85 percent.  LNG also plays a key role in climate change mitigation as it offers up to a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and is paving the way for the uptake of sustainable non-fossil fuels such as bio- and synthetic LNG.  

As bio and synthetic fuels become available, ’s emissions will be further reduced. LNG is key to the development of low carbon solutions for shipping as emerging technologies such as fuel cells can be operated with LNG until zero emissions bio-LNG or green hydrogen become available at scale. MSC Cruises is actively involved in several projects to develop and make these technologies viable in partnership with regulators, academia, shipyards and industry.  

The ship will also feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the United Nations’ shipping body the International Maritime Organization, comprehensive waste recycling, underwater radiated noise management system to help limit disturbance to marine life and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimize engine use and hotel energy needs to further reduce emissions. 

will begin to set sail for her inaugural season in Northern Europe in June, offering 7-night sailings from and to the captivating Norwegian Fjords including and 

---

For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up to be an insider

---

---

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

Consider booking your next adventure through our partner travel advisors MEI-Travel, by emailing: AtoZ@MEI-Travel.com or click here A to Z Book Now

---

---

Join the daily fun over on Instagram!

---

MSC CRUISES ANNOUNCES BLUE-RIBBON COVID-19 EXPERT GROUP, ENGAGES SPECIALISED MARITIME CLASSIFICATION SOCIETY TO PROVIDE THIRD-PARTY VERIFICATION THAT ITS PROTOCOL MEETS ESTABLISHED GUIDANCE

06/07/2020

Geneva, Switzerland, 6 July 2020 – Over the past months since temporarily halting its cruise operation in connection with the development of the global health pandemic ashore, MSC Cruises has been hard at work to develop a new health and safety operating protocol to support its return to service once the time is right.  

Having set up a cross-functional task force comprised of in-house experts in the areas of Medical Services, Public Health and Sanitation, Hotel Services, HVAC and other Shipboard Engineering Systems, Information Technology and Logistics, MSC Cruises also engaged a world-renowned expert consultancy of Aspen Medical to further assist with the development of the Company’s own enhanced protocol and procedures.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, commented: “Today I am pleased to announce that the work of our task force is being further supported by the formation and engagement of a Blue Ribbon COVID-19 Expert Group for consultation on protocols and planning, as well as bringing additional specialised advice to augment our own existing resources and knowledge.

“The objective of our Blue Ribbon COVID-19 Expert Group in the fields of Medicine, Public Health, and/or related scientific disciplines is to create a group of highly qualified and internationally respected experts to inform and review our initiatives as they relate to COVID-19 to help ensure that the actions taken are appropriate, effective, and informed by the best available science and health practices. For this reason, this Expert Group will have competency to review policy initiatives, technical innovations, or operational measures related to COVID-19. It will remain in place long beyond our return to operations to ensure we benefit from their know-how and input even as the situation continues to evolve and more data become available.”

MSC Cruises’ Blue Ribbon COVID-19 Expert Group has been personally formed by the Company’s executive chairman and includes: Professor Christakis Hadjichristodoulou, Professor of Hygiene and Epidemiology at the Faculty of Medicine as well as its Vicepresident, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Greece; Professor Stephan J. Harbarth, Hospital Epidemiologist, Infectious Diseases Specialist and Head of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at the Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) and Faculty of Medicine; and Doctor Ian Norton, a Specialist Emergency Physician with post graduate qualifications in Surgery, International Health and Tropical Medicine, currently managing director of Respond Global, formerly the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Medical Team Initiative program from 2014 until January 2020.

Bud Darr, MSC Group’s Executive Vice President for Maritime Policy and Government Affairs, commented: “Since the early days when it came to the development of our new health and safety operating protocol, we have been in continuous consultation with regional, national and local public health authorities including, among others, those in Europe, US, Brazil, and China - both directly and through the industry association CLIA. To this end, some of the Company’s most detailed engagement and contribution took place with EU-level authorities responsible for public health, as it relates to cruise ships. This has recently resulted in the issuance of the EU Healthy Gateways interim guidance, amongst others, and that national health authorities across the Continent are currently reviewing.”

“Currently, our focus is on next-phase work with authorities – including those responsible for health, transport and the maritime sector – in countries overlooking the Mediterranean as they are examining the most recent EU-level and international guidelines and looking to incorporate them as appropriate in their own local requirements. This is in fact the region where, thanks to the improvement in the health situation ashore and return to travel by citizens, we currently expect a potential resumption of cruise operation following the now nearly completed and successful reopening of other travel and leisure activities across the region.”

