Bartlett brings more than 23 years' cruise industry experience to her new role, the past 10 of which she has spent with MSC.

MSC said the appointment "reinforced its commitment" to agents and to continuing to invest in its sales team. The line plans to grow its sales team to 19 with the addition of a national account manager, field sales manager and trade support manager.

It added Bartlett had played "a pivotal role" across multi trade-facing projects during her time with MSC.

Antonio Paradiso, MSC Cruises vice-president of international sales, MSC Cruises, said Bartlett's knowledge, energy and long-standing trade relationships made her the perfect candidate to lead on the lines UK sales strategy and to "grow and strengthen trade partnerships across the market".

"We will continue to invest as we expand the UK sales team to 19 members, with the addition of three new roles – a national account manager, field sales manager and trade support manager – providing even greater support for agent partners."

Bartlett added: "The trade has always been central to MSC Cruises’ success in the UK, and our focus is to be more visible, more connected and to continue building strong relationships that drive mutual growth."

MSC's plans to extend its support for agents include launched MSC Connections – a series of pre-bookable face-to-face sessions with its regional sales manager, more than 20 of which are planned in for the remainder of the year, with more to be held in 2026.

It has also pledged to enhance its ship visit and fam programmes and to continue investing in trade training through its MSC Masters platform.

MSC will homeport MSC Meraviglia in Southampton during summer 2027.