MSC Cruises has unveiled its new 'Open Booking' program, allowing guests aboard its fleet to reserve a future holiday at sea without committing to a specific vessel, itinerary, or sailing date.
This initiative complements MSC's existing 'Future Cruise' program, which was introduced in summer 2023. With the 'Open Booking' option, guests simply pay a reduced deposit of $100/€100/£100 per person on board their current cruise and receive a certificate allowing them up to 12 months to choose their next MSC voyage.
If guests select their ship and departure date within 60 days of making the onboard open booking, they receive up to $200/€200/£200 of onboard credit per cabin. Alternatively, they can book within one year and still enjoy up to $100 in onboard credit. Additionally, guests can gift the open booking to family or friends before choosing the ship and sail date.
Travel agents who facilitated the original cruise reservation also benefit from the 'Open Booking' program, receiving full commission once the ship and sail date are selected.
MSC's enhanced 'Future Cruise' program, launched six months ago, provides benefits to both travel agents and guests. When customers who booked their previous sailing through an agency book their next cruise while onboard, the original agents receive full commission. The program features a reduced 'onboard-only deposit' per person for the next cruise, greater reservation flexibility before final payment, and an extended 'best price guarantee' timeframe.
Additional benefits include shipboard credit for the next cruise, double points for the MSC Voyagers Club loyalty program, the ability to combine market offers with the rewards scheme, and priority cabin and suite selection.
Guests aboard MSC Cruises' ships can access itinerary information and special offers through dedicated onboard Future Cruise teams. Every new open and future cruise booking generates an email confirmation to their travel agent.
Detailed information on both the 'Open Booking' and 'Future Cruise' programs is available on MSC Cruises' website and through MSC Book for travel agents.