The 12 -night cruise will depart from Southampton Port on 8 August 2026, offering guests the chance to travel alongside former England rugby players Ben Cohen, Ben Kay and Neil Back, as well as dancer Kristina Rihanoff.
The trio were part of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winning squad and will take part in a programme of onboard activities designed to give guests a closer insight into their careers.
Passengers will be able to join rugby coaching sessions, attend Q and A events and take part in meet and greet opportunities with the players. The sailing will also include appearances from Kristina Rihanoff, who will host dance classes and take part in audience events.
Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales at MSC Cruises, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming three rugby legends - Ben Cohen, Ben Kay and Neil Back – alongside dance star Kristina Rihanoff on MSC Virtuosa this August.
"The holiday will give guests a chance to experience a unique offering on board, meet their heroes and have fun.
"But they need to be quick - the stars will only appear on one sailing and with the rugby season starting in September, they need to book soon to make sure they don’t miss out."
Ben Cohen added: "I am delighted to be sailing with MSC Cruises once again, accompanied by my partner Kristina Rihanoff from Strictly Come Dancing, and my fellow 2003 World Cup-winning teammates, Neil Back and Ben Kay. We have planned a range of exciting events on board MSC Virtuosa, giving guests the chance to meet us in person and hear our untold stories from our rugby careers, as well as my recent experience taking part in SAS: Who Dares Wins. There may even be some dancing too! We look forward to seeing you on board."
The itinerary will include stops in Vigo, Funchal, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife de Lanzarote and Cadiz, offering a mix of cultural and coastal destinations.
Prices for the cruise start from £1,279 per person, with the sailing combining traditional cruise experiences such as dining, entertainment and shore excursions with exclusive celebrity led events.
