Articles by Bill Ospring on ArticleSnatch.com

MSC Poesia is Here! MSC Cruises' Ship Arrives for Inaugural Caribbean Season

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:15:29 -0500

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. - Welcomed by local and port officials and popular television star and entrepreneur Suzanne Somers, MSC Poesia arrived in Port Everglades today to begin her inaugural season of Caribbean sailings. "We are very excited to introduce MSC Poesia to North America," says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA), Inc. "It is an elegant ship in every respect – spectacular public areas, and a wealth of choices for dining, entertainment and activities, all with a style that epitomizes MSC Cruises." Somers presented Sasso with a plaque commemorating the ship’s arrival. "MSC Poesia is poetry in motion and we are excited to have her sail to our shores," said Port Everglades Director Phil Allen. The Italian, family-owned line is bringing the elegant MSC Poesia to Fort Lauderdale for a season featuring itineraries of 3, 5, 7, 8 and 10 nights throughout the Caribbean and to Bermuda during the winter season before returning to Europe in spring 2010. MSC Poesia features 1,275 staterooms, of which 80% are outside staterooms and 65% have a balcony. **End Summary** Topics: MSC poesia]]> fort lauderdale cruise]]> cruises departing from fort lauderdale]]> MSC cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Msc Cruises Receives Two '2009 Cruise Critic Editors' Picks Awards

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 04:11:24 -0500

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. – MSC Cruises received "Best Big-Ship Luxury Enclave for MSC Yacht Club" and "Best Kept Secret," honors in the 2009 Cruise Critic Editors' Picks Awards. The awards honor the world's top cruise lines and highlight the best of the best in cruising. MSC Yacht Club is like a "ship within a ship," with dedicated VIP areas available onboard the MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida. The MSC Yacht Club allows guests to experience the best of both worlds –personalized service and a private, intimate space while also enjoying the full benefits the magnificent vessel has to offer. "Cruise lines continue to maintain exceptional standards and provide a fantastic vacation experience for travelers," said editor-in-chief Carolyn Spencer Brown. "Cruise lines should be justifiably proud of their staff, crew, partners and agencies that have made such achievements possible." The Cruise Critic Editors' Picks Awards evaluate cruise lines and ships according to who they cater to and compares like-for-like. **End Summary** Topics: msc fantasia]]> msc splendida]]> msc yacht club]]> cruise critic awards]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Expands South American Cruise Choices for 2009-2010 Season

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 04:32:10 -0500

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA (October 23, 2009) – South America ranks as one of the world’s great destinations, and with the recent awarding of the 2016 Summer Olympics to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil has gained even more worldwide attention. MSC Cruises has established itself as one of the leaders in South American cruises, with a flexible array of 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, 8- and 9-night itineraries from Santos, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Buenos Aries from October 2009 through mid-May 2010. Guests on the more than 140 MSC South America cruises can expect to experience the natural beauties, vibrant cities, and nightlife which have made the region an increasingly popular vacation choice. Port calls, depending upon itinerary and cruise length, will include Ilhéus, Maceiό, Ilhabela, Ilha Grande, Punta Del Este, Búzios, Ubatuba, Recife, Fortaleza, Cabedelo and Montevidéo. MSC Lirica will open the season, her first in Brazilian waters, sailing from Santos on Oct. 23 and calling at Rio de Janeiro, Búzios, Ubatuba and Santos. She will be joined by MSC Musica, MSC Opera, MSC Melody, MSC Armonia and MSC Orchestra. **End Summary** Topics: south america cruises]]> msc lirica]]> cruise to rio de janeiro]]> cruise to buenos aries]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Offers 'Best Fare, Best Room' Rates On 2010 Europe Summer Sailings

