ABOUT MSC CRUISES

MSC Cruises will add new ports of call for two of its three sailing itineraries in the Middle East during the winter 2023-24 season. The line will also back up its Middle East cruise expansion with 80,000 return air seats as part of its 'Fly&Cruise' programme with leading airlines. MSC Virtuosa will sail 17 new seven-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf from Dubai to Doha, Manama in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island. International guests have a choice of three embarkation ports: Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi. MSC Virtuosa will also serve as a cruise ship hotel for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. MSC Opera returns to the region with 22 seven-night sailings in 2023-24 from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Muscat and more. MSC Orchestra will operate a new Middle East cruise tinerary from Safaga in Egypt with 20 seven-night sailings to Jeddah, Aqaba for Petra in Jordan, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Cairo. The 'Fly&Cruise' product for MSC Orchestra's Red Sea sailings will provide more than 20,000 return air seats throughout the season.  

MSC Cruises has put its highly anticipated winter 2024/25 season on sale. Cementing MSC Cruises' strong presence in North America, MSC Meraviglia will continue sailing from New York City, with a wide range of itineraries spanning 7 to 11 nights. Sailings visit Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau, plus MSC Cruises' private island Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. MSC Seascape sails every Saturday from Miami, offering week-long Eastern Caribbean cruises and to the Western Caribbean (Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico, and Ocean Cay). MSC Divina offers a range of three to 10-night Caribbean cruises from PortMiami. MSC Seashore will homeport in Port Canaveral and MSC Virtuosa will be based in Fort-de-France, Martinique. Embarking from Dubai, MSC Cruises' latest flagship MSC Euribia will make her debut in the region, offering seven-night sailings, including stops in Abu Dhabi, the island of Sir Bani Yas, and Manama in Bahrain. In the Red Sea, MSC Musica will offer seven-night sailings from Safaga, Egypt to Jeddah, Aqaba; Sharm El-Sheikh and Sokhna Port. Additionally, MSC offers a full complement of Europe cruises in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Guests can expect visits to  European island hotspots like Sicily, Malta and more on MSC World Europa. MSC Preziosa offers seven-night cruises in northern Europe departing Hamburg, to Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, Le Havre, and Southampton with extended port stays. Additionally, one 21-night long cruise from Southampton will visit the Canary and Madeira Islands, as well as Morocco on 5 January 2025. All these itineraries are now on sale. MSC Cruises will soon release details for South America cruises, and sailings to Southern Africa and the Far East.

MSC Cruises has introduced an upgraded 'Future Cruise Program.’ It is designed to benefit travel agents when a customer who books with an agency then reserves their next sailing while onboard. The original travel agent will receive full commission for any new booking made at sea. MSC Cruises says the new procedure will allow agency resources to be better allocated. New aspects of the program for guests include a reduced 'onboard-only deposit' starting from £100 per person for their next cruise. There is also greater flexibility so a reservation can be changed to suit the customer's needs prior to final payment Additionally, there is an extended 'best price guarantee'. Benefits of the line's existing 'Future Cruise Program' will continue. It currently offers up to £200 in shipboard credit for the next cruise and double MSC Voyagers Club loyalty points. Achille Staiano, SVP Global Sales, said, "We believe that the new Future Cruise process is an extension of an agency's business as we at MSC Cruises continue to build loyalty with our valued travel agent partners.” MSC Cruises' ships have dedicated onboard Future Cruise teams and every new booking will generate an email confirmation to an agent

MSC Cruises is heading back to China next year. It will offer international China cruises aboard the MSC Bellissima from March 2024. A short season will see the ship sailing from the Baoshan Wusongkou Cruise Terminal in Shanghai. It will operate nine China cruises of four or five nights calling at Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Sasebo, Japan. Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “We can really sense a rapid recovery in the country’s cruise industry.” “Our team in China has been working tirelessly to prepare for our return to the Chinese market.” Prior to mainland China, MSC Bellissima will homeport in Taiwan from January 2024.

