MSC Cruises, the Geneva basedd cruise line with 12 ships, says it has recorded  a rise in UK bookings with figures up 90% in April compared to the same period last year.

 Meanwhile, CLIA UK is estimating that the UK cruise market will grow by 2% in 2013 on about 1701 million passengers recorded last year. MSC says the increase in bookings this month is due to its successful promotional strategy and the launch of its newest ship, the MSC Preziosa.

However, bookings of many cruise lines were hurt early last year by the sinking of Costa Conconrdia on 13 January 2012.

 “MSC Cruises tributes its April 90% success to the Choose and Go promotion, which is focused on a simple pricing structure – the customer decides on a budget and MSC Cruises matches it with a whole host of cruise options. The offer makes it as easy as possible for potential clients to choose the most suitable cruise for their budget with its straightforward pricing.  Prices for many 7-8 night 2013 summer Mediterranean cruises start from £399 per person cruise only. This offer has been so successful that it now has been extended until 31 May 2013,” the company said in a statement.

 Also the launch of the new ship the MSC Preziosa in March 2013 has generated considerable interest and bookings have so far been strong The MSC Preziosa belongs to the Fantasia class of ships and offers some new and distinct features, including children’s waterpark and Vertigo, MSC Cruises’ longest waterslide to date and the longest single rider body waterslide on the seas, the company said.

 Oliviero Morelli Product director said “We are delighted with these fantastic sales figures from the UK. Choosing the right cruise can often be a difficult process, particularly for first timers, as each cruise line offers a different pricing structure. We have tried to keep it as transparent and simple as possible so our guests know exactly what they are getting for their money and can budget accordingly.  We have also worked hard to promote our product and more relaxed Mediterranean way of cruising to the UK market, and it is very satisfying to see the demand for our product grow.”