MSC Cruises’ UK boss has hinted the line could soon add new products to its portfolio as he urged customers to book cruises now before fares rise due to increased demand.
Calls to private island destinations Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas and Sir Bani Yas Island in the Middle East are currently included in the line’s programme.
But UK and Ireland managing director Antonio Paradiso said the line wants to “build on” Ocean Cay (pictured), which opened in late 2019, and increase the number of private destinations it offers.
“We’re always looking for new opportunities, whether that be land, sea or sky,” he told a Travel Weekly webcast. “Right now, I cannot confirm or deny anything, but there’s always an evolution when it comes to the cruise industry.
“There’s always something new [and] exciting coming our way. I would highly recommend to our customers to take advantage of Ocean Cay.”
Paradiso called on customers to book MSC’s cruises ahead of the launch of the line’s TV campaign next month. “I can see in the future that prices will go up,” he said, adding: “This is the right time to book.”
Asked what booking trends MSC had seen so far during the wave sales period, Paradiso said: “People want to spend more money. They probably believe it’s the holiday they deserve.
“I’m seeing people upgrading their experience so [onboard luxury area] MSC Yacht Club is selling really fast. We’ve never seen this before so that’s really encouraging.”
Paradiso pointed out that passengers were booking longer sailings. “Before they would have booked a mini-cruise or a one-week cruise, now they’re trying to spend two weeks at sea,” he said.
MSC confirmed on Monday that MSC Bellissima would take over from MSC Virtuosa from early April, extending the Arabian Gulf season to June 25.
The 4,500-passenger ship will operate seven-night sailings, calling into Sir Bani Yas Island, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, all United Arab Emirates.
Paradiso said extending the Arabian Gulf season was “a win-win” situation for passengers. “There’s such demand for Dubai,” he said. “We believe it’s great to extend the season until June. It’s a great opportunity for everyone.”