Marco Macchieraldo
Hi, I’m Marco, Head of Product at Paramount Cruises. I love designing and curating our cruise experiences to make every trip unforgettable. A big part of my role is matching the right cruise with the perfect hotel, transfers, and excursions to create seamless, all-in-one packages. Making sure every customer enjoys the ideal combination of adventure, comfort, and value, turning holiday dreams into effortless, memorable experiences.
Since I spend most of my days putting together Paramount Packages, I am constantly researching new destinations to add to my travel bucket list. If your budget allows, make sure you add a few days before and after your cruise. Even if it is a city you have visited before, there are always new restaurants to try and fresh attractions to experience. For a recent cruise on Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral, I spent a few days pre-cruise in Miami, then some time in New Smyrna Beach post-cruise, soaking up the Florida sun and enjoying the laid-back beach vibes.
More About Me
My Favourite Destination
One of the most underrated destinations I have visited has to be Albania. It offers a stunning mix of dramatic alpine vistas in the north, beautiful historic towns and a shimmering coastline that stretches all the way down the Adriatic. In the south of the country, you will find some of the best beaches in Europe. What makes it even better are the friendly people and great value restaurants. I love that cruise lines have started to add Sarandë as a port of call on Eastern Mediterranean cruises, as it is sure to promote this amazing destination even further.
My Top Trending Cruise Line
As an Italian, I cannot not say MSC Cruises. Their World Class ships are, as the name suggests, truly world-class. In terms of value for money, I do not think you can go wrong with an MSC Cruises holiday. I love that the gratuities are included in the price, and the Premium Extra drinks package upgrade is probably the best value drinks package in the industry. Oh, and their freshly made pizzas are easily up there with the very best at sea.
My Next Bucket List Destination
Next on my bucket list is Alaska. I am desperate to set sail on a cruise and soak up the incredible views as you sail along the Inside Passage, exploring glaciers, wildlife and remote towns. However, it is not just about the cruise. I am planning to pair it with a stay in Vancouver, as well as some time exploring the Rocky Mountains from Banff and Jasper.
Destinations I've Visited
Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Belize, Honduras, Mexico, USA, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Denmark, Norway, Estonia Germany, Poland, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Czech Republic, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Monaco, Vatican City, Switzerland, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Greece, Turkey, Morocco, UAE, Qatar, India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia,
Cruise Lines I've Sailed With
Ambassador Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Celestyal, Explora Journeys, Havilla, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Princess, Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages
Last Ships I Sailed On
Explora I, Norwegian Aqua, Utopia of the Seas