Cruise in October? A weekend with MSC Virtuosa from SouthamptonWhat is it really like to go on a cruise from the UK in mid-October? We recently had the opportunity to find out when we spent an extended weekend sailing from Southampton to northern France and back. Here, you can read more about our experiences with MSC Cruises, and in particular, MSC Virtuosa. First Impressions of the ShipYou probably know it well – no matter how many times you’ve been on a cruise, it never really stops being exciting to step on board a new ship for the first time. And this trip was certainly no exception. After a day in London enjoying fish & chips, the ABBA Voyage show, and a bit of shopping, we headed south by bus to the ship in Southampton.“MSC Virtuosa is an impressive ship – modern, elegant, and packed with facilities,” says Otto. “Once on board, you are quickly struck by the distinctive features of the Meraviglia class: the sparkling Swarovski staircases, the stunning promenade with its digital LED sky, and the cohesive design throughout.” ⚓ A Spacious Balcony CabinAfter boarding and taking in our first impressions of the ship, we made our way up to our balcony cabin on Deck 13. A spacious cabin with a lovely bathroom and plenty of closet space – exactly what you need when “moving in” for a few days. Shortly after our arrival, we were introduced to Densil from St. Kitts, our friendly cabin steward, who went above and beyond to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip.Even though we were sailing in mid-October, having the balcony was wonderful. “It was perfect for enjoying the autumn sun, the beautiful sea views, and a cold beer – it allowed us little breaks and was a lovely spot to round off the day’s experiences,” notes Cecilia. ⚓ Life On Board the ShipIf you’ve been on an MSC ship, you know there are an incredible number of activities to enjoy – whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or with friends. We experienced the same on this trip. “The ship’s facilities offer experiences for every taste. For example, we loved that each bar had its own theme, allowing us to choose between beautiful piano music, lively jazz, or sports in the sports bar, depending on our mood,” says Cecilia, highlighting the robot that mixes drinks to order at the Starship Club as one of the fun experiences.“I was particularly impressed by how cohesive everything felt,” adds Otto. “The atmosphere on MSC Virtuosa is lively, and there really is something for everyone. The gym is state-of-the-art, the kids’ club is popular with younger guests, and the Sky Lounge Bar offers a relaxed, child-free zone.” As always, you’ll also find inviting pool areas, a relaxing spa, and plenty of activities for guests of all ages. ⚓ Impressive EntertainmentEvery evening offered entertainment, and with different shows in the theatre, such as Hall of Fame and Dirty Dancing, there was always something new to experience each night. We managed to see three different shows, all beautifully produced with talented performers and a suitable length of around 35 minutes. In addition, we had pre-booked seats for Ajerdez – Carousel Productions by Sea, an acrobatic and theatrical performance in the Carousel Lounge, best compared to Cirque du Soleil. “The Carousel Lounge was absolutely fantastic – real acrobatics, stunning costumes, and a truly professional experience, which I highly recommend if you’re looking for extraordinary entertainment,” says Linnea. In addition to the impressive shows, we experienced both a silent disco and the famous White Party, where the majority of guests on board dress in white. “The atmosphere at the White Party was extra special, and if you enjoy a good celebration, it’s a fun evening to take part in,” highlights Cecilia. ⚓ A Wide Range of Dining ExperiencesAnother highlight of our trip was the specialty restaurant Teppanyaki, which quickly became a favourite for us. If you haven’t tried this unique dining experience before, we can highly recommend it. Here, you get a combination of delicious food prepared by skilled chefs and entertainment as your meal is cooked right before your eyes. “The dinner became an experience in itself, with extra attention paid to every detail,” says Cecilia, while Linnea highlights the food at Teppanyaki: “It was really good! The salmon was perfect, and the meat was cooked exactly as ordered.”Altogether, there are 11 different restaurants on board the ship – a mix of included dining options and specialty restaurants where you pay extra for a meal – offering a wide and varied selection. An autumn cruise from the UK turned out to be both refreshing and cosy. Even without strong sun and warm temperatures, MSC Virtuosa delivered an experience full of energy, comfort, and memorable moments – exactly how a cruise should be, if you ask us. ⚓ Our Top Tips for Your MSC Cruises Trip Download your boarding pass digitally: This makes check-in seamless – no paper, no stress. Book shows on the first evening: They sell out quickly, so make sure to secure your spot early. Add the Easy Drinks Package: It’s well worth it – even if you don’t drink alcohol. It gives you the freedom to enjoy a cappuccino, take a soft drink ashore, and generally order beverages without worrying about the bill once on board.            Sound like your kind of trip? Check out the range of voyages with MSC Virtuosa and the rest of the           Meraviglia-class ships here.

