There’s nothing quite like a perfect cup of tea to make you feel at home, and for British travellers, this sentiment rings especially true. Recognising this deep-rooted connection, MSC Cruises has launched an innovative Tea Library on board MSC Virtuosa, ensuring that Brits can enjoy their favourite brew while sailing the high seas.
British travellers often lament that tea never quite tastes the same when they’re abroad. A survey commissioned by MSC Cruises revealed that a staggering 76% of Brits feel this way, with 51% going as far as bringing their own tea bags on trips, and 37% even packing their own kettle, mug, and sugar bowl. This prompted MSC Cruises to create the Tea Library, a haven for tea lovers sailing from Southampton this summer.
The Tea Library is stocked with nearly 100 types of tea, including beloved brands like PG Tips, Tetley, Clipper, Yorkshire Tea, and Twinings, as well as supermarket favourites. The offering doesn’t stop there; the library also includes various types of milk, sugar, sweeteners, mugs, cups, teapots, tea cosies, and more. To ensure an authentic experience, MSC Cruises has gone the extra mile to provide tap water with varying levels of hardness, from the hardest water in London to the softest in Dundee.
The majestic Tea Library facade featured at MSC Virtuosa
Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales and Managing Director of MSC Cruises UK and Ireland, explained the motivation behind this initiative: "Brits are very particular about their tea, and they should be. When it doesn't taste right abroad, it can change the whole experience. It might be that the tea bags are wrong, or the water tastes off, or it might be that UHT milk – it's very hard to replicate the components that make the perfect cuppa when you're not at home."
Guests aboard MSC Virtuosa can now indulge in the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea, a treat that has been increased from weekly to daily in the MSC Yacht Club due to popular demand. Imagine sipping a perfectly brewed cup of Yorkshire Tea or Twinings while gazing at the stunning vistas of Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Norwegian Fjords.
This initiative is not just about providing a familiar taste; it’s about enhancing the overall travel experience. Nearly 60% of Brits believe that drinking British tea abroad can significantly improve their travel experience. The Tea Library on MSC Virtuosa is designed to do just that, offering a comforting slice of home on the open sea.
MSC Cruises prides itself on listening to its guests and tailoring experiences to meet their preferences. The introduction of the Tea Library is a direct result of feedback from British travellers. During a trial period, guests can explore the extensive range of teas and bottled British tap water to find their perfect brew. Whether accustomed to very hard water from London, moderate water from Birmingham, or soft water from Dundee, MSC Cruises ensures that even the water used in their tea is just right.
Antonio Paradiso added, "We're always listening to our customers to ensure their sailing experience is truly remarkable, and if this trial is successful, we will roll it out during 2025. The trial is an extension of a previous survey amongst our fans to find out which tea bag they wanted when cruising with us to inform the tea brands we offer on board. We want our guests to feel like they're in a home away from home when sailing with us, which is why we have always taken tea seriously on board MSC Virtuosa and perfected even the smallest of details so that our guests can sit back and relax with their perfect cuppa, whatever their tastes."
The introduction of the Tea Library on MSC Virtuosa is a testament to MSC Cruises' commitment to enhancing the travel experience for British guests. By providing nearly 100 types of tea, various types of milk and sugar, and even authentic British tap water, MSC Cruises ensures that guests can enjoy their perfect cup of tea, just like at home. This thoughtful touch reflects the company’s dedication to listening to its customers and tailoring their services to meet their needs.
At S.W. Black Travel, we understand that the little details can make all the difference in your travel experience. For quotes, travel advice, or to discuss your future travel plans, please contact our expert travel consultant. Our team is ready to help you create unforgettable experiences. With S.W. Black Travel, you can enjoy a seamless and enriching travel experience, complete with the comforts of home.