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:26:53 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. - MSC Cruises is offering travelers planning to cruise Europe next summer the opportunity to take advantage of a "Best Fare, Best Room" savings promotion. Guests receive the best available staterooms at the lowest price within their selected category at the time of booking. Rates begin at $699 per person on select 7-night cruises and $949 for 10-night and positioning cruises visiting some of Europe's most exotic ports. Itineraries featuring special "Best Fare, Best Room" rates on 7-night sailings include: • MSC Fantasia: Western Mediterranean "Mediterranean Fantasy" roundtrip from Barcelona, Genoa, Naples, or Marseille, from $849; • MSC Splendida: Western Mediterranean "The Splendid Mediterranean" roundtrip from Genoa, Barcelona, Naples, Civitavecchia, or Marseille, from $799; • MSC Lirica: Western Mediterranean "Mediterranean Marvels" roundtrip from Genoa, Civitavecchia, or Salerno, from $699; • MSC Sinfonia: Western Mediterranean "Sparkling Mediterranean Rivieras" roundtrip from Venice, Livorno, or Naples, from $729; • MSC Magnifica: Italy, Greece and Turkey "The Magnificent Mediterranean" roundtrip from Venice or Bari, from $749; • MSC Musica: Eastern Mediterranean "Greek Islands in the Sun" roundtrip from Venice or Bari, from $949; • MSC Armonia: Eastern Mediterranean "Jewels of the Adriatic" roundtrip from Venice, from $729; **End Summary** Topics: Mediterranean cruises]]> western mediterranean cruise]]> eastern mediterranean cruise]]> MSC orchestra]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Family Fun at Sea With MSC Cruises and Kids Sail Free

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:13:05 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (October 7, 2009) – For the perfect vacation that combines a family escape with the desire to discover new places, MSC Cruises has it all. Plus, kids ages 17 and under sail free on all MSC Cruises’ itineraries when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. On each MSC Cruises sailing, our friendly staff caters to the specific needs of all ages - including the youngest guests. Each ship has cheerful, colorful, safe play areas. MSC Cruises’ ships are kid friendly, offering daily entertainment and plenty of space for running, exploring, diving, swimming and playing. Special activity leaders organize age-appropriate fun activities, with ages 3-6 in the Mini Club, 7-12 in the Juniors Club, and 13-17 in the Teenagers Club. MSC Cruises also offers a Teen’s Card. This personalized card, which can be used like a credit/cruise card, allows children ages 12-17 to spend nominal amounts of money on board. Each card comes with a bonus amount. In the Caribbean, a $30 card purchase comes with a $5 bonus (a total card value of $35); a $50 card purchase comes with $10 bonus, for a total value of $60. **End Summary** Topics: MSC cruises]]> family cruise]]> kids cruise free]]> kid friendly cruise]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Announces Powerful Lineup of 'Baseball Greats'

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:46:41 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (September 30, 2009) - Fans of America's pastime can gain unique insights into the world of professional baseball on MSC Cruises' "Baseball Greats" theme cruises. Some of the greats of the game - including numerous record holders and members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum - will be onboard, sharing their skills and their memories, during the powerful line up of five "Baseball Greats" theme cruises as MSC Poesia sails her inaugural season in the U.S. during the 2009-10 Caribbean cruise season. In addition to visits to some of the Caribbean's most beautiful locations, each "Baseball Greats" "sailing includes free interactive guest/player activities, including a player-hosted trivia game in which guests can test their baseball knowledge, question-and-answer sessions with the players, a guest pitching contest and a lively story-telling session. Players will also host pitching, hitting, fielding and base running clinics. Perhaps the most popular activity is the free autograph session at the end of the cruise. MSC Poesia offers "Baseball Greats" theme cruises on the following roundtrip itineraries from Fort Lauderdale: * Nov. 20, 2009: 10-night Southern Caribbean featuring Panama, featuring Bob Feller, Cito Gaston, Frank Howard, Stan Bahnsen and Bill Russell. **End Summary** Topics: MSC poesia]]> eastern caribbean cruise]]> western caribbean cruise]]> theme cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Offers Special 'Winter Getaway' Rates On Select Caribbean Sailings