MSC Cruises’ new operating protocol – details of which will be announced soon - has been designed to meet and exceed guidelines provided by key international and regional regulatory and technical bodies including the World Health Organization, the EU Healthy Gateways Joint Action and European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), as well as regulations set forth by many of the governments in the countries in which MSC Cruises ships operate.

Bud Darr concluded: “To this end, we also have engaged a specialised maritime classification society to provide third-party verification that our protocols and procedures meet established EU-level guidance.”

With its new health and safety protocol, MSC Cruises has worked to encompass every aspect of the guest’s journey from the moment of booking to embarkation, life on board and through to the return back home, whilst preserving the uniqueness of the guest experience.

In fact, MSC Cruises has had its global in-house taskforce from across the business in place to develop and continuously review its existing protocols and measures from the outset. MSC Cruises started rolling out increasingly strict measures from early in the crisis - in late January – by rolling out stringent health and safety protocols, which it continuously improved and enhanced to protect the health and safety of guests and crew as it worked to ensure their safe return home. This precautionary approach to health and safety to protect its guests and crew is at the heart of everything MSC Cruises does. And engaging market leading expert external support to develop this new protocol is a natural extension to this precautionary approach.

---

More MSC CRUISES

---

---

CRUISE CANCELLATIONS & CHANGES

Updated: June 22, 2020 - NEW CRUISE CANCELLATIONS (see below details)

MSC Cruises USA regrets to inform you that we have made the difficult decision to cancel or change select cruises.

 CRUISE CANCELLATIONS FROM MARCH 14 - July 10, 2020:

NO NEED TO CALL US! To see what is being offered on each sailing, please click one of the three buttons below that matches your sailing date. Guests who previously opted in to our MSC Cruise Assurance program for a 100% Future Cruise Credit are now eligible for the higher 125% Future Cruise Credit. If you previously submitted a request through MSC Cruise Assurance, AND YOUR CRUISE WAS CANCELED FROM MARCH 14 - JULY 10, YOU MUST FILL OUT A NEW FORM. FOR ALL OTHER CRUISE CANCELLATIONS, PLEASE SEE BELOW.

NEW CRUISE CANCELLATION ALERTS:

• All Caribbean cruises from Aug. 1 - Sept. 15, 2020 have been canceled 

• MSC Meraviglia cruises to/from New York from Sept. 5 - Oct. 22 have been canceled

• Winter 2020-2021 Caribbean cruises (MSC Meraviglia, MSC Armonia, MSC Divina, MSC Seaside) from Oct. 31, 2020 - April 27, 2021 have been impacted due to new cruise itineraries

• Spring/Summer/Fall 2021 Caribbean cruises (MSC Divina & MSC Armonia) from March - Oct. 2021 have been impacted due to new cruise itineraries

See below and make your selection for additional information on these new canceled cruises.

SELECT YOUR OPTION BELOW  

All Cruises

Canceled July 11 - July 31

Caribbean Cruises From Miami Canceled

March 14 - September 15, 2020

Non-Caribbean Cruises 

Canceled March 14 - July 10

MSC Meraviglia New York Cruises

Canceled Sept. 5 - Oct. 22

Select Caribbean Cruises

All Ships October 2020 - October 2021

Flexible Cancellation Policy 

Non-Canceled Cruises Aug. 1 - Oct. 31, 2020

New Fall & Winter 2020/2021 Program and MSC updated Itineraries announced.

• Ships to sail in all regions where MSC Cruises traditionally operates

• MSC Updated itineraries available starting now on MSCCruises.com and through travel partner channels

• Operations of U.S. based ships – MSC Seaside and MSC Armonia – voluntarily suspended until September 15, 2020

MSC updated itineraries confirmed

Geneva, Switzerland (June 22, 2020) – MSC Cruises confirmed today full details of its MSC updated Itineraries fall and winter 2020/2021 (November 2020 through March 2021) program, offering over 90 different itineraries across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, the Gulf, South Africa, South America and Asia — all of the regions where MSC Cruises traditionally sails. Itineraries range in length from two to 24 nights, along with the third MSC World Cruise departing in January 2021 and an extensive Grand Voyages program. 

