MSC Cruises guests are in pole position when it comes to Formula 1®: MSC Virtuosa will dock in Abu Dhabi from 23 to 27 November 2023 for the FORMULA 1® ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 2023. Fans of high-speed thrills can enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences both on board the ship and at the Yas Marina racing circuit. MSC Cruises has prepared special programs for guests' stay on board the ship and for them to experience all the excitement of the showdown between the world's fastest drivers and cars. Let's hear more from Alberto Revelli, Head of Formula 1 Program at MSC Cruises.

 

 

Alberto, your life really has been – and still is – all about engines and full throttle. Tell us about your experiences before joining the MSC Cruises team.

“After gaining some experience in the overseas marketing and commercial sector in areas including ICT and automotive, I've dedicated the last twelve years to motorsport, with a particular focus on managing sponsorships within the teams, specifically Scuderia Ferrari in Formula 1® and Aprilia Racing in MotoGP®.”

 

In terms of both technology and emotions, what unites Formula 1® and MSC Cruises, the magnificent ships and the amazing four-wheeled racers?
“They have numerous things in common: both represent the state of the art in their field in terms of innovation, with a particular focus on efficiency and sustainable technology. Both Formula 1® and MSC Cruises have a global scale and presence, but at the same time, local tastes aren't overlooked. Like F1®, our product is geared towards conveying emotions, entertaining, creating unforgettable memories for our guests. Last but not least, as a family company, MSC Cruises establishes a sense of belonging not unlike the feeling among regular Formula 1® attendees.”    

 

 

MSC Cruises is a long-time partner of Formula 1®, and a new adventure begins with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix™ in November 2023 thanks to various MSC Cruises and Formula 1® stay packages. What programs have you prepared for guests staying on MSC Virtuosa from 23 to 27 November 2023?
“Our partnership with Formula 1® allows us to create a unique product that combines MSC Cruises hospitality with the rush of the world's most famous motorsport. We've planned different experience levels, both on board and at the circuit: from comfortable cabins paired with Grandstand tickets to luxury suites in our Yacht Club, which come combined with passes from our partner for the F1® Paddock Club, the ultimate in racetrack hospitality.”

 

So, will fans staying on MSC Virtuosa be able to get a close look at cars in the pit lane, meet F1 drivers and ambassadors in the paddock, and watch the hustle and bustle of the pit?
“The activities largely depend on the chosen package and the consequent experience level. The examples mentioned certainly represent some of the possibilities offered by this partnership when it comes to the Abu Dhabi event, but for all guests, regardless of which services they request, MSC Cruises will offer half-board accommodation (breakfast and dinner), wi-fi, and non-stop transfers to and from the track, all included.”

 

No doubt you're already hard at work for 2024. After the GP experience in Abu Dhabi, what are you preparing for next season?
“Indeed. The goal is to replicate the format and increase the number of Grand Prix races where our ships are present near F1® circuits. At the moment, we can't yet determine exactly how many events and countries will be involved. The final decision depends on various factors, such as the structure of the Formula 1® calendar, the availability of dock space, and the administrative requirements of the host country. However, I believe that we will be able to get a clear picture before the end of this season, and we can then publicise the locations and the corresponding dates of future events.”