The naming ceremony for MSC Cruises’ new flagship vessel, the MSC Bellissima, looks set to have a touch of English Premier League glamour attached to it.
Players from Chelsea FC could be in attendance at the event in March next year after the Swiss-based cruise line signed up to be the West London club’s official global cruise partner for 18 months from January.
The multimillion-pound deal includes advertising during matches, VIP hospitality, star player engagement as well as a digital marketing presence.
Exciting opportunity
“This is an exciting opportunity to be working with the respected and highly successful Chelsea FC — the brand as well as the overall organisation,” MSC Cruises chief executive Gianni Onorato said.
“It is part of our strategic focus on the UK and Ireland, with the two markets being a key part of the next phase of our global growth plan.
“It is also designed to build further positive brand association as well as introduce our distinctive cruise experience to new audiences,” he added.
Chelsea commercial director Chris Townsend said: “With the imminent launch of their new ship, it is the perfect time to begin our partnership and we truly believe that working together, we can help MSC Cruises to achieve their strategic goals, both locally, in the UK and Ireland, and globally.”
Antonio Paradiso, MSC Cruises managing director for UK and Ireland, added: “For our travel agents this will mean both an increased awareness around cruise from the billions of football fans who watch the Premier League every week, but also an opportunity to engage a totally new audience.”
