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MSC's UK MD Antonio Paradiso describes his additional Explora role

PHOTO: HOLLY PAYNE cruise_paradiso.jpg
Antonio Paradiso spoke to Seatrade Cruise about his additional responsibilities from on board the brand-new MSC Euribia
MSC Cruises’ UK MD Antonio Paradiso spoke to Seatrade Cruise News about his new, additional responsibilities as UK MD for Explora Journeys.

‘The purpose is to support the new division of MSC in its start-up phase. I'll be bringing my knowledge, connections and distribution in order to support Explora at the beginning of its journey,’ he said.

This follows the announcement that MSC’s cruise segment is bringing sales functions and other brand-dedicated resources for Explora Journeys under the same umbrella as MSC Cruises in a dozen markets, a move aimed at enhancing support for the travel trade.

‘The idea is to work with my colleagues from Explora to put Explora Journeys firmly on the map in the UK and Ireland,’ Paradiso continued. ‘I'm excited about it because it will give me the opportunity to do something different. I'm always up for a new challenge and I'm pretty sure it's going to be an exciting job.’

Priorities

Paradiso's current top priority is liaising with senior members of the Explora team to formulate ideas and strategies for the brand. He added, ‘At least for the first year, I want to attend all the luxury cruise conferences. More importantly, I want to bring the creativity and enthusiasm brought to MSC UK to Explora Journeys in the UK, too. Yes, it's a luxury brand, but I want to utilise some new channels, as well.

‘I don't like doing the same old thing. I like to come up with something different every day.’

A receptive market

Explora Journeys has been well received by the UK market, said Paradiso. ‘The appetite is definitely there and I believe Explora Journeys is offering something a little bit different from what is already available.’

He concluded, ‘The main message with Explora Journeys is an ocean state of mind — this is exactly the sort of vibe and messaging that we will start delivering in the UK, as well.’