The line said average occupancy for its vessels during both winter 2022/23 and summer 2023 would be higher than historical levels, with particularly strong interest and demand for its new flagship MSC World Europa, as well as soon to be delivered MSC Seascape and MSC Euribia, which is due to enter service next summer.

MSC also claimed a recording breaking October for its UK operation, which UK and Ireland managing director Antonio Paradiso said was characterised by "strong booking trends" for ex-UK sailings and 2023 cruises. The line was unable to provide specific UK booking data for October.

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises chief executive, said: “October has been the strongest month for bookings in the entire history of our brand. We are seeing strong demand with an extended horizon in the medium to longer term to such an extent guests and agent partners are starting to close bookings now to avoid the frustration of not being able to find the perfect holiday option for themselves or their clients."

Onorato added the trend reflected MSC’s investment in its fleet, its "truly global" array of itineraries and the line’s commitment to operating sustainably, as well as the value an all-inclusive cruise fare represents during the current economic downturn.