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MSC Cruises fleet
Review of MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises Ltd (MSC Crociere, msccruises.com/en-gl) is a passenger shipping company headquartered in Italy (Genoa, Naples, Venice). MSC was established in 1960. Today, MSC Crociere is a fully-owned subsidiary of MSC Group/Mediterranean Shipping Company (currently the world's second-largest containership company - after Maersk).
MSC Crociere is the world's largest privately-owned cruise company. 2020-Q4 statistics ranked MSC the world's 3rd-largest cruise shipowner (by combined fleet's passenger capacity ~13%), preceded by Carnival Corporation (39%) and RCG-Royal Caribbean (24%).
The company's current management team is led by Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman), Gianni Onorato (CEO), and Emilio La Scala (President and Managing Director).
Between its official launch (2003) and July 2019, MSC served 20+ million passengers. MSC is also the world's fastest-growing cruise company, with a USD 20,5 billion investment plan (2017-2027) for building 17 new vessels and increasing its fleet to 29 vessels.
The parent company (MSC Group) was founded and owned by its current Chairman Gianluigi Aponte (1940-born). Since 2014, the company's President and CEO is his son - Diego Aponte, while his daughter (Alexa Aponte Vago) is the CFO. MSC entered the ship cruising market in 1988.
MSC's main competitor in the Mediterranean is Costa Cruises.
Founded by Achille Lauro as "Lauro Lines" (aka Flotta Lauro), MSC entered the cruise shipping business in the 1960s. Initially, MSC operated two ships - Achille Lauro (IMO 5390008, launched as "Willem Ruys") and Angelina Lauro (IMO 5264077, launched as "Oranje"). Angelina Lauro (1939-1979) burnt in St Thomas USVI in 1979. Achille Lauro (1947-1994) sank off Somalia'scoast due to onboard fire.
In 1985, Achille Lauro was hijacked by Palestinian Liberation Front members, and the accident resulted in decreased passenger numbers. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) purchased Flotta Lauro in 1989, and renamed it "StarLauro Cruises". Achille Lauro caught fire and sank in 1994. In 1995, the company changed its name to "MSC Cruises". Fleet's oldest liner - the 1982-built MSC Melody - was sold in November 2013 and scrapped in September 2018 (as MS Qing).
In 2014, MSC announced that its four Lirica-class boats are scheduled for refits and extensive drydock refurbishments under the company's "Renaissance Program" (budgeted USD 273 million). By this project, all four vessels (Armonia, Lirica, Opera, Sinfonia) were stretched/elongated by 25 m (80 ft).
Ship-reconstruction works were done at Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo Sicily, between 2014 (August 31) and 2015 (November 17).
Since 2021, all MSC cruise ship refurbishment projects are conducted at Palumbo Malta Shipyard (co-owned by MSC / 50% stake). Palumbo Group's other shipyards are in France (Marseille) and Italy (Ancona, Naples, Savona).
Most of MSC's fleet operates in Europe (Mediterranean and Baltic). The company's other strong markets are the USA (Caribbean), Canada New England, East Asia, South America, South Africa. Because of the international passenger base, all shipboard announcements are generally read in Italian, Spanish, French, German and English. Onboard mealtimes are fixed, with assigned seatmates. Optional dining includes Lido buffet restaurant, sushi, and Italian eateries.
MSC liners offer standout evening show entertainment - from classical concerts and jazz to contemporary dance music and circus-type acrobatics. Voyages are typically priced at value-oriented levels, but the liners offer an unprecedented range of modern vacation travel amenities and services that cost extra, such as fees for port shuttle buses, a la carte restaurant menus, etc.
Company changes 2023
In May 2023, MSC Foundation signed a partnership with NatureMetrics (provider of biodiversity monitoring data) for collecting data for marine species during voyages. By MSC's "eBioAtlas" project, the collected samples (from the seawater) are sent to NatureMetrics where they are analyzed using eDNA.
In June 2023 MSC signed a long-term agreement with Gasum Oy (1994-founded Finnish state-owned energy company) for the fleet's LNG bunkering operations in the Baltic. The deal was signed by Linden Coppell (MSC's VP of Sustainability & ESG/Environmental, Social and Governance) and Mika Wiljanen (Gasum's CEO).
MSC Explora Journeys (a total investment of ~EUR 3,5 billion) officially starts commercial operations in July 2023, with Explora I's Maiden Voyage (July 17th).
Company changes 2022
In mid-March, MSC Group announced a partnership with Travelife Ltd for EXPLORA JOURNEYS' shore excursion program. "Travelife for Tour Operators" allows tour companies and travel agents access to the company's online management system (16x sustainability modules) with excursion checklists, planning tools, travel- and tourism industries' best sustainability practices examples.
In late-March, MSC became the Official Cruise Partner of "Formula 1".
In August, the entire MSC fleet received "ISO 21070:2017" certification (issued by the International Organization for Standardization) for marine environment protection. The certification specifies the onboard procedures regarding waste management practices (collection, separation, treatment, storage).
For winter 2022-2023 season (December thru April) MSC introduced fly-cruise packages from Brazil to the Caribbean. Via partnerships with Brazilian airlines, MSC provided Brazilian tourists with the opportunity to enjoy affordable 6-hour chartered flights from Sao Paulo (Guarulhos Airport) to Fort-de-France Martinique (Aime Cesaire Airport). In Martinique, they board the ship (MSC Seaside) for 7-day roundtrip Caribbean voyages and then fly back to Brazil. MSC's Brazil-to-Caribbean fly cruises are also inclusive of bus transfers (airport-cruise port-airport). The offer was available again for winter season 2023-2024 and again on MSC Seaside.
Company changes 2021
In June 2021 MSC officially launched its luxury brand "Explora Journeys".
For summer 2021 season (July-October) MSC chartered flights (26000+ seats) to offer fly-cruise packages via partnerships with Europe's largest airlines including Iberia (Spain), Alitalia (Italy), Air France, Eurowings (Germany) and Neos (Italy). This way MSC guaranteed accessible airports and convenient flight times for accessing the homeports (embarkation ports) of 6x ships deployed in the Western Mediterranean (Grandiosa, Seaside), Eastern Mediterranean (Splendida, Orchestra, Magnifica), and the Baltic (Seaview). The package deals were also inclusive of airport-ship bus transfers and COVID health insurance (EUR 25 pp, by Europ Assistance).
On October 6, 2021, MSC opened bookings for Magnifica's Northern European winter 2021-2022 season - the company's first-ever winter season with deployment in the Baltic Sea. Starting on November 14th, the program offered 7-night roundtrips from all call ports in the itinerary (Hamburg, Ijmuiden-Amsterdam, Zeebrugge-Bruges, Le Havre-Paris, Southampton-London) and up to 12-hour port stays.
Company changes 2020
On July 30, 2020, MSC Cruises Ltd and Palumbo Group formed a 50-50 joint venture company to operate Palumbo Malta Shipyard (in Citta Cospicua). The Palumbo shipyard has 4x drydocks and will be used for refurbishments and general maintenance works on MSC ships (passenger and cargo) as well as on other cruise and ferry companies' vessels. The facilities will be updated, including with technologies to handle LNG-powered ships. The deal was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Cruises' Executive Chairman) and Antonio Palumbo (Palumbo Group's founder and Chairman).
In late-November 2020, MSC signed a long-term agreement with ABP Southampton for preferential docking rights. The deal starts in summer 2021 with the homeporting of MSC Magnifica at Southampton's newest/5th passenger terminal. By this agreement, every year MSC has to homeport at least one ship in Southampton.
Company changes 2019
In May 2019, MSC became the industry's first mainstream cruise shipping company with a permanent office in Canada (Mississauga, Ontario). MSC Cruises Canada's new office is served by 15 employees (full-time staff) led by Ian Patterson (Country Manager). With the Canadian office, MSC also launched two new websites - MSCCruises.ca (for consumers) and MSCbook.com/ca (for travel agents). Both websites debuted in English and were later upgraded with French language versions. MSC Cruises Canada has a bilingual call center and provides bilingual materials (brochures, flyers) for potential clients and travel agencies.
In early-December 2019, MSC signed with Japanet a 5-year sponsorship deal for V-Varen Nagasaki - Japanese professional football club owned by Japanet (TV shopping channel). As of 2020, the company also partners with the professional football clubs Chelsea FC (London England), Paris Saint-Germain FC (Paris France) and SSC Napoli (Naples Italy).
Company changes 2018
Since September 2018, MSC has an exclusive partnership with "Mohegan Sun" - Uncasville (Connecticut USA)-based casino/gambling complex operated by Mohegan Tribe and located on reservation land along Thames River. By this deal are matched MSC's loyalty program (Voyager's Club) with Mohegan Sun's Momentum program. Momentum members receive exclusive cruise perks (including booking discounts, priority embarkation-disembarkation, onboard amenities). MSC's shipboard casino program offers customers the chance to play on over 1300 different slot machines fleetwide, plus various table games. Onboard casino rewards also include specialty dining, spa treatments, booking discounts. Mohegan Sun loyalty program members receive the corresponding MSC status based on their current casino card levels.
In mid-October 2018, MSC planned to eliminate single-use plastics fleetwide by March 2019. The list of such items includes bags, cups, cutlery, toothpicks, aprons, stir pins, drink mixers, coffee lids. By the end of 2018, they will be replaced with 100% compostable and biodegradable substitutes made of renewable resources (corn-based polylactic acid, paper, bamboo, other organic materials. In addition, shipboard drinks are no longer served with straws.
In late-November 2018, MSC signed an exclusive partnership with Chelsea Football Club to become its official global cruise partner (January 2019 thru June 2024). The deal includes LED advertising at Stamford Bridge (football stadium in Fulham/west London). By the agreement, Chelsea FC representatives attended MSC Bellissima's naming ceremony (March 2019) and on the new ship was also displayed Chelsea FC memorabilia.
On February 1, 2016, MSC announced it would build two "Meraviglia Plus"-class units, with max capacity 6300 passengers. The newbuilds (Grandiosa/2019, Virtuosa/2021, Euribia/2023) have 200 additional cabins and are 16 m (50 ft) longer compared to Meraviglia-class (2444 staterooms). The last unit's/Euribia's construction started on June 28, 2021.
The first Meraviglia-Plus vessel was delivered in November 2019 (Grandiosa), the second - in February 2021 (Virtuosa). MSC also announced new features on Meraviglia-Plus ships, including the first at sea fine art museum with original artworks. The additional space allows bigger (111 m / 36 ft long) indoor Promenade and a larger LED screen (95x6 m / 280x20 ft). The extra space also allows two additional restaurants. The line has an exclusive partnership with both Samsung (providing the technology) and Cirque du Soleil (live show programming shipboard).
During Seaside ship's delivery ceremony (November 29, 2017), MSC announced the order of 2 more (Seaside-EVO class) units from Fincantieri (contract value EUR 1,8 billion). The new boats are bigger (16 m longer, 17330 GT tons larger, capacity 467 more passengers) in comparison to Seaview-Seaside. Their deliveries were scheduled for 2021 May (Seashore) and 2022 November (Seascape).
Vessel details include LOA length 339 m, Width 41 m, Height 74 m, Volume 169,400 GT-tons, Capacity 5632 passengers + 1648 crew, Staterooms 2270.
In early-August 2018, MSC signed an agreement for EUR 1,5 billion (USD 1,74B) for financing both Seaside-EVO liners. The financing was via a partnership with a syndicate of lender banks (Unicredit, BNP Paribas, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti). Fully backing the credit line was the Italian export credit agency SACE SIMEST. With the addition of Seaside EVO, MSC had an unprecedented total investment of EUR 10,5 billion into 12 new vessels with scheduled deliveries by 2026.
On November 30, 2017 (during Seaside's launch) the company Marlink (world's largest independent satellite Internet provider) provided over 0,5 gigabit per second throughput on its Sealink VSAT network. Seaside's record-breaking Internet speed was enabled on Intelsat's new EpicNG satellites. Marlink is MSC fleet's provider of satellite Internet via optimized "cloud of bandwidth". As of 2017, Marlink had as part of its Sealink network 25 satellites and 32 overlapping beams.
On June 14, 2018, MSC signed with STX France shipbuilding order for the 5th Meraviglia-Class unit (delivery in 2023, dual-fuel LNG -powered engines). With this order, MSC had 13 newbuilds under construction or on order (2017-2026), of which 5x LNG-powered. The announcement was made at St-Nazaire yard. The ceremony was attended by Bruno Le Maire French Minister of Economy and Finance) and Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman). The event celebrated 3 major milestones - Virtuosa's steel-cutting, Grandiosa's keel-laying and Bellissima's float-out. For the first time in the shipyard's history, 3 vessels of a single shipowner were simultaneously under construction.
On October 18, 2018, MSC signed with Fincantieri an MoA agreement for 4x EXPLORA class ultra-luxury expedition ships. The contract's total value was EUR 2+ billion. Compared to the company's "liner fleet", the EXPLORA units are smaller (GT 64,000 tons, 500 staterooms). The first boat enters service in 2023, and the remaining 3 will be launched one per year (2024-2025-2026). The signing ceremony was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).
A curious fact is that Sophia Loren (1934-born Italian film actress) is MSC's traditional Godmother, naming each newbuild since 2003 (MSC Lirica).
(NEW) MSC Silenseas ships by STX France
On January 20, 2020, MSC and Chantiers de l'Atlantique (STX France) signed an MoU for the development of a sail-based (wind-powered) prototype of a cruise liner. The new class will be based on the Silenseas concept (introduced by STX France in 2018) that represents hybrid propulsion combining sails with dual-fuel marine engines.
MSC's new cruise vessel will be able to sail with min wind speed 15 knots (28 kph) and wind angle 50+ degrees. The currently considered design features GT tonnage 23,000, LOA length 210 m (689 ft), passenger capacity 300 (150 staterooms).
The sailing ship can reach speeds of 12 knots (14 mph / 22 kph) under sail in 15 knots (17 mph / 28 kph) winds. In winds over 15 knots, the vessel's propellers will be used, acting as a turbine that draws power from the sails. On Caribbean Sea routes, the new technology could reduce propulsion energy by 60%.
STX France's sail-ship design was developed for 3 vessel sizes, the biggest being 15,000 GT tons vessel with LOA length 190 m (620 ft) and 150 passenger staterooms. The French shipbuilding company started research in sail propulsion in 2009, Silenseas has technology patents (2009 and 2017) for the new sail. The unit is made from fiberglass, carbon and epoxy-resin panels. Similar is the concept of Peace Boat's new vessel Ecoship (built by Arctech Helsinki Shipyard in Helsinki, Finland).
In October 2017, MSC Cruises installed on Meraviglia a modern "Man Overboard Detection System". The company also announced its plans to install such systems fleetwide.
This is an intelligent video capturing, image processing and analysis system that was tested and tuned on the cruise ship for over 25,000 hours, resulting in confirmed accuracy level of 97%. The real-time video data (provided by the ship's HD CCTVs) is monitored and analyzed in a central security center by 2 independent image processing systems, which significantly lowers false alerts.
When the alarm activates (in a man overboard case), light and acoustic signals notify the ship's security officer who can immediately review the recorded video and notify the Navigation Bridge crew to start a rescue operation.
MSC World-Class liners
On April 6, 2017, during Meraviglia ship's delivery ceremony at STX France shipyard (Saint-Nazaire), MSC signed a new ship construction MoU ("memorandum of understanding") with STX France for a new series of 4 vessels (World Class) at a total cost EUR 4.5 billion. The ship's order was signed on May 31, 2017.
World Class MSC ships are with a max capacity of 6761 passengers. The number of staterooms is 2632 (passenger capacity 5264 lower berths). Building cost (per unit) is EUR 1,125 billion, the shipbuilder is STX France.
Each vessel has Gross Tonnage/volume 215,863 (GT tons), LOA length 333 m (1093 ft), waterline beam/width 41 m/135 ft (max width 54 m/177 ft), height 75 m (245 ft), draft 9,2 m (31 ft).
Among these liners' key features are latest generation LNG-powered marine engines, new wastewater treatment plants, ultra-modern marine architecture with a Y-shaped superstructure (better panoramic views, significantly increased number of balcony staterooms), G-bow hull (vertically positioned / at a 90-degree angle, improving the vessel's stability and hydrodynamics/fuel efficiency), family-themed "villages", panoramic aft pool, glass-covered pool deck.
In January 2016, MSC signed a partnership with Samsung for latest technology equipment upgrade fleetwide. Among the provided by Samsung equipment are top-line flat HDTVs (for passenger cabins), LED screens and digital signage boards (in public areas), specialized medical equipment (for onboard hospitals), augmented reality mirrors, printing solutions.
