MSC Cruises’ 2021 World Cruise on MSC Poesia is a 119-day journey around the globe departing on 5 January with an all-new itinerary featuring a significant focus on unique Asian destinations.
The voyage sails roundtrip from Genoa and Civitavecchia in Italy, Marseille in France and Barcelona in Spain and takes guests literally across the globe in one single voyage of discovery.
Going westwards, the first leg crosses the Atlantic to the islands of the Caribbean and through the Panama Canal, then sails the west coast of the continent (Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Mexico) to San Francisco.
MSC Poesia’s 119-day voyage will take guests across the globe in one single voyage of discovery
The second leg visits the scenic Maui and then volcanic Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Auckland Sydney and the Australian Golden Coast together with Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines.
Poesia then arrives in Japan during its most beautiful season: the cherry blossom, visiting Kyoto and Tokyo, then Shanghai in China.
The third leg cruises to Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia allowing guests to really discover this part of the Asian Continent. Finally, crossing the Indian Ocean to Sri Lanka and Dubai, guests can explore Oman and Jordan (Petra) and travel through the Suez Canal, back to the Mediterranean.
Says Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO: “Guests will not only an incredible number of different destinations and overnight stays in iconic cities but a rich array of on board entertainment and music, enrichment activities as well as dining experiences that are sure to make this a voyage of discovery both while on board and ashore.”
See the world go by from the comfort of a family cabin
World Cruise Highlights
Puerto Limon, Costa Rica – the stunning beaches and lush rainforest are a haven for any nature lover. Here guests will have the unique experience of interacting with native sloth species or discovering the rich history that the 2nd largest city in Costa Rica has to offer. A shore excursion offers a comfortable and convenient way to adventure deep into the rainforest, to encounter myriad butterflies and breath-taking waterfalls.
San Francisco – Guests see the iconic Golden Gate bridge, visit the famous penitentiary-turned-prison Alcatraz, or taste the local California wines in one of the United States’ most famous cities. Shore excursions take in these landmarks, offering a plethora of can’t-be-missed sites in one trip.
Honolulu – Hawaii is renowned for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and looming volcanoes. On Oahu, the Hawaiian capital is home to all three of these treasures, where guests can partake in a luau or simply say ‘aloha’ to a day of sunbathing on the famous Waikiki Beach. The Pearl Harbour and City takes guests from sunken submarine and battleships, to pearls of the ancient Hawaiian kingdom.
Sydney – Sailing by the Sydney Opera House and towering Harbour Bridge, guests will have two days to explore the iconic Australian city. Whether they choose to visit the famous Taronga Zoo for a chance to see real-live kangaroos or learn to surf at Bondi Beach, this is a destination for everyone. Guests get the chance to ascend the 134-metre tall bridge for a panoramic view of the city.
Tokyo – Guests can choose between traditional tea ceremonies, observing Sumo wrestlers’ morning practice sessions and discovering the restaurants that make Tokyo the most Michelin-starred city in the world.
Shanghai – Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, walk along the Bund waterfront or take a day trip to the Zhujiajiao water town, where the historic homes and bridges will have guests feeling they have ve stepped back in time.
Hong Kong – This vibrant former British colony is where East meets West. Guests will be amazed by the many modern skyscrapers that paint the city’s skyline and delighted by the rich history, such as the Tian Tan Buddha.
Da Nang – Vietnam’s fifth largest city is one of the country’s most beautiful. Guests may opt to climb the one-of-a-kind Marble Mountains, bask in the sun on My Khe Beach or discover the many stunning pagodas that the city is known for.
Singapore – Framed by the unmistakable Marina Bay Sands Hotel and the city’s symbol, the Merlion, Singapore is a paradise for shoppers, with breath-taking malls that are as beautiful as they are well-stocked. The historical Raffles Hotel and eye-opening Gardens by the Bay make this small island a taste of the best of both worlds, modern meets classic. The ‘HIGHLIGHTS OF SINGAPORE’ shore excursion, for example, mixes classic coach and walking tours and will allow guests a chance to take in the many neighbourhoods of the city, starting with the exotic Little India.
Aqaba – This city rests on the Red Sea coast and is a haven for divers and history buffs alike. From snorkelling in the Aqaba Marine Park to Mamluk Castle and the Aqaba Archaeological Museum, this destination has something to satiate everyone’s interests.