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The 2003 Rugby World Cup was a highlight in English sporting achievement, the world watched as the England National team took the cup in a stunning victory. Now you can see the men that made it happen on the dedicated MSC Virtuosa Rugby Legends Cruise, departing from Southampton on 8th August 2026.
Ben Cohen, Ben Kay, and Niel Back will all be present aboard MSC Virtuosa, and ready to meet with you!
The three players will be leading the Rugby Legends cruise, with support from former Strictly star Kristina Rihanoff who many will recognise as Ben Cohen’s partner on the BBC show.
This limited time event is only sailing once, ready for the players to return to the rugby pitch in September, but that doesn’t mean you will be strapped for things to do with this amazing quartet.
Commenting on the cruise, Ben Cohen MBE, had this to say.
“We have planned a range of exciting events on board MSC Virtuosa, giving guests the chance to meet us in person and hear our untold stories from our rugby careers, as well as my recent experience taking part in SAS: Who Dares Wins.”
Is there space on the stage for more than one sporting legend?
“I am delighted to be sailing with MSC Cruises once again, accompanied by my partner Kristina Rihanoff from Strictly Come Dancing, and my fellow 2003 World Cup-winning teammates, Neil Back and Ben Kay.”
What’s better than a bit of rugby aboard MSC Virtuosa?
“There may even be some dancing too!”
Cohen, Kay and Back will all be involved in rugby lessons aboard MSC Virtuosa. This experience is open to everyone from the young, to the young at heart, giving every budding rugby star the chance to hone their skills towards the try line under the guidance of brilliant sporting stars.
If rugby lessons aren’t your thing, then don’t fear, because a little Strictly sparkle is up for grabs too. Join a pro lead dance class, and swing those hips, getting to grips with your dance partner and the steps you need to know to wow on the dancefloor.
The chance to have a go isn’t the only thing you’ll be treated to either. Have you ever had a burning question about the ‘03 world cup, Strictly, SAS: Who Dares Wins, or simply the lives of these famous faces? Well don’t worry, each star will be available for “An Audience with…” where you get the chance to hear stories from their illustrious careers.
Rugby legends, and dancing royalty will join you on a fantastic Canary Islands cruise. Stopping at ports including Vigo, Funchal, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz De Tenerife, Arrecife De Lanzarote, and Cadiz, you’ll be able to experience some of the most stunning locations. 12 nights of fun, stunning views, and quality comfort on MSC Virtuosa. Starting from just £1279pp (that’s around £106 a night) you’ll sleep, dine, and socialise in style with celebrity guests and the summer sun.
MSC Virtuosa is one of the two largest ships in the MSC fleet and gives you access to phenomenal amenities. A fully operational F1 simulator giving a taste of virtual reality for the petrol-heads in your party. For food lovers MSC has included The Galleria, the perfect spot for dining, shopping, and socialising (who knows which rugby legends you might run into), or stop off at Polar Aquapark with three twisting slides, a ‘Himalayan Bridge’ and a range of pools.
MSC Virtuosa Rugby Legends Cruise is more than a holiday, it’s an experience.
Secure your place aboard now, with CruiseKings
Sail From UK from £1,209pp
Includes extra savings of up to £229pp
Excellent service as always from their agent Lisa Dixon, very helpful and quick to act on all our queries
Mr MORRIS / May 2026
Very prompt action to link our cruise with the one our friends had booked already. We loved the small deposit required to secure the booking. All the paperwork was sent within the published timescale and the agent was able to answer my queries really promptly.
Trusted Customer / May 2026
Very friendly and professional service. The booking process was quick and easy.
Mr Pemberton / May 2026
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