In April 2018, the company introduced its new "Family Explorer Club" excursions program with expected over 250,000 children on cruises in 2018. The new tour program is designed to involve kids and their parents on custom-made shore excursions. The first boat offering this program was Divina. The new interactive land tour experiences are themed on the destination's history and each tour features a local historical character symbolic to that destination/city. Teams are equipped with digital explorer maps, detailed instructions for the mission, and kids receive stickers for every accomplished task. On these family-only tours, kids are booked half-price. Excursions usually start later in the morning and have a max duration of 4 hours.
MSC private islands (Sir Bani Yas, Ocean Cay)
In December 2015, MSC unveiled plans to develop an "unprecedented exclusive marine reserve island experience in the Bahamas". The USD 200-million project was launched in Nassau, where The Bahamas' Prime Minister and MSC's Executive Chairman signed a 100-year lease agreement, enabling MSC Cruises to occupy and develop the island - officially named Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Ocean Cay was a 2-year long, USD 200 million project. The island is sized 95 acres / 38 hectares (0,38 km2 / 0,15 mi2) and is the world's only private marine reserve. It has a 3470 m (11400 ft) long beach front across 6 beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is the biggest Caribbean private island development done by a cruise company. An interesting fact is that when the MSC ship is berthed in Ocean Cay, all its onboard facilities and services (including the casino) stay open and operational. Ocean Cay Island is surrounded by 64 mi2 (166 km2) of protected waters with coral reefs and ~90 different fish species.
In June 2016, MSC officially announced the exclusive "beach oasis" for MSC cruiseship tourists on roundtrips from UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) starting winter 2016-2017. The 2,5 km (1,5 mi) stretch of land on Sir Bani Yas Island features shaded cabanas, hundreds of palm trees and 2000+ sunbeds across 36,000 m2 (387,500 ft2) of sand beaches. Other facilities and amenities available on the island include food and drink bars, MSC Aurea Spa (wellness complex, massages), sports facilities (beach volleyball, tennis), family-kids playground area (with pergola / outdoor garden for parrents), Bedouin tent (selling hand-made local arts and crafts), lounge space (live music, full-service bar), exclusive beaches (with VIP areas and cabanas).
The MSC island development is on a smaller isle connected to the main island by wooden boardwalk allowing exclusive access to MSC passengers. MSC worked closely with ecologists and the Abu Dhabi Port Authorities for over 2 years to develop the island and support the ongoing preservation work. The isle is one of the region's largest wildlife reserves due to decades of conservation works and ecological investments to maintain its biodiversity. The "Arabian Wildlife Park" on the main island is home to over 13,000 endangered and indigenous animals, as well as millions of plants and trees.
The first cruise to Sir Bani Yas Island departed on December 3, 2016 (visiting the island on December 5). Prices started from USD 720 per person (7-night itinerary on MSC Fantasia). In July 2016, Costa Cruises announced that Sir Bani Yas Island will be added as a 1-day stopover (port of call) during season 2016-2017 on Costa neoRiviera. In 2017-2018, neoRiviera was replaced in Dubai by Costa Mediterranea. Costa passengers have access to a private (Costa exclusive) beach with VIP areas with cabanas.
Among the island's shore excursion options are jeep safaris in the wildlife park, sea kayaking, diving and snorkeling tours.
MSC Cruises Asia
In mid-January 2018, MSC announced a new partnership with China's largest online payment platform "Alipay". The deal offers mobile payments fleetwide - on all MSC vessels deployed in Asia. It allows customers to pay for onboard purchases. In November 2017, the Alipay option was introduced on MSC Lirica. Next ship with Alipay technology was MSC Splendida - homeported in Shanghai China since May 2018.
Since May 2017, all Costa Asia-managed cruise vessels (of all Carnival Corporation brands) allow use Alipay payment services onboard. The partnership between Carnival Corporation and Ant Financial Services Group (a subsidiary of Alibaba, China's biggest online trading company) enables Chinese cruise passengers on all Carnival Corp ships in Asia to pay for onboard services and products using their Alipay (mobile payment platform) accounts. Among these onboard services and products are shopping, tours/excursions, food, and drinks. These expenditures are added to the passenger's cabin folio, then cleared via his/her Alipay account on a nightly basis.
(NEW) MSC kids programming
In November 2019, on Grandiosa (fleet's flagship) MSC introduces a new kids' entertainment program featuring hundreds of hours (per week) of themed activities. For children and teens is allocated up to 700 m2 (7535 ft2) of shipboard space with separate rooms for different age groups. The activities include virtual gaming (consoles and arcade machines), large aqua parks with slides, treasure hunts, trivia games, themed parties, supervised playgrounds (indoor and outdoor).
Starting with Grandiosa, MSC now offers 3 new activities for children (MSC Dance Crew, The Drone Academy, Spy Mission) plus a new web series targeting teenagers.
- "MSC Dance Crew" is developed via partnership with FremantleMedia - the company behind the TV show franchises "The X Factor", "Idols" and "Got Talent". The new music competition experience is based on teams of 12-17-year-old children battling to win the title "dance crew of the year".
- "The Drone Academy" is via partnership with The Department (London UK-based event agency). The high-tech drone racing activities take place in the ship's Sportsplex and happen at night due to flicker effects and the glowing drones. Teens (battling in teams) are previously trained on drone piloting. The race is at the 390 m2 (4200 ft2) sized arena and includes navigating 15 obstacles in the fastest time possible.
- "Spy Mission" is MSC's first activity where kids play a central role. They are led through different scenes (throughout the ship) to unravel storylines, follow clues and solve the mystery in order to win prizes.
- "Cabin 12006" is MSC's new teen-targeting web series tha follows "Kelly and Kloe Onboard" - run for 3 years (2016-2019) with 5+ million views online. Filming the "Cabin 12006" episodes is currently underway on Bellissima (March 2019-inaugurated).
MSC wedding cruise deals
Since 2015, MSC Cruises has a new cruise wedding program available on Caribbean itineraries. The program offers onboard marriages (also ashore) in several Caribbean port destinations, including Nassau Bahamas, Bridgetown Barbados, Grand Cayman Island, Falmouth Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, San Juan Puerto Rico, Philipsburg St Maarten, Charlotte Amalie St Thomas, and also Miami Florida USA (on the embarkation day only).
MSC partnered with the wedding-planning company "The Wedding Experience" and offers cruise wedding packages with prices starting from USD 1600 (onboard) and USD 2200 (ashore) weddings. MSC's basic wedding package includes a pre-cruise event manager, a ceremony coordinator, 1 bottle of Champagne, 1 cake for two, 1 bridal bouquet, 1-hour photo session.
Event planners work with the couples to handle all the details (weddings and vow renewals). Also provided are wedding consultants and ceremony coordinators. Onboard / ashore receptions and ceremonies offer various options - video/photo packages, fresh flowers, themed music, food and drink packages, also specialty items (personalized stationaries for invitations) and ground transportation for ashore events.
Couples booking groups of 13 or more cabins receive a complimentary balcony stateroom. Couples booking groups of 30 or more cabins receive a complimentary suite. Complimentary Yacht Club stateroom is offered for 50 or more booked cabins. Onboard ceremonies can be attended by up to 150 non-cruising guests.
MSC Cruises' first ship to offer onboard weddings was MSC Divina.
MSC cruise booking and cancellation policy changes
In July 2017, MSC changed the company's cruise booking policy. It now requires final payments to be made 30 days earlier - from 60-days to 90-days prior departure.
- Cancellations made 89-61 days prior departure result in losing the non-refundable deposit.
- Cancellations between 46-60 days prior departure result in paying 50% of the original price.
- Cancellations between 16-45 days prior departure result in paying 75% of the original price.
- Cancellations made 15 days or less prior departure result in paying the full cruise price.
Since April 2, 2019, tips (gratuities) are included into MSC cruise fares for all UK and Ireland passengers.
On February 1, 2019, MSC officially revealed the in-cabin digital assistant ZOE. The technology ("cruise industry first") was developed by Harman International (US-based company, fully-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics). Harman International has developed digital audio solutions for major corporations (Including Google, Microsoft, Amazon).
- ZOE is an artificial intelligence device (voice-enabled, with advanced voice recognition software) available in all passenger staterooms.
- ZOE speaks 7 languages, answers cruise-related questions, provides info on shipboard services-activities-facilities, makes reservations and bookings.
- The digital device features far-field microphones, top-quality speaker, quad-core processor (for fast response times), direct phone connection (through Bluetooth). The system can also upgrade its own database to answer previously unanswerable questions.
- Passenger data (including itinerary/tour and shipboard preferences) is stored in Cloud Storage system and used on the next scheduled voyage.
- The device (sized ~15 cm) can be activated whenever passengers choose. A waiver must be signed to agree for their personal data to be stored.
Starting with Bellissima (2019), ZOE will be available on all newbuild MSC liners - including Grandiosa (2019) and Virtuosa (2020) - and introduced fleetwide over 2019-2024.
"MSC for Me" - fleetwide Digital Innovation Program 2017-2018
Each of the MSC cruise ships is fitted with thousands of connectivity points, digital access points, iBeacons (Bluetooth) and hundreds of interactive digital screens throughout the ship. In all staterooms are implemented RFID (radio-frequency identification) and NFC (near-field communication) access technologies.
The new program is implemented fleetwide but was first introduced on MSC Meraviglia. The ship, launched in June 2017, was fitted with a total of 114 Interactive screens, 244 info screens, 31 virtual screens, 81 video wall monitors, 3050 iBeacons, 700 WAPs (wireless access points), 1200 CCTV cameras.
MSC digitalization program's main features are:
- The apps implement facial recognition technology and interactive/smart bracelets by Samsung.
- Digital Concierge app - passengers can reserve/book onboard services, restaurants and shore excursions in real-time. The app is real-time and 24-hour, connecting MSC customers to the company's experienced staff online.
- Capture - virtual reality tool to preview the cruise itinerary, create personal photo galleries, online sharing.
- Organizer - a cruise planning tool used at mobile devices. It provides detailed information and also allows pre-booking (tours, theatre seats, dinner table, etc) before ship embarkation (pre-cruise booking) and while onboard (realtime cruise planner).
- Navigation - Interactive map (way finder) provides advice (scheduled events, opening hours, etc) and directions while on the ship. The app also allows real-time kids monitoring (via bracelets).
- TailorMade - digital advisor for personal recommendations based on the passenger's preferences (interactive gaming, gambling, culinary, recreational, entertainment, etc).
- Passengers can always opt out of all these connected ("Internet of things" / IoT) services offered.
- All passenger staterooms are fitted with door locks with built-in keypads (Samsung SHS-1321 NFC Ring).
MSC fitness cruise packages
Since 2017, MSC Cruises offers an upgraded fleetwide onboard wellness experience via a partnership with TechnoGym. It is part of the company's cruise fare-inclusive offers that can be chosen upon booking.
- The new program starts with an online questionnaire determining the customer's specific wellness goals, aspects of a healthy lifestyle (exercises, healthy diet, weight loss).
- The new wellness program is linked with the company's fitness-themed cruises. It also includes one-time personal trainer consultation. Personal training sessions are available onboard at extra cost.
- Also included are themed shore excursions (jogging, hiking, cycling), fitness classes (hula hooping, barre, yoga, Pilates).
- Resistance bands and workout mats are provided on the ship for in-cabin use.
- TechnoGym workout gear and laundry service for the exercise clothing are provided on the ship.
- Healthy food menu options are available in the ship's main dining rooms and Lido buffet restaurants.
- Deals are also inclusive of a medical evaluation with the ship's doctor (blood pressure, EKG, lipid panel).
- The new "Wellness Experience" program is operated with a total of 5 fitness cruise packages available for booking. Pricing starts from USD 930 pp (7-night itinerary, Interior Stateroom).
FREE Birthday cruise
In 2017, MSC started offering a new "free cruise deal" for customers celebrating their birthday. in case your birthday falls during select cruises, it is complimentary.
- MSC's free cruise offers are on itineraries in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic), Asia (Arabian Peninsula /Dubai), Caribbean (West Indies, Cuba). Longer itineraries are available through World Voyages.
- Booked passengers can extend their free birthday cruise and combine itineraries into B2Bs (back to back cruises) from 14 to 22 nights.
- Bookings must have at least one paying passenger and only one free birthday passenger. The birthday of the passenger must fall on one of the itinerary days, but excluding the arrival and departure days.
- Such offers are usually promotions, subject to selected availability and valid for lower cabin categories only (usually excluding Suites).
MSC's "Dolphins Fan Cruise"
MSC Seaside ship's itinerary March 17-24, 2018 (7-day Caribbean and Antilles roundtrip from Miami to Nassau Bahamas, St Thomas USVI, St Johns Antigua) was officially themed "Dolphins Fan Cruise". This special voyage was the result of the 3-year partnership between MSC and the NFL team. The sports-themed voyage will be hosted annually over the next 3 years (2017-2020). The 2018 voyage's prices started at USD 700 per person (balcony cabin rates based on double occupancy).
During these sports cruises, passengers have the opportunities to interact in person with team alumni. The list of pre-scheduled onboard activities includes:
- Meet team's legends Joe Rose, Kim Bokamper, Nat Moore, Patrick Surtain, Sam Madison, Terry Kirby.
- Take autographs from the alumni, and get a photo with the team's cheerleaders.
- Cheer alongside team's cheerleaders and hype up the crowd with the mascot TD (The Dolphin).
- Enjoy special performances by cheer squad and the mascot.
- Get to know former players during Q&A sessions.
On April 28, 2018, the ship hosted the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders for the team's annual calendar photo shoot, with special onboard show programming.
- Via company's "Save & Sail" summer promotion, potential MSC cruise customers had the chance to book a balcony stateroom on the "Cheerleaders voyage" starting at USD 650 pp. The off-promo prices started from USD 1098 pp (Inside Cabin rates with double occupancy).
- Cheerleaders cruise itinerary (April 28 - May 5) was a 7-day roundtrip from Miami to St Maarten Island, Puerto Rico and Bahamas (Nassau).
MSC virtual reality ship tours
Samsung and MSC developed a cutting-edge virtual reality tool for touring MSC cruise liners. The new technology was announced during at Expo Milano 2015 (May 1 through October 31, 2015).
With this innovative technology, MSC made available to the company's top European sellers (travel agencies) a powerful tool for introducing the brand to potential customers. The technology is based on Samsung's "Gear VR" headsets (powered by Oculus) plus a custom-built software app. Potential MSC passengers can walk through any cruise ship in the fleet without setting foot on board. The tool allows "walking" through 6 key onboard areas (including staterooms, restaurants, pools, theatre / also watching a show). The 360-degree sensory experience even brings aromas in the air (when observing an onboard restaurant) - such as fresh-baked bread, fresh fruits, chocolate.
The virtual cruise ship tour technology uses software and hardware by AxedGroup. The virtual ship tour app runs on Samsung Galaxy Note phones. Other experiences include tours of new (prototype) MSC ships *currently under construction).
(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021
Due to the COVID pandemic, MSC suspended its North American fleet's passenger shipping operations (all US-homeported liners) by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through May-June 2021.
European operations resumed in 2020 on August 16 (Grandiosa) and October 19 (Magnifica) but all voyages were eventually canceled. MSC had its fleet fully operational by June 5th, 2022.