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 01:11:48 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (September 28, 2009) - Guests looking for a getaway during the upcoming winter months can save more than 60 percent off retail rates on select 7-night sailings of MSC Poesia to the warm Caribbean. Special cruise-only "Winter Getaway" rates begin at $399 per person, double occupancy, on select sailings and stateroom types for residents of the U.S. and Canada. The limited-time "Winter Getaway" rates are available on the following itineraries, all sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale: * "Eastern Caribbean Enchantment:" Jan. 9, 23 and 30; calling at San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas; rates begin at $399. * "Island Treasures & Ancient Temples" and "Baseball Greats:" Jan. 16 and Feb. 6; calling at Key West, Florida; Playa del Carmen, Mexico; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Nassau; rates begin at $469. The "Winter Getaway" offer is available on new bookings made by October 31. Kids under the age of 17 sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults (government fees and taxes for all guests are additional). All cruises offer just a $100 deposit on all sailings and itineraries. **End Summary** Topics: Eastern caribbean cruise]]> msc poesia]]> kids cruise free]]> theme cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Updates Program for 2010/11 Caribbean, Canada/New England Sailings

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:17:30 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. MSC Cruises updated its cruise program for the 2010/11 season to Canada/New England and the Caribbean with plans to bring MSC Poesia back to the U.S. According to Richard E. Sasso, president and chief-executive-officer for MSC Cruises (USA), Inc., MSC Poesiaâ€™s return to the U.S. for the 2010/11 cruise season will be welcome news to guests who have given the ship rave reviews on her Mediterranean sailings and will bring one of the newest of our Musica Class ships back to America for an encore season.â€ MSC Poesia departs Kiel, Germany on Sept. 4, 2010 on an 18-night transatlantic journey to New York City. She will call at Copenhagen, Denmark; Southampton, England; Le Havre, France; Vigo, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; Ponta Delgada, Azores/Portugal; Kingâ€™s Wharf, Bermuda; and makes her inaugural arrival in New York City on Sept. 21, 2010 with an overnight in NYC. The ship will then will make history with the introduction of MSC Cruisesâ€™ first series of Canada/New England fall foliage cruises: â€¢ A 10-night roundtrip, departing from New York City on Sept. **End Summary** Topics: New England cruise]]> Canada cruise]]> New York cruise]]> msc poesia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

COUNTDOWN TO THE CARIBBEAN: MSC CRUISES READY FOR EXCITING SEASON WITH MSC POESIA, LINEUP OF CRUISES

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:54:55 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (SEPTEMBER 14, 2009) The countdown continues as MSC Cruises prepares for an exciting 2009-10 Caribbean season that includes the much-anticipated arrival of MSC Poesia in North American waters, a wide variety of special theme cruises and interesting itineraries. The Italian, family-owned line is bringing the elegant MSC Poesia to Fort Lauderdale for a season featuring itineraries of 3-, 5-, 7-, 8- and 10-nights throughout the Caribbean and to Bermuda during the winter season before returning to Europe in spring 2010. MSC Poesia features 1,275 staterooms, of which 80% are outside staterooms and 65% have a balcony. There will be 2 pools and 4 hot tubs, a 13,000-square-foot spa, and four restaurants, including a Sushi Bar themed restaurant. MSC Poesia will arrive in Fort Lauderdale Nov. 10, after a 17-night transatlantic journey from Venice. Her Caribbean season will include: â€¢ 5-night sailings: Nov. 10 and Nov. 15 â€¢ 10-night itineraries Nov. 20, Nov. 30, Dec. 10 â€¢ 7-night Christmas itinerary, departing Dec. 20 â€¢ 7-night New Yearâ€™s itinerary, departing Dec. 27 â€¢ 7-night itineraries a variety of eastern and western itineraries Jan. **End Summary** Topics: Poesia]]> caribbean cruises]]> 2010 caribbean cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Food and Wine Cruises Added to Select MSC Cruises' Sailings in 2009-10

