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• MSC Cruises thrilling GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS entertainment programme is now available on 12 ships in MSC Cruises fleet
• The programme is expected to be on board all MSC Cruises ships in the next year
• The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS game show and quizzes will be available on MSC Cruises’ newest World Class ship, MSC World America, when she sets sail from Miami in April 2025

  Thrill-seekers looking to get their name in the record books will now have even more opportunity to do so as MSC Cruises plans to roll out its GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS entertainment programme across its entire fleet.   A popular programme, which gives guests the chance to break official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS titles through a variety of activities, was introduced on two of the cruise line’s ships, MSC Seascape and MSC World Europa, in March last year.   Now, it is available on 12 ships and will be rolled out across the entire MSC Cruises fleet within the next year.   Steve Leatham, VP of Entertainment at MSC Cruises, said, “the programme has been hugely popular among guests, both adults and children alike.   To date, MSC Cruises guests have broken 30 GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS titles. From being the fastest to pull 100 metres (about the length of a football field) of rope, to completing the fastest time to complete 20 chair rotations in under 21 seconds, or putting on the most pairs of socks on one foot in under 30 seconds, guests have attained record-breaking glory in a variety of quirky ways.   We’re excited to be able to offer it on more of our ships for guests of all ages to enjoy. The extended partnership is part of MSC Cruises’ broader strategy to further elevate their onboard immersive entertainment programmes and provide carefully crafted entertainment for guests of all tastes.”   Matteo Mancini, Senior Manager Family Entertainment, MSC Cruises said, “Guinness World Records exemplifies the kind of successful activities we offer on MSC Cruises’ ships, engaging the entire family. It’s heartwarming to see all ages come together to compete and play.   On our ships, everyone can be a star, and Guinness World Records now is not only in the book or in the TV show but has become an unmissable onboard live experience for all.”   While cruising at sea, guests can participate in record-breaking activities during the day and audition for the grand evening show, where the lucky finalists can demonstrate their talents and aim to become the next iconic record holder.   Any new record breakers are verified by a GWR Official Adjudicator and awarded a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS certificate, giving guests ultimate bragging rights and incredible memories to look back on.   So far, the programme is available on 12 ships positioned all around the world, including MSC World Europa, MSC Euribia, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica. MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaside and MSC Splendida are the latest ships to have it on offer.  

 

• Guests sailing on MSC World America to enjoy an authentic Italian experience with Eataly, including exclusive dishes only available on board
• MSC Cruises’ latest flagship will also feature new Greek restaurant Paxos along with new complimentary fast casual options to cater to every taste and temptation
• MSC World America will welcome guests in April 2025 and spend her inaugural season sailing from PortMiami to the sun-soaked Caribbean

  MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC World America, will feature the only Eataly restaurant at sea when she enters service next year.   MSC Cruises is partnering with Eataly, the global ambassador of high-quality Italian food and wine, to offer guests an exclusive experience on the line’s new flagship. The world-renowned brand will debut alongside the ship’s other new restaurant and fast-casual food options, offering more choice and more convenience, while blending the cruise line’s signature European elegance with experiences tailored to the American market.   Bernhard Stacher, Vice President of Global Hotel Operations, MSC Cruises, said: “As an international cruise line with a strong European heritage, we are committed to taking our guests on a gastronomic journey of discovery with the onboard dining experience as we believe that the best memories are made when sharing good food together. MSC World America stays true to this philosophy, which is why we have partnered with Eataly – an emblem of Made in Italy and Italian culinary artistry. We share a passion for high-quality, authentic food made with fresh ingredients and together we are creating a unique experience that can only be enjoyed on board MSC World America.”    Offering maximum choice and a mix of traditional favourites and new flavours has always been at the core of MSC Cruises’ dining ethos. MSC World America will offer 19 dining venues including four elegant main restaurants, two relaxed buffets, two venues in the MSC Yacht Club exclusively for its guests, plus unique experiences including:   NEW! EATALY AT SEA   MSC World America’s new Eataly restaurant will offer a menu that covers the icons of Italian gastronomy, from some of the brand’s most-loved dishes to items exclusively available on board. Guests can expect an unparalleled ingredient selection carefully sourced from Italian suppliers, with freshly made pasta crafted on-site, for an unforgettable culinary journey celebrating Italy's finest flavours.   Not just a restaurant, Eataly on MSC World America is a celebration of Italian culture and tradition, with a passion that extends beyond the menu. The restaurant's design will incorporate warm materials, natural tones and soft lighting, fostering an informal yet elegant atmosphere. Plus, the open kitchen will maintain Eataly's commitment to showcasing production processes live in front of guests' eyes.   SPECIALITY DINING CONCEPTS FOR EVERY PALATE   Alongside Eataly, MSC World America will feature five other speciality restaurants, including fan favourites Kaito Sushi Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina—all located in The Terraces district. Plus:  