  MSC Cruises’ autumn programme offers stunning itineraries off the east coast of North America and up to Canada, promising guests a truly unique cruise experience aboard MSC Meraviglia. Guests can embark on an unforgettable journey this September and October 2023 for 10-or 11-night cruises sailing from New York to New England and Canada.   New England and Canada are renowned for incredible scenery and autumn is definitely the best time to visit to witness the beautiful changing of the seasons. Whether it’s visiting world-famous historical sites, admiring the incredible landscapes and spectacular vibrant hues of autumn leaves or savouring the famed mouth-watering cuisines of the East Coast - these unique itineraries aboard MSC Meraviglia have something to offer for everyone.   While sailing the East Atlantic coast, guests can make the most of MSC Meraviglia’s array of exceptional amenities and rich and varied onboard experiences including the ship’s wide range of gourmet dining options, world-class entertainment, award-winning facilities for families and children of all ages, luxurious spa and wellness all whilst relaxing in comfortable accommodations to meet all needs.     MSC Meraviglia is homeporting year-round in New York and will also offer select cruises to New England and Canada in April, May, August and autumn 2024.   MSC Meravalgia fall itinerary highlights include:  

1. TAKE A BITE OF THE BIG APPLE

MSC Meraviglia’s itinerary will set sail from New York City, offering guests the chance to visit the city that never sleeps, full of endless unforgettable experiences. From viewing the iconic Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, marveling at the dazzling Manhattan skyscrapers, getting lost in the city’s lively neighborhoods, visiting world-class museums to a relaxing stroll in Central Park to witness the majestic autumn foliage, this magnificent city is a top destination any time of the year.

2. EXPERIENCE THE ELEGANCE & CHARM OF NEW PORT

New Port, situated On the Southern Coast of Rhode Island, is a charming waterfront town known for its stunning architecture, historic Gilded Age Mansions and beautiful scenic coastal views. The city has a variety of attractions to explore, leaving for memorable experiences including the historic Cliff Walk with a walking trail along the beautiful rocky shoreline, the iconic Newport Mansions, some of the most impressive mansions, once home to America’s wealthiest prominent families and the historic Fort Adams State Park offering gorgeous views of New Port Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

3. WALK THROUGH AMERICA’S HISTORY AT BOSTON’S HISTORICAL SITES

Explore Boston, the capital of Massachusetts – a modern and dynamic city full of rich culture and history. Whether viewing the city’s cutting-edge architecture or taking a walk through Boston’s famous Freedom Trail, lined with historic landmarks including Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, there is a plethora of sites to discover. For sports enthusiast, visit the historic Fenway Park, the oldest and most legendary stadium in Major League Baseball and home to the Red Sox.

4. EXPLORE NOVA SCOTIA’S NATURAL BEAUTY

Nova Scotia, Canada, known for its charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches and captivating shorelines, is the perfect destination to experience a taster of Canada’s natural beauty. Not to be missed on MSC Meraviglia’s itinerary is Halifax, the seaside capital city of Nova Scotia, renowned for its long-standing maritime heritage. Guests can enjoy a stroll on one of world’s longest continuous waterfront boardwalks full of fantastic restaurants and a range of cultural attractions, visit the city’s impressive historical landmarks including its hilltop citadel dating back to the 18th century or head Southwest of the city to the small fishing village of Peggy's Cove, well-known for its picturesque red and white Peggy Cove Lighthouse, one of the most iconic and popular sites visited in Nova Scotia.

5. VISIT THE GREAT OUTDOORS OF NEW BRUNSWICK

New Brunswick, the beautiful maritime province in Canada, is a must-visit this autumn for outdoor adventures with its striking coastline and lush forests as well as its various wildlife including moose, whales and seals. Guests can explore the charming and historic port city of Saint John, located in the Bay of Fundy, offering a range of attractions for sightseers and nature lovers. Whether it’s admiring the beautiful historic streets, going for a hike or bike ride in the beautiful nature trails of Rockwood Park or witnessing the incredible views of the Bay of Fundy, home to some of the highest tides in the world, there’s a host of attractions to meet the preferences of all.

