MSC Cruises is giving fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at its popular “Let’s Holiday” advertising campaign, and if you enjoy seeing how cruise commercials actually come together, this one is worth a watch.
In a newly released behind-the-scenes video and a candid interview, longtime MSC partners Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom share what it’s like filming onboard, why the partnership keeps working, and how this year’s shoot leaned even harder into the real cruise experience.
Filming While Actually Sailing
One of the biggest differences with this latest installment of the “Let’s Holiday” campaign is that Barrymore and Bloom weren’t just pretending to cruise.
According to the interview, this year’s filming took place while the ship was actively sailing, allowing both stars to experience the same motion, atmosphere, and onboard rhythm that guests do.
They even joked about one of cruising’s most underrated perks – the sleep.
“There’s no better sleep in the world than sleeping while the boat is moving,” Barrymore shared, a sentiment many cruisers will immediately agree with.
The result is a campaign that feels less staged and more lived-in, with shots captured while actually at sea rather than entirely dockside.
A Campaign That Keeps Coming Back
MSC’s partnership with Barrymore and Bloom first gained major attention during its Super Bowl commercial, a moment both stars admitted came with pressure.
Super Bowl ads are heavily scrutinized, and Bloom noted that the positive reception to that commercial helped solidify the campaign’s future. The strong response made it clear MSC had found the right tone – aspirational, warm, and welcoming without feeling overproduced.
That momentum is now carrying into the next phase of the “Let’s Holiday” series.
Highlighting Real Cruise Traditions
One of the more charming moments in the interview is the duo discussing cruise traditions that frequent cruisers know well but first-timers might not.
Barrymore talked about seeing elaborately decorated cabin doors celebrating birthdays, milestones, and friend groups traveling together. She even joked about decorating her own door.
Then there’s the cruise rubber duck phenomenon.
Yes, that one.
The interview gives a nod to the now-famous tradition of hiding rubber ducks around ships for other guests to find – a small detail, but one that shows MSC is leaning into the fun, community-driven side of cruising rather than just polished visuals.
Ocean Cay and Onboard Favorites
The stars also teased experiences they were most excited about, including a long-awaited visit to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s private island in The Bahamas.
Other highlights mentioned included:
- The spa experience onboard
- Dining options with strong European influence
- Shopping and entertainment across the ship
- Simply exploring the vessel as real guests would
These are the same touchpoints MSC often emphasizes to first-time cruisers – variety, accessibility, and something for every travel style.
More Than Just a Commercial
Beyond the visuals, Barrymore spoke about why the partnership resonates with her personally. She highlighted MSC’s focus on inclusivity across families, budgets, and experiences, along with the work of the MSC Foundation, including its support of UNICEF and environmental initiatives.
That message aligns closely with how MSC has positioned itself in the North American market – offering a European cruise style that still feels accessible and family-friendly.
Why This Matters for Cruisers
For cruise fans, this behind-the-scenes look does more than promote an ad campaign. It reinforces MSC’s broader strategy: showing real ships, real experiences, and real moments instead of relying solely on glossy marketing.
If you’ve ever wondered how cruise commercials are filmed, or why the “Let’s Holiday” series feels a little more relaxed and authentic than traditional travel ads, this preview answers a lot of those questions.
And if nothing else, it might remind you why sleeping on a moving ship is still one of cruising’s most underrated luxuries.
See the Videos
Related
- Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Guide – What to expect on MSC’s private island in The Bahamas
- MSC Drink Packages Explained – A full breakdown of MSC’s drink packages and what’s included
- What Is the MSC Voyagers Club? – Loyalty perks, status levels, and benefits explained
