Interested in our Spring 2026 MSC Cruise GFI? Check Out our Informational Video!
MSC Cruise TENTATIVE ITINERARY
*Activities are Subject to Change*
Spring 2026 - Pre-Departure Work (2 Weeks)
Week 1: Introduction to Cruise Management
Session 1: Overview of the Cruise Industry
History and evolution of the cruise industry
Major players and market trends
Economic impact of the cruise industry
Regulatory environment and international maritime law
Reading Assignment: "Cruise Ship Management and Leadership: Hospitality on the High Seas" (Chapters 1-2)
Session 2: Cruise Operations and Management
Shipboard organization and hierarchy
Roles and responsibilities of cruise staff
Logistics and supply chain management
Port operations and management
Reading Assignment: "Cruise Ship Management and Leadership: Hospitality on the High Seas" (Chapters 3-4)
Activity: Case study analysis of a cruise line's operational strategies
Week 2: Marketing and Customer Experience
Session 1: Marketing Strategies in the Cruise Industry
Target markets and customer segmentation
Branding and positioning strategies
Marketing channels and digital marketing
Sales techniques and travel agency partnerships
Reading Assignment: "Cruise Ship Management and Leadership: Hospitality on the High Seas" (Chapter 5)
Activity: Develop a mock marketing campaign for a new cruise itinerary
Session 2: Enhancing the Customer Experience
Customer service principles and best practices
Onboard entertainment and amenities
Health and safety protocols
Handling customer complaints and crisis management
Reading Assignment: "Cruise Ship Management and Leadership: Hospitality on the High Seas" (Chapter 6)
Activity: Role-playing exercises for customer service scenarios
7 Nights on the Cruise: Practical Application and Field Studies (March 15 - 22)
Day 1: Embarkation and Ship Tour
https://www.msccruisesusa.com/itinerary-details/7-nights-the-bahamas?cruiseid=MR20241110NYCNYC
Welcome and orientation session
Guided tour of the ship’s facilities and operations
Meeting with senior management and Q&A session
Reading Assignment: Review daily newsletters from recommended websites (e.g., Cruise Industry News, Seatrade)
Day 2: Shipboard Operations and Safety
Observation of embarkation procedures
Safety drill participation and evaluation
Behind-the-scenes look at housekeeping and catering services
Activity: Safety protocol evaluation and improvement suggestions
Day 3: Hospitality and Guest Services
Shadowing guest services and front desk operations
Feedback session on guest service experience
Reading Assignment: Review articles from "The Maritime Executive" and "Travel Weekly"
Day 4: Marketing and Sales Strategies
Presentation by the ship’s marketing team
Discussion on current marketing campaigns and sales strategies
Group activity: Developing a mock marketing campaign for a new cruise itinerary
Activity: Group presentations on marketing strategies
Day 5: Excursions and Port Operations
Participation in an organized shore excursion
Analysis of excursion logistics and guest experience
Visit to the port authority and discussion on port management
Reading Assignment: Review articles from "Cruise Industry News" and "Maritime Executive"
Day 6: Sustainability and Environmental Management
Lecture on environmental policies and sustainability practices
Tour of the ship’s waste management and recycling facilities
Group discussion on the future of sustainable cruising
Activity: Develop a sustainability plan for a cruise ship
Day 7: Final Presentations and Debrief
Student presentations on key learnings and observations
Group discussions on potential improvements and innovations in cruise management
Closing ceremony and distribution of participation certificates
Students will keep a daily journal of their experiences and learnings.
This course provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, crucial for students aspiring to enter the cruise hospitality sector. The immersive aspect of the course aboard a cruise ship is designed to offer real-world insights that are invaluable for a complete understanding of the field.