MSC –

When MSC launched it’s flagship vessel, Preziosa in 2013, little did we know about the ambitious plans in the pipeline to double it’s passenger capacity. Their plans were to purchase 11 new-build ships by the year 2026, with first of these, the Meraviglia launched earlier this year. It is a ship like no other and you can read the latest reviews here. They have spectacular Cirque du Soleil enertainment shows on board which you can read more about here.

The next  ships to be launched are the Seaside this December and the Seaview in June 2018. These ships are described by MSC as “rewriting the rule book of cruise ship design, blending indoor and outdoor areas to connect you with the sea like never before. Circling the entire ship as low as Deck 8 is a unique seafront promenade lined with places to eat, drink, shop, swim and sunbathe. And you can enjoy more superb views from the two-deck glass-walled atrium and panoramic elevators”. More information on this link.

This week they have just announced the name of the next ‘Meraviglia plus’ vessel as the Grandiosa. This will join the Belissima which is due to be launched in March 2019. These are incredibly hi-tech ships with ‘MSC for Me’ technology which provides an enhanced onboard experience, connecting you to your fellow guests, the crew and the ship itself. It has a promenade, similar to those on Royal Caribbean ships.  It spans 2 decks and features a spectacular 80-metre-long LED dome with ever-changing and is lined with places to shop, eat and drink. The screen is used to create light shows  while the promenade itself features pre-dinner parades each day.

MSC are clearly wanting to become more of a a major player in the cruise industry and are already working on attracting more of an international clientele, especially from the UK and America. There is no doubt that their investment is ambitious in both the size of their fleet as well as the technology and features on board.

MSC have not always received the most rave reviews, especially from UK travellers as they are not used to having a predominantly Italian clientele on board, although on my one cruise with them I had no complaints and the Preziosa was definitely one of the most beautiful ships I’ve been on, however change is afoot and wither wider mix of nationalities on board.

I am excited to experience the new ships. Would you be tempted?