MSC Cruises, the Geneva-based global cruise line, is set to schedule six different cruise ships for its Greek itinerary, making more than 400 visits to nine different island and mainland destinations throughout the country in 2024.
The cruise schedule includes a vessel that will homeport in Piraeus, the MSC Sinfonia, while Explora Journeys, the luxury cruise company of the MSC Group, will dock at 21 Greek ports in 2024.
MSC Cruises, a subsidiary of international shipping giant Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A, will be sailing to Greek ports as of this month, expanding operations in the region year-round, with the new season also including an increased number of visits to Ionian Sea destinations such as Kefalonia, Katakolon, Zakynthos and Corfu.
Starting from the 2024-25 season and for an entire winter period, MSC Cruises will deploy one of its ships with a homeport in Greece, for the first time, thus extending the cruise season in the country, as part of its broader five-year growth plan for Greek tourism aimed at extending the tourist season. The MSC Sinfonia will depart from its homeport in Piraeus with seven-night itineraries that will also include the island of Corfu.
The additional cruise stops by MSC are estimated to boost economic activity in the many Greek port destinations, as well as positively impact other entry points including flight arrivals, since a percentage of visitors will arrive via flights from around the world at Greek airports. Many will extend their vacations and stay in Greek resorts and cities before or after the cruise.
