MSC Cruises has launched a new ‘Open Booking’ programme for guests on board its fleet of ships to make a future holiday at sea reservation without the need to commit to a particular vessel, itinerary or sailing date.
The new initiative is designed to complement MSC Cruises’ ‘Future Cruise’ programme, which was introduced in summer 2023. With the open booking feature, guests can secure their next sailing holiday by paying a deposit of just €100/£100 per person while on board. They will then receive a certificate granting them up to 12 months to select their preferred sailing date.
Guests receive up to €200/£200 of onboard credit per cabin if they select their ship and departure date within 60 days of making the onboard open booking. Alternatively, they can book within one year and still enjoy up to €100/£100 in onboard credit.
Travel agents who made the original cruise reservation will also benefit from the ‘Open Booking’ programme and receive full commission once the ship and sail date is selected.
The open booking can also be used as a gift for family members or friends before the ship and sail date is chosen.
Steve Williams, Director of Sales at MSC Cruises UK & Ireland, said: “We want to offer our guests more flexibility in choosing their next ship and sailing date and the Open Booking programme gives guests onboard up to a year to make that decision while earning future credit for their next holiday at sea.”
MSC Cruises’ enhanced ‘Future Cruise’ programme, launched six months ago, benefits both travel agents and guests. When a customer books through an agency, it confirms their next sailing while onboard.
The original agents will receive full commission for any new booking made on board, benefiting from new aspects of the programme.
These enhancements include greater flexibility, allowing reservations to be adjusted to meet the customer’s needs before final payment. Additionally, there’s an extended ‘best price guarantee’ timeframe and double points for guests enrolled in the line’s loyalty programme, MSC Voyagers Club.
Furthermore, guests can combine market offers with the rewards scheme and have the freedom to select from the finest cabins and suites available.