Next are listed MSC's first scheduled departure dates by ship/region/homeport - ARMONIA (April 10, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), BELLISSIMA (July 2021/Red Sea from Jeddah Saudi Arabia), DIVINA (Sept 16, 2021/Bahamas from Port Canaveral), FANTASIA (Nov 7, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), GRANDIOSA (Jan 24, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), LIRICA (April 12, 2022/Med-Aegean-Athens), MAGNIFICA (June 20, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), MERAVIGLIA (Aug 2, 2021/Caribbean from Miami), MUSICA (June 5, 2022/Mediterranean from Monfalcone), OPERA (April 24, 2022/Mediterranean-Genoa), ORCHESTRA (June 5, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), POESIA (April 30, 2022/Med-Baltic repositioning/Rome-Rostock), PREZIOSA (Sept 23, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), SEASHORE (Aug 9, 2021/Mediterranean-Naples-Messina-Valletta-Barcelona), SEASCAPE (Nov 19, 2022/Maiden Voyage/Transatlantic from Rome to NYC New York), SEASIDE (May 1, 2021/Mediterranean-Rome-Genoa), SEAVIEW (July 3, 2021/Kiel Germany), SINFONIA (March 26, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), SPLENDIDA (June 12, 2021/Adriatic from Trieste), VIRTUOSA (May 20, 2021/UK-British Islands from Southampton), WORLD EUROPA (Dec 21, 2022/Maiden Voyage/Red Sea from Dubai).
- In early-January 2021 MSC planned to start Mediterranean cruises (with Grandiosa) scheduled between January 24 and March 21. The 7-day itinerary (leaving on Sundays from Genoa) visited Civitavecchia, Palermo, Naples and Valletta (Malta), with embarkation available in all the Italian ports.
- MSC USA's pause (ex-Florida cancellations) affected 3 ships - Meraviglia and Armonia (from Miami) and Divina (from Port Canaveral).
- MSC South America 2021-2022 winter program was canceled (due to Brazil's new policies/ordinance 657) affecting 4 ships (Sinfonia, Orchestra, Preziosa, Splendida).
- LIRICA's Mediterranean 2021 season (7-day roundtrips from Ancona and Venice) was canceled and the liner restarts operations in 2022 (April 11/Aegean from Athens).
- MUSICA's South Africa 2021-2022 program (from Durban) was canceled.
- OPERA's Red Sea 2021-2022 program (from Dubai) was canceled.
- PREZIOSA's 2021 Baltic season (Baltic-Norway from Hamburg) was canceled.
- MSC's 2021-2022/winter South America (Preziosa, Seaview) and Arabia-Dubai (Fantasia) programs were canceled.
All affected bookings received full refunds in FCC (future cruise credit), including on prepurchased through MSC packages and services. With rebooking (made by December 31, 2021) was offered a 125% refund in FCC. Available for rebooking were all departures thru April 30, 2022. Optionally was offered a 100% monetary refund.
Itinerary of MSC Cruises
This section provides a concise review of MSC's current and future cruise itinerary program. The company operates regularly scheduled voyages in Europe (Mediterranean, UK, Baltic), the Caribbean (ex-Florida USA departures), South America, South Africa, Asia, Arabian Gulf.
Currently, MSC has no plans for ship deployments in Alaska, except via the sister brand Explora Journeys.
MSC's Grand Voyages are seasonally offered relocation voyages including Transatlantic crossings (Europe-USA-Caribbean, Europe-South America), Suez Canal (Mediterranean-Arabia/Dubai UAE), Mediterranean-Baltic-UK, Europe-South Africa. Cruises to Nowhere MSC offers in South Africa.
Note: For an extensive ship relocation schedule see RepositionCruises.com
With its newbuilds, MSC attracts a large number of retirees during winter and targets families with kids during summer and the school holidays. The company's smaller liners offer longer and more exotic itineraries but lack modern kids' facilities as they are tailored to older travelers.
Itinerary changes 2023-2024
MSC Preziosa is due to be based in Santos (Sao Paulo, Brazil) offering a range of mini cruises and 7-night trips that feature Uruguay and Argentina along with voyages calling at Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) for New Year and Carnival in February. The ship’s local season ends with a 22-night Grand Voyage out of Santos and Rio to Northern Europe for Summer 2023.
MSC Bellissima is due to replace her sistership Virtuosa in the Mediterranean, where she is scheduled to sail the planned 7-nights calling at Genoa-Milan, La Spezia, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Marseille.
MSC USA's schedule 2023-2024 (winter season) listed 5 boats based in PortMiami (Divina, Magnifica, Seascape), Port Canaveral (Seashore) and NYC (Meraviglia). From New York City, Meraviglia operates roundtrips to Bermuda, Florida-Bahamas and Canada-New England.
Summer 2024 itineraries were put on sale in December 2022. 22 cruise ships feature including the continuation of departures out of Southampton (England UK) by MSC Virtuosa. Ex-UK voyages start from 4-night breaks leading in at GBP 259, 7-night cruises starting at GBP 649, and a 14-night itinerary departing on September 7th, 2024, to Casablanca (Morocco), Canary Islands, and Lisbon (Portugal), with prices starting at GBP 1,449.
In winter 2023-2024, MSC is also bringing a new ship - MSC Euribia, to the UK/Southampton.
In 2 years (2022-23) MSC reported a 40% increase in bookings of Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf voyages leaving from Saudi Arabia. The top 5 (of the total 124 nationalities) were Italy, Germany, Spain, France, USA. MSC's Red Sea 2023-2024 winter program (November through April, scheduled for MSC Orchestra) groups 20x 7-day roundtrips from homeport Jeddah to Jordan (Aqaba-Petra) and Egypt (Sharm El-Sheikh, Sokhna-Cairo, Safaga-Luxor).
Bookings on MSC's ever-first winter season in Japan (November 2023 thru March 2024) opened on May 1, 2023. This way the company now offers year-round voyages from the country and also provides the largest capacity in the region.
MSC Bellissima's winter 2023-2024 program is based on 6-9-11-night roundtrips from Port Yokohama. In January-March 2024, Bellissima is homeported in Naha/Okinawa.
Bellissima's winter 2023-2024 Japan program includes 4-5-night short breaks visiting Keelung/Taipei (Taiwan). In addition to Taiwan, longer itineraries visit Japan's Okinawa, Ishigakijima Island, Miyakojima Island.
Middle East-Arabian Gulf 2023-2024 voyages
On May 31, 2021, MSC opened for booking the voyages scheduled for MSC World Europa - the fleet's newest and ever-largest liner.
The ship currently has planned an inaugural season in the Middle East (December 2022 through March 2023) based on a 7-day itinerary leaving roundtrip from 3 homeports - Dubai UAE (Port Rashid), Abu Dhabi (UAE) and Doha (Qatar).
- The itinerary's call ports include Sir Bani Yas Island (UAE), and Dammam (Saudi Arabia, port to Al-Ahsa Oasis). Prices for the 7-night roundtrips started from EUR 815 (USD 995 / GBP 700) per person with double occupancy.
- World Europa's Maiden Voyage departs on December 20, 2022. The 9-night Doha roundtrip visits Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Dammam, ending in Doha (Dec 29). Prices started from EUR 1280 (USD 1565 / GBP 1100) per person. The "Inaugural Cruise" was also offered as a 4-night Doha-Dubai voyage.
MSC's Arabian season 2023-2024 is based on 3x ships (Opera, Orchestra, Virtuosa), diverse homeporting and 7-night voyages. With the program was also introduced a new for MSC call port (Mina Salman-Manama, Bahrain), visited by Virtuosa along with Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island. MSC's Fly&Cruise program contributed with ~80,000 return airseats. Virtuosa's schedule included 17x voyages, Opera's- 22x. Opera's itinerary (Dubai roundtrip) visited Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Khasab (Oman) or Fujairah (UAE), and Muscat (Oman) before the return in Dubai.
In the Arabian Gulf was also deployed MSC Orchestra with a new 7-night itinerary leaving roundtrip from Safaga (Egypt). Orchestra's 20x voyages visited Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Aqaba-Petra (Jordan), Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt/new port for MSC), Sokhna-Cairo (Egypt). From Safaga is accessed Luxor. Homeporting/embarkation was offered from Safaga, Jeddah, Sharm El-Sheikh and Sokhna.
In the upcoming winter 2023-2024 season, MSC is set to make significant additions to its Middle East itineraries. To support this expansion, MSC Cruises partners with leading airlines to provide 80,000 return air seats as part of its 'Fly&Cruise' program.
MSC Virtuosa is scheduled to embark on 17 new seven-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf, starting from Dubai and including stops at Doha, Manama in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island. Travelers can board the ship from three different embarkation ports: Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Additionally, MSC Virtuosa is expected to serve as a cruise ship hotel for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Cruises from China
In 2024 (April thru September), in China are deployed the MSC ships Bellissima and Splendida. Itineraries are based on homeporting in/roundtrip departures from Shanghai and Shenzhen/Shekou. Bellissima starts from Shenzhen on June 29th, and has scheduled 8x voyages (2- to 5-night in length) visiting Hong Kong and Japan (Okinawa, Yaeyama Islands, Miyako Island). In July-September (2024) Bellissima has scheduled 8x voyages (4- to 6-night) leaving out of Shanghai and visiting Japan (Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Osaka, Okinawa, Shimonoseki).
MSC 2023-2024-2025 itineraries
Caribbean and the French Antilles
- Seascape (PortMiami). 7-night Eastern Caribbean (Ocean Cay and Nassau Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Plata Dominicana) 7-night Western Caribbean (Ocean Cay, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios Jamaica)
- Meraviglia (Port Canaveral). 3- to 7-night (Nassau and Ocean Cay, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Belize City)
- Divina (PortMiami). 3- to 10-night (Ocean Cay, Belize City, Roatan Honduras, Costa Maya, Ocho Rios, Cartagena Columbia, Colon Panama, Puerto Limon Costa Rica)
- Seaside (Fort-de-France, French Antilles). 7-night (Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe, Castries St Lucia, Bridgetown Barbados, St Georges Grenada, Kingstown St Vincent)
- Grandiosa. 7-night (Genoa, Civitavecchia/Rome, Palermo Italy, Valletta Malta, Barcelona Spain, Marseille France)
- Virtuosa: 7-night (Genoa, La Spezia/Florence, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Marseille
- Lirica (Genoa) 11-night (Civitavecchia, Messina Sicily, Lindos/Rhodes, Heraklion/Crete, Limassol Cyprus, Haifa Israel) 10-night (Ceuta, Malaga, Barcelona, Alicante, Tangier and Casablanca/Marrakech Morocco, Marseille)
- Seashore (Brazil). 7-night (Maceio Salvador & Buzios Brazil)
- Seaview (Rio de Janeiro) 3- to 8-night (Buzios, Ilhabela, Ilha, Grande/Angra dos Reis, Ilheus & Salvador Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
- Fantasia (Santos, Brazil) 3- to 7-night (Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil, Montevideo & Punta Del Este Uruguay, Buenos Aires)
- Armonia (Itajai/Santa Caterina, Brazil) 7-night (Ilhabela Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
- Musica (Bueno Aires) Ilhabela, Rio de Janeiro, Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil
- Sinfonia (Cape Town) Mossel Bay, Walvis Bay and Ludertize (Namibia).
- Orchestra (Durban) Pomene & Portuguese Island/Inhaca Archipelago (Mozambique), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Cape Town (South Africa)
- World Europa (Dubai) 7-night (Abu Dhabi/Dubai, Sir Bani Yas, Dammam/Al Ahsa Oasis Saudi Arabia)
- Opera (Dubai) Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Muscat, Khasab (Oman); 22 separate 7-night sailings in 2023-2024, starting from Dubai and covering ports like Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Khasab in Oman or Fujairah in the UAE, the Omani capital Muscat, and returning to Dubai.
- 17 new 7-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf by MSC Virtuosa from Dubai, taking passengers to Doha in Qatar, the newly added port of Manama in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE, and back to Dubai.
- MSC Orchestra is offering a new itinerary during the winter 2023-2024 season. Departing from Safaga in Egypt, she sails on 20 7-night sailings to destinations like Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Aqaba for Petra in Jordan, a newly introduced port of call at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, Sokhna Port for Cairo in Egypt, and back to Safaga. International guests have embarkation options at Safaga, Jeddah, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Sokhna Port.
In 2025 debuts World Europa's sistership MSC World America and both are homeported in Miami. Out of PortMiami, World America operates on two 7-day roundtrip itineraries - Eastern Caribbean (to Puerto Plata Dominicana, San Juan Puerto Rico, and Ocean Cay Bahamas) and Western Caribbean (to Mexico's Costa Maya and Cozumel Mexico, Isla Roatan Honduras, and Ocean Cay). World America's Maiden Voyage departs Miami on April 12, 2025 (Eastern Caribbean).
South America 2023-2024 (winter itineraries)
In December 2021, MSC opened sales for South America 2022-2023 season (November-April) based on 6 ships - 4x homeported in Brazil, 1x in Argentina and Uruguay, while the 6th operates a World Cruise that visits South American ports.
- Seashore operates 6- to 8-night roundtrips out of Santos (Sao Paulo, Brazil) with rotating visits to Maceio, Salvador de Bahia, Ilha Grande, Buzios, with alternative boarding in Maceio and Salvador.
- Seaview from Rio de Janeiro operates 3- and 4-night mini-cruises, as well as 5- to 7-night itineraries visiting Salvador, Ilheus, Ilha Grande, Buzios.
- Fantasia and Armonia from Itajai (Brazil) are cruising off the Brazilian coast.
- Musica is sailing from Argentina and Uruguay on 7- to 10-night itineraries, also visiting Brazil.
- Magnifica has scheduled a 117-day "World Cruise 2023" visiting ports in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay.
For season 2022-2023 MSC deployed 5x ships in South America (Armonia, Fantasia, Preziosa, Seashore, Seaview). MSC increased its Brazilian market capacity by ~30% by adding Preziosa, with scheduled 22x departures from Santos (December-April) and itineraries 3- to 8-night in length.
MSC Cuba cruises from Havana
In January 2016 MSC became the first major cruise line to homeport in Havana, with MSC Opera (sailing to Jamaica, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands) while MSC Armonia operated on 8-day/7-night itineraries, visiting ports in Central America and the Caribbean:
- 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Roatan (Honduras), Belize City (Belize), Costa Maya (Mexico), Isla de la Juventud (Cuba)
- 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Montego Bay (Jamaica), George Town (Grand Cayman) and Cozumel (Mexico).
- Both itineraries were combinable into a 14-night roundtrip Havana back-to-back cruise.
Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government for allowing ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.
Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-min ling JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.
IMPORTANT: On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.
(NEW) PortMiami MSC Terminal AAA
In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the building of a new Cruise Terminal AAA at Port Miami.
Port Miami is the exclusive home port of the company in the United States. The new agreement extends the existing Saturday preferential MSC berthing rights also to Sundays. Additionally, the new cruise terminal, due to be completed by October 2022, is projected to be able to accommodate line's next-generation, MSC World Class cruise ships (still under construction) carrying up to 7,000 passengers.
The revolutionary MSC Seaside, which debuted late 2017, sails year-round from Port Miami to the Caribbean from recently completed Terminal F. Line's MSC Divina also offers seasonal Caribbean cruises from October through March, while MSC Armonia joins the North American-based fleet of MSC Cruises beginning year-round voyages to Havana December 2018.
As of November 2019, MSC Cruises' largest ship, MSC Meraviglia joins the other 3 ships at PortMiami.
MSC Cruises related cruise news
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United Arab Emirates
If you’re looking for year round sunshine and ultra-luxurious hotels, the United Arab Emirates is the perfect holiday destination. Made up of seven emirates, the UAE has three main tourist areas; Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the up and coming Ras Al Khaimah. Each one offers a unique experience for couples, families and honeymooners.
The cosmopolitan city of Dubai is a fusion of old and new. From fragrant souks and record-breaking skyscrapers to thrilling new theme parks and wonderful man-made islands, Dubai is a wonder in itself. What’s more, the level of luxury you will experience here is out of this world.
Culture, adventure and history await you in Abu Dhabi. This emirate is the largest and the federal capital of the seven kingdoms that make up the United Arab Emirates. It’s adorned with exclusive beaches, lush mangroves and lavish hotels.
Ras Al Khaimah is an up and coming tourist destination in the UAE. It takes a more relaxed approach and is only a mere 45 minutes from Dubai. Offering luxury five-star hotels and unique desert experiences, Ras Al Khaimah is perfect for a peaceful getaway.
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Things To Do in United Arab Emirates
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
At a jaw-dropping 830 metres tall, you can experience the world's highest outdoor observation deck. With 360 degree views of Dubai and the desert, this is a once in a lifetime experience.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
This is the eight largest mosque in the world and has the capacity to hold over 40,000 worshippers. Visitors can take a guided or audio tour - these take place three times a day Sunday to Thursday, twice on Friday and five times on Saturday.
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are bustling cities, you can pair them with a serene beach add-on. You can fly direct from Dubai to the Maldives which is only a 5 hour flight. Or if you're looking for somewhere closer, you can relax on the spectacular beaches of Muscat in Oman.

