MSC Cruises claimed a record day for sales on Friday, exceeding all targets by achieving a 40% rise in bookings compared with the previous best day during the wave period in pre-pandemic 2019.
The momentum came as the result of a strong, established relationship with trade partners and continued investment in raising the brand profile including the ‘Only the sea’ TV advertising which started in March, according to the line.
UK and Ireland sales director Steve Williams said: “It’s so rewarding to see the trade supporting MSC Cruises at levels never experienced previously, with sales at an all-time high.
“We are seeing unprecedented levels of support from all our trade partners, and for this we would like to extend our thanks.
“Whilst of course the large cruise specialists continue to perform exceptionally, we are seeing a significant increase from the high street, home workers, small independents, tour operators and consolidators.”
The line has four ships now committed to the UK – MSC Magnifica for winter-spring 2022, MSC Virtuosa for summer 2022, MSC Preziosa for winter 2022-23 and MSC Grandiosa for summer 2023.
William added: “We pride ourselves on our ongoing commitment to our partners, and providing agents with all the tools and resources they need to sell cruise holidays.
“From the recent restructure and promotions within the team to ensure we are providing all the hands-on senior leadership and support needed, to committing to launching two new ships in 2023 increasing our overall fleet to 21 ships, and providing agents with more choice of hardware and more itineraries than ever before. We are committed to achieving our goal to give UK guests the holidays they want, and travel agents the cruises they want to sell.”