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:22:54 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (SEPTEMBER 8, 2009) Learn the culinary skills needed to prepare fine food and select wines from Italy and around the world on select MSC Cruises itineraries in 2009-10. Guests onboard MSC Poesiaâ€™s April 10, seven-night Island Treasures & Ancient Templesâ€ Caribbean cruise itinerary will experience Festa Italiana.â€ This celebration of all things Italianâ€ features culinary demonstrations to learn the secrets of cooking European dishes by top Italian chefs or attend lectures on Italian art and architecture, automobiles, fashion and design while enjoying entertainment by opera singers and contemporary Italian vocal artists. Exclusive Food and Wineâ€ theme cruises have been created on the luxurious MSC Melody, MSC Armonia, MSC Orchestra, and the new sister ships, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, to teach guests many of the culinary secrets that have given them such a special stay while on board. These special culinary programs are available on the following sailings: â€¢ MSC Melody: Oct. 23, 14-night repositioning from Genoa to Salvador de Bahia â€¢ MSC Armonia: Nov. 15, 21-night repositioning from Venice to Buenos Aires â€¢ MSC Splendida: Nov. 27, 11-night Eastern Mediterranean itinerary roundtrip from Genoa â€¢ MSC Fantasia: Feb. **End Summary** Topics: food and wine cruise]]> themed cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Dance Under the Stars - MSC Latin Dancing Theme Cruise

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:54:12 -0400

Latin Dance Theme Cruise Offers Tango, Mambo, Salsa, Samba and Cha Cha Lessons; Workshops, Competitions FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (September 11, 2009) Latin Dance Theme Cruises are being offered on select transatlantic MSC Cruises sailings of MSC Opera, MSC Lirica, MSC Armonia, MSC Orchestra, and MSC Musica across the Atlantic October through December. Learn the Tango, Mambo, Salsa, Samba, and Cha Cha during daily dance lessons with instructors teaching dancers of all experience levelsâ€”from beginner to more advanced/intermediate levels. Workshops highlighting the origins and special features of the different dance techniques, as well as dance shows, will be featured. Upon completion of the dance lessons, guests receive a commemorative certificate. Regular dance competitions showcasing the dancersâ€™ skill with the Tango, Mambo, Salsa, Samba, and Cha Cha will be held onboard. Dancers can get all dressed up for costumed evening dancing onboard where everything from rhythmic Latin music to the groove sounds of the â€˜70s will be playing. In addition to Dancing under the Stars, guests will be enjoying sports, leisure and entertainment facilities, gourmet food and drinks. **End Summary** Topics: themed cruise]]> themed cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Survive These Economic Times with Financial Makeover ToolsÃ¢â¬Â Complimentary Seminars Onboard

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 02:23:25 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (September 1, 2009) MSC Cruises has further expanded its already extensive lineup of Caribbean 2009-10 theme cruises, adding a consumer-oriented program to help teach guests Financial Makeover Toolsâ€ to survive and succeed during these challenging economic times on MSC Poesiaâ€™s Jan. 16 itinerary. Joseph Hoats, recognized consumer advocate, loan modification attorney and founder of Home Stability.com, will host a Life Modification Cruiseâ€ on the 7-night roundtrip sailing to the Western Caribbean. The objective of this unique educational program is to mobilize the critical Financial Makeover Toolsâ€ required to navigate in todayâ€™s economy. The cruise provides the ideal relaxed setting, without the hectic schedules and interruptions of daily life. Consumers will depart the cruise with the skills necessary to create a Life Modification Plan that will provide a fresh startâ€ on the road to personal success. Hoats commented, The backdrop of a cruise is the perfect stress-free environment to learn from our team of professionals.â€ Numerous special Life Modificationâ€ events and seminars have been planned, including networking events with legal and financial experts. Tax guru Michael Marshall, one of the expert guests on the cruise, stated, This is a very timely event for consumers. **End Summary** Topics: theme cruises]]> financial makeover cruise]]> life modification cruise]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

European Cruises - Choose From 60 European Ports and 27 Cruise Itineraries | MSC Cruises

