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MSC Cruises rules out fuel surcharges despite soaring costs from Iran conflict

MSC Cruises rules out fuel surcharges despite soaring costs from Iran conflict

MSC Cruises has pledged not to pass rising fuel costs on to passengers this summer, despite mounting pressure on the travel industry following the conflict in Iran.

The cruise line said it is committed to absorbing higher operating costs for now and will consider a range of alternative measures before introducing fuel surcharges for guests.

The reassurance comes as travel companies face growing uncertainty following sharp increases in oil prices since the outbreak of the Iran war, which has disrupted global energy markets and raised concerns about the cost of fuel across the transport sector.

Antonio Paradiso, Managing Director of UK, Ireland and Australia for MSC Cruises, said the company understands that uncertainty surrounding the conflict is making some holidaymakers nervous about booking trips.

He told The Independent: "Higher fuel costs have had impact on us, but we have shown our true colours by pledging that there will be no fuel surcharges or additional fees passed on to customers."

Paradiso confirmed the commitment will remain in place throughout the summer season while the company continues to monitor developments.

He said: "The last thing we want to do is make customers pay the higher prices."

While MSC Cruises has no immediate plans to reduce itineraries or remove port calls to save fuel, Paradiso admitted that longer-term changes could become necessary if the conflict continues for an extended period.

He said: "The big question is how long the conflict goes on for. If it's for five or six months, that's fine. If it is beyond that then we may need to make a few tweaks.

"Option one would be to adapt the itinerary; adding a fuel surcharge will be a last resort, depending on the situation in the Middle East."

Under UK Package Travel Regulations, cruise operators are permitted to add fuel surcharges up to 20 days before departure. If any surcharge increases the overall holiday price by eight per cent or more, passengers have the right to cancel and receive a full refund.

MSC is not alone in trying to reassure travellers.

Other major cruise brands, including P+O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Cunard, have also indicated that they currently have no plans to introduce additional fuel charges.

The cruise operator is continuing to encourage bookings through flexible policies, including deposits from £50 per person and the ability for guests to amend their cruise up to 30 days before departure without fees.

Among the company's most popular ships is MSC Virtuosa, which is sailing from Southampton this summer. Featured itineraries include a 12-night Canary Islands cruise in August with rugby legends Ben Cohen, Neil Back and Ben Kay appearing onboard, while football fans can join former Chelsea star Gianfranco Zola on a sailing to the Netherlands in October.

The company has also been forced to adjust its deployment plans in the Middle East.

MSC Cruises recently cancelled its Arabian Gulf programme for next winter as tensions continue across the region.

MSC Euribia was among several cruise ships stranded in the Middle East when the conflict escalated earlier this year and only left the area after the Strait of Hormuz temporarily reopened.

Paradiso said: "The Middle East was one of our most popular cruises, especially among UK passengers.

"I have no idea when we will return as the situation has not improved.

"The idea is to go back as soon as it is safe. It has always been a great destination."

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