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Liège is a major city in the Wallonia region of Belgium and lies close to the Dutch-Belgian border. It is around 30km from Maastricht and 200km south of Amsterdam. Liège is known as Luik in Dutch.
Are you looking to travel between Amsterdam and Liège? Let’s consider the transport options between the 2 cities using the train and bus.
1. Amsterdam-Liège by Train
Probably the best way to travel between the cities is by train – 1 change is required and the Amsterdam-Liège trip can be done in 3 hours and 15 minutes via Maastricht. It can be easily booked using the NS International site with prices starting at €29 one-way.
When travelling to Liège you will arrive at the spectacular Liège-Guillemins railway station, opened in 2009 and designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The station is 2km from Liège city centre which is walkable along the Maas (Meuse) river.
The Amsterdam-Liège journey is made up of 2 segments:
(1) Amsterdam-Maastricht: The first (and main portion) is to take a NS Dutch Railways Intercity train between Amsterdam Central and Maastricht.
This takes about 2 hours 25 minutes and travels via Utrecht Central, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Eindhoven, Weert, Roermond and Sittard. This services runs up to 2x per hour using NS double-decker Intercity trains.
(2) Maastricht-Liège: From Maastricht (platform 5a) there is an hourly NMBS Belgian Rail stopping service to Liège-Guillemins station – sometimes the final destination can be Hasselt. The train runs via the border towns of Eijsden (Netherlands) and Visé (Belgium) and passengers get the occasional view of the Maas river.
Standard Amsterdam-Liège one-way tickets in 2023 cost €33.50 (2nd class) or €53.60 (1st class). You can take any service on-the-day, so a stopover in Maastricht is possible.
Neither train service require seat reservations – you just find a free seat available in your travel class.
There is an alternative route available by taking the Intercity Brussels from Amsterdam to Mechelen and then taking onward Belgian Intercity trains with another change in Leuven. This trip takes 3 hours 30 minutes.
There is an early bird one-way fare available for this Amsterdam-Mechelen-Leuven-Liège route which is €30.50 (2nd class) and €45 (1st class). You must book at least 7 days in advance.
Holders of Dutch Railways NS discount cards receive a reduction off the standard fare for the Netherlands segment of travel. There is no discount for early bird fares.
How to book train tickets online: Amsterdam-Liège or Maastricht-Liège rail tickets can be easily booked at the NS International site
2. Amsterdam-Liège by Coach
The coach is the cheapest way to travel between Amsterdam and Liège although travel times are longer. We would recommend paying a little extra for the train as the rail journey is more scenic than bus travel on the A2 motorway!
German coach company Flixbus currently operates around 3x daily services between Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Liège.
The bus stops next to Liège-Guillemins railway station at Rue Varin 33. The trip takes around 4 hours and one way fares start at €10.
3. Amsterdam-Liège by Air
There are no flights between Liège and Amsterdam. Liège airport (LGG) is mainly used as a hub for cargo airlines.
It is only possible to fly between Amsterdam Schiphol and Brussels Zaventem airports – although this is mainly used by transfer passengers.
Looking for a convenient hotel near Amsterdam Central station? Check out the stylish Kimpton-De Witt which is a short walk from the station. For those on a budget the Ibis Amsterdam Centre is literally on top of the western edge of the station platforms.
The I amsterdam City Card (1-5 days) offers free entry and discounts to numerous Amsterdam museums and attractions. It also includes a free public transport pass, a canal cruise and bike rental as well. You can order your I amsterdam City Card online here
In Liège you can book your hotel with Booking.com here.
This article was originally published in 2019, last update 14 March 2023.


