Cruise

MSC Flips The Switch On New Canadian Office

MSC Cruises has “flipped the switch” at its new office in Mississauga, Ont., significantly expanding its presence in Canada.

MSC officials, including president Roberto Fusaro and Ian Patterson, newly appointed country manager, Canada, held a celebratory reception last night (April 30) at the new office.

Speaking with PressToday, Fusaro said this is a significant milestone for MSC, which he described as the fastest growing cruise line in the world. MSC currently has 15 ships under construction with the newest to be delivered this fall.

He noted that Canada is a strong market for MSC and one that has much more potential.

“This puts us closer to the market, gives us a local presence,” said Fusaro. “Canada is already good for us, but we can do more and we will do more.”

Patterson said MSC thinks globally and acts locally and is putting its flag in Canada with the opening of the new office. MSC Cruises Canada will employ 15 full-time employees across multiple departments, including Finance, Sales, Marketing, Contact Centre and Groups.

“With Canadian travellers continually showing an increased interest in cruise vacations, we are eager to establish a stronger presence as part of our growth plan in North America,” said Patterson. “With our new, permanent office in the region, we are thrilled to be able to better serve Canadian travellers and travel advisors, with dedicated materials, tools and resources.”

In conjunction with the office opening, MSC has launched Canadian web sites for consumers (https://www.MSCCruises.ca) and for travel agents (https://www.mscbook.com/ca), allowing guests and travel advisors to operate in Canadian dollars and access resources, information and tools. The websites will initially debut in English, with further enhancements including the roll out of French versions before the end of this year.

Patterson also touted the importance of trade partners and said, “it’s because of the trade we are able to do this.”

Fusaro said MSC is known for its beautiful ships, offering passengers local culture both onboard and in destination, from cuisine to entertainment. He added MSC partners with some of the best chefs in the world and offers exclusive onboard entertainment like Cirque du Soleil.

Pictured are Patterson (l) and Fusaro.