188-night Azamara World Cruise

188 nights Jan 5, 2027

The 188-night Azamara World Cruise is a 188-night New Zealand cruise aboard Azamara Quest, operated by Azamara. Departing San Francisco, California on January 5, 2027, the voyage visits 94 ports. Fares start from $77,719 per person.

from $77,719

$413 / night per person, incl. taxes & fees

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from $77,719 pp

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Itinerary

Day 1 Jan 5, 2027 San Francisco, California Departs 17:00 And if your MSC World Cruise could take you to one of the most fascinating cities in the United States? Making your dream into reality is San Francisco, the next stop on your vacation. In addition to its many tourist attractions, its fame is linked to the high cultural and architectural value it offers, making it the most European of any overseas city. San Francisco is also unique for its particular geographical location, which sees it stand out against green hills while at the same time spreading out directly into the sea, an enchanted view from which you can observe landscapes full of colors and harmony. As soon as you disembark, you will start on one of the signature excursions of MSC. You can admire the symbol of San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, the infamous red bridge linking the city to the county of Marin. The structure is one of the wonders of the world, the boldest of its kind ever created by American architecture: its 2700-meter length is supported by two gigantic pylons made to withstand the strong winds and raging currents of the bay. One of the best ways to see this bridge is to cross it on your way to Sausalito, a charming seaside resort also known as the Portofino of America, another stop on your unforgettable trip to this area. Sausalito has a different climate than San Francisco, with beautiful sunshine and weather that is a few degrees warmer creating a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for a trip out of town with a view of the San Francisco skyline and the island of Alcatraz. With MSC Cruises, your vacation becomes an adventure, thanks to a visit to the legendary site of the former maximum security prison. Its name, Alcatraz (which is Spanish for "pelican"), comes from the many pelicans on the spot. It is an attraction that takes you back in time and will introduce you to a piece of San Francisco's history. Go to San Francisco, California Cruises visiting San Francisco, California

San Francisco, California photo — Day 1 Jan 5, 2027 San Francisco, California Departs 17:00 And if your MSC World Cruise could take you to one of the most fascinating cities in the United States? Making your dream into reality is San Francisco, the next stop on your vacation. In addition to its many tourist attractions, its fame is linked to the high cultural and architectural value it offers, making it the most European of any overseas city. San Francisco is also unique for its particular geographical location, which sees it stand out against green hills while at the same time spreading out directly into the sea, an enchanted view from which you can observe landscapes full of colors and harmony. As soon as you disembark, you will start on one of the signature excursions of MSC. You can admire the symbol of San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, the infamous red bridge linking the city to the county of Marin. The structure is one of the wonders of the world, the boldest of its kind ever created by American architecture: its 2700-meter length is supported by two gigantic pylons made to withstand the strong winds and raging currents of the bay. One of the best ways to see this bridge is to cross it on your way to Sausalito, a charming seaside resort also known as the Portofino of America, another stop on your unforgettable trip to this area. Sausalito has a different climate than San Francisco, with beautiful sunshine and weather that is a few degrees warmer creating a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for a trip out of town with a view of the San Francisco skyline and the island of Alcatraz. With MSC Cruises, your vacation becomes an adventure, thanks to a visit to the legendary site of the former maximum security prison. Its name, Alcatraz (which is Spanish for "pelican"), comes from the many pelicans on the spot. It is an attraction that takes you back in time and will introduce you to a piece of San Francisco's history. Go to San Francisco, California Cruises visiting San Francisco, California

Day 7 Jan 11, 2027 Honolulu Arrives 08:00 Discovering Pearl Harbor Who hasn't dreamed of going to Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii on the beautiful island of Oahu, home of the most famous beaches in the world? Thanks to your MSC World Cruise, you will have the opportunity to disembark in this charming place made for relaxation and peace of mind, where you can sunbathe, enjoy typical Hawaiian food and cocktails and take a trip into the past, reliving the story of Pearl Harbor. The old military base made famous by the Japanese air force attack in 1941, during the Second World War, can be found in the county of Honolulu. A historical site filled with memories and reflections where you can round out your MSC Cruises excursion with a visit to the USS Missouri, a battleship from the time period kept in perfect condition with some of the original parts like the wooden bridge. A tour for lovers of history and events that began the Second World War in the Pacific Ocean. Exploring Honolulu also means talking a walk in the city center, which boasts not only excellent museums and the only royal palace in the United States, but also numerous restaurants and bars, all within easy reach thanks to a dense network of buses that allows you to travel to every part of the capital. With MSC Cruises, you will have the opportunity to experience a great vacation, discovering the infinite beauty of Oahu whose white sandy beaches are a symbol of unparalleled natural beauty. Go to Honolulu Cruises visiting Honolulu