• NEW! Paxos Greek Restaurant: In the Promenade district, Paxos will transport guests to the Mediterranean with its fresh, seafood-forward menu, complete with a fresh fish counter display for guests to choose from and four unique areas designed to immerse guests in the culture of Greece. Paxos will serve as a multi-service venue offering lunch with the option of al fresco dining as well as small plates and cocktails in the afternoon in the restaurant’s terrace. From the afternoon to evening, guest can opt for the rooftop lounge with comfortable seating to sit back and relax in the shade. Music will accompany dinner, while guests enjoy a menu featuring hot pita bread & dips, hot and cold mezes to mix and share, delicacies like moussaka and lamb kleftiko, and a range of delicious fish and meat dishes.

  DINING ON THE GO   MSC World America will offer five fast casual concepts, making it easy to grab a bite on the go while exploring all the ship has to offer:  

• NEW! Paxos on the Go: Conveniently located in the Promenade district with comfortable seating on the Paxos Terrace with flavourful bites for a small charge including authentic Greek favourites such as souvlaki and fritto misto
• NEW! Promenade Bites: Offering hotdogs, chili dogs, street corn, corn on the cob and cotton candy in the Promenade district
• NEW! The Harbour Bar & Bites: Featuring savoury snacks like empanadas, burritos, corn dogs, wraps, cookies and brownies, plus cold beverages in the Family Aventura district
• La Boca Grill: The perfect spot for an easy lunch, serving pizza in the Aqua Deck district
• Luna Park Pizza & Burger: Serving up classic American classics with convenient options throughout the day and well into the night in the Galleria district

  MSC World America will launch in April 2025 and spend her inaugural season sailing from PortMiami in the Caribbean, with all itineraries including a stop at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island in The Bahamas.

 

• The cruise line reveals the top features of its exclusive MSC Yacht Club, according to guest feedback
• Guests in the MSC Yacht Club are able to benefit from dedicated key-card access-only areas, priority disembarkation and embarkation at every port, 24-hour butler and concierge services, dedicated shore excursions, reserved seating in the theatre, an all-inclusive hassle-free experience and more.