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO commented, “We have reviewed and updated our complete winter 2020/2021 Season, starting in late October, and we are pleased to now confirm the full details. Our winter program sees us offering cruises in all of the regions of the world where we traditionally operate, and while there are some updates to the original planned deployment of specific ships, we are still able to offer our main itineraries so that guests can enjoy the holiday that they booked with us.”

The MSC updated itineraries announcement follows the Company’s recent confirmation that the entire MSC Cruises fleet, including two brand new vessels currently under construction, will be in operation starting March 2021 for the spring, summer and fall 2021 season.

In addition, MSC Cruises confirmed today that it has voluntarily further extended the suspension of its ships operating from U.S. ports to the Caribbean until September 15, 2020. The announcement impacts two ships — MSC Seaside and MSC Armonia — that were previously scheduled to sail in the region during this time period. Meanwhile for the Summer 2020 Season, MSC Cruises has previously announced the temporary halting to its current ship operation until July 31 in the other regions where the Company operates.

In conjunction with today’s announcement, the Company also revealed that a new comprehensive and enhanced health and safety protocol is being developed in collaboration with relevant national health authorities and with the support of a team of external medical experts. This protocol will cover all aspects of the cruise, starting with the booking phase and all the way through to disembarkation and the return home.

It will also include all aspects of life on board and the precautionary measures will ensure the health and wellbeing of guests and crew, including enhanced sanitation measures, enhanced medical facilities and health screenings for guests and crew. The full details of these new precautionary health and safety measures will be announced in the coming days.

MSC updated itineraries and Fall & Winter 2020/2021 program overview.

The Caribbean*

MSC Meraviglia will sail every Saturday from Miami offering two seven-night alternating eastern and western Caribbean itineraries. Eastern Caribbean itineraries will include visits to San Juan, Puerto Rico for an evening experience; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas. Western Caribbean itineraries will include stops in Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

MSC Armonia, homeporting in Miami, will offer a mix of three-, four- and seven-night cruises with itineraries visiting Key West, Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 

For the first time, MSC Cruises will also introduce Port Canaveral as a brand new homeport, with MSC Seaside offering a mix of three-, four- and seven-night cruises to the Caribbean. Depending on the itinerary, guests have the opportunity to visit George Town, Cozumel, Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. 

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve will remain a highlight of the MSC Cruises Caribbean itineraries, with all three ships sailing from the U.S. calling at the private island destination in The Bahamas. Exclusive to MSC Cruises’ guests, and located just 65 nautical miles from Miami, the island is surrounded by 64 square miles of marine reserve, offering guests an opportunity to discover local marine life, soak up the spirit of Bahamian culture and reconnect with themselves and each other. 

MSC Poesia will replace MSC Splendida to serve the South Caribbean and the Antilles with the originally planned itineraries departing from Fort de France, Martinique on seven-night, seven-destination itineraries and 14-night sailings from Barbados visiting some of the best islands the Caribbean has to offer.

*Note, the updated fall and winter 2020/2021 Caribbean deployment has impacted some of MSC Cruises previously scheduled sailings departing from the U.S. Guests can view impacted sailings at MSCCruises.com and read more about guest compensation options below. 

The Mediterranean

MSC Grandiosa will replace sister-ship MSC Virtuosa for the winter, as delivery of this ship is delayed due to the delays and postponements caused by the health pandemic. All guests currently booked on MSC Virtuosa will be automatically moved to MSC Grandiosa, the Company’s current flagship, with the original itinerary. Guests will sail MSC Cruises’ signature seven-night “Six Pearls” western Mediterranean cruises, with embarkation possible at each port: Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; Civitavecchia/Rome, Italy; Palermo, Italy; Valetta, Malta; and Barcelona, Spain.

MSC Magnifica will offer two festive cruises in December with a five-night Christmas cruise calling Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona and Civitavecchia and a ten-night New Year cruise from Genoa, Marseille, and Barcelona before calling Gibraltar, Lisbon/Cascais in Portugal, and Cadiz/Seville and Malaga in Spain, and then returning to Civitavecchia/Rome and Genoa. 

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar

MSC Fantasia will replace MSC Seaview and MSC Lirica in this region, offering seven-night sailings with Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the exclusive beach resort of Sir Bani Yas island in The United Arab Emirates, as well as visits to Bahrain and Doha, Qatar. The cruise concludes with an overnight Dubai stay for time to explore all that the cosmopolitan city has to offer.

