Why British Travelers Pack Their Own Tea as MSC Cruises Uncovers Unique Tea Habits Abroad

Published on June 14, 2024

Research from MSC Cruises reveals that 76% of British travelers believe tea tastes different abroad, prompting 51% to pack their own tea bags when leaving England, with 37% going so far as to bring their own kettle, mug, and even sugar bowl. Making the perfect cuppa, it seems, involves much more than just boiling water and a standard tea bag with a splash of milk.

MSC Cruises has unveiled the MSC Tea Library, boasting nearly 100 types of tea including popular British brands like PG Tips, Tetley, Clipper, Yorkshire Tea, Twinings, and various supermarket labels. This extensive collection is complemented by a selection of milk, sugar, sweeteners, as well as an array of mugs, cups, teapots, and tea cosies. Ensuring authenticity, the library offers tap water ranging from the hardest found in London to the softest in Dundee, aiming to recreate a home-like tea experience for guests.

Popular among British travelers, MSC Virtuosa has returned to UK shores with sailings from Southampton this summer. Responding to demand, MSC Cruises has increased the frequency of afternoon tea for guests in the MSC Yacht Club from weekly to daily aboard MSC Virtuosa.

Guests can savor their favorite brew amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Norwegian Fjords, with many believing that enjoying British tea abroad enhances their travel experience.

Reflecting the British penchant for politeness, a significant number would graciously drink a poorly made cup of tea, with some even expressing gratitude to the preparer. However, a confident minority would outright decline.

Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales and Managing Director of MSC Cruises UK and Ireland, emphasized the importance of tea for British travelers, noting that any deviation in taste can impact their overall enjoyment. He highlighted the challenges in replicating the perfect cuppa abroad, from tea bags to water quality and milk type.

During this special period, MSC Virtuosa welcomes tea aficionados to explore its diverse selection of British teas and bottled British tap waters tailored to various regional preferences.

Antonio Paradiso added: “We’re always listening to our customers to ensure their sailing experience is truly remarkable and if this trial is successful, we will roll it out during 2025. The trial is an extension of a previous survey amongst our fans to find out which tea bag they wanted when cruising with us to inform the tea brands we offer on board. We want our guests to feel like they’re in a home away from home when sailing with us, which is why we have always taken tea seriously on board MSC Virtuosa and perfected even the smallest of details so that our guests can sit back and relax with their perfect cuppa, whatever their tastes.”