  From being welcomed at a dedicated lounge in the cruise port terminal with premium champagne and prosecco to VIP access to the best seats in the theatre, MSC Cruises is revealing some of the most-loved benefits of its luxurious MSC Yacht Club.   The cruise line’s exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept offers guests the ultimate comfort, privacy and personalised service on holiday with keycard-only access to an array of private facilities.   With elegant and spacious suites, an exclusive restaurant, lounge, pool and sundeck, the MSC Yacht Club offers its guests a secluded sanctuary while allowing them to enjoy the countless facilities and entertainment possibilities available throughout the rest of the ship. The 24-hour butler is incredibly popular among guests along with a dedicated concierge to offer guests complete peace of mind by managing every aspect of their stay. From booking spa treatments and speciality restaurants to organizing special celebrations such as birthdays or anniversaries, these dedicated professionals are always at hand to ensure every detail is flawlessly arranged.   Other advantages to the MSC Yacht Club our guests tell us they love are:   1. Dedicated check-in and priority embarkation   Upon arrival at the port terminal, MSC Yacht Club guests are welcomed into a dedicated area and offered premium snacks and delicious drinks including a selection of champagne and prosecco. From there, a butler will quickly and seamlessly escort them through security checks to lead them to the MSC Yacht Club’s Top Sail Lounge, where guests receive a personalised welcome speech by the concierge, accompanied by bespoke beverages for a luxurious start to their holiday.   2. Exclusive privileges enabling guests to make the most of their time   MSC Yacht Club guests enjoy priority disembarkation and embarkation at every port, with a butler escorting them from the MSC Yacht Club area to the pier or terminal. They can also make the most of the reserved seating in the ship’s theatre by being escorted to the theatre to a special reserved area with no need to reserve in advance. Guests can also enjoy the new exclusive MSC Yacht Club shore excursions which provide thoughtfully curated experiences with knowledgeable guides, private transportation, and small groups, allowing them to maximize their time and fully immerse themselves in each destination.   3. An all-inclusive experience   The MSC Yacht Club’s all-inclusive experience guarantees a complete peace of mind for guests, with a premium drink package, unlimited Wi-Fi and access to the thermal area provided. In select ships, suites come with their own Nespresso coffee machine and an array of East India Company teas for caffeine and tea lovers to enjoy. The minibar is also included and refilled daily and can be tailored to guests’ preferences by asking the butler.   4. Exclusive, elegant, and luxurious experiences    Guests can indulge in a range of refined experiences not available in other areas of the ship, including the ultimate high tea experience in the private Top Sail Lounge with butler service and champagne upon arrival. Provided once a week per cruise, guests can indulge in the finest teas from the East India Tea Company, served with delicious scones, sandwiches and pastries in traditional British fashion.   5. Culinary delights and a sommelier in the MSC Yacht Club Restaurant   The MSC Yacht Club restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience, combining exceptional food and impeccable service, with a sommelier, frequently praised for their extensive knowledge, to elevate the dining experience by expertly pairing wines with each dish. Menus offer classic Mediterranean and international dishes inspired by the regions in which the ship is sailing and a dedicated team of international chefs enhance the culinary experience with a focus on sourcing local premium products.   6. From personalised touches to tailor-made shore excursions    Guests of the MSC Yacht Club can also expect daily amenities and delicacies, ranging from fresh fruits to macarons and chocolates as well as a spirit bottle of guests’ choice delivered in-suite. MSC Yacht Club guests also benefit from unpacking and packing services, as well as a personal shopping session in the onboard boutiques outside of regular opening hours or even a private jewellery viewing in the comfort of the guest’s suite. Guests can also enjoy the MED by MSC, our exclusive range of organic amenities specifically catered for MSC Yacht Club guests. Finaly, guests can also ask for tailor-made excursions and customised experiences with private guides and transportation for experiences crafted to their wishes.   7. A family-friendly area with extra-services allowing parents privacy and peace of mind.   For ease, families travelling with children don’t need to leave the MSC Yacht Club area when their children need to be collected, their butler can collect the guests’ children from the kid’s club and bring them to wherever the parents are, meaning the experience is seamless for the whole family.   8. Dedicated area in MSC Cruises Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve   For those guests traveling in the Caribbean, the exclusive MSC Yacht Club experience extends to this Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, where a private beach and restaurant await. This exclusive area, the MSC Yacht Club Ocean’s house, provides members with the same high level of service and personalised attention that they enjoy onboard.   MSC Yacht Club Executive Director, Marion Baland, says: “There are even more advantages of the MSC Yacht Club just waiting to be discovered by guests.    The beauty of the MSC Yacht Club lies in its ability to offer the best of both worlds. Whether guests are seeking a vibrant and varied entertainment experience for the whole family or a more serene and leisurely pace, it caters to all preferences. This flexibility sets it apart from other cruise lines, making it an ideal option for families, groups of friends, or couples.   This is one of the aspects we’ve highlighted in our latest and brand new MSC Yacht Club marketing campaign, which was launched today and showcases its exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice.”   To view the campaign visit: HERE   For more information about MSC Yacht Club visit Luxury cruises MSC Yacht Club: exclusive cruises | MSC Cruises

  Graham McKenzie engages in a lively discussion with Steve Williams, representing MSC, about the highly anticipated launch of their 2026 Southampton cruises. Williams reveals the strategic decision to launch earlier than usual, driven by feedback from trade partners and the desire to offer diverse itineraries. From short party cruises to scenic routes including Cove, Ireland, and the Icelandic fjords, MSC aims to cater to varied preferences. The interview highlights the overwhelming interest in the new itineraries, underscored by strong initial bookings, while also shedding light on MSC's loyalty program, offering enticing benefits to prospective cruisers.  

MSC Cruises confirmed an order for two new liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ships. They will be built by French ship builder Chantiers de l'Atlantique. It sees these two World Class series ship options confirmed as firm orders alongside an option for another ship. The two new ordered vessels, referred to as World Class 3 and 4, will be delivered in 2026 and 2027. The new ships will be an evolution of the World Class series design with extensive use of heat recovery and other technological solutions to maximise energy efficiency, In addition, the new ships will be ready for various alternative fuels including bio and synthetic methane and green methanol. The ships will also be fitted with the next generation dual fuel internal combustion engines with reduced methane slip. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman said, "We are proud to continue our 20-year partnership with the Chantiers de l'Atlantique.” “We are committed to researching and investing in future environmental technologies as they become available."  The new MSC cruise ships will feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port. They will also have advanced wastewater treatment systems.

