Cruise Saudi welcomed MSC Cruises' flagship, MSC Virtuosa, making it the second ship from the company to visit the Islamic Port of Jeddah. The cruise ship spent approximately 17 hours in port before continuing its journey through the Red Sea.
MSC Virtuosa joined MSC Bellissima at Saudi Arabia's largest and busiest port, where the latter ship was based during the 2021/2022 summer and winter seasons. The visits are part of Cruise Saudi's efforts to build a cruise industry in the country, aligning tourism with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's transformation plan to diversify the economy.
MSC Virtuosa entered service in May 2021 and is one of the two largest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet. It boasts the longest LED dome and the largest shopping area at sea. Equipped with the latest environmental technology, MSC Virtuosa is a modern and innovative ship with an incredible array of onboard features, including 11 boutiques, five swimming pools, and an onboard water park.
Commenting on the visit of the MSC Virtuosa, Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi, said: “We are proud to host the flagship of one of the world’s most established and popular cruise lines. The visit of the MSC Virtuosa positions Saudi Arabia as an exciting cruise destination for cruise lines and international travelers. At Cruise Saudi, we look forward to welcoming more guests and operators to experience the shimmering waters of the Red Sea as the tourism industry accelerates.”.
“By supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry, we are not only enabling the world to experience Saudi Arabia’s pristine islands and beaches, as well as its unique culture, heritage and hospitality, but we are also opening new doors to connect Saudi Arabia with the world and transform the country into a tourism hub.”
Cruise Saudi has welcomed several major international cruise lines since its launch, including MSC Cruises, Scenic Group, Silversea and Viking, which have completed more than 70 voyages during the 2021/2022 summer and winter seasons.
In April 2021, Cruise Saudi signed a five-year contract with MSC Cruises to bring its ships to Saudi Arabia. MSC Bellissima spent the 2021/22 summer and winter seasons sailing in Jeddah and around the Saudi coast.
