ENGLAND RUGBY LEGENDS SET SAIL WITH MSC CRUISES THIS SUMMER

• MSC Cruises unveils its Rugby 03 Champions Cruises series, setting sail from Southampton aboard MSC Virtuosa
• A one-of-a-kind sporting experience at sea with England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup heroes, including captain Martin Johnson
• Guests can enjoy a full lineup of special events and interactive moments with the players

London, UK – 4th August 2025 – This summer, MSC Cruises is bringing sporting history to the high seas with the launch of its Rugby 03 Champions Cruises, a special sailing series aboard MSC Virtuosa. Guests will have the rare opportunity to sail alongside some of England’s most iconic rugby heroes from the historic 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning team, including captain Martin Johnson, Ben Cohen, Mark Regan, Andy Gomarsall, Kyran Bracken, and Simon Shaw.

These exclusive sailings are scheduled for:

• 30th August 2025 – Featuring Martin Johnson, Ben Cohen and Mark Regan.
• 27th September 2025 – Featuring Andy Gomarsall, Kyran Bracken and Simon Shaw.

Cruise guests can enjoy a full lineup of special events and interactive moments with the players, including:

• An Audience with the 2003 England Rugby Champions (Ticketed Event) - A live Q&A session where players share career insights and behind-the-scenes moments from the 2003 victory, followed by meet-and-greet and signing opportunities.
• The Sportsman’s Lunch (Ticketed Event) - A relaxed three-course hosted lunch with the rugby legends, featuring candid conversation, photo moments, and memorabilia signings.
• Win a Champions ‘03 England Rugby World Cup Winners’ Signed Shirt - Guests can enter the onboard raffle for a chance to win a limited-edition, Champions 03 shirt personally signed by the full England Rugby World Cup-winning squad. All event participants will be automatically entered into the draw for this ultimate collector’s item.
• Rugby & Sports-Themed Activities Throughout the Cruise - Guests can get involved in a variety of fun, rugby and sports-inspired activities with the rugby players.

Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales at MSC Cruises, commented: “We’re thrilled to offer our UK and Irish guests something truly unique with our Rugby Champions Cruises on MSC Virtuosa. These sailings blend a fantastic cruise holiday with the chance to meet England’s 2003 rugby legends - whether you’re a dedicated fan or simply looking for a cruise with a difference.”

He added: “Our first Rugby sailing, featuring Martin Corry, Dorian West, and Trevor Woodman, received fantastic guest feedback - setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable series. It’s a great example of how we’re continually enhancing our world-class entertainment offering with fresh, exclusive experiences at sea.”

MSC Virtuosa will take guests on scenic journeys through Northern Europe’s breathtaking fjords or sun-drenched Mediterranean ports, blending top-tier travel with once-in-a-lifetime sports experiences.

Due to limited availability, these sailings are expected to sell out quickly. Guests are encouraged to book now to secure their place on board:

7 Night - 30th August 2025 – Norwegian Fjords

Departing From: Southampton

Visiting: Haugesund, Maloy, Flaam, Kristiansand

Cruise only: from £1,139pp

7 Night - 27th September 2025 – France and the Iberian Coast

Departing From: Southampton

Visiting: Bilbao, La Rochelle, Gijon, Cherbourg

Cruise only: from £749pp

For more information about the rugby-themed cruises, click here. To book, visit www.msccruises.co.uk.