MSC Cruises has become the latest major cruise line to roll out a new program aimed at using technology to enhance the guest experience. Dubbed MSC for Me, the program – which was developed in partnership with Deloitte Digital, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Samsung -- will roll out fleetwide to the line’s upcoming slate of 11 next-generation cruise ships, as well as its 12 currently existing ships.
The program will first debut on the MSC Meraviglia, the first of the line’s new cruise ships that is set to launch this June in the Mediterranean. As part of the program the ship will be fitted with 16,000 points of connectivity, 700 digital access points, 358 informative and interactive screens, and 2,244 staterooms with RFID/NFC access technology. The program will next be rolled out on MSC Seaside when the ship launches in November.
Key features include a digital wayfinding service that will help guests find their way around the ship and locate children as needed, as well as a digital concierge allowing guests to book services, restaurants, excursions and more. VR technology will allow guests to preview shore excursions, and a gallery with interactive screens will let guests share the story of their trip. There will also be an Organizer planning tool allowing guests to check in with their mobile device and book trips, seats for shows or dinner reservations, either before embarking or while onboard, and a TailorMade digital advisor that will provide tailored recommendations based on guest preferences.
Interactive bracelets will allow guests to connect to the ship’s services and will activate geo-located suggestions through nearby Bluetooth beacons.
The move recalls Carnival Corp.’s announcement of its new Ocean Medallion class, which is centered around a wearable device for guests that will allow them to open their stateroom door, track children or order drinks or entertainment. The Ocean Medallion will launch this November on Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess.
On land, Universal’s new Volcano Bay water park will enable an entire “virtual queue” experience – eliminating the need to stand in line – through a similar wearable device, called TapuTapu.