All aboard for a big adventure as cruise giant sets sail
ONCE you had to be rich beyond the dreams of avarice to go cruising. Now, while prices have tumbled, it’s still a luxurious way to holiday.
Scots can access some of the world’s finest ships right on our doorsteps.
The mighty MSC Preziosa was a recent guest in Greenock, Renfrewshire.
With more than 4,300 passengers and more than 1,300 crew, it is the largest cruise ship to enter the port this year.
In true seafaring tradition, its company and the port authority took part in a crest exchange to mark her visit.
Antonio Paradiso, MSC’s managing director for the UK and Ireland, is excited about the firm’s presence here. ‘The Preziosa will call two more times in Greenock this year and the great news is that next year we will have two more ships calling in Scotland,’ he said. ‘Scotland will always be on our map. There is a great demand right now.
‘People are really fascinated about the history and the culture.’
MSC Cruises is certainly making its mark. With a fleet of 12 ships and 11 more on order, it is set to cement its place at the pinnacle of the industry.
MSC is a family-run business, owned by the Aponte family in Italy which has more than 300 years of seafaring history, says Mr Paradiso: ‘That’s something you can’t buy, it’s priceless.’
Talking of priceless, one of MSC Preziosa’s signature features is its Swarovski crystal staircases – each one costing a whopping £1million.
The ship also boasts seven restaurants, 20 bars and lounges, four pools as well as a gym. If all that was not enough, there is also a 1,600-seater theatre.
In addition, MSC has also just entered into a partnership Cirque De Soleil which will produce two unique shows for MSC’s new ship – the Meraviglia – which will be launched in June.