MSC Cruises partners with Technogym for new onboard wellness program

Swiss-based MSC Cruises is upping its game next year by offering passengers a full-on wellness program similar to those upscale land-based resorts that combine nutrition, classes and activities under the careful eye of a trainer.

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It’s called the Wellness Experience, and it’s to be available to about 100 passengers on each ship.

“We’re taking [wellness programs] to a different level,” said Ken Muskat, executive vice president at MSC Cruises. “This is starting before the cruise ... continues during the cruise and hopefully after the cruise.”

Indeed, according to some reports, wellness tourism will account for an estimated $680 billion by 2017. MSC sees this venture as driven by what cruise passengers specifically (and travelers generally) want on their next vacation.

Here’s how it works: Each person who signs up for the program receives a “pre-sailing aspiration finder” to determine what his or her goals are. Onboard, you consult with a master trainer from fitness-equipment maker Technogym and receive a medical checkup too.

Once onboard, participants take fitness classes -- hula fit and Bella Barre as well as Pilates, yoga, spinning and tai chi -- and, during shore time, participate in, say, a triathlon in Cozumel, Mexico, or jog around Copenhagen.

They’ll be able to track their progress on a mobile app too.

When it comes to food, they’ll be eating from the “dedicated wellness corner” buffet where they’ll have healthy offerings compatible with their goals (yes, they can cheat and eat at the main restaurant too).

The program is set to debut April 2017 on Caribbean cruises from Florida aboard the coming MSC Seaside; prices start at $929 per person. It’s next to be available on the MSC Divina, which now sails year-round from Miami to the Caribbean (pricing and details will roll out later).

Info: MSC Cruises, (877) 665-4655

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