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:58:47 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (August 24, 2009) Guests can choose from 16 Mediterranean and 11 Northern European itineraries featuring more than 60 ports of call while sailing Europe the European way with MSC Cruises in 2010. Visit the hidden treasures of Eastern Mediterranean sites such as Venice, Istanbul, Mykonos, Santorini, and Dubrovnik; the historic landmarks of the Western Mediterranean such as Barcelona, Marseille, Naples, Rome, Toulon (St. Tropez), and Monte Carlo; and the richness of the Scandinavian Fjords, the Baltic and the North Cape of Northern Europe. For the convenience of our guests, MSC Cruises offers alternate departure ports, such as Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Copenhagen, Dover, Amsterdam, Naples, Genoa, Bari, Marseille, and Kiel on many itineraries, which allows guests to custom-design their European experience. MSC Cruises will have 10 ships sailing the Mediterranean in 2010, including the two newest, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida. These sister-ships with their exclusive MSC Yacht Club areas will sail a variety of 7-night itineraries. Some highlights of MSC Cruisesâ€™ 2010 Mediterranean itineraries include: â€¢ MSC Fantasia: 7-night Mediterranean Fantasyâ€ itineraries, calling in Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; Naples, Italy; Palermo, Italy; La Goulette (Tunis), Tunisia; and Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain; April-October. **End Summary** Topics: mediterranean cruises]]> european cruises]]> european cruise ports]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Multi-Generation Family Groups a Specialty of MSC Cruises

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:13:01 -0400

Activities, Amenities Tailored to Each Familyâ€™s Interests, Ages FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (August 31, 2009) In keeping with the traditions and values of its Italian family owners, MSC Cruises takes special pride and satisfaction in serving multi-generational family groups. Our cruises are a great way for multigenerational families to travel together. With our â€˜kids sail freeâ€™ program, itâ€™s a budget-conscious choice for parents and grandparents to spend quality time with their children and/or grandchildren,â€ says Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises, USA (Inc). MSC Cruises is an expert in group travel and creates a memorable and enjoyable experience that fits the needs and interests of each family member. MSC Cruises offers opportunities for guests of all ages to enjoy. Kids 17 and younger not only sail free, but also can let their imaginations run wild while participating in our complimentary Kids Clubs. Activities designed to enrich their minds while setting the stage for fun are found throughout spacious Kid Zones featuring waterslides, play areas, video arcade and more. Kids will savor food favorites including pizza, pasta, and cheeseburgers. **End Summary** Topics: family cruise deals]]> family caribbean cruises]]> kids cruise free]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Exciting Shore Excursions Allow Guests to Experience Caribbean Adventures with MSC Cruises

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:42:53 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (August 25, 2009) For many, the Caribbean evokes visions of sunbathing, shopping and sightseeing. Travelers seeking that plus a more experiential Caribbean cruise need look no further than MSC Cruises for an unforgettable vacation with exciting shore excursions. MSC Cruises offers guests the opportunity for some exciting even adventurous experiences on its 2009-10 Caribbean itineraries. Several shore excursion options enable guests to explore the Caribbean over land (by train, bicycle, 4X4, ATV, bus or horseback), above and beneath the sea (snorkeling, SCUBA diving, in a glass-bottomed boat, and on a catamaran or kayak) and through the air (attached to a cable between 100-foot-high trees). There is also the chance for unique ecological experiences and, of course, plenty of fun and sun. Thereâ€™s limited space available for shore excursions, so advance reservations prior to sailing are recommended. MSC Poesiaâ€™s 7-night Western Caribbean roundtrip sailings from Fort Lauderdale (January 16, February 6, 13 and 27, March 13 and 27, and April 10) call at Key West, Florida; Playa del Carmen, Mexico; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Nassau, Bahamas. **End Summary** Topics: caribbean cruises]]> caribbean cruise excursions]]> eastern caribbean cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Enter to Win a Caribbean Cruise for Two On MSC Poesia with Ã¢â¬ËPoetry in Motion' Sweepstakes

