The future of MSC Cruises' Melody cruise liner hangs in the balance, with the holiday provider reportedly listening to a number of offers for the vessel.

First built in 1982, the ship is something of an old favourite for fans of the firm, with some 15 years of sailing to its name as part of the company's fleet.

The vessel is currently tied up at the port of Naples in Italy, with MSC Cruises currently debating its next step.

News of the plans first broke on the Seatrade Insider yesterday with a company insider revealing this latest development in an interview with the news provider.

"Melody is up for sale but has not yet been sold," the spokesperson explained.

No additional information has yet been provided on the potential sale, with negotiations currently continuing in private.

The MSC Melody is the latest liner to seemingly be heading for the scrapheap, following closely on from the recently retired Ocean Countess.