MSC Cruises is currently one of the few major cruise lines operating in the Mediterranean, having resumed sailings on 16 August.
The cruise line is operating sailings around the Italian coast, running seven-night sailings on MSC Grandiosa with embarkations in Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples and Palermo, plus a calling at Valletta, Malta.
Due to FCO restrictions, the cruise line is currently not hosting British and Irish passengers, with Schengen residents only allowed on board.
On board, passengers are being treated to a very different cruise experience, with new health and safety protocols and social distancing measures.
However, one passenger sailing on the cruise line’s flagship revealed they think a cruise “is safer than any type of holiday”.
The passenger was talking on a video released by MSC Cruises, which detailed new protocols as well as passenger testimonies.
Protocols include passengers having their temperature checked on embarkation (and every day thereafter) and completing an antigen swab test, health questionnaires and staggered boarding times.
Passengers are also being fitted with a wristband which traces contact, all luggage is being disinfected and the ship being sanitised with new enhanced cleaning methods.
However, life on board is still relatively normal, and the cruise line is still running activities in smaller groups, has its whirlpools and aquapark open, is operating theatres at reduced capacity and kid’s club is still running.
Speaking on the video, one cruiser, Giuseppe: “I felt so safe that I brought my children on board with me.
“All operations are very well organised from embarkation to the onboard experience including dining and shows.”
First-time cruiser Fabrizio added: “We are not expert cruisers. This is our first experience on a cruise ship, and we are enjoying it a lot.”
Another cruiser Pasquale Davide said: “In my opinion, a cruise is safer than any type of holiday.
“Entertainment, relaxation, everything one would expect from a cruise holiday has been fulfilled.”
MSC Magnifica will also return to service on 19 October, doing ten-night cruises around Italy round-trip from Genoa. Ports of call include Livorno for Florence and Pisa, Messina in Sicily, Valletta in Malta, Piraeus for Athens, Katakolon for Olympia in Greece and Civitavecchia for Rome.
MSC revealed it’s ready to welcome British and Irish passengers on board its ships when FCO guidance allows.