28 January 2010

MSC Cruises confirms ship for Southampton

MSC Cruises has confirmed plans to base a ship in Southampton for summer 2011.

The Italian line is to deploy the 2,000-passenger MSC Opera in the port from May next year.

A range of ex-UK cruises are to be offered to destinations including the Baltic and Mediterranean.

MSC has previously run UK departures from Dover.

The move into Southampton - where new ship MSC Magficia is to be showcased to the trade in a special preview visit next month - will further intensify cruise line competition from the Hampshire cruise hub.

The line's UK and Ireland managing director Giulio Libutti said: "Ex-UK cruising is becoming ever more desirable and popular and we are delighted to be working with Southampton port in 2011.

"Southampton port is well suited to our new planned itineraries cruising to the north of France, Spain and Portugal.

"The infrastructure and amenities at the port and in the city make Southampton a desirable and attractive port for us, with great transport links offered by road, rail and air, which will better service our passengers.

"The move also allows us to better penetrate Southampton’s local markets, as well as the whole of the South West, which is saturated with established cruisers and an increasing number of first time cruisers."

Doug Morrison, ABP Port of Southampton director added: "We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming MSC Cruises to the port in February to show case their new vessel MSC Magnifica.

"This, together with the exciting announcement of their decision to sail from Southampton in 2011, is wonderful news for the city and the surrounding area.

"In recent years we have invested over £41 million in our cruise terminals to ensure all passengers using the Port experience a high quality and efficient service.

"MSC passengers will benefit from our bespoke facilities, and we hope will enjoy the plethora of attractions in the region."

by Phil Davies