Honolulu photo — Day 7 Jan 11, 2027 Honolulu Arrives 08:00 Discovering Pearl Harbor Who hasn't dreamed of going to Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii on the beautiful island of Oahu, home of the most famous beaches in the world? Thanks to your MSC World Cruise, you will have the opportunity to disembark in this charming place made for relaxation and peace of mind, where you can sunbathe, enjoy typical Hawaiian food and cocktails and take a trip into the past, reliving the story of Pearl Harbor. The old military base made famous by the Japanese air force attack in 1941, during the Second World War, can be found in the county of Honolulu. A historical site filled with memories and reflections where you can round out your MSC Cruises excursion with a visit to the USS Missouri, a battleship from the time period kept in perfect condition with some of the original parts like the wooden bridge. A tour for lovers of history and events that began the Second World War in the Pacific Ocean. Exploring Honolulu also means talking a walk in the city center, which boasts not only excellent museums and the only royal palace in the United States, but also numerous restaurants and bars, all within easy reach thanks to a dense network of buses that allows you to travel to every part of the capital. With MSC Cruises, you will have the opportunity to experience a great vacation, discovering the infinite beauty of Oahu whose white sandy beaches are a symbol of unparalleled natural beauty. Go to Honolulu Cruises visiting Honolulu

Day 9 Jan 13, 2027 Nawiliwili, Kauai 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Kauai is better known by its well-deserved nickname, the "Garden Island." Fewer people live here than on the larger neighboring islands, but Hawaiian residents and out-of-state visitors alike are attracted to its much-acclaimed beaches. Rugged emerald-colored cliffs set the backdrop for cascading waterfalls and magnificent sandy shores. As one of the most enticing spots on earth, secluded coves are found all along the island's irregular coastline and a luxuriant rainforest flourishes on the "wet" side of the island. With the island's central mountain receiving an average of 500 inches of rainfall a year, Kauai is one of the wettest spots on earth. Kauai is also the oldest Hawaiian island both geologically and historically. Island lore claims Kauai was the original home of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, before she moved southward. Welcome ashore as you explore and discover the beauty of this verdant natural wonderland.

Day 10 Jan 14, 2027 Kailua Kona 09:00 – 20:00 11.0 hrs ashore Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of Hawaii Island (the Big Island). Hulihee Palace is a former royal vacation home dating from 1838. Mokuaikaua Church, from the 1800s, is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark mark King Kamehameha I’s residence. Colorful coral lies off Kamakahonu Beach. Kailua Pier has boat moorings. Go to Kailua Kona Cruises visiting Kailua Kona

Kailua Kona photo — Day 10 Jan 14, 2027 Kailua Kona 09:00 – 20:00 11.0 hrs ashore Kailua-Kona is a town on the west coast of Hawaii Island (the Big Island). Hulihee Palace is a former royal vacation home dating from 1838. Mokuaikaua Church, from the 1800s, is Hawaii’s oldest Christian church. On Kailua Bay, reconstructed thatched houses at Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark mark King Kamehameha I’s residence. Colorful coral lies off Kamakahonu Beach. Kailua Pier has boat moorings. Go to Kailua Kona Cruises visiting Kailua Kona

Day 17 Jan 21, 2027 Moorea 08:00 – 21:00 13.0 hrs ashore Green, blue, azure, white. Moorea is an explosion of colours; when viewed from above, this volcanic island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean – separated from Tahiti by the “Sea of the Moon” – is a triangle that resembles a heart. During this stop-over on the French Polynesia MSC World Cruise, you will be enchanted by Moorea’s crystal waters and extraordinary mountain peaks covered with emerald vegetation. A magical island, which over the years has been chosen by many couples from all over the world as the perfect place to get married. Seeing the beauty of Moorea up close is a privilege. During the excursion organised by MSC Cruises, you can take a guided tour of the island, arriving at the top of Mount Tohivea to enjoy a breathtaking view of Cook’s Bay; you can also visit an archaeological site, where you can see the remains of Moorea’s marae and learn about the ancient Polynesian customs and ceremonies that were practiced in these sacred places. Adventure enthusiasts can take part in a safari on board a 4x4, which will take you off the beaten track into a volcanic crater and to Moorea’s Tropical Garden, with its collection of exotic plants. Those who love the sea can put on a mask and flippers and dive into the lagoon off Opunohu Bay, Cook’s Bay’s twin, which is on the opposite side of Mount Rotui; here you can swim with stingrays and sharks and admire the corals and tropical fish. And afterwards, you can soak up the sun on the soft white sandy beach while eating Polynesian delicacies. Moorea is a fascinating destination that will enchant you; one of the destinations that will make your MSC cruise unforgettable. Go to Moorea Cruises visiting Moorea