6. DISCOVER THE BEST OF PORTLAND’S CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS

The quaint city of Portland, Maine, offers a wealth of cultural attractions and beautiful views of the Atlantic coast. Travelers can explore the city’s enchanting lighthouses, historical architecture, varied outdoor activities in the breathtaking nature as well as taste some of the freshest seafood in the country. Some of the city’s top attractions include the Old Port District, where guests can take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets full of historic buildings, boutiques and excellent restaurants and bars to discover. Art lovers must stop at the Portland Museum of Art featuring an impressive collection of artworks from local and world-famous artists from around the globe. Make sure to take the time to sample the local beer and try out the world-famous Maine lobster.

MSC Cruises new flagship MSC Euribia has been officially named in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Naming Ceremony event was presented by Danish television host and actress Sarah Grünewald. The ship’s Godmother is screen legend, Sophia Loren. The ship is MSC Cruises' second LNG cruise ship. Sustainable innovations include onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. The ship can also incorporate future innovations, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels. During her maiden voyage, MSC Euribia completed a net zero GHG emissions journey from St Nazaire to Copenhagen. MSC Euribia begins sailings in Northern Europe with seven-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen to the Norwegian Fjords.

 

• MSC Cruises is celebrating 15 years in Japan and the start of MSC Bellissima’s summer season out of Yokohama
• First-ever winter season means guests can now sail year-round in the region with MSC Cruises
• The cruise line now offers the largest capacity of cruise passengers from Japan

  MSC Cruises hosted a special event on board MSC Bellissima in Yokohama, Japan to mark the start of the summer 2023 season and to celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the line’s presence in the country. At the same time, sales have today opened for MSC Cruises’ first ever winter season in Japan. With cruises now year-round from Japan, MSC Cruises offers the largest cruise capacity in the region, setting the line on track to become the number one cruise line in the country.   The new winter programme on MSC Bellissima will commence from November 2023 with an 11-night, 9-night and 6-night cruise from Yokohama. From  January to March 2024, MSC Bellissima will homeport in Naha/Okinawa offering guests from around the world the opportunity to experience Japan’s stunning landscapes and beaches, rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, and modern attractions with multiple destinations – all without having to repack a suitcase.   The Winter 23/24 season will see MSC Bellissima sailing within Japan and to Keelung, Taiwan (China), offering cruises of four to five nights in length, with varying itineraries visiting destinations such as:  

• Okinawa, Japan - The fifth largest island of Japan is known for its balmy tropical climate, expansive beaches and stunning coral reefs, as well as historical sites
• Ishigaki, Japan – Another stunning beach destination with incredible snorkelling, diving and surfing sites, guests may go searching for the Shiraho Reef's rare blue coral in Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
• Keelung, Taiwan (China) - Keelung City is surrounded by inspiring mountains and is home to a bustling waterfront, where street-food stalls at Miaokou Night Market offer traditional snacks and seafood. Several forts pepper the area and offer breath-taking views out to sea
• Miyako Island, Japan - Miyako Island is revered for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Guests will delight in local foods, including sweet mangoes, or go out looking for adventure in the many underwater caverns

  This summer, MSC Bellissima is now sailing eight- to nine-night summer sailings out of Yokohama, Tokyo - offering one-of-a-kind opportunities to discover the beauty of the region. Some of the departures still have availability – for more information visit here.

MSC Meraviglia has arrived at its NYC homeport at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. It marks the first time MSC Cruises has deployed a ship for year-round New York. cruises With New York’s wide-ranging flight connections, MSC Cruises offers "Stay & Cruise" packages with an option to stay up to three nights. MSC Meraviglia's itineraries range from 6-to 11-nights, including The Bahamas and Florida, Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico. Other itineraries include Bermuda with seven days in port. MSC Meraviglia also offers Canada and New England cruises in the fall, calling at Newport, Boston and Portland in the US, and Saint John and Halifax. MSC Meraviglia accommodates up to 5,700 guests with 20 bars and 12 restaurants.

