MSC Cruises will expand access to the destinations of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Oman.
MSC Cruises and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced a new partnership that will benefit MSC Cruises customers traveling to Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
The alliance with Etihad Airways reflects MSC Cruises' long-term commitment to its customers and also certifies the company's willingness to always offer the best experience, both by sea and by air – with the “Fly&Cruise” packages from Spain, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Kingdom – with Etihad Airways or airlines associated with its network.
Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Etihad Airways. Both companies are exceptionally young, ambitious, and dynamic market leaders. With our Fly&Cruise package, MSC Cruises customers will benefit from the impeccable service of both Etihad Airways and our company from the moment they leave home for a memorable holiday experience aboard MSC Musica. Through our alliance, and also in collaboration with the Port Authority and the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Organization, we will work to develop Abu Dhabi as an ideal winter cruise destination to strengthen our offering in the region.”
James Hogan, President and CEO of Etihad Airways, said: “Abu Dhabi is becoming a leading international cruise destination, with record passenger numbers and port calls during the recent 2014/2015 season. Future projections are even stronger, as the new Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal opens later this year, and cultural attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Museum will enhance the local tourism offering.”.
