MSC Cruises continues to increase its presence in Spanish ports, with a 23% increase compared to 2022.
MSC Cruises anticipates a successful year, thanks to a wide range of itineraries and ships to suit all types of travelers. In 2023, MSC Cruises will make more than 500 port calls in Spain, 384 of them during the summer season, on itineraries operated by more than 20 ships visiting 140 destinations in 40 countries. Some of the most significant ports of call include Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Málaga, Cádiz, and Tarragona.
In the words of Fernando Pacheco, Managing Director of MSC Cruises in Spain, “Last summer we saw 20% growth in the Spanish market – compared to 2019 – and with this excellent figure in mind, this year we set ourselves the goal of increasing the number of departures from Spain, making us the only cruise line with seven embarkation ports in our country. To achieve this, collaboration with port and local authorities has been essential. We have also developed an air connection plan to bring other destinations closer to our passengers.”
Innovation and sustainability on board MSC World Europe
The MSC World Europa returns to the Mediterranean Sea, settling in Barcelona, from where embarkations will begin in summer 2023 on an itinerary that includes stops in Marseille, France; Genoa, Naples, and Messina, Italy; and Valletta, Malta. The MSC World Europa is one of the world's largest LNG-powered cruise ships (with 22 decks, 2,626 cabins, a beam of 47 meters, and over 40,000 m² of public space) and is one of the first to integrate fuel cell technology, making it a prime example of energy efficiency and emissions reduction.
Another milestone for MSC Cruises is the launch of MSC Euribia, one of the most fuel-efficient ships to be launched in 2023, as it will be powered by liquefied natural gas, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% compared to other ships.
Known as one of the most modern capitals in Northern Europe and a UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023, Copenhagen is the perfect location for MSC Euribia to set sail for the first time this June. Following its inauguration, the ship will spend its inaugural season in Northern Europe, sailing seven-night itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords with stops including the German port of Kiel; Hellesylt, Norway, where guests can visit the Geirangerfjord; as well as Ålesund and Flåm, also in Norway, among other destinations.
An unforgettable vacation experience
MSC Cruises is working to offer passengers the best experience from the moment they book. This summer, the company is adding direct flights from Valencia and Malaga for cruises in Northern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. These flights will complement the existing service from Madrid and Barcelona airports, allowing more than 60,000 Spaniards to enjoy new itineraries in the most comfortable way. The all-inclusive flight service allows cruisers to choose itineraries that start further afield at a more affordable price, including airport transfers to the port.
In addition, with the "Stay & Cruise" experience on select itineraries, passengers can enjoy up to three nights' accommodation in a 4-star hotel before embarking on their cruise, along with excursions and transfers, giving them the opportunity to make the most of their vacation, both on land and at sea. During the summer of 2023, this experience will be available from Madrid and Barcelona to exciting destinations such as New York and Miami. These travel packages can be booked directly or through a travel agent.
