MSC Cruises’ UK boss Antonio Paradiso believes customers currently want larger ships with more public space.
The line will welcome its 20th ship to its fleet this winter with the launch of MSC World Europa, which can carry up to 6,762 passengers.
MSC World Europa – the line’s largest vessel – will have around 42,000 square metres of public space, Paradiso said.
Asked whether there was demand for large vessels as the world emerged from the pandemic, Paradiso said: “World Europa has 22 decks and it will be 47 metres wide. This is what customers are looking for.”
He added: “Passengers will be spending much of their time in the public spaces because that is where the ship comes to life with all the amazing features.
“It will be a challenge to discover all of the ship during a seven-day sailing.”
Paradiso said the MSC luxury brand Explora Journeys would operate lower-capacity ships in the event customers wanted smaller vessels.
The luxury line’s maiden vessel, Explora I, which is scheduled to enter service in a year’s time, will have 461 suites.
Paradiso explained how MSC Cruises ships had always been “generous” with how much space they offered.
He added how larger ships almost became like “a destination” due to their size.
“It’s a controlled environment,” he said, adding: “It is where people spend most of their time. That is why we need to make sure that there are lot of activities.
“There’s never a quiet time on a MSC ship.”
MSC World Europa (pictured) will feature a multi-functional entertainment venue called Luna Park Arena that will host movies, game shows, children’s activities and different themed parties.
And there will be a 1,153 seat World Theatre on the vessel, which will also have seven swimming pools and 13 whirlpools including a Zen Pool at the ship’s aft.
On the current booking levels, Paradiso said: “The biggest difference is we’re seeing more last-minute demand.
“Our biggest booking day was May 30, so I was rather delighted when I opened my morning report. It’s crazy. We’ve seen a strong uptick in bookings for 2023 as well.”
He added: “If 2022 is not going be a record-breaking year, then 2023 will be. I am pretty confident.”
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