Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom Set Sail Again for MSC Cruises’ ‘Let’s Holiday’ Campaign
MARKETING
Drew Barrymore & Orlando Bloom back at sea for new ads in MSC Cruises' "Let's Holiday" campaign.
In the world of travel marketing, a great partnership is like a great holiday: it gets better with time. Today, MSC Cruises USA announced the return of its star-studded "transatlantic duo", Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom, in a fresh round of ads for the brand’s "Let's Holiday" campaign.
The new commercials, which debuted over the weekend, follow Barrymore and Bloom as they explore the flagship MSC World America, showcasing the cruise line's signature blend of European style and American comfort.
European Sophistication Meets American Fun
The ads, titled "Gnocchi & Karaoke," "That's Funny," and "Cabana & Spritz," highlight the diverse experiences available aboard MSC’s modern fleet. From dining at the only Eataly at sea to enjoying a classic afternoon tea in the MSC Yacht Club, the campaign lean into the unique sensibilities of its stars.
“I had so much fun finally sailing with Orlando on MSC World America,” said Drew Barrymore, who also serves as the ship's Godmother. “The food at Eataly was delicious and nothing beats karaoke with a bunch of new cruise friends.”
Orlando Bloom echoed the sentiment, noting the appeal of the "global" experience. “Sailing with MSC Cruises feels like you're getting a taste of Europe while you explore the Caribbean,” Bloom said. “Classic afternoon tea followed by football in the sports bar... how can you go wrong?”
Wave Season and New Homeports
The launch of the new ads coincides with Wave Season, the prime period for cruise deals. MSC Cruises is currently offering promotions starting at $199 per person, with onboard credits and "Kids Sail Free" options.
The campaign also supports the brand’s aggressive expansion in the U.S. market, which now includes:
Three U.S. Homeports: Miami, Port Canaveral, and the newly launched Galveston, Texas.
Seven Ships in the U.S.: Including the arrival of the MSC Seascape in Galveston and the upcoming MSC World Atlantic in 2027.
New Destinations: Expansion into Alaska sailings starting this summer.
The "Aspirational-Familiar" Balance
In 2026, the most effective travel campaigns aren't just about beautiful destinations; they are about relatable luxury. Mark Gross, Co-Founder of Highdive (the agency behind the campaign), noted that the ads aim to capture the modern cruise customer in a way that feels "both aspirational and familiar."
For brands in the lifestyle and travel sector, the lesson is clear: your ambassadors should do more than just "endorse" the product, they should embody the experience. By leaning into Barrymore’s warmth and Bloom’s sophisticated humor, MSC Cruises is humanizing the "Mega-Ship" experience. In the Holiday Economy, the winner is the brand that makes a $199 trip feel like a multi-million dollar adventure.