MSC Cruises brings the glamour to Southampton with two ships

MSC Cruises is the largest privately-owned cruise line in the world and, with an ambitious fleet expansion plan on the books, now is a perfect time to experience the glamourous European line and start earning loyalty points for extra perks on future cruises.

The line calls Southampton home for two ships, offering a seamless boarding and departure experience, without the need for airports and luggage restrictions. The ships – MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia – are two of the most spectacular in the MSC Cruises' fleet, so UK-based cruisers are spoilt for choice.

Meet the ships
The two UK-based ships are some of the most elaborate in the MSC fleet, with spectacular state-of-the-art features across entertainment, dining, and even in the comfort of your stateroom. Next-generation technology combines with classic style and hospitality to create an all-in-one memorable holiday.

And with lots of space around the ship, MSC Cruises is an excellent choice for a multi-generational getaway, where the children will have a great time in the pools, waterparks, and kids club, while the adults indulge in the MSC Aurea Spa, get energised in the cutting-edge gym, and relax in the huge shopping arcade or one of the many lounges.

If you’re looking to take your MSC voyage to the next level, then treat yourself to the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, for a top-level premium luxury experience including a private pool with its own solarium, dedicated restaurant, lounge and 24-hour butler service. Plus, the MSC Yacht Club includes a host of complimentary features, from unlimited Wi-Fi and drinks to thermal suite access in the MSC Aurea Spa.

From Southampton to the world
Whether you’re a warm or cold weather cruiser, Southampton is an ideal homeport given its easy access to a huge range of destinations, reaching from the northern stretches of Europe in Scandinavia to the balmy southern shores of the Mediterranean and even the Canary Islands.

If the ancient appeal of the Vikings draws you north, then MSC Virtuosa’s one-week voyage to Norway (departing May 11, 2024), via the Shetland Islands, could be just the ticket. At your northernmost point, you’ll sail deep into the famous fjords and dock in Flåm, where a gorgeous scenic railway takes you around the valley, with spectacular views. Further south, Kristiansand is an incredible time-travelling experience as you witness scenes that are perfectly frozen in time… dating back many centuries.

Or maybe it’s the warmth of the Canary Islands that draws you to the ocean. In that case, MSC Virtuosa has your dream holiday, setting sail from Southampton on June 3, 2024.

This 12-night jaunt around the Canary Islands additionally visits Vigo on the southbound leg and Lisbon on the return trip to Southampton. When island hopping, you’ll immerse yourself in the lush green and vibrant pink landscape of Madeira before exploring the dramatically volcanic Spanish islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote. Not only is this itinerary a dream for some chilled-out beach vibes, but the line’s impressive selection of shore excursions help you explore further for the ultimate day in port.

Winter specials
And it’s not just summer cruising – MSC offers sailings from Southampton throughout the year, with a line-up of coastal Christmas market cruises adding a splash of something special to the festive season.

With three week-long voyages departing in the run-up to Christmas, MSC Euribia is a dreamy way to finish that last little bit of Christmas shopping in the heartland of traditional Christmas markets. From Southampton MSC Euribia journeys to Hamburg – with its wide range of classic and themed festive markets – and then Rotterdam, Zeebrugge (with easy links to Bruges), and Le Havre (the port gateway to Paris) on the return to Southampton. Just think, with no airline luggage restrictions, there’s no limit to how much shopping you can do.

To find out more, visit www.msccruises.co.uk