MSC Group 's cruise division has officially opened the new MSC Barcelona cruise terminal coinciding with the first call of EXPLORA II at the new facility, the second ship of the luxury ocean travel brand Explora Journeys.
Among the personalities who attended the commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony were José Antonio Santano Clavero, Secretary of State for Transport and Sustainable Mobility of the Government of Spain; Carlos Prieto, Delegate of the Central Government; Jordi Valls, Fourth Deputy Mayor for the Area of Economy and Finance; Albert Dalmau, Councilor of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia and José Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona, along with Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive President of the Cruise Division of the MSC Group; Gianluca Suprani, Senior Vice President of Global Port Development of MSC Cruises and Anna Nash, Global President of Explora Journeys.
Pierfrancesco Vago stated: “Barcelona has been a strategic partner for the MSC Group for over four decades and for MSC Cruises for over 25 years, and our commitment is unwavering. The new terminal is not only an investment in modern port infrastructure, but also demonstrates our alignment with the city's strategy for a more balanced and sustainable tourism model, while also bringing positive economic benefits to the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona as our MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys passengers enjoy the benefits of this modern, innovative, and sustainable cruise facility.”
The iconic terminal was designed by the prestigious Catalan architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. This avant-garde building was designed to seamlessly integrate the cruise experience. From the moment of arrival, passengers embark on an uninterrupted journey that reflects the elegance, comfort, and service they will find onboard.
The retail area, the spacious waiting area with ample seating, and the exclusive VIP lounge for our premium and luxury guests create an elevated pre-boarding experience with privileged views. Outside, the ceramic cladding pays homage to Barcelona's rich artistic history, inspired by Gaudí, with a color reminiscent of the sea.
The terminal has been carefully designed with a focus on the environment and energy efficiency, incorporating energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials. This includes solar panels and optimized natural lighting to minimize the need for artificial lighting, along with a rainwater harvesting system to supply water to restrooms and landscaped areas, thus reducing water consumption. The terminal has achieved LEED Gold certification in recognition of its energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Land-to-ship electrical connectivity will be available in 2027, when docked ships can turn off their engines, connect to the local power grid, and eliminate emissions in port.
This summer, MSC Cruises will offer embarkation in Barcelona on five of its ships: MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica , and MSC Orchestra, as part of its Mediterranean itineraries. The luxury ship Explora II will call regularly throughout the summer season, with Barcelona being one of its main homeports.
Explora Journeys' EXPLORA II will sail the enchanting waters of the Western Mediterranean this summer, offering a series of immersive voyages that begin or end in the vibrant city of Barcelona. From the sun-drenched shores of Sardinia to the colorful ports of the French Riviera and the historic coasts of Italy, each itinerary blends relaxed luxury with rich cultural discovery. Onboard, passengers can enjoy refined European elegance, ocean-inspired wellness, and carefully curated experiences designed to deepen their connection with the sea and with each destination.
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