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 04:59:15 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (August 21, 2009) Become a fan of MSC Cruises on Facebook, for a chance to win a balcony stateroom for two aboard a 7-night MSC Poesia Inaugural Caribbean Season Cruise during the â€˜Poetry in Motionâ€ Sweepstakes. Guests interested in cruising the Caribbean have an opportunity to follow MSC Cruises while utilizing the social networking tool, Facebook, during this sweepstakes which runs through November 10. Entering is fast, free, and easy. Become a fan of MSC Cruises, click on the Win a Cruiseâ€ tab, and then click on the Enter Nowâ€ button to complete the sweepstakes registration form. If youâ€™re already a fan on Facebook, look for the sweepstakes box on the MSC Cruises page in order to enter. If not, sweepstakes registration is also available online at msccruisesusa.com. Limit one entry per person, per e-mail address regardless of method of entry. The sweepstakes is open to all legal residents of the 50 states in the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec), who are 18 years of age or older as of August 21, 2009. The Grand Prize winner will be randomly selected from all eligible entries on or about November 20, 2009. **End Summary** Topics: msc poesia]]> cruise sweepstakes]]> msc sweepstakes]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises and UNICEF Invite Guests to Ã¢â¬ËGet on Board for Children'

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:52:01 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. - As a family-owned and family-oriented cruise line and the market leading cruise company in Brazil, MSC Cruises has chosen to demonstrate its commitment to the Brazilian community through an important alliance with UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund. Brazil is not only the biggest and most populous country in Latin America, but it is also one of the 11 most inequitable countries in the world, with alarming levels of poverty in the major metropolitan centers. According to a 2009 report published by UNICEF, there are 680,000 children and adolescents who don't attend school. Research by IPEA (National Institute of Applied Economic Research) reveals that almost 18 percent of adolescents between ages 15-17 do not attend school and 48 percent of children fail to complete a secondary education. In addition, children living in poverty are 21 times more likely than their peers to be illiterate. Through the "MSC for UNICEF" initiative, MSC Cruises is supporting a UNICEF program to bring a brighter future to children in 126 vulnerable communities of Rio de Janeiro and SÃ£o Paolo by helping provide them with equality of access to a quality education. **End Summary** Topics: msc cruises]]> unicef]]> msc for unicef]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

Baseball Fans Can Stretch the Baseball Season with MSC Cruises' Themed Sailings

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. Baseball fans looking to stretch the baseball season into the winter months can enjoy the warmth of the Caribbean with some of their favorite former Major League Baseball players including Philadelphia Philliesâ€™ Jim Fregosi and Tony Taylor and Rennie Stennet from the Pittsburgh Pirates. In addition to visiting some of the Caribbeanâ€™s most beautiful locations, each Baseball Greatsâ€ Caribbean cruise includes free interactive guest/player activities, including a player-hosted trivia game in which guests can test their baseball knowledge, question-and-answer sessions with the players, a guest pitching contest and a lively story-telling session in which the players share candid revelations about some of the charactersâ€ of the game. Baseball players will also host pitching, hitting, fielding and base running clinics. Phillies fan favorites Jim Fregosi and Tony Taylor are in the lineup of baseball greats scheduled to sail Caribbean itineraries roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale this winter: â€¢ The Feb. **End Summary** Topics: caribbean cruise]]> caribbean cruises]]> theme cruises]]> baseball cruise]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Announces Partnership with Olympus

