After a very successful 2022, MSC Cruises has confirmed the MSC Virtuosa will be based in Southampton into summer 2023.
The 4,475-passenger ship, the first to restart cruising in the UK in May 2021, is the first time the line has continuously operated one of its vessels from the UK for 2 years uninterrupted sailing.
MSC Virtuosa replaced the MSC Preziosa’s itineraries, offering cruises to Northern Europe ranging from three-night breaks to three-week trips.
“Since MSC Virtuosa first came to the UK, the feedback from our guests has been incredible and the ships has been a huge hit,” said Antonio Paradiso, Managing Director UK and Ireland.
“The increased appetite for stress-free no-fly cruises out of the UK combined with the benefits of the new state-of-the-art Horizon Terminal has resulted in huge demand.”
Paradiso cited the continued deployment of one of MSC’s newest and most innovative ships out of the UK as “further proof of the continued importance of the UK market.”
The ship has everything you could want for a fun-filled holiday whether you want to relax poolside, take on water slides at the aquapark, ride a car racing simulator, or have a go at a wide variety of sports including tennis and basketball.
Come evening time, there’s an elegant onboard casino to discover, or you can always catch a show at the impressive theatre. During the summer 2022 sailing saw reggae band UB40 play. The iconic ’80s band were onboard MSC Virtuosa for Imagine Cruising’s UB40 Summer Sailcation, no doubt with beloved hits such as chart-topper Red Red Wine.
Foodies will be spoiled for choice thanks to the 10 dining venues, including five specialty restaurants. For those who fancy a tipple, there are 21 bars and lounges – but make sure to leave time to visit the MSC Starship Club where you can get drinks created by Rob; the first ever humanoid robotic bartender at sea!
For those looking for a spot of pampering, the Balinese-style Aurea Spa is a must-visit with its extensive menu of massages, aromatherapy, skincare and beauty treatments.
There’s also quite the scenic itinerary on the cards for passengers sailing roundtrip from Southampton. For more information on how to book for 2023, please visit https://www.msccruises.co.uk/