Cruise line will offer longer itineraries, two overnight stays in Dubai and voyages to India
By
Elizabeth Robinson |
MSC Cruises is expanding its range of cruises from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the introduction of a second ship, MSC Lirica.
New extended cruises of 11 and 14 nights will be offered, as well as longer itineraries, two overnight stays in Dubai, and the line’s first cruises to India. The ship will make her debut in the UAE in November 2018.
“This will be our seventh season in the UAE and we have seen strong demand for our quality product offering from Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” said Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises. “A strong Fly&Cruise programme means that guests from all around the world are able to enjoy this popular cruise region. Our modern ships and distinctive, quality cruise experience are an appealing way for holidaymakers to explore the rich and diverse experiences that the UAE can offer.”
MSC Cruises’ 11-night itineraries from Dubai and Abu Dhabi will include calls at beach locations such as Sir Bani Yas island, which offers guests water activities and access to the region’s largest nature reserve. Guests will also call at Pearl-Qatar, which spans one million square metres and is home to beaches, a wide range of shops and over 100 bars and restaurants.
Some of the shore excursions highlights on MSC Lirica’s itineraries will include a visit to the Burj Al Khalifa and Dubai Mall, the world’s tallest building, and the man-made Palm Jumeirah.
Guests will also get to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the largest art museum on the Arabian Peninsula; the Bahrain International Circuit in the Sakhir Desert; and take a tour from the Grand Mosque, through to old Muscat and the Muttrah Souk, a traditional Omani market. There will also be a tour through Mumbai, New Delhi, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra and Cochin and the Jain temples of Mangalore.