Moorea photo — Day 17 Jan 21, 2027 Moorea 08:00 – 21:00 13.0 hrs ashore Green, blue, azure, white. Moorea is an explosion of colours; when viewed from above, this volcanic island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean – separated from Tahiti by the “Sea of the Moon” – is a triangle that resembles a heart. During this stop-over on the French Polynesia MSC World Cruise, you will be enchanted by Moorea’s crystal waters and extraordinary mountain peaks covered with emerald vegetation. A magical island, which over the years has been chosen by many couples from all over the world as the perfect place to get married. Seeing the beauty of Moorea up close is a privilege. During the excursion organised by MSC Cruises, you can take a guided tour of the island, arriving at the top of Mount Tohivea to enjoy a breathtaking view of Cook’s Bay; you can also visit an archaeological site, where you can see the remains of Moorea’s marae and learn about the ancient Polynesian customs and ceremonies that were practiced in these sacred places. Adventure enthusiasts can take part in a safari on board a 4x4, which will take you off the beaten track into a volcanic crater and to Moorea’s Tropical Garden, with its collection of exotic plants. Those who love the sea can put on a mask and flippers and dive into the lagoon off Opunohu Bay, Cook’s Bay’s twin, which is on the opposite side of Mount Rotui; here you can swim with stingrays and sharks and admire the corals and tropical fish. And afterwards, you can soak up the sun on the soft white sandy beach while eating Polynesian delicacies. Moorea is a fascinating destination that will enchant you; one of the destinations that will make your MSC cruise unforgettable. Go to Moorea Cruises visiting Moorea

Day 18 Jan 22, 2027 Bora Bora 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore If you have ever dreamt up your ideal island holiday, we suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 m2 in the heart of the South Pacific has been toping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners – spectacularly romantic sunsets are a speciality – Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world’s most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua Safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora’s lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora’s peaceful ambience has not always been the case. The island was a US supply base, known as “Operation Bobcat” during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which is still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava’u in ancient times. This supports belief that the island was colonised by Tongans prior to French annex in 1888. Go to Bora Bora Cruises visiting Bora Bora

Bora Bora photo — Day 18 Jan 22, 2027 Bora Bora 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore If you have ever dreamt up your ideal island holiday, we suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 m2 in the heart of the South Pacific has been toping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners – spectacularly romantic sunsets are a speciality – Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world’s most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua Safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora’s lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora’s peaceful ambience has not always been the case. The island was a US supply base, known as “Operation Bobcat” during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which is still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava’u in ancient times. This supports belief that the island was colonised by Tongans prior to French annex in 1888. Go to Bora Bora Cruises visiting Bora Bora

Day 19 Jan 23, 2027 Papeete 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore In the heart of the Pacific Ocean exists a paradise of crystal clear waters, white beaches and primitive vegetation. A place of pure beauty, where every corner hides wonderful treasures. It is French Polynesia, home of the island of Tahiti and the bustling port city of Papeete. This is where your incredibly beautiful vacation with MSC World Cruise will start on a journey to discover sensational places. It is the home of pearls; in Papeete, you can visit the first museum in the worlddedicated to the processing of these natural jewels, in particular the black pearl of Tahiti, the protagonist of the museum named after one of the largest cultivators of pearls, Robert Wan. Here each step of the delicate process of harvesting and processing pearls will be explained and you can learn how they become beautiful jewels. The museum also offers a comprehensive guide to the history and legends associated with pearls, crossing various cultures and civilizations. During your MSC Cruise into this exotic land, you will have the opportunity to visit the pulsating center of the city of Papeete, famous for its market. Activity begins at first light, with fruit, vegetables, fish, flowers and crafts. It is a place not to be missed especially early in the morning to breathe in its magical atmosphere before it is full of people. The entire island of Tahiti offers visitors a hiking dream, including walks in Bougainville Park, full of flowers and manicured plants, or a ride to Marae Arahurahu, the best place to admire the old traditional Polynesian temples and learn about their history by admiring one of the best preserved on these islands. MSC Cruises also offers a fantastic tour in the sky of Tahiti to see the whole island in one fell swoop. Go to Papeete Cruises visiting Papeete

