MSC Grand Voyages

Venice, a city built on a network of canals, offers a mesmerizing blend of art, architecture, and history. Glide through the Grand Canal to see iconic landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Basilica. Wander through narrow alleys to discover hidden gems such as the enchanting Piazza San Marco, bustling with cafes and shops. The Doge’s Palace, with its opulent rooms and secret passages, provides a glimpse into Venice’s storied past. Don't miss the colorful markets, where you can sample local delicacies like cicchetti and fresh seafood.

Lying on the Adriatic Sea's eastern shore, Split is known for its terracotta roofs, whitewashed buildings, palm-tree-lined promenade and azure waters. A city of romantic beauty, it was built around the historic Diocletian’s Palace. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Split:

• explore Krka National Park
• visit the city-island of Trogir
• admire the Diocletian's Palace
• swim in the warm water at Bačvice Beach
• go white water rafting on Cetina River
• explore Vranjaca Cave

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Game and a treasure trove of ancient history and culture. Begin your visit at the Archaeological Site of Olympia, home to the ancient stadium where the first games were held in 776 BC. Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, once housing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and explore the ruins of other significant structures like the Temple of Hera.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia is a must-see, displaying a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush surroundings of the site, reflecting on the history and heritage of this iconic location.

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is your gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held. Excavation of the ruins of Olympia began in 1875, and Olympia was declared a National Park in 1976. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Katakolon:

• relax on Kourouta Beach
• tour the ruins of Olympia
• visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia
• taste some local wine at Mercouri Estate
• visit a traditional Greek olive farm

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Enjoy the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the Suez Canal, the engineering marvel that connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

As you transit the 101 mile expanse, admire the desert views occasionally interrupted by little villages, with domed mosques and minarets towering into the sky.

The passage requires no locks, as both bodies of water are at about the same level. Not wide enough to allow 2-way passage, 3 convoys are scheduled to transit the canal on a typical day, two southbound and one northbound.

Enjoy the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the Suez Canal, the engineering marvel that connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

As you transit the 101 mile expanse, admire the desert views occasionally interrupted by little villages, with domed mosques and minarets towering into the sky.

The passage requires no locks, as both bodies of water are at about the same level. Not wide enough to allow 2-way passage, 3 convoys are scheduled to transit the canal on a typical day, two southbound and one northbound.

Sokhna, often referred to as Ain Sokhna, is conveniently located just an hour's drive from Cairo, making it a popular seaside escape for both locals and visitors. Its name, meaning "hot spring," comes from the nearby sulfur springs that flow from the mountains of the Eastern Desert into the Red Sea. The area combines the allure of sandy beaches with the therapeutic benefits of these warm mineral-rich waters.

Tourists can enjoy a variety of water sports or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Additionally, Sokhna serves as an excellent starting point for day trips to the historic sites of Cairo, including the Pyramids of Giza, or adventures into the rugged terrain of the desert.

Sharm El Sheikh, located on the southern tip of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning Red Sea coastline and world-class diving sites. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkelling and scuba diving, with popular spots like Ras Mohammed National Park and the SS Thistlegorm wreck.

In addition to its underwater attractions, Sharm El Sheikh offers beautiful sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and a bustling nightlife. The Naama Bay promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, perfect for an evening stroll. For a touch of adventure, visitors can explore the nearby Sinai Desert through camel rides and jeep safaris. With its blend of natural beauty, leisure activities, and cultural experiences, Sharm El Sheikh is a premier destination in Egypt.

Luxor, often hailed as the world’s greatest open-air museum, stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power during the 16th–11th centuries B.C. This city is a treasure trove of historical architecture, with the majestic Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings offering a window into ancient Egypt’s grandeur. Luxor Temple, illuminated beautifully at night, provides a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the Nile.

Visitors can explore the West Bank’s mortuary temples and tombs, where the art and hieroglyphs remain as vivid as when they were first created. A hot air balloon ride at dawn offers an unforgettable view of the landscape, revealing the full extent of Luxor’s historical sites set against the Nile’s winding path.

Safaga's port is situated about 53 kms (approximately 33 miles) south of Hurghada, a popular seaside destination known for its coral reefs and aquatic sports. While Safaga itself is more industrial in nature, it does offer a few local attractions such as black sand dunes and therapeutic mineral springs but you're best to explore beyond the port. Luxor is located approximately 220 kms (about 137 miles) from Safaga and the journey can take around 3 to 4 hours by road, but the sight of Luxor's ancient wonders are worth the effort.

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Jeddah, the gateway to the holy city of Mecca, is a city where tradition and modernity meet against the backdrop of the Red Sea. It's known for its waterfront Corniche, dotted with sculptures and cafes, offering a picturesque setting for both relaxation and leisure. Al-Balad, the historic center, tells tales of a bygone era with its beautifully preserved Ottoman buildings and bustling markets.

The city's commitment to cultural expression shines through in its array of art galleries and festivals, making it a vibrant hub for artists and visitors alike. Jeddah also serves as a starting point for pilgrimages, blending spiritual significance with its rich maritime history. Its diverse culinary scene, from traditional Saudi dishes to international cuisine, promises a delightful experience for every palate.

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Mahe, the largest island of the Seychelles, dazzles with its abundance of natural beauty, from lush mountains to pristine beaches. Victoria, its capital, is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its cuisine and architecture, with the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market being must-visits.

For beach lovers, Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and jet-skiing. The island's interior is a haven for hikers, with trails winding through Morne Seychellois National Park leading to panoramic views. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Victoria, with landmarks such as the Clock Tower and vibrant markets offering a taste of local life and cuisine and Mahe's Botanical gardens showcase the island's flora, including rare orchids and giant tortoises.

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is located on Mahé Island and is the smallest capital city in Africa. Known for its charming blend of colonial and Creole architecture, Victoria offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The city’s highlights include the Victoria Clock Tower, a replica of London’s Vauxhall Clock Tower, and the colourful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, bustling with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts.

The nearby Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape with their collection of exotic plants, giant tortoises, and fruit bats. Victoria also serves as a gateway to the island’s stunning beaches and marine parks. With its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Victoria is a delightful starting point for exploring the Seychelles.

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, serves as the vibrant heart of the island with its bustling streets and diverse cultural fabric. The city is a treasure trove of history and culture, as seen in the Caudan Waterfront, with its shops and eateries, and the Blue Penny Museum, which preserves the island's colonial and maritime history. The bustling Central Market offers a taste of local life with its colourful stalls selling tropical fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods.

Nestled against a majestic mountain backdrop, Port Louis also features stunning natural scenery. The nearby Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, showcases giant water lilies and rare species of plants, providing a tranquil escape from the urban energy.

Head off on an excursion to the so-called Circus of Salazie, the remains of an enormous volcanic caldera located a few kilometres from La Possession. Instead of geysers of lava, extinguished centuries ago, you will find an explosion of life, where marvels of nature live side by side with small towns scattered throughout a lush forest.

The view you will enjoy as you ascend along the windy road is indescribable. However, not all of the fire has gone out. In the Piton de la Fournaise, you can still admire two active volcano craters, the Dolomieu and the Bory, which filled with lava in 2007.

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

British colonial architecture prevails in Durban, yet natural beauty is what characterises this charming city on the Indian Ocean. Durban delights the traveller with its colourful mosaic of ethnic neighbourhoods and memorable excursions to game reserves and the traditional lifestyle of the Zulu people. Ships will dock at the N-Shed Passenger Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Durban:

• spot animals at the Tala Game Reserve
• shop at the Victoria Street Market
• relax at the beaches of the Golden Mile
• visit the PheZulu Safari Park

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries