MSC launches new fitness cruises with Technogym

MSC Cruises has announced plans for Wellness Experience cruises in partnership with Technogym.

The company said it will tap into the wellness sector by offering holidays with an emphasis on fitness, both on and off board, and nutrition.

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises chief executive officer, said: “The global wellness travel segment is projected to grow by nearly 10 per cent annually over the next five years as holiday-makers are increasingly seeking out ways to combine being active and healthy with their holiday.

“Through the launch of the MSC Cruises Wellness Experience powered by Technogym, the globally-recognised wellness experts, we are further expanding our offering and making available to our guests the first completely personalised, 360° wellness experience at sea.

“At MSC Cruises, we are passionate about providing our guests unique onboard experiences through close, personal attention to every detail. This new experience, which is designed in a way that is exclusive to our guests, further demonstrates our commitment to innovation – also by partnering with best-in-class experts in their own field – and to creating unforgettable memories on board our ships.”

Nerio Alessandri, Technogym, president and founder, said: “For over 20 years we have been promoting the concept of wellness as a lifestyle made of regular physical exercise, a healthy diet and a positive mental attitude.

“Today wellness represents a global consumer trend that can impact on people’s life and health. This is why we are proud to partner with MSC Cruises to develop and deliver a unique and completely new wellness experience.”

The MSC Cruises team worked for over a year with the wellness, fitness, nutrition and technology experts at Technogym in order to create the product.

Once on board, guests will receive a one-to-one appointment with the Master Trainer who will conduct an assessment consisting of a body scale analyser test combined with an in-depth consultation. In addition to this, guests will receive a health check-up carried out by the MSC Doctor.

Shore activities exclusively for the Wellness Experience participants have also been specially designed to complement the onboard fitness programme.

Highlights include jogging around Ancient Olympia, a bike tour of Copenhagen, hiking up Mount Floiena in Norway, a fun triathlon in Cozumel comprising of kayaking, running and snorkelling or beach training in Rio de Janeiro.

The company added that a wide range of menu options have been developed in partnership with the Technogym’s team of  nutrition experts.

The buffet will feature a dedicated wellness corner with a choice of dishes available at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the main restaurant will also feature healthy options. The MSC Aurea Spa bar will serve a new range of protein and energy drinks.

The Wellness Experience is now open for booking for cruises starting in April 2017. Prices for UK guests start at £629 per person on seven-night Mediterranean sailings.