- The sector in general, and MSC Cruises in particular, are experiencing what seems to be a dream year in terms of sales; give us your assessment.
From my perspective, 2022 was key to consolidating the sector's growth after the slowdown in activity, and at MSC Cruises, the year-end figures showed us that passengers will continue to be eager to travel. Furthermore, the first quarter's figures couldn't be better, so we are optimistic about this year. In terms of sales, our goal is to generate volume and continue increasing the number of port calls and embarkation ports in Spain to attract both domestic and international travelers and, consequently, increase passenger numbers.
- How many ships does the company have positioned in Spain, and what is the limit from their point of view, if any?
Currently, 15 MSC Cruises ships visit Spain throughout the year, out of a total fleet of 22. The limit should really be the number of ships we have.
- Where does Spain rank among MSC Cruises' key markets?
Spain is one of MSC Cruises' most important markets, and we give it crucial attention, as demonstrated by our commitment to Spanish ports and destinations. This year, we will make 500 calls in Spain, a 21% increase over 2022, with seven embarkation ports. Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Southern Europe, and we wanted to capitalize on this by launching a range of itineraries and a fleet that caters to all types of travelers.
Madrid, January 8, 2017
- It's clear that MSC Cruises is financially stronger than other companies, but we assume they're also feeling the impact of inflation and not sailing at 100% capacity, right?
At MSC Cruises, we are fortunate to belong to the MSC Group and be owned by the Aponte family. This has certainly helped us. However, like all other companies, we are not affected by inflation. It's not just about whether or not we have to raise prices; our passengers' purchasing power is not the same as it was a few years ago, and that also impacts us.
- They are currently involved in a major sustainability advertising campaign that includes TV spots. Do you think the message is reaching consumers effectively? What is the main message they want to convey?
Our “Discovering the Future of Cruises” campaign focuses on our number one priority: sustainability. Sustainability is now at the heart of our business; we consider it fundamental as a company. This is not only because we aim for net-zero impact on the planet by 2050, but also because we believe it's crucial to raise public awareness. That's why we've centered our advertising campaign on this message, which we believe also helps to highlight the efforts being made across the entire industry.
To grow as they have, it's clear they have a high level of customer loyalty but also significant penetration into the new cruise passenger market. Tell us about the MSC Cruises customer profile.
For some time now, we've been seeing a shift in the profile of MSC Cruises travelers, who increasingly value flexibility, personalization, and differentiated services. Passengers want more options for embarkation and disembarkation, as well as the ability to modify their booking after purchase. That's why, with our Fantastica experience, we offer the option to change your cruise without cancellation fees. Furthermore, travelers are increasingly seeking experiences tailored to their tastes and needs, so we strive to offer a cruise for every passenger, with multiple destinations and itineraries, ensuring everyone finds the perfect trip.
- MSC Euribia opens in Copenhagen in June. What are the main new features?
MSC Euribia is the main highlight of our summer lineup. It's one of the most modern ships to be launched in 2023 in terms of fuel consumption, as it's powered by liquefied natural gas, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% compared to other vessels. Furthermore, it incorporates the Baltic Standard, advanced onboard wastewater treatment, waste management, and measures for energy efficiency and connectivity to the shore power grid, ensuring zero emissions when drawing power from land.
On board, passengers will be able to enjoy unique experiences, thanks to the wide variety of services and entertainment such as the 5 impressive swimming pools, its own AquaPark, the 10 elegant restaurants and 21 bars and lounges, the 7 new theatrical shows in the Delphi Theatre or the Big Band at Sea, one of the largest bands at sea, with nineteen musicians and singers, who will perform every night.
Madrid, January 8, 2017
- MSC Cruises has a fleet of 22 ships that is growing at a rate of one or two more per year. Tell us a little about your future plans.
As I mentioned earlier, we are fortunate to be privately owned. The Aponte family has a strong commitment to the MSC Group's cruise division, and that's why we continue to grow so successfully. The next addition to the fleet will be MSC World America, which, as we just announced, will be based in Miami. And I'm sure we'll soon learn more details about what's to come in the following years.
Furthermore, at the national level, our commitment to ports is growing, and we are eager to continue collaborating closely and expanding in Spain. Next year, we will have exciting new itineraries for Spanish travelers.
- Finally, on a personal level, have you achieved the goals you set for yourself when you took over the company in Spain, despite the pandemic? What remains for you to accomplish?
When I was appointed Managing Director of the company in Spain, my objective was to increase the cruise line's market penetration and, in turn, the local office. If someone had told me in 2017 that we were going to experience a global pandemic that would force us to ground our ships, I wouldn't have believed it. But I also wouldn't have believed them telling me that we would emerge stronger and even achieve my growth targets. Along these lines, once we started to see progress, my main goal was to ensure that everyone in the Spanish office regained their enthusiasm, passion, and energy to enjoy their work. And I believe we have achieved this thanks to everyone's efforts and the exciting project we are working on.
Of course, I believe we still have a long way to go in terms of market penetration in the country, and that's what I'm focused on right now.