South America

MSC Seaview, with her stunning outdoor areas will replace MSC Grandiosa offering seven-night cruises from Santos, Brazil to the Northeast of the country and calling the new port of Maceio, Salvador, the island of Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis and Buzios.

MSC Musica, replacing MSC Fantasia, will offer seven-night cruises from Santos, visiting Itajai/Santa Catarina, Brazil, Punta Del Este, Uruguay and an overnight in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

MSC Sinfonia replacing MSC Orchestra will offer eight or nine-night cruises from Buenos Aires calling Montevideo, Uruguay, Buzios, Rio de Janeiro Ilhabela, or Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis, Itajai Brazil, with the possibility of embarking in the ports of Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

MSC Preziosa will operate her originally planned itineraries from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with a range of cruises from three to eight nights.

South Africa

MSC Orchestra, replacing MSC Musica, will offer a range of cruises from either Durban or Cape Town to destinations including Maputo, Portuguese Island and Pomene, Mozambique, and Port Elizabeth, as per the original planned itinerary.

A highlight for the season will be a 14-night New Year’s cruise on MSC Orchestra visiting five spectacular destinations, including an overnight stay in Port Louis, Mauritius.

MSC Opera will operate the planned itinerary from Cape Town and Durban.

The Far East

MSC Bellissima will offer a choice of different length cruises in Asia, with the updated program coming soon.

MSC World Cruise 2021

MSC Magnifica will sail her third World Cruise, following the popularity of the first two World Cruises in 2019 and 2020, replacing the previously announcedMSC Poesia. MSC Magnifica is the latest ship in the Musica class, with one of the highest ratios of balcony staterooms and impressive onboard features including a magrodome pool and extended dining areas. The original, 118-night journey around the globe is fully confirmed, commencing on January 5, 2021 with guests traveling to 53 destinations across 33 countries in style and comfort.

Spectacular Grand Voyages

MSC Fantasia, which replaces MSC Seaview, will depart on her Grand Voyage from Barcelona, Marseille and Genoa on November 14, 15, and 16 respectively, as she moves to Dubai for the winter. MSC Opera will offer her original planned itinerary from Italy to South Africa. All other Grand Voyages from Europe to the Caribbean, South America and South Africa will be canceled.

In Spring 2021, nine Grand Voyages will be available with ships sailing from the Emirates, Brazil, South Africa, Martinique and the U.S. to Europe.

The MSC updated itineraries for fall and winter are available to book at www.msccruises.com.

GUEST COMPENSATION

Fall and Winter 2021 Deployment

All guests whose bookings are impacted by any changes due to the fall and winter 2021 deployment will be moved to another ship serving the same or similar itinerary, while protecting the price of their original booking. In addition, these guests will be eligible for the following compensation[1]:

• All guests who have booked an inside or oceanview stateroom will receive a stateroom upgrade

• All guests booked in a balcony stateroom, a suite or a MSC Yacht Club stateroom will receive a shipboard credit of $100 per stateroom for cruises six nights or less (based on double occupancy, $50 for single occupancy). For cruises of seven nights or longer, guests will receive $200 per stateroom (based on double occupancy, $100 for single occupancy).

Alternatively, MSC Cruises USA guests have the ability to transfer the amount currently paid on their booking to another ship and sailing in MSC Cruises’ fleet or can opt for a refund of their deposit amount, based on normal cancellation policies.

Extension of Halting of U.S. Based Ships – For Guests Booked through MSC Cruises USA

Guests booked through MSC Cruises USA or affiliated US-based travel advisors impacted by the further extension of canceled cruises on MSC Seaside and MSC Armonia from August 1 – September 15, 2020 will automatically receive a 125% Future Cruise Credit of the original cruise fare paid by July 13 to be used on a sailing on or before December 31, 2021. Guests who prefer to receive a refund instead of a Future Cruise Credit can visit MSCCruises.com for more information on how to complete their request with an easy to use online form.

For additional details on existing bookings, guests should contact their travel advisor or visit www.msccruises.com.

---

More MSC CRUISES

---

---

The cruise industry has been hit especially hard due to COVID-19. There is even speculation if the cruise lines can weather through this storm and survive. Well I’m here to say Yes, they can, and in today’s video I am going to discuss why they can! With the changes and new standards to the industry that will become the “New Norm of cruising”.

---

---