MSC Cruises to deploy Splendida on...

The cruise ship will offer a range of voyages from Durban and Cape Town

MSC Cruises will deploy MSC Splendida, its most modern ship to ever serve South Africa, for the 2023-24 sailing season, operating a total of 35 sailings from both Durban and Cape Town during 2023-24.

From November 2023, the 14-deck passenger vessel will be based in the port of Durban and offer a range of voyages lasting between three and 14 nights to Namibia and Mozambique.

Flight durations from the GCC region to Durban are just over eight hours, and travel clients wishing to explore far-flung destinations such as Namibia and Mozambique can do so in the safe parametres of cruise ship excursions.

MSC Cruises South Africa managing director Ross Volk said: “MSC Splendida will take cruising in South Africa to the next level and her deployment further demonstrates our commitment to help drive both the country’s tourism industry and the cruising sector with a resultant positive economic impact to the nation. The ship will be staffed by nearly 1,400 crew, many of whom will be sourced and trained locally through our own Shosholoza Ocean Academy in Durban.”

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MSC Splendida can accommodate up to 4,363 passengers and features the MSC Yacht Club – a premium ‘ship within a ship’ concept with 71 spacious suites, a dedicated concierge desk, 24-hour butler service, private restaurant, swimming pool and sun deck.

The ship also has a wide range of bars and dining venues, including a Mediterranean concept and an American steakhouse restaurant. Onboard facilities include four swimming pools, The Strand Theatre, Club 33 nightclub, a gym, squash court and a running track.

For more information, visit www.msccruises.com