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✈ In this video:
0:00 Travel From UK To France: Restrictions for Unvaccinated Travellers
1:27 Travel From UK To France: Restrictions for Unvaccinated Travellers
France announced a tightening of the rules for unvaccinated travellers from the UK.
From 1 November, France has imposed extra travel restrictions on unvaccinated arrivals from the UK into Paris’ Gare du Nord.
Those travelling on the Eurostar who are not vaccinated will have to take an additional Covid test on arrival into the station.
The UK is on France’s orange list, which means travel is restricted for unvaccinated people. The extra testing is at present confined only to arrivals via Eurostar.
From 1 November, those travelling from the UK to France by Eurostar who are not fully vaccinated will be asked to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival at Gare-du-Nord. Vaccination status will be checked ahead of departure at St Pancras.- — The UK Government update
Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 will be subject to mandatory self-isolation for 10 days.
3:15 Unvaccinated Travellers to France
Unvaccinated travellers can only travel to France for an essential reason and will need to fill out an International Travel Certificate to confirm why they are travelling.
If your reason for travel fits the criteria, you need to present a negative Covid test taken within the previous 24 hours and if you are arriving by Eurostar you need to take another test on arrival.
Travel for the unvaccinated is already strictly limited.
The French Health pass is widely used to access venues including bars, cafés, long-distance trains and tourist sites
which means that a trip to France is impractical for those who are not vaccinated, even if they do qualify to travel.
4:10 Fully Vaccinated Travellers to France
Fully vaccinated travellers do not need an essential reason to travel to France.
You can travel to France for any reason including tourism and family visits and you need to show proof of vaccination and a declaration stating that you are free from Covid symptoms. You will not need evidence of a negative test.
France accepts the UK vaccination certificate.
British tourists visiting France will also need to use a health passport if they want to enjoy normal holiday activities.
The health passport works in a similar way to a vaccine certificate and adults will require one to enter indoor venues such as restaurants, bars and museums.
Do you have plans to travel to France? Talk to us in the comment section below.
If you’re still unsure about your application, let us help you out!
✈ Read the full article at
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And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance https://immigrationandmigration.com/travel-insurance-amid-coronavirus/ , which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters https://iam.ontraport.com/tl/400 .
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Enjoy peace of mind with simple cancellation and optional travel insurance. Learn more >
Pro housekeepers clean thoroughly and provide fresh linens before every stay.
Count on 24/7 guest care and local teams everywhere we operate.
Smart locks or lockboxes at many homes offer smooth, contactless check-in.
Upscale condo in heart of Dewey with pool & AC - walk to beach, bay & hot spots
This modern condo is steps from the bay, beach, and all the Dewey hot spots! Whether you are having fun at the Starboard or taking the Jolley Trolley to Rehoboth Beach for fine dining on the ocean, you will love your stay at this great Opal condo. Head to the outdoor pool after fun-filled days in the sun!
Inside you’ll find a spacious layout with vaulted ceilings and all the comforts of home. Whip up delicious dishes in the sparkling full kitchen, configured with generous counter space and stainless steel appliances. Kick back in the open living area or unwind in the spa-like primary suite. Thoughtful perks like a private washer/dryer and central air-conditioning add convenience to your stay.
People watch the folks strolling on Coastal Highway and enjoying the Dewey Beach nightlife! Walk everywhere in town or take the Jolley Trolley.
THINGS TO KNOW
The fireplace is not operational.
Delaware regulations require all guests sign a lease agreement within 10 days of booking. A lease agreement will be sent within 24 hours of booking, and an electronic signature is required before final check-in information is made available.
This property is managed by Vacasa Delaware LLC.
No pets are allowed at this vacation rental.
This rental is located on floor 3.
Parking notes: There is free parking available for 2 vehicles.
You must be 25 years or older to rent this property.


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Vacation rentals in Beldorf
Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb
Top-rated vacation rentals in Beldorf
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
- Entire rental unit
The cozy, light-flooded apartment is located in a quiet residential area in the air spa town of Albersdorf. The apartment has a sofa bed (1.30 x 2.00m), a built-in bed (1.40 x 2.00m) and a dining area. There is also a small kitchen and a shower room. Towels and sheets are available. Bicycles can be rented on site (simple bike: €5/day, e-bike: €10/day) Surroundings: - Shopping facilities - heated outdoor pool - 20 km to the North Sea


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Riverside B-02 Condo offers accommodation in Telluride. The unit is 400 metres from Sheridan Opera House.
The unit equipped with a kitchen with an oven and microwave. A TV is offered.
Oak Street Lift is 200 metres from Riverside B-02 Condo, while Gondola Line is 300 metres away. Durango-La Plata County Airport is 87 km from the property.


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ThrillCoaster Tours is unlike any teen travel camp in the world. We visit 15 amusement parks, tour exciting cities, visit the beach, and stay all 26 nights in first class hotel rooms.
Activities and Features
Location & Contact Information
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3303 Chimney Rock Road
Houston, TX 77000
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The owners of this place are literally always renovating. They're such nice people that want their family business to have a good name for itself. Plus the exterior is always in tip top shape. I see the store owner outside picking up garbage all the time.
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com, Priceline and Odigeo so you can book your Kent Inn reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Kent Inn Lindsay, Ontario


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In all my travels, The Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel Tampa located less than 15 minutes from Tampa International Airport (TPA) is by far one of my favorite airport area hotels.
On some nights games are played until 2am!
Crabby Bill's is a “Fresh No Frills Seafood” restaurant and bar adjoining The Best Western.
Caribbean Mahi-Mahi with two sides is just $7.99 if you dine before 6pm. Complimented with a draft beer from America's Oldest Brewery, Yuengling for $2.50 along with the atmosphere it's a meal that's hard to beat for under $15.
Dissipating summer evening thunderstorms usually produce nice sunsets which can be enjoyed from your balcony, patio or the hotel’s bay front beach area.
I even got to use the employee lounge microwave to heat up a plate of Florida Famous, Publix Fried Chicken for lunch.
Free computers and wireless internet along with the possibility of a late check out makes The Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel Tampa a bargain at around $75 per night.
For more info: www.bestwesternhoteltampa.com


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Large house just minutes from Newquay's town centre whilst offering peace and quiet in a tucked away location
Westward Ho!, Devon
Port Isaac (4mls W), Cornwall
This remarkable property has been furnished to the highest standard throughout, offering a private hot tub, games room and much more. It truly is the perfect bolt hole for a family retreat.
Clovelly (4mls SE), Devon
A beautifully appointed property set on a 200-acre working farm with sheep, dairy cattle, cereal and a range of on site facilities and activities. It makes the perfect base for a family holiday in Devon.
A perfect location to explore all that North Devon has to offer. The sandy estuary beach of Instow is just a short walk away. Why not enjoy a relaxing drink on the privacy of your own covered terrace.
Cemaes (1.5mls SW), North Wales
Nestling in the heart of the Welsh countryside, this spacious and beautiful Grade II listed farmhouse sits within a 7 acre smallholding and makes a fantastic destination for a family get-together.
Set in the pretty Dorset village of Studland, this spacious and welcoming property makes a fantastic holiday home for a large family or a group seeking a retreat close to both coast and countryside.
A stones throw from the quayside in the delightful village of Appledore and offering surprisingly spacious accommodation, this fabulous property provides a great base for a relaxing family holiday.
Let with us