Sales are now open for MSC’s second LNG-powered ship, which sails from Miami in 2025. MSC World America launches in April 2025. MSC World America will sail from MSC Cruises' new terminal at PortMiami, which is set to be the largest cruise terminal in North America when completed. World America will sail seven-night Caribbean cruises during the inaugural season. The ship's itineraries include visits to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC Cruises' private destination in The Bahamas. They comprise Eastern Caribbean cruises to Puerto Plata, San Juan, and Ocean Cay. Western Caribbean: cruises call at Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico;, Roatan, Honduras and Ocean Cay. Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises said, "MSC World America will become the fourth of our new ships that we have deployed in the Caribbean for her inaugural season.” "This is part of our commitment to bring our newest and most innovative ships to the region." MSC World America will be designed for North American cruising with new restaurants, bars, public spaces and experiences.

The MSC Foundation teamed up with the International Union for Conservation of Nature to help conserve coral reefs. It will enable the completion of the global assessment of coral reef species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The assessment project aims to deliver actionable restoration plans for coral reefs, as well as the species populating them. The project will include prioritisng conservation and restoration actions based on the threats they face. “Our new partnership is a powerful commitment to conserve threatened coral reefs, and seagrass beds,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group Cruise Division. The partnership will also contribute to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

MSC Cruises is banking on a record-breaking season - with help from talented guests It announced a new entertainment offering by partnering with Guinness World Records. The new program allows guests to test their skill and get their name in the record books. Activities will include live shows inviting guests to attempt to break records. The new partnership is part of MSC Cruises' strategy to further elevate guest entertainment. Guests can participate in the activity by day and audition for the grand evening show. Finalists then demonstrate their talents and aim to become the next record holder. Steve Leatham, Global Head of Entertainment, said: "We're always on the hunt for new and engaging concepts for our guests.” “This partnership provides unique and enriching entertainment at the highest level.” Guinness World Records activities are now available on board MSC Seascape, MSC World Europa, and MSC Euribia, welcoming guest from June. Any new record breakers will be verified by a GWR Official Adjudicator and awarded a Guinness World Records certificate.

  MSC Cruises announced today that the Naming Ceremony for MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC Euribia, will take place in Copenhagen on 8 June. The new flagship will become MSC Cruises’ second ship to be powered by LNG one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale and will also feature further state-of-the-art environmental technologies including ‘Baltic Standard’ advanced onboard wastewater treatment system, waste management handling, energy efficiency measures as well shore power connectivity to enable zero emissions from the ship where onshore power is available. MSC Euribia symbolises the line’s commitment to protecting the oceans and this is why the port of Copenhagen was selected as the launch location – as not only does the port have a rich maritime heritage but Denmark is a country with a deep respect for the sea and commitment to sustainability.   Antonio Paradiso, MSC Cruises, commented, “We are committed to offering the best experience for our guests from the UK and Ireland, and that is why our newest environmentally advanced flagship, MSC Euribia, will be sailing from the UK during Winter 2023. Since our first full ex-UK season back in 2018, we’ve seen a huge demand for stress-free, no-fly cruises from Southampton on board our current UK-based ship, MSC Virtuosa.We will be able to build on this success by offering our UK customers the opportunity to experience one of the most impressive cruise experiences available, featuring leading sustainability technology and cutting-edge design.”   This highly anticipated new ship will feature a striking fresco painted on her exterior that represents MSC Cruises’ commitment to protect and preserve the marine environment. Designed by German graphic artist, Alex Flaemig, the artwork is designed to communicate the importance of protecting this delicate and complex ecosystem. MSC Euribia is named after the ancient goddess Eurybia who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, furthering the vision of the ship to master the deployment of state-of-the-art sustainable technologies to protect and preserve the precious marine ecosystem.   Starting her inaugural season in Northern Europe from 10 June, MSC Euribia will offer 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germanyand Copenhagen, Denmark to the stunning Norwegian Fjords including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.   To find out more about MSC Euribia, please click here. For more information for media please visit www.mscpressarea.com.