A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE ON CRUISING
Think cruising is all about busy itineraries and endless activities? Think again and experience the unique healing effect of fresh sea air aboard the cruise ship MSC Preziosa.
Surrey Magazine had the pleasure of joining the press team for a day aboard the magnificent MSC Preziosa for a sneak peek and to explore this impressive ship before she set sail on her next adventure. From the interiors, restorative spa experiences and moments of relaxation & pampering to exceptional dining we discovered a rather more indulgent side of life at sea whilst this majestic ocean liner berthed in port at Southampton.
Whether you’re looking for a wellness escape, a little luxury and time to recharge, or a memorable holiday bringing generations together, MSC Cruises offers a world of opportunities. And perhaps that’s the beauty of cruising: unpack once, leave the everyday behind and let the journey unfold.
There is something inherently restorative about being at sea with the combination of fresh sea air, salt and the gentle rhythm of the waves providing a natural invitation to slow down. We couldn’t have asked for better winter weather. Crystal clear blue skies and a crisp air awoke the senses as we walked to the check in terminal, looking in awe at the giant floating hotel in front of us. Neither of us had ever been on a cruise before, so this was the perfect opportunity to experience something completely new and visit a modern-day ship, boasting the capacity for over 3,000 guests. We were welcomed aboard by our host Megan from MSC Cruises, whose enthusiasm and knowledge also helped bring the experience to life.
As we arrived through the ship’s entrance and passed through security, the lobby and mezzanine lay ahead of us with a wow-factor Swarovski encrusted staircase with tens of thousands of twinkling crystals! This glorious feature is a touch of serious glamour… why simply walk between decks when you can make an entrance!
We headed upstairs, through the open deck, passing the indoor and outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzis, towards the MSC Aurea Spa adjacent to the ship’s state-of-the-art gym area which itself overlooks the bow of the boat with stunning panoramic views to inspire the next work out.
Our MSC Preziosa experience was to be centred around the ship’s wellness offerings, with Michelle, the Spa Manager, introducing us to the wellness side of cruising.
A little time to unwind
The MSC Aurea Spa immediately sets a different tone. Uniquely positioned in a private area, guest access requires pre-booking to limit the numbers to maintain the tranquillity that awaits. The MSC Aurea Spa setting is any match for a land-based hotel; and boasts an exotic interior of natural stone, precious woods and rich mosaics, and is equipped with specialist treatment rooms and massage suites. Being pampered by a traditional Balinese Massage is a truly unique experience. Thanks to a blend of scented essences and aromatic oils, your body is enveloped in an endlessly peaceful and relaxing aura.
We slipped into our luxury robes and flip flops before sampling all the different steam rooms and saunas before slumbering into the marvellous heated day beds in the thermal relaxation lounge absorbing the glorious sea views from the floor to ceiling glass windows.
It was time for our treatments. With a broad variety available, I enjoyed the most wonderful OPATRA Aqua Spectra Supreme Glow, Lift Facial, an 80-minute high-tech treatment with my lovely therapist Frances that began with AI skin analysis to assess my skin’s condition before tailoring the treatment to its needs. It’s designed to rejuvenate, lift and deeply cleanse and hydrate your skin. But the real seal of approval? It was so incredibly relaxing that I drifted off to sleep!
My partner enjoyed the Balinese total body massage (50 minutes). The soothing music melted the time away; Diana (the masseuse checked whether the pressure was ok, or too intense). The glorious soothing oils leaving a tingling & rejuvenating calmness.
Dining with a Japanese influence
Our 4-course chef’s menu VIP dining experience at the Japanese-themed restaurant was a pleasantly refreshing experience. A more intimate dining experience with a selection of starters, Sushi, mains and desserts. The restaurant offers a fabulous selection of wines to pair. As the afternoon wore on, the sun streamed through the sweeping vast restaurant windows. With an elevated view above the main deck from the restaurant, we spent time people watching as guests were finding their favourite spots to enjoy the winter sunshine before the ship set sail.
A ship with plenty to discover
MSC Preziosa is a sizeable ship, but one that feels much more personal than the newest mega-ships now entering the cruise market. There is plenty to explore, from its restaurants, bars, theatres and entertainment spaces to its shopping areas, where guests can browse fashion, beauty, accessories, watches and duty-free holiday gifts.
The shopping experience is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a little retail therapy without having to leave the ship. Combined with the choice of places to eat, relax and socialise, there is a reassuring sense that everyone can find their own favourite corner. For the first time cruiser, or regulars seeking a quieter experience, the MSC Yacht Club Membership offers a business class travel experience on the seas where privacy meets luxury with exclusive concierge service, dedicated and exclusive lounges, restaurants and pools, premium beverage, unlimited Wi-Fi and thermal suite access all part of the experience.
History
MSC Cruises itself has an interesting heritage. The privately owned company has its roots in the Aponte family, whose seafaring history stretches back more than 350 years to Sorrento, Italy. Founded by Captain Gianluigi Aponte, the wider MSC Group has grown into a major international shipping and travel business. Its continued investment in new vessels, with an ambitious programme of fleet expansion, demonstrates a clear commitment to the future of cruising.
For those who have never cruised before, the thought of stepping aboard a ship can feel like a leap into the unknown. Our visit to MSC Cruises gave us an opportunity to discover just how much there is to enjoy before even setting sail. The Southampton departure is a particularly attractive way to sample the delights of cruising. The seven-night Northern Europe itinerary aboard MSC Preziosa takes in Hamburg, Zeebrugge for Bruges, Rotterdam and Le Havre, before returning to Southampton.
It is a lovely introduction to European city breaks, with the convenience of unpacking just once. Guests can spend their days discovering historic streets, enjoying local cafés, exploring Christmas markets in season or simply choosing to remain onboard and enjoy the facilities.
It also makes a particularly interesting proposition for multi-generational families. Grandparents, parents and children can holiday together without necessarily having to spend every moment doing the same thing. Younger guests have activities and entertainment, adults can enjoy the restaurants and shopping, while those seeking a quieter escape can retreat to the spa.
The Surrey Magazine verdict
Our visit offered a glimpse of a cruise experience that is about considerably more than travelling between destinations. It is the combination of relaxation, dining, entertainment and the freedom to enjoy a holiday at your own pace that makes the concept interesting to so many including a high proportion of repeat customers. If a cruise could be your next luxury escape, MSC cruises offer destinations from Southampton, and across Europe, the Caribbean, Canary Islands, South America, North America and Asia and is currently offering Black Friday Sales of up to 30% off select cruises (*correct at the time of publishing)
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