Johannesburg - Now that you’ve got a taste for cruising on one of MSC’s local cruises, maybe it’s time to think further afield – like Europe.
The cruise line will have 11 ships setting sail on hundreds of voyages across the Mediterranean this coming European summer, says Allan Foggitt, MSC Cruises South Africa marketing and sales director.
For those doing Europe for the first time or even the “old hands” at travel, a cruise is a tempting and sensible option.
No matter how many dazzling destinations on your chosen itinerary, on board a ship you’re free from the hassles of travel schedules, hotel bookings, searching for quality restaurants, and all the constant packing and unpacking that usually goes with it.
A photo posted by MSC Cruises Official (@msccruisesofficial) on Mar 31, 2016 at 4:04am PDT
Foggitt says an MSC Cruise doesn’t just make the gems of the Mediterranean accessible, but when compared to its land-based competitors, it’s surprisingly affordable too. Holidays with MSC Cruises have always been renowned for their excellent value, and now with the troubled rand, the value of cruising from one exotic European port to another is more attractive than ever before.
A photo posted by MSC Cruises Official (@msccruisesofficial) on Apr 1, 2016 at 5:48am PDT
The accommodation, abundant cuisine and endless entertainment on board are all included in the fare.
Kids under 18 cruise and eat free and the fares themselves are quoted in rand, so you know exactly what you’re in for.
“Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the Greek islands, exploring the labyrinthine Turkish bazaars, riding a Venetian gondola, or meandering around the picturesque French towns of Cannes, you can experience your top dream destinations all in one incredible itinerary,” says Foggitt.
From Athens to Ajaccio, Bari, Corfu and beyond, MSC Cruises have the Med well and truly covered. “An MSC Mediterranean cruise is an exotic escape like no other,” says Foggitt.
“And at a fraction of the cost.”
From close up, the elegance of an MSC Cruise ship and its promise of a magical voyage is enough to take anyone’s breath away.
You can’t help but drink in the opulence, the sublime Italian design, and the mastery of every finest detail as your steward guides you to your stylish cabin. And by the time you’ve validated the firmness of your mattress, tested the air con, and found out that your luggage will be delivered by your porter, you’re free to explore the 5-star world that will be your home for the next few days.
Every MSC ship has something unique to offer. Some have sweeping Swarovski crystal staircases, transparent ceilings for gazing at star-lit skies, Formula 1 simulators and interactive 4D cinemas, some have real stone piazzas and infinity pools, while others have Zen gardens and sushi bars.
All MSC ships have swimming pools with whirlpool baths, sun decks and solariums, gyms, state-of-the-art sports centres and jogging tracks, lavish spas, hair and beauty salons, designer bars and lounges, live music, discos, Broadway-scale theatres, boutiques, and duty-free shopping – all just a stroll away.
Kids and teens even have their own luxury resort leisure facilities on board like aqua parks, swimming pools, water slides and top games consoles. There are dedicated mini-clubs, junior clubs, and teen clubs all packed with age-appropriate events and activities.
The restaurants are second to none. Whether you’re dining in one of the cruise liners’ sophisticated main restaurants, tucking into their astonishingly diverse array of food at the buffet restaurants, or snacking on poolside platters, on an MSC Cruise you’ll find that every meal is one to remember.
There’s so much of your new 5-star world to explore – but make sure you’re on deck for the Sail Away Party. The lines are drawn in, the horns blast, and the land starts slipping out of view as the ship starts to glide from the pier. MSC celebrates it with a festive start-of-the-cruise event led by its dancers and entertainment team.
On a luxury cruise, sipping a cocktail and taking in all the delights of the Mediterranean… it doesn’t just have to be a dream any more.
l www.msccruises.co.za
Saturday Star