MSC Starlight Cruises has announced a “no currency surcharge guarantee” for the forthcoming local cruise season incorporating MSC Sinfonia and MSC Melody. It is a first in the local market and will ensure great comfort and security when choosing a cruise holiday.
Allan Foggitt of MSC Starlight Cruises says: “Even though the rand has depreciated in value by as much as 18 percent in the past year against the US dollar and other foreign currencies, MSC Starlight Cruises can now guarantee that SA rand fares in the brochure will not be increased.”
This means holidaymakers choosing the cruise option have peace of mind, whereas other travel options are affected by the volatile rand. MSC Starlight Cruises will carry the risk if the currency is affected.
Since all international holidays involve a foreign currency component, any depreciation of the rand after the tour has been costed will increase the final amount payable. Local cruise offerings therefore become an attractive and acceptable holiday alternative ensuring passengers an “international-level experience” without the financial risk of other holiday options.
Cruising offers many other benefits including accommodation, meals and entertainment included in the fare, so the no currency surcharge guarantee covers passengers for all these expenses that would normally be affected by a weakening rand. Children under 18 also cruise and eat free, which has huge benefits for families in trying financial times.
As a foreign flag vessel with an international crew earning wages in euros and dollars, MSC Cruises has a large foreign exchange exposure, but in its ongoing commitment to growing the SA cruising market, a decision had to be made to guarantee cruisers that no currency surcharge will be applied to the fares for the forthcoming cruise season regardless of what happens to the rand in the coming months.
l For more information see www.msccruises.com or www.mscstarlightcruises.co.za - Saturday Star