 

Highest rating achieved across eight key performance indicators

  MSC Cruises has become the first major line to be awarded the Green Marine Europe Certification, a voluntary environmental certification programme for the maritime industry.   Green Marine Europe is a partnership between North American environmental certification programme Green Marine and the Surfrider Foundation, a leading European Union NGO in ocean and maritime protection.   MSC Cruises achieved the highest possible score across eight performance indicators that the organisers said represented ‘environmental excellence and leadership’.   The performance indicators measured were aquatic invasive species, pollutant air emissions – both sulphur dioxide and particulate matter – nitrogen dioxide pollutant air emissions, greenhouse gas emissions, oil discharge, waste management, underwater radiated noise and responsible ship recycling.   Captain Minas Myrtidis, MSC Cruises’ VP Environmental Operations and Compliance today collected the award on behalf of the line at a ceremony held in Bilbao, Spain.   Captain Myrtidis said: “We are immensely proud to be awarded the highest possible rating across all of the criteria. The Green Marine Europe certificate is testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone throughout our business, both onboard and ashore, who have dedicated their collective efforts to help MSC Cruises towards achieving its sustainability goals.  Our certification underscores our strong performance credentials as well as our commitment to performance improvement, transparency and accountability.”   MSC Cruises plus its sister company and luxury brand Explora Journeys have committed to measure their environmental performance annually and submit their results to Green Marine Europe for its external accredited verification.  Both lines have set targets to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.   The emissions intensity of MSC Cruises’ ship operations has decreased by 33.5 per cent since 2008 and the Company is confident in achieving a 40 per cent reduction by 2030.   The line’s flagship MSC Euribia in June 2023 achieved the world’s first net zero greenhouse gas emissions cruise ship voyage from France to Denmark on a mass balance basis.

MSC Cruises has adjusted several East Mediterranean cruises for MSC Sinfonia and MSC Musica due to the conflict in Israel. MSC Sinfonia's 11-night voyages will see Haifa, Israel replaced by Istanbul in Turkey. It also means Rhodes will be replaced by Piraeus, Greece and Izmir in Turkey will replace Limassol, Cyprus. Starting 21 Oct 2023, MSC Sinfonia's new itinerary will be the Italian ports of Genoa, Civitavecchia and Messina followed by Piraeus, Izmir, Istanbul and Heraklion in Crete before the ship returns to Genoa. MSC Musica's three 7-night voyages from Piraeus, Greece will see Haifa replaced by Rhodes on 18 and 25 October and Marmaris in Turkey on 1 November. Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said, "We have worked rapidly to revise the itineraries of MSC Sinfonia and MSC Musica to offer an attractive East Mediterranean cruise alternative for the winter months." The line has begun contacting all affected passengers and their travel agents. MSC Cruises will also update its website to reflect the confirmed details of the new itineraries.

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

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

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

 

• 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

  MSC Cruises hosted a special event on board MSC Bellissima in Yokohama, Japan to mark the start of the summer 2023 season and to celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the line’s presence in the country. At the same time, sales have today opened for MSC Cruises’ first ever winter season in Japan. 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 programme on MSC Bellissima will commence from November 2023 with an 11-night, 9-night and 6-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 23/24 season will see MSC Bellissima sailing within Japan and to Keelung, Taiwan (China), offering cruises of four to five nights in length, with varying itineraries visiting destinations such as:  

• Okinawa, Japan - The fifth largest island of Japan 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 snorkelling, diving and surfing sites, guests may go searching for the 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 pepper the area and offer breath-taking views out to sea
• Miyako Island, Japan - Miyako Island is revered for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Guests will delight in local foods, including sweet mangoes, or go out looking for adventure in the many underwater caverns

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

The MSC Foundation teamed up with the International Union for Conservation of Nature to help conserve coral reefs. It will enable the completion of the global assessment of coral reef species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The assessment project aims to deliver actionable restoration plans for coral reefs, as well as the species populating them. The project will include prioritisng conservation and restoration actions based on the threats they face. “Our new partnership is a powerful commitment to conserve threatened coral reefs, and seagrass beds,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group Cruise Division. The partnership will also contribute to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.