With MSC Cruises’ Summer itineraries including an expansive list of 140 renowned destinations, 2023 promises to be an exciting year for the world’s third largest cruise brand.
Passengers can expect to discover unique hotspots and off-the-beaten path locations, as well as stepping aboard one of the cruise line’s modern and elegant ships, showcasing top entertainment, authentic dining options and luxurious spa facilities.
Highlights of their Summer 2023 itineraries include:
Copenhagen, Denmark
Sail to one of Northern Europe’s trendiest capitals, and the 2023 UNESCO World Capital of Architecture, on MSC’s newest ship, MSC Euribia– launching in June this year.
Discover this historic city and the abundance of awe-inspiring landscapes that it has to offer, from the renowned Christiansborg Palace, to the cutting edge architecture of Christiana. Better still, take advantage of MSC’s exclusive shore excursions, including a visit to Dragor; known for its picturesque alleyways, cobbled streets and traditional brightly painted Danish houses.
MSC Euribia’s seven-night Northern Europe itineraries also allow guests a chance to visit the captivating cities of Kiel, Germany, Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flaam.
Svalbard, Norway
Exclusive to MSC Preziosa‘s itineraries, this destination is one for adventurous guests longing to explore the Arctic Circle. Only available on four sailings this summer, the Svalbard islands are just a mere 500 miles from the North Pole, forming the most remote Northern Europe province.
With MSC Cruises’ PROTECTOURS, this sustainable tour programme offers passengers a unique experience to discover spectacular view of the best Norwegian fjords by a hybrid-electric catamaran. Other adventurous excursions include visiting a walrus colony on a hybrid-electric speedboat or e-biking through polar country; home to over 3000 polar bears.
The perfect destinations for wildlife lovers and eco warriors, itineraries including Svalbard are available for 14 or 15-night sailings from Hamburg, Germany.
Zakynthos, Greece
A tropical island paradise, the Greek Island of Zakynthos is a brand-new destination for MSC Cruises. Witness white pebbled shorelines, sparkling turquoise waters, and rugged clifftops that offer breathtaking sea views.
An island with endless local traditions and an interesting ancient culture, discover hotspots such as the limestone cliffs, historical monasteries and, of course, the iconic Shipwreck Beach.
Set sail on MSC Lirica to catch a glimpse of this sensational island, included in all of the ship’s weekly seven-night summer itineraries from May.
Istanbul and Kusadasi, Turkey
Abundant with ancient relics and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Turkey is renowned for sweeping ocean vistas, bustling bazaars, archaeological wonders, and stunning landscapes.
Guests will have the chance to explore Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey. Filled with incredible historic landmarks, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and marvellous architecture, there is something to suit every type of guest. Take the option to venture on an MSC excursion, visiting the likes of world-famous sites, including the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace.
Fly, Stay & Cruise packages will also be available for Istanbul through Turkish Airlines, allowing guests to enjoy the city to its fullest before the cruise. Flights will be departing from many of the major European airports, including the UK, Germany and Switzerland.
As well as Istanbul, cruisers will be able to explore Kusadasi; a glamorous beach resort overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea. From here, guests can visit the spellbinding city of Ephesus, acclaimed for its well-preserved ancient ruins.
Both Istanbul and Kusadasi are included as part of MSC Splendida’s eight, nine and 10-night Eastern Mediterranean cruises.
Messina, Sicily
Messina is a glittering town spread up the hillside beyond its sickle-shaped Mediterranean harbour, offering the first sight of Sicily.
The cruise line’s new flagship, MSC World Europa, will be sailing to this ever-popular Western Mediterranean destination this summer. As the first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet, and the most environmentally advanced to date, guests can experience a world of new and exciting experiences in this ultramodern urban metropolis at sea.
MSC World Europa will be sailing to Messina during her seven-night cruises, also visiting Genoa (Naples), Valetta (Malta), Barcelona (Spain) and Marseille (France).
Japan
MSC Cruises will be offering six sailings from Yokohama, Japan this summer, featuring carefully crafted itineraries allowing guests to journey through ancient cultures and discover Japanese art, history and traditions.
A highlight of the eight and nine-night cruise itineraries is Kyushu, with two stops on this island at Kagoshima and Fukoaka. At the seaside city of Kagoshima, witness the active volcano, Sakurajima, that faces onto Kinko Bay. And in Fukoaka, discover one of Japan’s hidden gem cities.
Travel to Japan on MSC Bellisima, offering sailings from June that will be departing from Yokohama- located just south of Tokyo.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Welcoming its first guests in 2019, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has now become a highlight for all Caribbean itineraries with the cruise line. This private island has a strong commitment to conserving marine life, including habitats and species present in the area.
As a result of MSC Foundation’s Supercoral Programme, along with the implementation of other conservation and educational programmes, the island has now been transformed into a lush paradise: offering crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches where guests can soak up the vibrant spirit of the Bahamas.
To reach Ocean Cay, guests can sail on MSC Seascape, offering seven or 14-night sailings from Miami; MSC Meraviglia sailing from New York; and MSC Seaside departing from Port Canaveral, Orlando.
