SIP, SAVOR, STAY 2024 – New MSC Yacht Club Excursions

Luxury travel has always allowed its patrons to indulge in the finer things in life, but MSC Yacht Club elevates this experience to an entirely new echelon. With its innovative “ship-within-a-ship” concept, MSC Yacht Club merges the exclusivity and privacy of a luxury hotel with the grandeur and adventure of a cruise ship. Guests are treated to an array of premium services, including private lounges, personal butlers, and exclusive dining options, all designed to create a unique and lavish experience.

In July 2024, MSC Yacht Club introduced 90 exclusive new excursions in the Caribbean, Mediterranea, and Northern Europe. Envision savoring gourmet meals crafted by world-class chefs, paired with rare and exquisite wines from the regions you visit. Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn about local culinary traditions and participate in exclusive tastings and workshops led by expert sommeliers and distillers.

Marialuisa Iaccarino, Head of Shore Excursions, MSC Cruises, said: “The new offering has come following customer feedback and a desire for a more exclusive experience for MSC Yacht Club guests. Guests will benefit from a seamless experience between the butlers’ service onboard and the excursion experts ashore as well as having the opportunity to relax and fully immerse themselves into each destination’s culture, cuisine and traditions.”

MSC Yacht Club’s new excursions aim to provide travelers with an unforgettable journey, blending the pinnacle of luxury travel with the excitement of discovery and the richness of cultural immersion. Whether you are a seasoned traveler seeking new adventures or a connoisseur of fine living, MSC Yacht Club promises an unparalleled experience that will leave you with lasting memories (and full bellies).

STAY – The Yacht Club Experience

For those that enjoy cruising but not the crowds, the MSC Yacht Club is the best of both worlds. Accessible only via keycard, this exclusive area of the ship ensures a level of privacy that is rare to find. Guests are welcomed into elegant suites that serve as a luxurious home away from home, featuring stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities. It’s all about the details with Yacht Club form the plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and spacious living areas that create an unparalleled sense of comfort.

The facilities available to Yacht Club guests are truly extraordinary. The private sundeck, pool, and hot tubs provide a serene escape from the bustling main deck.The dedicated restaurant serves gourmet meals tailored to guests’ preferences, offering a diverse menu that includes fresh seafood and decadent desserts. The lounge offers a sophisticated space to unwind with a cocktail, featuring live entertainment and a selection of fine wines and premium spirits.The pièce de résistance is the personalized service provided by a 24-hour butler and concierge desk, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is seamless and indulgent. From arranging shore excursions to making special dining reservations, the butler service caters to your every whim.

SIP AND SAVOR – New Food, Wine & Spirit Excursions

Starting July 2024, MSC Yacht Club will elevate the luxury cruise experience by offering exclusive food, wine, and spirits excursions. These new activities invite guests to indulge in some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Picture yourself disembarking in a quaint Italian village to sample local wines, where vintners eagerly share the intricate process of their craft passed down through generations. Or imagine navigating the bustling markets of Morocco, with vibrant stalls brimming with exotic spices, fresh produce, and culinary treasures, guided by local chefs who reveal the secrets of traditional dishes. These excursions transcend mere gastronomic adventures; they serve as portals to understanding and appreciating the cultures and traditions of each locale. You might find yourself in the heart of Provence, learning the art of pairing fine wines with regional cheeses, or exploring a centuries-old distillery in the Scottish Highlands, where you’ll uncover the rich history behind each bottle of whiskey. Expertly designed itineraries ensure that guests not only indulge in world-class food and beverages but also gain rich insights into their histories and stories. Whether it’s a private tour of a family-owned vineyard, an exclusive cooking class in a Mediterranean villa, or a behind-the-scenes look at a renowned brewery, each experience is curated to provide a deeper connection to the destination.

Here is a list of a few new 2024 excursions to SIP & SAVOR through:

Genoa, Italy

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN AN AUTHENTIC PESTO COOKING CLASS IN SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE

On this excursion, guests can indulge in an authentic Italian culinary adventure, uncovering the secrets of the world-famous pesto sauce during an exclusive cooking class in Santa Margherita Ligure. They will learn the techniques that make Italian cuisine iconic before savoring an upscale dining experience featuring delicious local dishes and fine wine.

After lunch, guests can explore the enchanting village of Portofino, with its picturesque harbor adorned by swaying boats and surrounded by vibrant orange, red, and pink houses. There are ample opportunities to visit luxury boutiques, wander through the town’s historic alleyways, or enjoy the scenic Church of St. George’s square.