Winter cruises with guaranteed sunshineWhen winter darkness and cold settle over the UK, there is nothing better than heading for warmer climates. A winter cruise combines relaxation, experiences, and guaranteed sunshine – all without having to unpack your suitcase every day. 1. The Caribbean – winter cruise to paradise islandsThe Caribbean is the very definition of paradise: crystal-clear turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and an atmosphere that soothes even the most stressed soul. On a winter cruise here, you can wake up on a new island every day – perhaps Barbados with its lively beach bars, St. Lucia with dramatic mountains, or the famous Bahamas.Experiences in the Caribbean: Colourful markets with local delicacies Historic colonial towns with charming architecture Snorkelling among corals and tropical fish Tip: Choose a route that combines both large ports like San Juan and smaller, authentic islands – it provides the perfect balance between activity and relaxation. ⚓ 2. The Canary Islands – sunny winter cruise closer to the UKThe Canary Islands are the obvious choice for those seeking sun without a long flight or time difference. With temperatures of 20–25°C even in the middle of winter, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote are ideal destinations for a relaxing winter cruise.Experiences in the Canary Islands: Black volcanic beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs Lush mountain landscapes and charming villages Spanish tapas and fresh fish in small harbour towns Tip: On Tenerife, make sure to take a trip to Mount Teide – the view from the top is one of Spain’s most spectacular. ⚓ 3. The Emirates – luxury, sun, and desert adventuresA winter cruise to the United Arab Emirates is a journey into a world of contrasts: futuristic skyscrapers side by side with traditional souks, luxurious shopping centres, and tranquil desert landscapes. Dubai boasts the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, while Abu Dhabi entices with lavish architecture such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.Experiences in the Emirates: Shopping in the world’s largest malls Visits to grand mosques and palaces Desert safari with sunset Tip: If your cruise docks overnight, be sure to book an evening desert tour – a sunset over golden sand dunes is a sight you’ll never forget. ⚓ 4. Australia & New Zealand – adventures on the Southern HemisphereWhen it’s winter in the UK, it’s high summer in Australia and New Zealand – perfect for swapping cold for warmth. A cruise Down Under can take you from Sydney’s iconic harbour to New Zealand’s dramatic fjords. Here, you get the best of city life and relaxed leisure amid stunning landscapes.Experiences Down Under: Koalas, kangaroos, and penguins in their natural habitats City life in Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland Wine routes, national parks, and world-famous beaches Tip: Extend your trip with a few days on land so you can explore the Great Barrier Reef or New Zealand’s wine regions. ⚓ 5. Asia – culture, spices, and paradise beachesA winter cruise in Asia combines sun and warmth with culture, history, and gastronomy. You can sail from bustling cities like Singapore to tranquil islands in Thailand and Vietnam, where life moves at a slower pace.Experiences in Asia: Visits to Buddhist temples and historic cities Colourful markets with the scents of coriander, lime, and chili Beach days on white sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters Tip: Experience local traditions and crafts – small villages and markets showcase the culture up close. ⚓ Ready to find your winter favourite?Whether you long for the gentle waves of the Caribbean, the glamour of the Emirates, or the adventurous nature of Australia, there’s a winter cruise that’s perfect for you.Also, check out our guide: The ultimate packing guide for your cruise

MSC Yacht Club Coming to MSC Poesia: A New Era of Luxury Cruising  MSC Cruises has announced the addition of the MSC Yacht Club to MSC Poesia. Already a much-loved ship, Poesia will soon offer an exclusive “ship within a ship” experience, combining privacy and personal service with the world-class facilities MSC Cruises is famous for.  For UK travellers looking for a luxury cruise holiday, this is a game-changer. Whether sailing from Southampton, exploring Alaska, or heading to the Caribbean, the new Yacht Club experience means you can enjoy the very best in all-inclusive cruising while still having access to everything the wider ship has to offer.  What Makes the MSC Yacht Club Special?  The MSC Yacht Club is designed for guests who want the ultimate blend of luxury, comfort, and exclusivity. Here’s what you can expect:  Elegant suites for every traveller – from ocean-view balcony options to connected family suites and the ultra-luxurious Royal Suite, complete with private whirlpool, outdoor shower, and panoramic terrace. 24-hour butler and concierge service – ensuring every detail of your holiday is taken care of. Private facilities – including a dedicated restaurant with fine dining menus, the sophisticated Top Sail Lounge with panoramic sea views, and an exclusive sun deck with whirlpools, cabanas, and a Grill & Bar. All-inclusive luxury – enjoy premium drinks, exquisite dining, and a complimentary minibar throughout your stay.  The Yacht Club is already a favourite on MSC’s newest ships, and its arrival on MSC Poesia brings this luxury cruising experience to even more guests.  Enhancements Beyond the Yacht Club  While the new Yacht Club is the headline addition, MSC Poesia’s transformation also includes exciting new venues and refreshed spaces:  Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse – an American-style steakhouse serving premium cuts and classic sides. Reimagined Kaito Sushi Bar – blending Far Eastern inspiration with freshly prepared sushi and authentic Asian flavours. All-Stars Sports Bar – a lively hub with big screens, tasty snacks, and a vibrant game-day atmosphere. Revamped MSC Aurea Spa – featuring a salt room, steam rooms, an ocean-view sauna, and tranquil relaxation areas. Enhanced fitness facilities – with the MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®, plus a yoga room, jogging track, and sports courts.  These additions ensure that every guest on MSC Poesia can enjoy more choice, more comfort, and more ways to personalise their cruise holiday.  Why Passengers Will Love It  Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales at MSC Cruises, described the news as “fantastic for UK and Irish guests.” MSC Poesia has already become popular with holidaymakers thanks to her Southampton sailings, and the addition of the Yacht Club now means travellers can enjoy all-inclusive luxury cruises from the UK without needing to fly long-haul first.  For those looking for something special – whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family cruise, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure – the MSC Yacht Club provides the perfect upgrade. It’s about personalised service, private spaces, and premium inclusions that turn a cruise into a truly five-star holiday at sea.  Where Will MSC Poesia Sail?  The MSC Yacht Club will debut on Alaska cruises in summer 2026, offering guests the chance to experience stunning scenery and wildlife while enjoying Yacht Club exclusivity. After Alaska, Poesia will continue with Caribbean and Central America itineraries in winter 2026/27, plus unforgettable Panama Canal transits.  That means no matter where you choose to sail, you can enjoy the Yacht Club’s private luxury while still having access to MSC Poesia’s full range of dining, entertainment, and activities.  If you’re ready to upgrade your holiday to the ultimate in luxury, the MSC Yacht Club on MSC Poesia is waiting for you.