The sweet smell of success.

MSC Cruisesis looking to add something new with fragrant cruises. A special perfume, MED by MSC, has been custom designed for the new MSC Splendida and will be infused at low levels into the air-conditioning and detergents on the ship, pumping the "fresh, fruity and warm scents of fig, almond and vetiver" into the subconscious of its passengers.

A press release rhapsodizes: "Think of the Mediterranean and one immediately thinks of sensory delights; the perfumed lavender fields of Provence, the fruit of fig trees warmed by the summer sun, fresh herbs and citrus flavours and the enchanting scent of floral jasmine caught on an ocean breeze. Many of these typical Mediterranean scents are represented in this ambient fragrance."

In fact, the thinking behind the new scent is more cunning than simply enhancing passenger well-being. MED by MSC has been developed by perfume manufacturer Firmenich and Brand Sense, a company specializing in "sensory marketing." Brand Sense's Web site argues that: "Our research demonstrates that brand loyalty increases by 30% when more than one sense is engaged, but it increases by a whopping 70% if three senses are integrated into the brand message."

In other words, any future hints of fig, almond and vetiver might conjure up your memories of MSC Splendida and a desire to book another cruise. Or as head of corporate marketing Daniela Picco pointed out in a statement: "Fragranced hotels are becoming a big thing and research proves that holiday memories are composed of myriad sensory experiences, with scent playing a vital role. This inspired me to believe that we could create a unique scent as part of the MSC Cruises experience."

Let's hope the fragrance meets with passenger approval as it's going to be everywhere. Toiletries, all laundry, table linens, bedding and dressing gowns as well as the public areas will be imbued with MED by MSC. Passengers who really take to it will be able to buy home fragrance or scented candles in the onboard shop.