We all dream of a luxurious, stress-free and unforgettable holiday. However, out of every type of trip, I certainly never expected to experience all of these things on a cruise ship.
Enter the game changer - MSC Cruises’ brand-new ship, MSC Euribia.
My recent voyage on the stunning ship showed me that cruises have everything you want from a holiday.
Combining style with sustainability, excitement with relaxation, and the beauty of the sea with the luxuries of the land, I had access to everything I could ever need on board - despite the small matter of being in the middle of the North Sea on my way to Copenhagen.
And not only changing my outlook on cruises, MSC Cruises is also changing the game within the tourism sector with its passion for sustainability and its ability to create a holiday perfect for anyone.
Truth be told, this trip has completely changed my perceptions of holidaying forever.
Cruise with style
MSC Euribia's design and style are the real stars of the show. Measuring more than three football pitches long, it holds 6,327 passengers and boasts an exclusive ocean fresco displaying the passionate motto '#SaveTheSea' which stands out as it sails.
Luxury envelops every step you take on board, too - quite literally, as you saunter up glittering Swarovski crystal-embedded staircases and walk over sparkling marble flooring.
Add in high-end designer stores, spectacular architecture and artwork (such as the longest LED dome at sea), and glamorous restaurants and bars, and you know within a second of boarding that this will be an unforgettable experience.
Recipe for success
MSC Euribia's wide array of eateries on offer makes it feel as if you’re travelling around the world despite remaining under one roof (or 19 decks, if you prefer).
Visit Asia at Kaito's sushi and teppanyaki restaurants, featuring the drama of live cooking and an MSC Euribia-exclusive robatayaki experience. Scoot over to South America for Holà Tacos & Cantina’s flavourful Latin American and Mexican cuisine or immerse yourself in the flavours of French gastronomy with Le Grill.
And you don’t have to walk far for dessert, either, with French crêpes, chocolate or Italian gelato just a few steps away.
That's not all. There are also complimentary restaurants which offer three-course meals with a fine-dining twist and a buffet with a vast range of cuisines and dishes to try.
Oh, and did I mention the 21 bars and lounges? They offer a vast array of premium drinks, from classy cocktails at the Sky Bar with its panoramic views and piano playing, to a night of fun at the exciting Attic Club.
One ship, never-ending fun
Staying in one place at one time begs the question - is there enough to keep you entertained? The answer is a resounding yes.
We're talking five impressive swimming pools; one of the largest aqua-parks at sea; a spa with various saunas, steam rooms and treatment rooms; live entertainment and big-production shows; VR, bowling, Formula 1 simulation, arcade games and casino; a Sportplex and gym; a packed itinerary of activities and much more.
In fact, every type of trip you can possibly imagine - from girls' holidays to romantic retreats - is catered for.
You can even amp up your stay with the exclusive 'ship within a ship' experience at the MSC Yacht Club, featuring deluxe suites, butler services, private dining with an astonishing view and a separate pool and sun deck.
Holiday safely and sustainably
As a young, solo traveller, I was pleased by how safe I felt on the cruise. The incredibly friendly staff are always attentive and looking out for you so you can holiday without worry.
You also don’t have to fret about the impact on the planet either. MSC Euribia is the first generation of this new family of environmentally responsible ships, restoring the critical balance between people and nature.
It’s MSC Cruises’ most innovative, energy-efficient and environmentally advanced ship to date, powered by liquified natural gas and emitting 44% less greenhouse gas emissions per passenger per day than ships built only 10 years ago.
MSC Cruises' environmental stewardship is not just visible in the engine - which maintains a horsepower of 110 Lamborghinis - you can also see it in the eco-friendly water bottles and recycling bins, to the less obvious brightly illustrated Kid's Club wallpaper made of corn by-products and the advanced wastewater treatment system.
See the sights without the hassle
In no time at all, we reached Copenhagen and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to transition from sea to land. Having spent the travelling part of my trip in complete comfort, I could disembark refreshed and ready to explore.
A mere five-minute walk away from the ship, you can grab the bus to the metro and ride into the city to see all of the sights.
The iconic Little Mermaid statue is a great place to start, then you can easily walk into the centre to further explore, with the Rosenberg Castle and King’s Garden, Nyhavn and its colourful harbour, and Tivoli Gardens amusement park all close by.
And of course, you have to pick up an authentic Danish pastry - which I can assure you will be the best you've ever tasted.
Start your journey
There's no doubt that this trip has proven to me how cruise holidays can fit every person. Taking the stress away and putting comfort, fun and luxury in their place, you really can make your dream holiday a reality with MSC Cruises.
MSC Euribia's itinerary this summer sees the brand-new ship sail dock in Denmark, Norway and Germany for the ultimate Northern Europe holiday.
Starting in October 2023, MSC Euribia will offer no-fly sailings from Southampton to charming winter destinations such as Amsterdam, Hamburg, and Paris, with prices starting at £799 per person.
Click here to start your journey, explore cruise destinations and create your own bespoke holiday experience.