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

(Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.)-- MSC Cruises recently announced a partnership with the Olympus Corporation of Japan, world leader in the manufacture of optical systems and innovative Non-Destructive Testing devices used in industry. This agreement is designed to guarantee the safety of machinery and equipment aboard the MSC Cruises fleet using the latest technological innovation to be employed in the shipbuilding industry, the portable video-scope IPLEX-FX. The IPLEX-FX features a 6.5â€ anti-glare, transreflective LCD monitor, a highly portable control unit housed in a magnesium chassis which is water/dust/shock proof and a flexible probe that can be used to inspect engines, hull bulkheads and auxiliary equipment and installations. By using Remote Visual Inspection, MSC Cruises technicians will quickly be able to check the remote, hard-to-access areas without having to perform expensive disassembly. It is particularly useful for identifying occlusion of tubes and filters, cracks, and corrosion due to rust. The probe is resistant to harsh environments, can be immersed in fluids and features an articulating tip controlled by joystick, which can be rotated through 360 degrees. **End Summary** Topics: MSC Cruises]]> Olympus]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises Introduces European Cruises Departing From NYC

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

NEW YORK, NY Start spreading the news MSC Cruise Lines introduces its brand of sophisticated European-style cruising to New York City - NYC and will be returning in the Fall of 2010 with a series of Canada/New England cruise itineraries. MSC Orchestra arrived in New York City NYC Tuesday morning to a warm welcome from city officials. Her historic arrival marks the first time one of the Italian-owned cruise lineâ€™s ships has called in the Big Apple.â€ The cruise ship docked overnight at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal before departing today on an eastbound transatlantic crossing to Copenhagen, where she will cruise Northern Europe itineraries during the summer months. On Sept. 22, 2010, the lineâ€™s newest ship MSC Magnifica (currently under construction in France) arrives in New York for the lineâ€™s inaugural season of Canada/New England itineraries, roundtrip cruise departing from New York City and Quebec City. It is estimated that the shipâ€™s calls in NYC can potentially have an indirect revenue impact on the city valued at more than $2.7 million. **End Summary** Topics: MSC Cruise Lines]]> cruise departing from New York City]]> MSC Orchestra]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruise Lines Puts Safety First

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. MSC Cruise Lines always places the safety and comfort of its guests before all other considerations. For this reason, some minor changes have been made to the route taken by cruise ship MSC Melody on its three-week cruise from Durban, South Africa to Genoa, Italy. Given recent developments concerning possible acts of piracy against ships transiting the Somali east coast and the Gulf of Aden, MSC Cruise Lines now adheres to the navigation recommendations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Maritime Security Centre for the Horn of Africa, a coordination center run by the EU Naval Force to safeguard shipping in the region. While in this region, MSC Cruise Linesâ€™ vessels adopt a range of additional security measures to minimize any risk. In accordance with the recommendations, the company has slightly modified the itinerary of its cruises on MSC Melody from South Africa to Italy in order to ensure total security and peace of mind for guests and crew. The new cruise route is about 400 miles longer than the previous itinerary, maintaining a greater distance from the coast of Somalia. **End Summary** Topics: MSC Melody]]> MSC Cruise Lines]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Poesia's Short Caribbean Cruises - Escapes Begin at $239 Per Person

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. Donâ€™t have a lot of time but still yearning for a Caribbean cruise escape? Donâ€™t worry MSC Cruise Lines has the solution. MSC Cruise Lines features several short (3- and 5-night) Caribbean cruises scheduled on the luxurious MSC Poesia as she sails her inaugural season in North American waters (sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale) during the 2009-10 Caribbean cruise season: â€¢ 5-night Caribbean Escapeâ€: (Caribbean Cruises) - Calling at Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Georgetown, Grand Cayman, with two days at sea; departing Nov. 10 and Nov. 15, 2009; rates begin at $399; â€¢ 3-night Tropical Getawayâ€: (Caribbean Cruises) - calling at Nassau, Bahamas and Key West, Florida; departing April 24, 2010; rates begin at $239. All rates are cruise-only, per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional. As on all MSC Cruise Linesâ€™ sailings, children ages 17 and younger sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. Even on a 3- or 5-night cruise itinerary, guests can enjoy the ambiance of an MSC Cruise Lines sailing, from the elegant dÃ©cor and unparalleled service to the highly acclaimed international entertainment and cuisine, which includes many authentic Italian dishes,â€ says Richard E. **End Summary** Topics: Caribbean cruises]]> MSC poesia]]> MSC cruise lines]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruise Lines Takes Customer Service to New Levels

