Seatrade Cruise Global: top bosses on cruise industry after Covid

Speaking about MSC Cruises’ approach, he said, “We are very secure in our protocols. People like the bubble concept… up to 90% of people who have sailed with us feel very secure with our protocols. The protocol is extremely complex when dealing with different countries and ports as they have different standards and different rules. CLIA has done an incredible job, engaging at all local levels.”

One outcome of the pandemic is increased collaboration. Mr Liberty said, “…you come together to be a species and survive. To show our resiliency we will continue to work together.”

Asked about a new normal due to Covid, Mr Donald said, “There will be Covid on ships, but it is everywhere and if people are vaccinated, the chances of a serious outcome are greatly reduced.”

The discussion touched on the issues the cruise industry has had with the US Centers of Disease, Control & Prevention (CDC). Mr Donald commented, “The CDC has a job to do. We have worked with them for many years to work through things. We are very close to them treating us as they do other major travel industries. We want to be treated like everyone else.”

The Ukraine war has also impacted the cruise industry. Mr Vago said, “The Ukraine war was a shock to Europe… ships are moveable assets, we have rerouted in northern Europe, have moved slightly away from the Baltics and more to Scandinavia and the Fjords.”

And after the difficulties of Covid, the future looks bright. It is predicted there will be 4.5M more passengers in 2026. Ms Craighead said, “There are a lot of new ships coming to the fleet. Ships and passengers are younger, we are going to see a positive future with younger passengers and newer ships.”

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