London, UK, 26 April 2023 – MSC Cruises recently welcomed Shirley Ballas on board MSC Virtuosa for her Northern European sailing, embarking from Southampton. Whilst on board, the renowned ballroom dancer hosted a Q&A session where guests had the chance to ask her questions about her experiences on popular British television shows and the world of ballroom dance. Following the session, guests were able to take photos with the Queen of Latin Ballroom.
Throughout her voyage, Shirley not only indulged in various luxurious spa treatments at the MSC Aurea Spa, including a soothing Balinese massage and a rejuvenating facial treatment, but also had an unforgettable experience going offshore and exploring the picturesque cities of Hamburg, Cherbourg, and Bruges with the shore excursion team. She particularly loved the MSC Yacht Club’s luxurious amenities, such as the private sun deck and dedicated butler service which added to her overall experience of pure relaxation.
Shirley had an exceptional dining experience on board and was treated to an array of mouth-watering cuisine in the specialty restaurants including Kaito Sushi Bar and Butcher’s Cut. In the evenings, Shirley was blown away by the breath-taking shows in the Carousel Lounge and Le Grand Théâtre.
The Q&A session was a captivating discussion that covered a range of topics including Shirley’s overall experience on board MSC Virtuosa, sharing her appreciation for the beautiful ship and the warm hospitality of the crew. Throughout the session, Shirley shared insights about her career, the struggles she has faced in the industry and tantalized guests with a preview of what her new book has in store. Her passion for dance and commitment to excellence shone through in her answers, leaving the audience feeling motivated and inspired.
Speaking about her time on board, Shirley said: "I must say, cruising on MSC Virtuosa has been an absolute delight! As a first-time cruiser with MSC Cruises, I was blown away by the level of luxury and service on board. From the stunning design and amenities of the ship to the exceptional dining and entertainment options, every moment on board was truly unforgettable.”
“Thank you for providing me with a dream holiday experience. The level of treatment I received was exceptional, with everything being five-star quality. The entertainment, including the shows and music, was outstanding, and for a moment, I was transported to a beautiful place and forgot about everything else."
Antonio Paradiso, UK & Ireland Managing Director, MSC Cruises added: “At MSC Cruises, entertainment is always at the core of our thinking. We offer guests a blend of breath-taking acrobatics, dance, and live music. That is why I was delighted to welcome Shirley Ballas on board MSC Virtuosa to host a Q&A and meet and greet with our customers, offering a once in a lifetime experience and a memorable holiday experience.”
Shirley Ballas is a professional ballroom dancer and dance adjudicator who holds many championship titles in the International Latin Division. Ballas has appeared on television programmes such as Task Master, Loose Women and The Great British Sewing Bee but is most well-known for being the head judge of Strictly Come Dancing.
All summer long, MSC Virtuosa boasts an exceptional line-up of entertainment featuring tribute performances to musical icons like Elvis, Jess Glynne, and Adele, as well as hilarious comedy acts and an array of talented singers and musicians. MSC Virtuosa provides guests with an unparalleled entertainment experience, along with a selection of five exceptional and distinctive swimming pools, the most elaborate waterpark on the sea, record-breaking retail space, ten dining options, a designated kid's club area, and the MSC Aurea Spa.
MSC Virtuosa’s Northern Europe Summer 2023 cruise highlights include:
· Reykjavik, Iceland: A city mirrored in the waters of its bay. Its historic centre features the remains of primitive Icelandic dwellings.
· Funchal, Madeira Islands: Named for the fennel plant funcho used today in the traditional sweets that can be found all over the island Madeira. The island hosts equipped beaches, fortresses and cathedrals dating back to the mid-15th century.
· Lisbon, Portugal: A charming European city, situated on a chain of hills that overlook the glistening waters of the broad estuary of the Tejo. Its historic centre is relatively condensed and easy to explore.
· Flåm, Norway: Situated in one of the longest Norwegian fjords, Flåm is a beautiful destination that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
· Barcelona, Spain: One of the busiest cruise ports in the Mediterranean, famous for its iconic architecture, colourful culture and world-class drinking and dining.
Starting price for a 7-night cruise this summer in Northern Europe onboard MSC Virtuosa is £599.