Invergordon, Scotland

TRY WORLD-FAMOUS WHISKY AT GLENMORANGIE DISTILLERY

The excursion invites guests to explore a renowned distillery celebrated for its malt whiskies since the 19th century, perfected over generations. A guided tour will walk guests through each step of the distillation process, culminating in a tasting of two exquisite drams. Following this, guests will journey to the 12th-century town of Royal Dornoch to admire its historic buildings, impressive cathedral, and charming town square.

Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

A TASTE OF LIFE IN EDAM OVER THE CENTURIES

Just a short journey north of Amsterdam lies the charming town of Edam, famous for its namesake cheese. This creamy delicacy was among the world’s favorites from the 14th to the 18th centuries, prized not only for its unique flavor but also for its tendency to harden rather than spoil with age, making it perfect for lengthy sea voyages during the Age of Exploration. Discover this celebrated ancient food on a trip to the quintessentially Dutch town.

Start with a 30-minute drive to Edam for a 45-minute visit to the home of a local family. This invaluable experience offers firsthand stories about traditional Dutch life, complemented by coffee and a sweet treat. Following this enlightening conversation, delve deeper into Edam’s history on a guided 45-minute walking tour. Admire the town’s characteristic drawbridges and cobblestone streets.

Next, enjoy a 15-minute drive to a local cheese farm where you will gain fascinating insights into the production process of the beloved semi-hard cow’s cheese over 45 minutes. Cap off your visit with the chance to purchase some of these exquisite cheeses to take home, before returning to the ship on a 30-minute transfer.

Cadiz (Spain)

BODEGA OSBORNE: AN EXCLUSIVE VISIT TO THE HEART OF SHERRY

Embark on a captivating 4-hour excursion that takes you through the enchanting surroundings of Cadiz and unveils the secrets of its renowned sherry. Begin your journey with a scenic 30-minute bus ride from Cadiz to the distinguished Bodega Osborne. Departing from the ship, the tour kicks off with a brief panoramic drive through Cadiz before transitioning to the old road, leading to El Puerto de Santa María.

Located on the opposite side of the Bay of Cadiz, this charming town boasts a rich history, stunning beaches, and an ideal climate for viticulture. After a picturesque 30-minute bus tour, delve into the town’s vinous heritage with a visit to the iconic Osborne cellars. Whether you’re a sherry aficionado or a curious traveler, this visit promises a deep dive into history, tradition, and beauty.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an expert guide who will provide a comprehensive tour of the cellars, set against a backdrop of fruit trees and traditional architecture. Learn about the origins of this prestigious brand, dating back to the 18th century, when English merchant Thomas Osborne Mann established his legacy by uniting several wineries under his name.

Your guide will walk you through the sherry production process and introduce you to the various types of sherry. You’ll also encounter the Toro de Osborne, the iconic advertising symbol that graces the region’s roads, promoting this distinctive beverage. The tour culminates in a delightful wine tasting, paired with appetizers such as the esteemed Jamón 5J, a renowned variety of Spanish ham.

Before concluding your experience, take a moment to browse the shop for local products. The tour wraps up with a serene 30-minute drive back to Cadiz, leaving you with cherished memories of the day.

Genoa (Italy)

PORTOFINO AND PESTO COOKING CLASS IN SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE

Immerse yourself in the treasures of the Ligurian coast and unravel the secrets of pesto, the world-renowned sauce, during an enchanting cooking lesson. This seven-and-a-half-hour excursion begins with a scenic one-hour minibus ride to Santa Margherita Ligure. Upon arrival, enjoy a one-hour guided tour of this sophisticated and aristocratic seaside town.

After exploring Santa Margherita Ligure, take a well-deserved break at a local Osteria for about two hours. Here, you’ll spend an hour in a hands-on cooking class, mastering the art of pesto-making so you can recreate this delightful sauce at home. Following the class, savor a light lunch featuring traditional Genoese dishes, allowing you to fully experience the local cuisine.

Your journey continues with a minibus ride to Portofino, the gem of the Ligurian coast and one of the most photographed destinations on the Riviera. In Portofino, you’ll have an hour and a half divided between a guided tour and free time. Stroll through the charming, pastel-colored village, admire boats swaying in the harbor, and explore the vibrant orange, red, and pink houses that frame the bay. Relax in one of the chic cafés, browse the shops, and wander through historic alleyways, perhaps reaching the scenic Church of St. George and the promontory overlooking the Nature Park.

