| MSC Cruises reveals Red Sea details

MSC Cruises has revealed details of its new itinerary in the Red Sea for the 21/22 season, with MSC Magnifica (pictured) to visit Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt (CW 22 Apr).

The brand-new seven-night itinerary will see Magnifica become the first cruise ship to homeport in Jeddah, with fly-cruise packages available through a partnership with Saudia Arabia’s flag-carrier Saudia.

From 13 Nov 2021 through to the end of Mar 2022, Magnifica will call at Aqaba, Safaga, Al Wajh and Yanbu before returning to Jeddah.

MSC Virtuosa is also adding a call to Saudi Arabia for her winter 2021/22 program in the Persian Gulf.

“The introduction of Saudi Arabia to our winter programme is one of a kind itinerary as it also offers Egypt and Jordan in an unparalleled combination of sun, beach, tradition and culture,” said Chief Executive Officer Gianni Onorato.

“Travelling through the Red Sea by cruise ship is one of the most spectacular ways to take in the stunning coastline and enjoy the region’s unique and still untouched beauty of sea and nature.”

Cruise Saudi Chief Commercial & Operations Officer Mark Robinson said the partnership is the perfect starting point for the business’s journey.

“[MSC] aligns with our vision to develop mainstream cruising along the Saudi coastlines with Jeddah as the key homeport that offers a wide variety of pre- and post-cruise stay options,” he said.

“Jeddah benefits from its proximity to Europe and is easily reachable by plane within five hours from most major cities on the continent.

“Due to its warm weather, Saudi Arabia is an ideal destination for winter holidays and has the potential for year-round cruising.”