Q. My wife and I would like to book a cruise to Mozambique to celebrate our anniversary, and I'm thinking of surprising her with a vow-renewal ceremony. Do you know if this is possible? - A Husband
A. MSC Cruises, which is bringing a new ship, the Musica, to sail from Durban to Mozambique this summer, does offer packages for weddings and vow renewals on board.
These ceremonies, officiated by a ship's officer, take place in an intimate location on board on the last sea day of the cruise.
The basic package is R8,176 and includes a pre-sailing consultancy, priority boarding, a bouquet of roses and a matching boutonniere, a certificate signed by the captain, a celebration cake and sparkling wine, with two keepsake flutes.
Be aware, though, that the ceremony is of symbolic value only, with no legal validity
The gold package, for R10,950, adds a bottle of Moët & Chandon, photography and a gourmet breakfast delivered to your stateroom the morning after the ceremony. The Platinum service, at R13,870, adds a personalised wedding video.
Be aware, though, that the ceremony is of symbolic value only, with no legal validity, and that the prices mentioned are for these extra services. You must therefore also factor the cost of the cruise itself into your planning.
Since you wish to surprise your wife, the good news is that MSC will play along, and you will be invited to attend a captain's cocktail event as a cover.
See msccruises.co.za.
