MSC Cruises has opened sales for its 2023 MSC World Cruise, which will call at 53 destinations in 33 countries across five continents, with a more aspirational focus on Asian destinations. The spectacular 119-day voyage aboard MSC Poesia will begin on January 5, 2023, in Genoa, Italy; other embarkation ports include Civitavecchia (Rome), Marseille, and Barcelona; and the cruise will cover 30,000 nautical miles, traversing approximately 24 different time zones.
From Europe, MSC Poesia will cross the Atlantic, reaching the tropical islands of the Caribbean before sailing through the Panama Canal—an experience passengers will always remember. The next stop will be on the west coast of Central America, with calls in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico, before arriving in San Francisco.
The Pacific leg of the voyage will visit Maui, Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Auckland (New Zealand), Sydney, Australia's Gold Coast, Cairns and its stunning Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines. The ship will then arrive in Japan during cherry blossom season, with stops in Kyoto and Tokyo. Passengers will continue exploring the Asian continent with visits to Shanghai, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia. They will cross the Indian Ocean to reach the Middle East Gulf region, and from there, MSC Poesia will set sail for home via the Mediterranean, passing through the Suez Canal—another unforgettable experience.
Some of the highlights of this breathtaking round-the-world trip include:
- Puerto Limón, Costa Rica – spectacular beaches and lush rainforests make it a paradise for any nature lover. Passengers will have the unique experience of interacting with native species or discovering the rich history that Costa Rica's second-largest city has to offer.
- San Francisco, USA – Passengers won't want to miss the opportunity to enjoy the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, visit the famous Alcatraz prison, or sample Californian wines in one of America's most famous cities.
- Honolulu, USA – Hawaii is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular volcanoes. The Hawaiian capital, Oahu, boasts all three of these treasures. Passengers can participate in a luau or simply say “aloha” while soaking up the sun on the famous Waikiki Beach.
- Sydney, Australia – Sailing past the Sydney Opera House and the iconic Harbour Bridge, passengers will have two days to explore the Australian capital. They can visit the world-famous Taronga Zoo for a chance to see live kangaroos or learn to surf at Bondi Beach: this is a destination for everyone.
- Tokyo, Japan – Tokyo is one of six Japanese cities that MSC Poesia will visit during its world tour. With a plethora of uniquely Japanese activities to experience, passengers can choose from attending traditional tea ceremonies, watching sumo wrestlers' morning practice sessions, and discovering the culinary offerings that make Tokyo the city with the most Michelin stars in the world.
- Shanghai, China – One of China's most iconic cities will give passengers the chance to immerse themselves in the Far East, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, stroll along the Bund waterfront, or take a day trip to the water city of Zhujiajiao, where historic houses and bridges will welcome guests and make them feel as if they have stepped back in time.
- Da Nang, Vietnam – Vietnam's fifth-largest city is one of the most beautiful in the country. Passengers can choose to climb the world-renowned Marble Mountains, sunbathe on My Khe Beach, or explore the many stunning pagodas for which the city is famous.
- Singapore – Framed by the unmistakable Marina Bay Sands Hotel and the city's iconic Merlion, Singapore is a shopper's paradise with stunning malls that are as beautiful as they are well-stocked. The historic Raffles Hotel and the dazzling Gardens by the Bay make this small island a showcase of the best of both worlds: modern and classic.
- Aqaba, Jordan – This city on the Red Sea coast is a haven for both divers and history buffs. From snorkeling in Aqaba Marine Park to exploring Mamluk Castle and the Aqaba Archaeological Museum, this destination has something to satisfy everyone's interests.
MSC Cruises previously announced the cancellation of the 2021 MSC World Cruise due to the continued closure of most ports along its itinerary because of the health situation on land. However, passengers who had booked this trip can still experience the same itinerary on the 2023 MSC World Cruise or opt for the 2022 MSC World Cruise, which features a different itinerary.
The company offers the following benefits on bookings: a beverage package during meals will be included in all bookings with Bella and Fantastica experiences, 15 shore excursions included in the price, discounts on laundry and a special discount for MSC Voyagers Club members.