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Kota Belud Travelers Lodge
Wego searches multiple travel sites so you can find and compare the best rates.
- High speed internet access
Kota Belud is home to the Cowboys of the East, the Bajau Horseman, a pride of the locals, whom the British used their pony's for their leisure time playing polo and enjoying their cups of tea.
The biggest Tamu ground (local open market) with indigenous lifestyle and barter trading their animals and water buffalo. Bajau parang making and cultural weddings are among the attractions we have weekly.
And last but not least, the breathtaking view of the majestic Mt Kinabalu, its andulating Tempasuk rivers, clear water and under the hot sun, refreshingly cool. The Europeans call our place 'the Paradise'. Come and visit us, experience the local lifestyle and tour our rural kampong on horseback. Watch the golden sunset on the beach with the magnificent Mt Kinabalu as backdrop.
Kota Belud Travelers Lodge is the perfect getaway and we offer clean, comfortable affordable accommodation to suit everyone.
Because of growing DEMAND, we are now making new expansion and adding 12 more deluxe rooms and one conference room for 20pax, and one new Cafe lounge. Expect to complete renovation in September 2006. We thank you for your continue supports and we hope to see you at our Lodge soon.


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The Luxury Lifestyle
Experiencing the epitome of luxury, from exclusive private yacht cruises to thrilling helicopter tours, is just the beginning. Indulge in the finest cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and immerse yourself in the opulence of luxury autos. The world of luxury awaits.
Opulent accommodations are the epitome of luxury living. From lavish penthouse suites to private villas with breathtaking views, the options are endless. Imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views and indulging in personalized butler service. It’s a world of luxury and comfort, where every detail is meticulously curated to exceed your expectations. Check out the table below for a glimpse into the opulent accommodations that define the luxury lifestyle.
|Private balcony, spa,
|and 24/7 concierge service
|personal chef, and
|exclusive beach access
Living in opulent accommodations is a statement of elegance and sophistication. It’s an experience that redefines the meaning of luxury living. Embracing this lifestyle means embracing a world of exclusivity and opulence.
After indulging in opulent accommodations and extravagant experiences, it’s time to embark on your Luxury Travel adventure. Whether it’s a private jet to a tropical paradise or a luxury cruise to exotic destinations, the world is your oyster. Take in the breathtaking sights, savor the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the culture. Don’t forget to capture your experiences with stunning video content to relive the memories. And when you’re ready to unwind, retreat to your lavish accommodations and pamper yourself with world-class service. This is the epitome of living the luxurious life.
Fine Dining Experiences
After enjoying the Fine Dining Experiences, be sure to explore the diverse range of culinary delights. From exquisite seafood to decadent desserts, every dish is a work of art. The local produce and international flavors will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving for more. Don’t miss the chance to savor the delicious creations prepared by renowned chefs. Indulge in the flavors of the world and experience a culinary journey like no other.
Indulge in a world of culinary wonders with our Gourmet Delights. From exquisite dishes to delightful desserts, our menu offers a tantalizing array of flavors and textures. Take your taste buds on a journey through our carefully curated selection of healthy lifestyle options and decadent treats. Pair your meal with a glass of fine wine or a refreshing cocktail, and savor the experience of luxury dining at its finest. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply appreciate the art of gastronomy, our Gourmet Delights will leave you craving for more.
Indulge in a world of sweetness and delight with our decadent desserts. From rich chocolate creations to delicate pastries, our desserts are a feast for the senses. Treat yourself to a symphony of flavors and textures, and experience the artistry of our pastry chefs. Savor each bite and let the indulgence elevate your dining experience. Don’t miss our signature dessert, the luxurious lava cake, a true masterpiece of sweetness and elegance. Pair it with a glass of fine wine for the ultimate indulgent experience. After all, life is too short to skip dessert!
Luxury Fashion and Accessories
Designer Labels are the epitome of style and sophistication. From iconic fashion houses to emerging designers, the world of luxury fashion offers a myriad of choices for the discerning fashionista. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of a Chanel suit or the cutting-edge designs of Gucci, luxury fashion is a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. Embracing the luxury lifestyle on a budget is possible with strategic shopping and a keen eye for quality. Check out the table below for tips on how to indulge in luxury fashion without breaking the bank.
|Tips for Embracing Luxury Fashion on a Budget
|1. Shop at designer outlet stores
|2. Invest in timeless pieces that can be worn in multiple ways
|3. Explore pre-owned luxury items for great deals
Finding the perfect balance between quality and affordability is the key to enjoying luxury fashion without compromise.
Fashion Trends are constantly evolving, and keeping up with the latest styles is an essential part of the luxury lifestyle. From the runway to the red carpet, staying in the know about the hottest trends is a must. Whether it’s bold prints, extravagant accessories, or timeless classics, staying ahead of the curve is key. Check out the table below for a glimpse of the top fashion trends this season.
|Vibrant and eye-catching patterns
|Luxurious and statement-making pieces
|Elegant and enduring styles
Luxury lifestyle news is always buzzing with the latest updates on fashion trends, so stay tuned for the next big thing! Embrace the excitement of discovering new styles and expressing your unique fashion sense.
Luxury accessories are the perfect finishing touch to any upscale ensemble. From exquisite jewelry to designer handbags, these accessories elevate your look to the next level. In addition to enhancing your style, luxury accessories also make a statement about your appreciation for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. When it comes to choosing the right accessories, it’s all about finding pieces that reflect your individuality and complement your personal style. Whether it’s a stunning timepiece or a pair of elegant sunglasses, luxury accessories allow you to express your unique sense of elegance and sophistication. They are a true reflection of your personal taste and add a touch of luxury to your everyday attire. Indulge in the finest accessories and elevate your fashion game to new heights!
Embracing the Luxurious Life
Embracing the luxurious life is a choice that offers a unique perspective on luxury. It’s not just about material possessions, but about experiencing life to the fullest. From extravagant experiences to opulent accommodations, every moment becomes an opportunity to indulge in the finest things. The middle-aged perspective brings a sense of wisdom and appreciation for the finer details. It’s about finding joy in the little things and savoring every moment. Living in luxury is not just a lifestyle, it’s an art of savoring life.
The Joys of Luxury
Living a luxurious life is all about embracing the finer things and relishing in the exquisite experiences. From extravagant vacations to opulent accommodations, every moment is an opportunity to indulge in the best that life has to offer. The joy of luxury lies in the freedom to savor every moment, surrounded by beauty and elegance. It’s a lifestyle that celebrates the art of living, where every detail is a reflection of sophistication and refinement.
|Rejuvenating and relaxing experiences
|Private Yacht Tours
|Experiencing the ultimate luxury on the water
Luxury is not just a privilege; it’s a state of mind, a way of being that elevates every aspect of life.
Living in Luxury
Living in luxury is all about embracing the finer things in life. From extravagant experiences to opulent accommodations, the luxury lifestyle offers a world of indulgence and elegance. Whether it’s savoring gourmet delights or indulging in decadent desserts, every moment is a celebration of exquisite taste. And when it comes to fashion and accessories, designer labels and luxury trends take center stage. Embracing the luxurious life means savoring every moment, reveling in the joys of luxury, and truly living life to the fullest.
In conclusion, Virtual Hangar offers the best prices in the market for booking a flight instantly. With our tap to book feature, you can easily find and book your favorite private jet. Become a member today and experience the convenience of flying with Virtual Hangar. Visit our website to explore our exclusive membership benefits and book your next flight with us!


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Group Booking Terms and Conditions
Because you are making a Group Booking, there are additional Terms and Conditions that apply. Please read them and click 'I Accept' below to continue with your booking
General Group Booking Terms
By making a group reservation through Hostelworld.com you agree to the following terms and conditions as set by Hostelworld.com and as set by the hostel in question.
- In order to make a group reservation on Hostelworld.com it is necessary to pay a deposit. The balance is due directly to the hostel according to their payment conditions.
- The booking deposit is non-refundable.
- Please note that any cancellations must be notified directly to the hostel at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled arrival date, unless otherwise stated in the hostel's conditions.
- Hostelworld.com are not responsible for changes or amendments to your reservation once it has been processed. All correspondence with regard to changes to your booking need to be dealt with directly with the hostel.
- Cancellations for reservations must be made directly with the hostel and must conform with the individual hostels cancellation policy (see below)
- It is your responsibility to pay the balance of your accommodation cost to the hostel in accordance with their payment conditions (see below). Failure to do so may result in your reservation being cancelled by the hostel.
- Individual hostels may have special booking conditions relating to group stays, please read the hostel booking conditions carefully before making your reservation.
Hostel Specific Terms & Conditions
The remainder of the amount due will be charged to your credit card ???? Should numbers or room selection change, the per person deposit times the number of people who actually travelled will be deducted from the total accommodation charge levvied by the hostel.
The following group types are not accepted by this hostel: Holiday with Friends, Junior / Primary School, High / Secondary School, College / University, Business Trip, Stag/Hen/Bachelor Party, Sports Group, Cultural Group If you have misrepresented the type of group you are booking for, your booking may be cancelled by the hostel."
Any cancellations resulting from agreement to these terms and conditions under false pretences will result in loss of deposit.
You’ll stay in a private, soundproof cabin with a comfortable queen-size bed, free high-speed Wi-Fi, clever storage systems, wireless chargers for smartphones and tablets as well as Bluetooth speakers so you can listen to your choice of music. The shared bathroom offers maximum privacy thanks to individual shower cabins. What’s more, the vintage punching bag, pommel horse and ballet barre in front of the showers make for great entertainment while you wait.
A digital bracelet serves as a room key and allows you to check in at the hotel around the clock without any hassles, and also make cashless payments at the hotel bar and in the lobby. Enjoy our breakfast boxes, choosing from either a hearty, vital or vegan breakfast in the morning, whichever you prefer. Our cabin crew with its reliable hosts will make sure you won't go wanting for anything at the CAB20, advising you with plenty of insider tips about the city's best hotspots. Safety boxes for luggage storage and free Wi-Fi are available throughout the hotel.
The CAB20 is located in Hamburg's St. Georg district, just five minutes from the main train station and a stone’s throw from the Lange Reihe, the city's famous shopping strip lined with trendy bars, restaurants and shops. Also within eyeshot is the Alster, where you can enjoy pedal boating, go for a walk, shop or sit back and take it easy at the café. The airport (30 min), Hafen City (10 min), Sankt Pauli (18 min) and Landungsbrücken (12 min) can easily be reached via the underground and S-Bahn from the main station.
CAB20 - Terms & Conditions
The reception works 24-hours.
Cancellation policy: 24h before arrival. In case of a late cancellation or No Show, you will be charged the first night of your stay.
Check in from 15:00 to 23:00 .
Check out before 10:00 .
Payment upon arrival by credit cards, debit cards.
This property may pre-authorise your card before arrival.
No curfew. ハウルルールを表示する
アカウント名 のパスワードを入力してください <% email %>


