The first ever MSC World Cruise

[gkbiiii]

 

The First World Cruise by MSC Cruises

I wonder what it is going to be like?

[Hlitner]

Don't know, but we think that MSC is a breath of fresh air to an industry that needs some new air. The cruise industry has been undergoing many changes in the last few years....most of them not very good. Lines have been gradually cutting back in terms of quality when it comes to cuisine, entertainment and even service. We have been avid cruisers since the early 70s and always keep an open mind on cruise options (we have been on 14 cruise lines). We have watched MSC since they entered the cruise market (in Europe) by purchasing a few older ships and offering budget pricing. When they started building their own vessels we thought "this is very interesting" and have been watching the line work on establishing a decent reputation. When they first moved into the US market we thought a little more competition might be a kick in the butt of the regular US cruise lines. But alas, lines like Celebrity, HAL, etc. have continued cutting back on many things...while enhancing amenities for the most expensive suite accommodations.

 

We are not surprised to see MSC moving further into the world market...with a true world cruise. Some MSC ideas such as their Yacht Club...is shaking up the entire industry..as other lines try to react to these new ideas. Currently, NCL does have their Haven Suite concept...but most other lines do not have anything on their current ships to compete with the Yacht Club concept. We have finally booked our own MSC Cruise (in the Yacht Club) and really look forward to starting our relationship with this company. MSC seems to be going out of their way to attract experienced cruisers with their match program. And my two phone calls to MSC (with issues regarding their Match program) were met with very polite and well informed staff (another breath of fresh air...after dealing with a few other cruise lines).

 

We really wish MSC the best of luck in the US Market. We were early fans of Sitmar Lines which was an Italian line unfortunately gobbled up by Princess (a Carnival company). Having another Italian owned line (MSC) in the US market makes us smile. As to the World Cruise....it might be in our future.

 

Hank

[champagne123]

 

The First World Cruise by MSC Cruises

I wonder what it is going to be like?

WOW...that looks amazing. How in the WORLD do I pack for over 100 days:o:o:o

[Bra_BE2014]

Looks like it's going to be sold out!

 

 

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[CGTNORMANDIE]

Hi Hank,

A big DITTO to everything you said about the state of the industry and MSC. We feel exactly like you do. The mass market lines have become ruled by corporate greed. The sad part is that the corporate hierarchy is being paid way beyond imagining. Hopefully, MSC will provide the competition with enough stimulus to help reverse the current course.

[gkbiiii]

The one problem I see, is that the ship and dining in particular, have horrible reviews. MSC will need to step it up, and have a world class product, for their first World Cruise!

[gkbiiii]

Well MSC managed to have a "sold out" World Cruise, good for them! I am surprised by this, but I guess there really is a pent up demand.

 

I have thought that Royal Caribbean & Celebrity would have great success with a World Voyage too, but they have not done one.

 

So both MSC & Costa currently have World Cruises, who knew this would be possible?

[Beamafar]

It may just be 'sold out' due to MSC allowing for passengers to book various 'legs' along the way.