Sailing with your significant other is a wonderful way to enjoy quality time together, sharing intimate dining experiences and indulging in some onboard pampering – all whilst exploring some of the world’s most loved-up locations.
Here are a few destinations that MSC Cruises sail to, which are sure to have you head-over-heels…
Venice, Italy
A city that never fails to seduce; lose yourselves in the magic of the shimmering Grand Canal with a romantic, rite-of-passage gondola ride. St Mark’s Square is Venice’s focal point, and hosts the Basilica di San Marco, a 5-domed cathedral covered in glittering golden mosaics and ornate arches. Nearby, you’ll also find Doge’s Palace, a palatial waterfront masterpiece with a swoon-worthy pale pink façade – a must-see for culture-vulture couples.
A match made in heaven for couples, Santorini and its iconic towns are well versed in romantic moments. Oia in particular – the postcard-pretty village built into the steep slopes of the caldera – is top of the list for most visitors. Stroll hand in hand through the burrow of narrow passageways, where white houses, blue-domed churches and bright pink bougainvillaea give the town its trademark look. Perched on the island’s northern tip, the views here are simply unbelievable, and don’t even get us started on the sunsets!
This tropical Caribbean island is honeymoon heaven, which means there’s no shortage of romantic things to do when you make port for the day. Stroll through the botanical gardens and stop by the stunning Diamond Falls, where the soulful sounds of the rushing water, tropical bird song and rustling palms make for a special moment. For couples with a sweet tooth, visit cocoa plantations, learn how to make your own chocolate bar, indulge in tasting tours and even experience chocolate-infused spa treatments. As far as unforgettable experiences go, the novelty of a drive-in volcano isn’t one that quickly wears off, especially as you bathe in the sulphur springs and mellow out in the mud baths. And failing that, there's always the beach...
A medieval-walled wonder that’ll leave you weak at the knees – when you picture Dubrovnik, chances are you’re thinking of the old town. Golden buildings are crowned with terracotta roofs, and historical wonders sprawl out in every direction (some of which Game of Thrones enthusiasts will recognise as the legendary King’s Landing). Highlights include Pile Gate, Bokar Tower, Stradun, The Rector’s Palace and Lovrijenac Fortress. For a birds-eye-view of Dubrovnik, take a cable car to the top of Mount Srđ. Not only are the scenes incredible, but if you head up late afternoon you’ll be able to explore, grab a bite to eat and catch a stunning Croatian sunset (port departure permitting).
A honeypot of captivating countryside, historic towns and fantastic food, live your very own French fairy tale in picture-perfect Provence. This is where cobblestone streets, medieval monuments and charming chapels bask in golden sunlight, with a generous helping of olive groves and romantic stone buildings thrown in for good measure. Marseille is your gateway to both rustic and coastal Provence, and nature lovers often set their sights on the limestone fjords in Calanques National Park – a setting that’ll surely sweep you off your feet.
‘Loved-up’ isn’t just for on land -MSC’s romantic moments at sea
Unwind at the spa
Whether you choose to spend a relaxed afternoon rotating between saunas, steam rooms and a thalassotherapy pool in the thermal areas, or spend some quality time side by side with a couple’s massage, the Aurea Spa is a space you’re both sure to love.
MSC Yacht Club
If you both enjoy the finer things in life, like lavishly appointed suites, round-the-clock butler service, priority embarkation, exclusive lounges and pools, premium beverages and unlimited access to the thermal suite for the entire cruise, then the MSC Yacht Club might just make the perfect backdrop for your couples getaway. MSC Yacht Club is currently featured on 19 of 25 MSC Cruises ships, with more coming soon.
Can you really beat an intimate dining venue when it comes to date night? It’s a classic for a reason and as luck would have it, MSC have plenty of speciality restaurants to suit all tastes. Try Teppanyaki, a unique dining experience where chefs prepare delicious Japanese dishes right in front of you, or keep it a bit more traditional at the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse. Plus, there’s always room service (free for Yacht Club guests), best enjoyed on your balcony as the sun sets.