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Discover this Tampa, Florida hotel located in the desirable South Tampa area only minutes from downtown Tampa and nearby attractions like Raymond James Stadium, George M. Steinbrenner Field, Amalie Arena, the Tampa Convention Center, and Tampa International Airport. Whether you are visiting for fun or work, the Best Western Tampa wants to make your trip memorable!
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Our accommodations are perfect for leisure travelers visiting the Tampa Bay area. Discover new creatures at the Tampa Aquarium, take a well-deserved cruise from the Port of Tampa, or enjoy a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game, New York Yankees Spring Training game, Tampa Bay Lightning hockey, or the Outback Bowl. You are sure to have a great time and enjoy the convenient location of the Best Western Tampa!
Traveling on business? We cater to both corporate and military travelers by offering free high-speed wireless internet and a 24-hour business center. In addition, this Tampa, FL hotel's location is only minutes from MacDill Air Force Base, the University of Tampa, Tampa General Hospital, Westshore Business District, IBM, and Time, Inc.
The Best Western Tampa offers newly renovated guest rooms, each complete with refrigerator, new Serta® beds, and LED flat screen TVs with over 70 HD channels. Guests will enjoy a complimentary full breakfast each morning. This hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool, exercise facility, and business center.
For an enjoyable experience and a convenient location, make a reservation at the Best Western Tampa! Enjoy your stay.
News from the Front Desk
No pets allowed
Worst BW I've ever stayed in. Reservation at check in was messed Up, made me sit on a couch in the lobby for 5 plus hours waiting for a room. It was explained at the time of the reservation that we...
We had two rooms booked through hotels.com. They only had one as reserved as refused refund. The front desk staff could not have been less helpful. Hotels.com was very helpful. Will not make another...
tallahassee, florida on 05-Jan-2019
The room was very new feeling, fantastic up keep. Front desk was amazing which was so nice after traveling all day. :) I highly recommend this property to anyone. I will likely be making trips to...
Phoenix, Arizona on 18-Dec-2018
This is a decent hotel that is not too too far from the airport. There are some shops not too far from the hotel. Place is quite clean, older hotel though can use some updating. The breakfast is...
Windsor, Canada on 16-Dec-2018
Hotel staff is great. Beds are uncomfortable and the whole place needs an update. It is clean and breakfast was good. Good for a low cost room. It's in an area hard to get into. A few places...


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Best Western New Seoul is a 16-story hotel in the business district at a close proximity to Seoul Plaza, Myeongdong and Gyeongbokgung offering non-smoking rooms and friendly services. Founded in 1969, the hotel underwent a renovation in 2001.
The hotel boasts quiet location in Seoul close to Gwanghwamun underground station. The property is in a 10-minute walk to Seoul city center.
Shops and stores are also set close by.
The hotel lies within a 15-minute walk of Namsan Arts Centre train station. 20 minutes by car from Gimpo airport.
The property offers 146 guestsrooms appointed with a closet, TV with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, individual climate control and a work desk. Guests can make use of bathrobes, a hairdryer and a shower in every bathroom.
Eat & Drink
The lobby restaurant serves delicious Korean meals. A variety of coffee, cocktails and tea is offered in the theme bar.
Guests will enjoy using car rentals when exploring the sites of Seoul.
A sauna and a spa center are available for guests' relaxation.
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Free private parking is possible on site.


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Once a royal palace, playing host to the likes of Mozart, Beethoven, and Wagner, the Smetana Hotel retains a majestic glamour, with sumptuous four-poster beds and colorful frescoes. A warm welcome, luxurious Sisley spa, and a refined Czech restaurant only add to the regal experience. With a prime position overlooking the Vltava River, and within minutes of Charles Bridge, it is an ideal base from which to explore the enchanting cobbled alleyways and centuries-old edifices of Prague Old Town.
- The 50 individually designed guestrooms and suites have courtyard or Vltava River views
- Book the exclusive Lutetia Suite decorated with furniture from the legendary hotel in Paris
- Go for a jog up Petrin hill or book a private yoga session with one of the hotel’s personal trainers
- Sip a glass of cognac and smoke a fine cigar at the Chapel Cigar Club’s courtyard
- Feast on upscale Czech cuisine prepared in a live open kitchen
With ornate décor, crystal chandeliers, and ceiling frescoes, there is much about this Baroque property that tells the story of its prestigious past. Nowadays, a French influence has elevated its elegance with a vintage bar, a suite filled with Lutetia furnishings acquired at auction, and essential-oil based beauty treatments by the prestigious Sisley brand.
Get instant benefits with I Prefer Hotel Rewards at more than 700 hotels in over 85 countries
- Free Internet
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Priority Early Check-in
The hotel’s 50 guestrooms and suites each have their own character. Some are endowed with four-poster beds and exposed wooden beams; others are decorated with busts and chaise lounges. Luxurious suites are adorned with hand-painted frescoes. Large windows look out across the River Vltava or a stone-paved courtyard, and every room comes with a minibar, coffee machine, and an aromatherapy shower system with scents such as lime, peppermint, and rose. Deluxe suites also have a separate living area, while family suites have two bedrooms and a spacious lounge.
One of the most exquisite accommodations is the Mozart Suite with curtain-framed views of sun-drenched courtyards. Set in the original 17th-century palace (the noble Pachta family’s former residence), it is here where Mozart is said to have composed 6 German Dances for the Count. The décor includes period furniture and pieces that celebrate the prolific musician, making it a lovely place to order afternoon tea from the hotel’s 24-hour room service.
There is an air of romance at mealtimes here, with settings that include a courtyard under the stars, a retro café, and an elegant restaurant with crisp white tablecloths.
Bistro Bohemian Rhapsody – With a casual Parisian ambiance, this bistro serves a delectable breakfast with freshly brewed coffee, buttery pastries, and made-to-order eggs.
Restaurant Smetana – Sip on a chilled aperitif while you watch chefs in action in the open kitchen. Dishes at this restaurant are a refined affair, based on Old Bohemian recipes with a hint of French flair. Try the sous-vide guinea fowl with saffron potatoes and chanterelle mushrooms or the classic veal schnitzel. The restaurant’s wine cellar is stocked with premium bottles and vintages.
Chapel Cigar Club – Set in the palace’s 1628 chapel, this warm, intimate space has leather armchairs and vaulted ceilings, a suitable atmosphere for smoking hand-rolled cigars with a glass of whiskey in hand.
Work out in the privacy of your own suite with one of the hotel’s personal trainers. Choose a personalized training program that could include yoga, Pilates, or weight training. Follow your session with an in-room hot stone massage or head to the Sisley Institute for a revitalizing facial that uses essential oils and plant extracts. On the way back to your room, take note of the grand stairwells and sculpture and paintings that grace the corridors where Mozart and Wagner once meandered through.
Out in Old Town Prague, take a scenic stroll along the river and stop for a photograph on Charles Bridge. Make sure to take in the unique surrounding architecture with its mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings. Wander the maze of cobbled streets around Old Town Square, and pause at any of the cafes, bars, and restaurants for an ice-cold Czech beer before traversing the bridge to Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral.
At Smetana Hotel, Prague’s Old Town is at your doorstep, with Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square within a 10-minute walk. Prague Castle is around 20 minutes’ walk away. There are numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs in the immediate surrounding area.
Prague’s Václav Havel Airport is 8 mi / 13 km away, around 20 minutes by taxi or the hotel’s airport shuttle service.


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Cheap flights from Copenhagen, Denmark to Baltimore, USA for only €237 roundtrip.
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Cheap flights from Milan, Italy to Banjul, Gambia for only €328 roundtrip with TAP Air Portugal.
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Non-stop from Los Angeles to Fort Myers, Florida (& vice versa) for only $211 roundtrip (Jan-Feb dates)
Non-stop flights from Los Angeles to Fort Myers, Florida for only $211 roundtrip with Alaska Airlines. Also works in reverse.


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Stayed overnight for a family birthday and our room was huge and our bathroom was the same. Some family members didn't get the accommodation they expected and one room didn't have a bathroom in it. The guest house is large and we found it very cold when we arrived at around 4pm but it possibly is very hard to heat.... More
- Also Known As:
- Hopehill Guest House Hawick, Scotland
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com and Priceline so you can book your Hopehill Guest House reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.


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Life gets better when you stay in our 255 sq. ft Accessible One King Bed guestroom!
It offers bathroom grab bars, lowered hooks, and shower wand and seat,100% wheelchair access around the room and closed-captioning TV, and more to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Also included is a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker.
Smoking is not permitted.