With tailored packages, no venue hire fees, state-of-the-art facilities, and stunning ocean views, MSC Cruises is redefining business events for planners looking to make a memorable impact.
When it comes to planning a memorable, efficient, and high-impact business event, few venues compare to the experience offered onboard by MSC Cruises. As a leader in the cruise industry, MSC Cruises offers a comprehensive meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) solution tailored to the needs of corporate clients, providing everything from private venues to technical assistance, all within a single, seamless package.
For companies looking to inspire, connect, and reward their teams, a cruise provides a unique blend of comfort, productivity, and relaxation. And with MSC Cruises, the experience is not only
unforgettable but also surprisingly cost-effective and logistically smooth.
All-Inclusive Value That Delivers More
At the heart of MSC Cruises’ MICE appeal is its commitment to value. Unlike traditional land-based venues, MSC Cruises does not charge a separate venue hire fee. Instead, event organisers gain access to a wide range of stylish and fully equipped venues at no extra cost. This includes private venues for conferences, workshops, product launches, gala dinners, and more. With food, accommodation and entertainment already included in the cruise fee, clients receive a clear, upfront cost structure that simplifies planning and avoids any surprise costs down the line. Meals (excluding specialty restaurants), access to leisure facilities, use of the fitness centre, and all onboard entertainment are part of the inclusive experience. Adding even more value, MSC Cruises offers one free cruise fare for every 23 guests booked. For larger events, this can translate into substantial savings and improved return on investment.
Tailor-made and Seamless Experiences
No two events are the same – and MSC Cruises understands this better than most. Their MICE offering is designed to be flexible and tailor-made, with expert teams available to help organisers every step of the way. From the moment of booking through to disembarkation, MSC Cruises’ experienced eventing staff assist with all logistics and customisation. Whether it’s reserving private venues, arranging special dining experiences, or planning branded elements for a corporate function, MSC Cruises’ team ensures every detail aligns with the client’s objectives.
This end-to-end support makes MSC Cruises an ideal partner for busy planners who want to ensure seamless event delivery. Clients also have the option to arrange add-ons such as private cocktail parties, curated shore excursions, spa treatments, and airport transfers.
Advanced Conference Capabilities at Sea
MSC Cruises’ ships are floating cities with facilities that rival or exceed those found in land-based venues. MSC Opera, which will be based in South Africa for the 2025/26 cruise season, is a prime example. This elegant vessel offers several venue options for conferences and events:
A 713-seat main conference venue
Mid-sized spaces seating 322 and 155 attendees respectively
Each venue is equipped with advanced AV systems, lighting, video projection, and a computer-operated plasma wall. A high-tech vision-sharing system enables content from any source on the ship to be shared across different venues or lounges, ensuring that every guest remains connected and engaged. Whether hosting a formal conference, executive summit, or immersive brand activation, these facilities provide the professionalism and functionality that modern events require.
Elegant Ambience Meets Professional Service
In addition to technology and functionality, MSC Cruises brings a level of sophistication and ambience that adds a special flair to every event. The ships are known for their Italian-inspired design, stylish interiors, and luxurious finishes, creating an atmosphere that feels premium from the moment guests step onboard.
All of this is supported by a service philosophy rooted in flexibility and hospitality. MSC Cruises’ support team includes industry specialists who are there to ensure every event runs smoothly. Their ability to respond to the needs of +corporate clients has made MSC Cruises a preferred choice for those looking to make a statement with their event. Whether it’s a boardroom session or a beachfront bash at a port of call, the professionalism onboard is matched by the joy and inspiration that come with the ocean experience.
A Fleet Built for Business
Over the last decade, MSC Cruises has grown its fleet capacity by an astounding 800%. This means planners have access to a broad range of ships and configurations – from traditional elegance to modern, innovative floating cities. With each vessel offering its own unique layout and set of experiences, MSC Cruises empowers planners to choose the ship, location, services, and season that best align with their event’s vision and business goals. Whether aiming for an intimate executive retreat or a high-energy incentive experience for hundreds, MSC Cruises has the scale and scope to deliver. In a world where personalisation and flexibility are everything, MSC Cruises provides a canvas as expansive as the open sea itself.
Making Business Beautifully Simple
Aside from stunning ocean views, pristine service, and cutting-edge technology, MSC Cruises takes the burden off your shoulders with its one-stop-shop approach. Event planning doesn’t have to be a maze of vendors, timelines, and logistics. Onboard MSC Cruises, all the elements come together in harmony.
Each event includes:
Accommodation in comfortable,
well-appointed cabins
A variety of dining options (with meals included)
Leisure and wellness facilities
Entertainment for all tastes
Optional access to private venues
Dedicated staff to manage every detail
This makes it easy for corporates to focus on their message, networking, and strategic outcomes, rather than managing dozens of suppliers.
Compliance, Safety and Smooth Operations
As with any professional venue, MSC Cruises operates within a set of clear policies and procedures that ensure safety and efficiency onboard. These are fully explained by MSC Cruises’ event staff during the booking
process to avoid any misunderstandings and ensure total compliance.
Special considerations include:
Certain ship areas are restricted and not open to guests Filming onboard requires special permissions
Valid passports are required for all guests, and visas may be needed depending on the cruise destination
These requirements can be easily managed with early planning and MSC Cruises’ dedicated support team, who remain available to assist clients through every step of the booking and execution process.
Beyond the Boardroom: Building Relationships That Last
One of the most powerful aspects of hosting an event at sea is the natural opportunity it creates for bonding. Outside the formal agenda, guests can mingle over dinner, participate in shared excursions, or unwind together at a show or spa.
These shared experiences can have a profound effect on relationship-building, team cohesion, and business networking.
Delegates return home not only informed and inspired, but also connected. And let’s not forget the sheer wow factor. Few events are as memorable as those that set sail.
The MSC Cruises Difference
What truly sets MSC Cruises apart is the comprehensive nature of their MICE product. The combination of cost-effective packages, flexible planning, exceptional facilities, and the sheer novelty of being at sea creates an offering that’s hard to beat. It’s more than just a venue – it’s an experience that delegates will remember long after the voyage ends.
Why choose MSC Cruises for your event?
No venue hire fees
One-stop shop planning support
Tailored experiences to meet your needs
Fully equipped, elegant event venues
All-inclusive packages (meals, accommodation, entertainment)
State-of-the-art AV and tech capabilities
Free cruise fare for every 23rd guest
A world-class support team to make it seamless
Powerful relationship-building opportunities
Ocean views that inspire
Whether you’re hosting a strategy session, celebrating team achievements, or launching your latest product, MSC Cruises offers an unmatched venue at sea that brings people together in a truly inspiring way.
For more information or to explore hosting your next event at sea, visit:
• MSC Cruises MICE & Charters
www.msccruises.co.za/mice-and-charters
• Why MSC Cruises – www.msccruises.
co.za/mice-and-charters/why-msc-cruises
