MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 11 ultra-modern ships offering casual, relaxed and informal cruise holidays to suit all passengers, from families and groups of friends to singles, couples and seniors.

As well as being experts in the art of relaxed cruising, MSC Cruises also knows exactly how and when to put on the ritz.

MSC knows that guests love to indulge in old-fashioned glamour and relive the sophistication of the golden age of ocean travel, even if only for one night.

As part of the MSC cruise tradition, the MSC Gala Dinner takes place at least once every cruise. Hosted on board MSC’s luxury cruise liners, Gala Night is the epitome of elegance, hospitality and grandeur and the whole evening, from the cuisine to the show, is a carefully-considered display of refinement and elegance. Guests are encouraged to don their finest gowns and tuxedos whilst the Captain and Officers also join the party, dressed in their ceremonial white parade uniforms.

Each MSC Gala night comprises three elements: a cocktail, gourmet dinner and a show.

Cocktails are served an hour before dinner, providing a taster of the lavish treats to come. A selection of four aperitifs are served to guests in the main foredeck bar: a flute of sparkling spumante, a non-alcoholic Fruit Punch flute, a Pinky Cocktail (Rum, lemon mix and grenadine) and a Vodkatini (vodka, dry vermouth and a green olive). A tempting selection of pure fresh fruit drinks is also available. The Gala rooms are decorated with sparkling ice sculptures that sit side by side with sculpted dragons and other mythical beasts, artistically crafted from fruit.

The MSC Gala Dinner is the ultimate ocean-side dining experience. Whilst the daily onboard meal is inspired each evening by regional Italian specialties, this special supper offers a glittering showcase of Italian haute cuisine. Head Chef Mauro Uliassi has created two outstanding dishes for the current MSC Gala menus: the Marche-style lamb with cheese brioche and tomato confit or Fresh caserecce (durum wheat pasta) with rabbit ragout, ginger and Parmesan fondue.

Holder of 2 Michelin stars, Mauro Uliassi is a true master of the Italian culinary arts, delighting in novel techniques and blending new flavors. Uliassi’s awards pay testament to his talents; he was voted Identità Golose’s Chef Of The Year 2009 and named one of the top five restaurant owners in the L’Espresso 2011 Guide.

The elegant Gala Night always concludes with a live show in one of the ship’s sumptuous theatres. Talented singers, dancers and acrobats perform an entertaining musical and dramatic mix, often calling upon willing guests to partake in the live experience.