Papeete photo — Day 19 Jan 23, 2027 Papeete 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore In the heart of the Pacific Ocean exists a paradise of crystal clear waters, white beaches and primitive vegetation. A place of pure beauty, where every corner hides wonderful treasures. It is French Polynesia, home of the island of Tahiti and the bustling port city of Papeete. This is where your incredibly beautiful vacation with MSC World Cruise will start on a journey to discover sensational places. It is the home of pearls; in Papeete, you can visit the first museum in the worlddedicated to the processing of these natural jewels, in particular the black pearl of Tahiti, the protagonist of the museum named after one of the largest cultivators of pearls, Robert Wan. Here each step of the delicate process of harvesting and processing pearls will be explained and you can learn how they become beautiful jewels. The museum also offers a comprehensive guide to the history and legends associated with pearls, crossing various cultures and civilizations. During your MSC Cruise into this exotic land, you will have the opportunity to visit the pulsating center of the city of Papeete, famous for its market. Activity begins at first light, with fruit, vegetables, fish, flowers and crafts. It is a place not to be missed especially early in the morning to breathe in its magical atmosphere before it is full of people. The entire island of Tahiti offers visitors a hiking dream, including walks in Bougainville Park, full of flowers and manicured plants, or a ride to Marae Arahurahu, the best place to admire the old traditional Polynesian temples and learn about their history by admiring one of the best preserved on these islands. MSC Cruises also offers a fantastic tour in the sky of Tahiti to see the whole island in one fell swoop. Go to Papeete Cruises visiting Papeete

Day 23 Jan 27, 2027 Pago Pago 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The Samoa Islands are one of the most popular destinations in the Pacific Ocean. Their crystal clear water, beaches surrounded by the green of wild nature, and the hospitality of the Samoan people, are the perfect recipe for a dream vacation with MSC World Cruises. Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, located on the island of Tutuila, offering a splendor for the eyes thanks to the magnificent mountains and forests that occupy much of the territory. In the city, you will start off your excursion with the discovery of Samoan culture at the Jean P. Haydon Museum, home to several local traditional artifacts. In the western part of the city lies the picturesque farmer's market where you can find colorful fragrant produce, such as delicious exotic fruits. During your holiday with MSC on this beautiful island, you will have the chance to explore the western and southern areas, home to Matafao Park, the highest peak of American Samoa, or Tia Seu Lupe, an ancient star-shaped Polynesian burial mound. You will experience a close encounter with the wonders of this place by admiring Flowerpot Rock, an unusual rock formation, while in the background of the capital city, Mount Alava is an excellent destination for your excursions along the ridge and is the official path to the National Park of American Samoa. Not to be missed is a jump into the water of Leone Falls found in the village of the same name, where there is also a basalt quarry, an important archaeological center of the country. Many of the objects and artifacts found in and around the Pacific Rim were carved out of the stone extracted from this quarry. There will also be moments of relaxation during your MSC cruise on one of the beautiful beaches of Pago Pago, the Alega Beach, an ideal spot for snorkeling, and the super-white Tula Beach. Go to Pago Pago Cruises visiting Pago Pago

Day 25 Jan 29, 2027 Apia 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore The Samoan Islands, pristine and majestic, offer spectacular beaches and panoramas that have no equal. Vast stretches of mountain forests, tropical forests, lakes, rivers and towering waterfalls. Perfect for those who love nature and relaxing, these islands offer an unforgettable experience that starts in Apia, capital of Samoa and the first stop on your spectacular holiday with MSC World Cruise. Apia is located on the northern coast of the island of Upolu and is positioned in a natural cove at the mouth of the river Vaisigano. This city's ability to combine metropolitan progress with traditional Samoan culture will amaze you, starting with the modern parliament building surrounded by a lush green area, or the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, an ornate architectural gem made of beautiful stained glass windows, the other must-see of your excursion into the heart of the city with MSC Cruises. The local population has remained very anchored to its traditions and religion, preserving a culture that can especially be seen in its songs and dances. The highlight of Samoa is undoubtedly the seaside, which includes places like the natural pools of Piula Cave, two freshwater caves a short distance from the sea, which are able to transport visitors to another world with their magical beauty. And how can we not mention the Papapapaitai Falls, the highest waterfall in Samoa and the climax of your journey with MSC Cruises along with a visit to Robert Louis Stevenson's residence on Mount Vaea. You can embark on an adventure immersed in green paths and, once you have reached the highest peaks, you can enjoy the view of the ocean and idyllic landscape. Go to Apia Cruises visiting Apia

