MSC Cruises’ World Cruise 2023 on Poesia, already open for sale, features 53 stunning destinations in 33 countries across six continents with a focus on aspirational locations in Asia.
The 119-day voyage, setting sail on 5 January from Genoa in Italy, will cover 30,000 nautical miles that will cross 24 separate time zones with other embarkation ports of Civitavecchia/Rome, Marseille and Barcelona.
Crossing the Atlantic Ocean from Europe, MSC Poesia will visit the tropical islands of the Caribbean and then sail through the Panama Canal, an experience that will live long in the memory for all on board.
Next will be the west coast of Central America with calls in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Mexico before heading to San Francisco.
The Pacific leg will feature visits to Maui, Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Auckland in New Zealand, Sydney, the Australian Gold Coast, Cairns and the incredible Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. The ship will then arrive in Japan during the beautiful cherry blossom season with calls at Kyoto and Tokyo.
Guests will further discover the sights and sounds of Asia with visits to Shanghai, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia. Crossing the Indian Ocean to the Gulf region of the Middle East, MSC Poesia will then head home to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal.
MSC Poesia’s 119-day World Cruise departing Genoa in January 2023 will cover 30,000 nautical miles
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.
San Francisco, USA – Guests will not want to miss a chance to get a look at 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.
Honolulu, USA – 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.
Sydney, Australia – Sailing by the Sydney Opera House and towering Harbour Bridge, guests will have two days to explore the Australian capital. 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.
Tokyo, Japan – The bright lights of Tokyo are one of six Japanese cities the MSC Poesia will visit during the world tour. With a plethora of uniquely Japanese activities to experience, guests may choose between traditional tea ceremonies, observing Sumo wrestlers’ morning practice sessions and discovering the restaurant offerings that make Tokyo the most Michelin-starred city in the world.
Shanghai, China – One of China’s most iconic cities will give guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Far East, visiting the Jade Buddha Temple, walking along the Bund waterfront or taking a day trip to the Zhujiajiao water town, where the historic homes and bridges will have guests feeling they’ve stepped back in time.
Da Nang, Vietnam – Vietnam’s 5th 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.
Aqaba, Jordan – 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.