MSC Cruises will offer a special range of short breaks and week-long cruises around the British Isles this summer for UK holidaymakers only. Sailings some of the UK’s favourite destinations, will be open to both vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests under the protection of MSC Cruises’ tried and tested health and safety protocol
Starting from 20 May onwards and from the new terminal in the port of Southampton, MSC Cruises‘ new sailings will kick off with a series of short cruises. These will be followed by 7-night sailings visiting some of the UK’s favourite destinations and offering additional ports of embarkation to guests.
Antonio Paradiso, Managing Director MSC Cruises UK & Ireland said: “It’s time for UK holidaymakers to get back on board and enjoy a well-deserved break from what has been a very challenging 12 months for everyone in so many ways. MSC Cruises is a family-owned company and our guests are an extension of that, so we are looking forward to welcoming them and their families back on board. Our hope is to offer every type of holidaymaker the chance to escape this summer – from grandparents to teens and even the smallest of passengers looking to explore.
MSC Cruises will welcome both vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests. All guests will be tested prior to embarkation, while non-vaccinated guests will also be required to show proof of negative test done within 72 hours prior to embarkation.
Crew, in addition to the protocol-mandated test and 14-day quarantine prior to embarkation, will also receive weekly testing, in addition to other ongoing health monitoring measures.
MSC Cruises health and safety protocol
All sailings will take place following the MSC Cruises health and safety protocol. The protocol is built around a comprehensive strategy that includes universal testing of all guests and crew prior to embarkation and periodically throughout the cruise, deep and ongoing sanitation, protected-only shore excursions, as well as many other normal measures such as social distancing and the wearing of face coverings. Furthermore the ships will sail with a reduced capacity.
MSC Cruises will continue to adapt the protocol in line with relevant requirements and guidance, to provide the same seamless experience they are used to when cruising.
Guests can expect a variety of fun and engaging areas for children with play areas for a range of ages and world-class dining and round-the-clock entertainment offerings that provide multi-generational groups with a holiday option that suits this summer.
MSC Cruises is also working on a programme of protected shore excursions for guests to experience the destinations. But this is subject to prevailing circumstances and local guidance at the time of sailing.
Further details regarding the UK sailings will be announced shortly.