Day 27 Jan 31, 2027 Savusavu 13:30 – 20:00 6.5 hrs ashore An island paradise of rich colours and verdant scenery, Savusavu is a staggeringly beautiful, and gloriously undeveloped South Pacific island. Fiji's more tourist-orientated Viti Levu island is close by, but the joy of Savusavu comes in venturing off the beaten track and delving into the heart of a tropical idyll, where hidden villages welcome you with open arms. Revelling in its nickname as Fiji's hidden paradise, the country's second-largest island is a place of adventure - and geothermically fuelled relaxation. View less Mud baths burble and hot springs simmer across the island, adding to the sense that the land itself is alive and breathing. Trek the rainforests, with parrots chattering overhead, and see the colours splashed across the green landscapes and gardens by orchids and water lilies. Gardens overlook the gorgeous Savusavu Bay, and you can walk between hundreds of palm varieties and trees that droop, laden with exotic fruits. The sprawling rainforest opens up briefly to reveal Savusavu, the island’s compact main town. Thriving coral reeds add yet more colour and life to the surrounding seabeds, with spectacular snorkelling opportunities, and the chance to spot bottlenose and spinner dolphins skipping and skimming acrobatically across the tips of the waves. The fertile environment also encourages black lip pearl oysters to thrive here, leading to the development of one of the island’s treasured exports, beautiful black pearls. Visit the bay’s farm to find out more.

Day 28 Feb 1, 2027 Lautoka 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Lautoka is often described as the sugar city. Sugar cane is the major industry of Fiji and Lautoka is its main base. Here are the industries' headquarters, the largest sugar mill, modern loading facilities and a large wharf. It features 70 miles of roads, almost all paved, a wonderful botanical garden and royal palm trees decorating the city's main street, Vitogo Parade. The municipal market is another attraction from both outside and inside. Fiji typifies the image of paradise. The people here live as they have done for centuries, retaining their ancient traditions and simple and carefree lifestyle supported by the harvest of a generous land and bountiful sea.

Day 31 Feb 4, 2027 Norfolk Island, Australia 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore 750 kilometers northwest of New Zealand and 1400 kilometers east of Gold Coast, NSW, Norfolk Island, an External Territory of Australia consisting of Norfolk Island and uninhabited Phillip Island and Nepean Island, was self-governed until 2015 when it came under the laws of New South Wales. Discovered by Captain Cook in 1774, the island has had different settlements, starting with Polynesians that had already disappeared before Cook’s visit, followed by convicts and soldiers in 1788. This penal colony was abandoned in 1814 yet used again from 1825 to 1855. View less The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, with its elegantly restored Georgian houses at Quality Row, is among the 11 historic Australian Convict Sites, UNESCO World Heritage. Most of today’s population can be traced back to the 194 descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives who had left Pitcairn for Norfolk in 1856. In 1867 the Church of England’s Melanesian Mission moved its headquarter to Norfolk. A few years later St Barnabas Chapel was built of stone from the ruins of the New Gaol. The wooden seats have beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay work in Solomon Island style. 14% of the island is national park and the Botanical Gardens feature plants that are endemic to Norfolk Island. Golden Whistlers, Sacred Kingfisher and Norfolk’s symbolic Green Parrot can often be seen and heard. Norfolk and close by Phillip and Nepean Islands are important breeding sites for seabirds such as Red-tailed Tropicbirds, Sooty Terns, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, and Masked Boobies. Go to Norfolk Island, Australia Cruises visiting Norfolk Island, Australia