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

MSC Cruise Lines Brings Customer Service Two New Pairs Of Ears At MSC Cruise Lines, fine service is all about listening. No one understands that better than MSC Cruise Lines. Which is why the acclaimed cruise leader has added two new pairs of ears to its highly-trained service teams. All guests on the luxury MSC Cruise Lines fleet are now offered the support of a dedicated Guest Relations Manager with a very special role, while ships in the Fantasia class also receive their own Concierge. The story behind the new Guest Relations Manager is typical of MSC Cruise Linesâ€™ passionately uncompromising approach. The companyâ€™s attentive customer support team noted that traditional service structures only become aware of certain disappointments after the event, often only when a cruise is over, discovering for example that a guest travelling on their own would have liked to dine seated with other singles who spoke the same language, or that arrangements had not been made for a guestâ€™s special vegetarian menu. **End Summary** Topics: MSC Cruise Lines]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Fantasia Crew Members' Bravery Officially Honoured

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

A ceremony held on board MSC Fantasia on 2 April 2009 at the port of Palma de Mallorca (Spain) officially recognised the bravery of four crew members who rushed to the aid of an overboard passenger. The ceremony, involving the port authorities, the islandâ€™s council and MSC Cruisesâ€™ CEO, took place on the MSC Fantasia, the most beautiful ship in the world. On 5 March, while the new ship was moored at the port and passengers were disembarking, three mooring bitts become detached simultaneously in strong winds, resulting in the ship moving away from the dock and causing a disembarking guest to fall into the water. The four crew members immediately dived in to help the man, who was rapidly brought to shore and taken to a local hospital. He was subsequently transferred to his home town of Milan (Italy), where he was discharged from hospital on 22 March. The four crew members commended for their bravery are: Mr Salvatore Caso Chief Crew Steward, from Italy, aged 52 Mr Lalopua Faamoe Able Sailor, from Samoa, aged 29 Mr Naim Samsuddin Able Fireman, from Indonesia, aged 37 Mr Andrian Williams Housekeeping Cleaner, from Madagascar, aged 37 Attending the ceremony were Ms. **End Summary** Topics: MSC cruises]]> MSC fantasia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.

MSC Cruises' New 2009-10 Caribbean Cruise Brochure Now Available

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Features MSC Poesiaâ€™s Caribbean, Bermuda and Transatlantic Itineraries FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. MSC Cruisesâ€™ new 2009-2010 Caribbean cruise brochure featuring the beautiful cruise ship MSC Poesia is now available. The brochure features the shipâ€™s Caribbean, Bermuda and transatlantic cruises from October 2009 through April 2010 as she enters North American waters for her inaugural Caribbean cruise season. The Caribbean cruise brochure also features details about MSC Poesia, the newest of the lineâ€™s Musicaâ€ class ships. MSC Poesia features 1,275 staterooms (with 80 percent oceanview and 827 with private balconies); the luxurious MSC Aurea Spa for the ultimate in pampering, health and wellness; four main restaurants (including the Kaito Sushi bar and an a la carte restaurant with both Italian and international cuisine); 12 bars and lounges; a childrenâ€™s play area with a Stone Age theme and so much more! MSC Poesia will arrive in Fort Lauderdale Nov. 10, 2009, after a 17-night transatlantic cruise from Venice. With rates beginning at $239 per person, double occupancy (government fees and taxes are additional), the shipâ€™s Caribbean cruise season will include the following roundtrip cruises from Fort Lauderdale: â€¢ 5-night Caribbean Escapeâ€ and Mayan Discoveryâ€ cruises: Nov. 10, Nov. 15 and Jan. **End Summary** Topics: Caribbean cruise]]> kids sail free]]> msc poesia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Press author for Mediterranean Cruise Line, MSC Cruises , Bill Ospring brings news of MSC to cruise fans. Topics vary from MSC in the industry, new ships, and deals for cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe and theme cruise packages.