Katakolon (Greece)

VISIT TO OLYMPIA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE AND COOKING CLASS

Immerse yourself in ancient history and savor Greek cuisine during a delightful visit to the neighborhoods of Katakolon. Begin with a 45-minute coach transfer to the archaeological site of Olympia, where you will have two hours to explore its rich ancient history. Strolling through the grounds of the first Olympic Games, held in 776 B.C., is a truly unique experience. Your guide will share insightful historical details about the site’s treasures, including the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Sanctuary of Pelops, and the Gymnasium.

After your exploration of Olympia, you will visit a family-run olive oil mill situated in a traditional agricultural region. The welcoming owners will share their expertise in sustainable and self-sufficient agriculture, incorporating biological and ecological processes into their farming and food production practices. Enjoy a glass of ouzo or wine and a slice of homemade olive cake before embarking on an engaging tour. Discover the virtues, benefits, and rich antioxidant properties of olive oil as you explore the farm’s vineyards and garden. Learn to distinguish the various flavors of olive oil—bitter, spicy, green, and fruity—and understand how this essential ingredient can enhance the taste of fish or meat dishes.

The experience culminates with a fun and interactive cooking lesson. Test your skills by preparing the famous tzatziki and a Greek salad with freshly cut ingredients. Hone your pita souvlaki wrapping techniques to complete your culinary adventure.

Kiel (Germany)

COUNTRY LIFE AND REGIONAL GASTRONOMY IN GUT PANKER

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend a few serene hours in the picturesque Holstein Switzerland region. This tranquil area, with its charming rural landscapes, elegant stately homes, and traditional farming methods, offers a perfect retreat.

A 45-minute minibus ride will transport you to Gut Panker near Lütjenburg, a historical estate rich with ateliers, art galleries, and boutique shops, all surrounded by nature that enhances the sense of peace. During a one-hour guided tour, you will learn about the estate’s history, including the venerable Trakehner horse breeding farm—one of Germany’s oldest—its agricultural practices, historic buildings, and the von Hessen family, the estate’s owners.

In the heart of the elegant Panker complex, the historic Ole Liese Inn awaits to offer you an exclusive gastronomic experience. With its rustic dining room and two other exquisitely decorated rooms, a stop at the Inn is visually captivating. Over the next two hours, you will indulge in an exclusive wine tasting, sampling three award-winning, fully certified organic wines from the renowned Prinz von Hessen winery. Following the tasting, delight in a lunch featuring refined German cuisine made from regional products.

Lisbon (Portugal)

WINE CREATORS! YOU ARE THE ENOLOGIST

Embark on a captivating four-hour excursion dedicated to exploring the renowned wines of the Setubal region. Just an hour’s journey from Lisbon’s port, you will arrive at the inland hills where the unique limestone and clay soils contribute to Portugal’s exceptional wine production.

Your adventure begins at Quinta de Catralvos with an immersive two-hour dive into the world of viticulture and the crafting of the famous Moscatel de Setúbal. Guided by a wine expert, you’ll tour the winery to uncover the intricate processes that transform grapes into exquisite wines.

Next, step into the role of a winemaker through an engaging hands-on workshop. Gain insights into the winemaking craft and create your own blend using various grape varieties. Before concluding your visit, indulge in a tasting session featuring four distinct wines.

As a memorable finale, take home your personally crafted and bottled wine. Then, relax on the hour-long journey back to the port, enriched by your newfound knowledge and experience.

Stavanger (Norway)

STAVANGER, FROM THE OUTSKIRTS TO THE OLD TOWN WITH CIDER TASTING

Famous for its oil industry, Stavanger offers much more to its visitors. This approximately four-hour excursion lets you discover the beauty of its surroundings and a city that stretches out in an open landscape, unprotected by Norway’s imposing mountains. The journey begins with a scenic 90-minute coastal route, featuring highlights such as the medieval church Sola Ruinkyrkje—an important navigational point for the Jæren coast until the 19th century—the Solastranden beach, popular among surfers and kiters, and the quaint town of Ølberg.

Next, you’ll visit the suburb of Hafrsfjord, renowned for its three 10-meter-high bronze swords embedded in the rock. Created by sculptor Fritz Røed, these swords commemorate the battle of 872 and Viking King Harald’s victory, which unified Norway. The tallest sword represents the victorious king, while the other two signify his defeated challengers.

Upon returning to Stavanger, you’ll pass the petroleum museum and embark on a 30-minute walk to Gamle, the historic center filled with perfectly preserved wooden buildings, some dating back to the 18th century. This charming stroll through the old town will conclude at a local café, where you’ll enjoy a 75-minute break to savor cider, affectionately called “Norwegian champagne.” Known for its ancient production methods, Norwegian cider is highly esteemed worldwide, and we are confident you’ll appreciate it after a taste.