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| Atrium onboard the MSC Divina // Photo by Susan J. Young |
MSC Cruises launched its Inclusive Experiences, a new pricing structure that will allow guests to choose an “experience” based on their own preferences and amenities desired while cruising.
With the new pricing structure, guests will have the option of choosing from four different experience categories — Bella, Fantastica, Aurea and MSC Yacht Club — ranging from a la carte to all-inclusive amenities. Experiences offered will have a value up to $700 per person.
Already introduced in most European markets, MSC Cruises is rolling out the experience pricing in North America due to the positive feedback received from guests and travel agents abroad.
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"MSC Cruises USA’s recent industry-first announcement of four all-inclusive offers is great to help grow agent profitability,” said Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner, Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, who also sits on the MSC Cruises' USA Advisory Board. “MSC’s simplified categories will offer agents the opportunity to earn more commission by upselling pre-paid services."
The inclusive experiences will include the following options:
Bella Experience — Best Price: The Bella experience is designed for value-conscious travelers who still want the option to add additional onboard services, such as beverage or spa packages, a la carte. The Bella experience is available for guests booking interior, ocean view or balcony staterooms.
Fantastica Experience — Priority Choice: The Fantastica experience provides guests additional flexibility and comfort options, such as the ability to choose a premium location stateroom and priority choice of early or late dining. Additional benefits in the Fantastica experience include 50 percent off all fitness classes and personal training; free delivery of room service; and enhanced recreational activities for children including cooking and foreign language classes. As a promotion, guests booking the Fantastica experience for seven-nights or longer on the MSC Divina between Oct. 18, 2014 – April 11, 2015 will also receive a beverage package. This experience is available for guests booking interior, ocean view or balcony staterooms.
Aurea Experience — Premium Choice: The Aurea experience bundles several amenities, including premium choice of balcony staterooms and suites and dining in the main restaurant with “My Choice Dining” flexible times. Additional benefits in the Aurea experience include priority boarding; a beverage package consisting of unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks; a spa package with a massage and private spa consultation; access to the exclusive adults only Top 18 sun deck; and all the perks associated with the Fantastica experience. The Aurea experience is available for guests booking Aurea balcony staterooms and suites.
MSC Yacht Club – Elite Choice: The MSC Yacht Club is the line’s “ship-within-a-ship” for guests interested in an all-inclusive VIP club level experience. Guests selecting this experience enjoy a private club with keycard access; priority check-in and check-out reception; signature Butler service; dedicated 24-hour concierge; exclusive Top Sail lounge and pool; 24/7 complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available within the Yacht Club area; and a private MSC Yacht Club restaurant.
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| Yacht Club accommodations onboard the MSC Divina // Photo by Susan J. Young |
Travel agents will receive full commission on the Inclusive Experiences booked by their clients. In addition, MSC Cruises will continue to pay five percent commission on any a la carte options (i.e. shore excursions) that are pre-booked and pre-paid by guests.
The new experience pricing will be available for reservations starting Sept. 23, 2014 for sailings Oct. 18, 2014 forward. Guests who have already booked an interior, ocean view, or B1 or B2 level balcony stateroom will automatically receive the Fantastica experience, excluding the promotional drink package offer. Guests that have already booked a B3 level balcony stateroom or Aurea suite will automatically receive the Aurea experience.
For more information, visit www.msccruisesagent.com.