MSC Cruises to Offer Two New Itineraries From the Canary Islands
Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands. (Image courtesy of MSC Cruises)
MSC CRUISES TO OFFER TWO NEW ITINERARIES FROM THE SPANISH CANARY ISLANDS FOR WINTER 2024-25
Two new 7-night itineraries on MSC Opera sail to some of the most sought-after destinations, including the Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco
The new winter 2024 – 2025 itineraries can be combined for a 14-night sailing
Geneva, Switzerland – February 21, 2024 – MSC Cruises, the world’s third largest cruise line, will base a ship in the Canary Islands for the first time. Sailings will start during the winter 2024-2025 season and are now available for booking, the company announced today.
MSC Opera will have two distinct 7-night itineraries with the option to embark in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria on Fridays and Santa Cruz de Tenerife on Sundays, between Nov. 8, 2024 and March 21, 2025. Each itinerary will offer six ports of call and can be combined to form a 14-night cruise, providing even more fascinating destinations for guests to discover.
Both itineraries will feature extended stays in ports to provide cruisers with ample time to enjoy everything each destination has to offer.
MSC Opera will visit a range of islands in the Canaries, the Portuguese island of Madeira, and Morocco in North Africa. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in each destination’s unique culture, striking landscapes and captivating attractions, while taking advantage of a warm and relaxing climate, perfect for sightseeing and soaking up sun during the winter months.
One of the two itineraries will call in Arrecife, Lanzarote; Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife; Santa Cruz de la Palma, La Palma; Funchal, Madeira; and Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura before returning to Las Palmas.
The other itinerary will visit San Sebastian de la Gomera, La Gomera; Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife; Funchal, Madeira; Agadir, Morocco; and Arrecife, Lanzarote before returning to Las Palmas.
The Canary Islands are easily accessible with regular international flights to Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
The two new itineraries replace MSC Opera’s previously planned winter 2024-2025 season in the Red Sea, which was cancelled in light of the current risk to shipping in that region.
For more information on the new itineraries, please click here.
About MSC Opera
MSC Opera offers a variety of gourmet dining options, including two main restaurants with an array of Mediterranean and international cuisine, plus a range of bars and lounges to suit every preference.
Whether guests are trying their luck in the Med Pearl Casino, relaxing at the pool, enjoying a show in the Teatro dell’Opera, or browsing boutiques, there’s never a dull moment on board.
Dedicated play areas are also available for kids of all ages, including an exciting splash pad, while teens can enjoy virtual reality gaming and their own exclusive clubs.
There are plenty of options for fitness and relaxation on board including a gym powered by Technogym®, a walking track, minigolf, shuffleboard and the MSC Aurea Spa, with offerings including massages and treatments as well as a thermal area, complete with a steam room and sauna.
Destination highlights include:
Las Palmas: The capital city of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands is an idyllic vacation destination filled with diverse culture, historical heritage and gorgeous beaches. The city boasts attractions like Las Canteras, the world-famous beach known for its crystal-clear waters, the Casa de Colón, a museum highlighting the history of the Canary Islands, as well as the city’s picturesque historical quarter, Vegueta, where the cobblestone streets offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
Arrecife: The vibrant capital city of Lanzarote is a natural paradise and a must-visit destination in the Canary Islands, known for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. Some key sights include Castillo de San Gabriel, the impressive ancient fortress and home of Arrecife’s history museum, the charming Charco San Ginés lagoon with its many fishing houses and an array of bars and restaurants, as well as Timanfaya National Park, located outside of the city on the island.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Celebrated for its world-famous carnival, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches and historical landmarks, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the port capital of Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s seven Canary Islands. There are a range of incredible sights including the Plaza de Espana, and the striking white wave auditorium and architectural marvel, the Auditorio de Tenerife. In proximity to the city is El Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the impressive volcanic Mount Teide is located.
Funchal: The enchanting capital of Portuguese island Madeira is famed for its picturesque bay, charming historic streets, renowned Madeira wine and world-class botanical gardens. Well-known attractions include the city’s Zona Velha historical center, the enchanting Madeira Botanical Garden, and the nearby Cabo Girão, one of the highest cliffs in Europe.
Puerto del Rosario: The capital of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, famed for its artistic streets adorned with sculptures and art. Whether it’s strolling through the lively harbor brimming with shops and restaurants or visiting beautiful nearby beaches, there’s an array of experiences to enjoy. The town also serves as a gateway to Fuerteventura’s stunning natural landscapes and sites, including the famous Corralejo sand dunes.
San Sebastian: A picturesque town in La Gomera of the Canary Islands, San Sebastian de la Gomera is steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Some of the town’s most notable sights include the Torre del Conde, a significant medieval fortress, the charming historical quarter with its traditional architecture of the Canaries, as well as the nearby Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for nature enthusiasts’ outdoor pursuits.
Agadir: Situated in southwest Morocco, the coastal gem of Agadir is sure to captivate visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture. Whether it’s visiting the Kasbah, an ancient hilltop fortress that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, sunbathing at the pristine Agadir Beach, or heading to the Agadir Marina’s numerous restaurants, shops, bars and cafés, there’s plenty of enjoyable attractions to discover.
About MSC Cruises
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Southern Africa, with a strong and growing presence in North America and the Far East.
The MSC Cruises fleet consists of 22 modern ships with three new vessels due to be launched in 2025, 2026, and 2027.
The Company operates in more than 100 countries around the world, offering cruises across five continents, calling at more than 300 destinations and welcoming more than 180 different nationalities on board.
MSC Cruises is firmly committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions for its marine operations by 2050.
For more information, click here.
