Researched and Written By

Researched and Written By Aaron Saunders

Monday, April 26, 2010

Step Onboard...Virtually


The brand-new MSC Magnifica.
Photo courtesy of MSC Crociere S.A

At the start of the month, MSC Cruises quietly updated their website.  In the process, the Naples-based line added so many unique features that prospective cruisers can see better than ever exactly what makes the line and their innovative ships so popular, without ever leaving the comforts of home.

Of particular note are the mind-blowing Virtual Tours of MSC Fantasia and MSC Poesia.  Covering just about every public room, stateroom, spa and pool, these stunning tours run in full-screen and function more like an interactive game when compared to the small, pixellated, or simply non-existant VR tours preferred by most lines.  MSC has raised the bar several notches with this unique innovation - stepping onboard MSC Fantasia, even virtually, elicited 'oohs' and 'aaahs' here at From the Deck Chair.

Currently, only these two ships - covering two classes of vessel - are represented with a Virtual Tour.  We're checking with the line to see if they plan to offer a similar tour for their Lirica-class ships as well.

Also noteworthy is the addition of an MSC Podcast.  Along with Holland America Line, who's groundbreaking podcasts we wrote about earlier this week, MSC is one of the few lines to utilize this fantastic technology to attract and impress guests before they even set onboard and provide additional information that can be so valuable for past and future guests alike.

Where the old website suffered from some serious design and layout issues, the new website perfoms beautifully, allowing prospective cruisers to browse the line's impressive itinerary lineup, research shore excursions, and even check in for their cruise on-line. 

This attention to detail demonstrates just how much the line is continually pushing to raise the bar and attract more North American passengers - a process that begins with that first trip to their website. 

To experience the line for yourself, be sure to head on over to the MSC Cruises Website - and enjoy.

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