GENEVA — MSC Cruises has launched a new global program designed to reward healthcare professionals and their families with discounted cruise fares.

The program, which will be applicable until the end of 2021, thanks frontline and back office healthcare workers for their contribution in fighting the global pandemic.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises, said: “As a family-owned company we think it’s only right and proper to find a way to express our heartfelt ‘thank you’ to each and every healthcare professional of the world – as well as their families – for their selfless and tireless dedication, professionalism and bravery in tackling the current global pandemic.”

The discounted cruise fare program for healthcare professionals and their immediate families went on sale on Aug. 31, 2020 and will be available for all MSC Cruises sailings of any duration through to the end of 2021. This includes all cruises departing up to Dec. 31, 2021, when the booking is made by April 30, 2021.

These special per cabin fares will result in a discount of up to or exceeding 50% off the regular rates and will be available to healthcare workers for booking from travel agents and MSC Cruises contact centres from Aug. 31, 2020. Additionally, the program will include a series of onboard activities to properly recognize and celebrate these special guests and their families.

Added Vago: “The backbone of our protocol is down to the new data, research into COVID-19 and improved understanding of the virus that worldwide healthcare professionals have established during the pandemic and we want to thank them for their selfless and tireless work. And what better way to do that than on a cruise holiday together with their loved ones, who have also endured much to support them during the past months and continue to do so?ˮ

MSC Cruises halted its operation in connection with the global pandemic in mid-March and resumed sailing on Aug. 16, 2020 when MSC Grandiosa departed from the Italian port of Genoa for its first seven-night cruise. The ship is now halfway through its next seven-night cruise along the same Western Mediterranean itinerary.

Every guest and crewmember go through a comprehensive medical screening before boarding the ship, which includes universal testing for all guests and crew as well as only protected ashore excursions at each port of call.

Healthcare professionals can learn more about the discounted cruise fare program by visiting msccruises.ca.