Norfolk Island, Australia photo — Day 31 Feb 4, 2027 Norfolk Island, Australia 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore 750 kilometers northwest of New Zealand and 1400 kilometers east of Gold Coast, NSW, Norfolk Island, an External Territory of Australia consisting of Norfolk Island and uninhabited Phillip Island and Nepean Island, was self-governed until 2015 when it came under the laws of New South Wales. Discovered by Captain Cook in 1774, the island has had different settlements, starting with Polynesians that had already disappeared before Cook’s visit, followed by convicts and soldiers in 1788. This penal colony was abandoned in 1814 yet used again from 1825 to 1855. View less The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, with its elegantly restored Georgian houses at Quality Row, is among the 11 historic Australian Convict Sites, UNESCO World Heritage. Most of today’s population can be traced back to the 194 descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives who had left Pitcairn for Norfolk in 1856. In 1867 the Church of England’s Melanesian Mission moved its headquarter to Norfolk. A few years later St Barnabas Chapel was built of stone from the ruins of the New Gaol. The wooden seats have beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay work in Solomon Island style. 14% of the island is national park and the Botanical Gardens feature plants that are endemic to Norfolk Island. Golden Whistlers, Sacred Kingfisher and Norfolk’s symbolic Green Parrot can often be seen and heard. Norfolk and close by Phillip and Nepean Islands are important breeding sites for seabirds such as Red-tailed Tropicbirds, Sooty Terns, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, and Masked Boobies. Go to Norfolk Island, Australia Cruises visiting Norfolk Island, Australia

Day 33 Feb 6, 2027 Auckland Arrives 13:00 Adorned with a harbor and a spectacular bridge, the largest and most populous city in New Zealand is also one of the most beautiful. Auckland will be the next stop on your MSC World Cruise, for an extraordinary vacation in the "City of Sails", named as such for its beautiful bays and its passion for water sports and yachting. Its superb location, on a narrow strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, is made even more attractive by the lush subtropical forests that surround the nearby hills and the volcanic landscapes of the surrounding islands. Another stop on your trip with MSC Cruises that can not be missed is the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere. At 328 meters in height, this tower offers breathtaking sights: out of its glass windows, the view stretches for 80 kilometers in every direction. To find out all about the Maori culture and the origins of life in the ocean, you can visit the Auckland Museum, with a section dedicated to the Second World War. Here you can not only enjoy the collections on the local traditions, but also watch live vocal performances and dances by the local people. The National Maritime Museum instead will reveal the secrets of sailing in New Zealand, and at Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World aquarium, you can see fish of all kinds, alternating with the recreation of fantastic arctic excursions. The city has a lot to offer in terms of art galleries, festivals and events of all kinds, related to music, cooking, wine and adventure, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, kayaking, swimming with dolphins and diving or shellfish. Thanks to your MSC cruise ship, you will experience unique moments in one of the most amazing cities in the world. Go to Auckland Cruises visiting Auckland

Auckland photo — Day 33 Feb 6, 2027 Auckland Arrives 13:00 Adorned with a harbor and a spectacular bridge, the largest and most populous city in New Zealand is also one of the most beautiful. Auckland will be the next stop on your MSC World Cruise, for an extraordinary vacation in the "City of Sails", named as such for its beautiful bays and its passion for water sports and yachting. Its superb location, on a narrow strip of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, is made even more attractive by the lush subtropical forests that surround the nearby hills and the volcanic landscapes of the surrounding islands. Another stop on your trip with MSC Cruises that can not be missed is the Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere. At 328 meters in height, this tower offers breathtaking sights: out of its glass windows, the view stretches for 80 kilometers in every direction. To find out all about the Maori culture and the origins of life in the ocean, you can visit the Auckland Museum, with a section dedicated to the Second World War. Here you can not only enjoy the collections on the local traditions, but also watch live vocal performances and dances by the local people. The National Maritime Museum instead will reveal the secrets of sailing in New Zealand, and at Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World aquarium, you can see fish of all kinds, alternating with the recreation of fantastic arctic excursions. The city has a lot to offer in terms of art galleries, festivals and events of all kinds, related to music, cooking, wine and adventure, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, kayaking, swimming with dolphins and diving or shellfish. Thanks to your MSC cruise ship, you will experience unique moments in one of the most amazing cities in the world. Go to Auckland Cruises visiting Auckland

Day 35 Feb 8, 2027 Tauranga, New Zealand 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore These “sheltered waters”, the meaning of the name Tauranga in Maori, will also shelter you while on an MSC World Cruise in New Zealand. The city extends along a narrow peninsula dotted with parks and gardens lying behind a vibrant promenade, The Strand. Tauranga is a delightful city in which you can spend half a day wandering around between shops, restaurants and art galleries. If you miss the ocean, you can take a taxi to Mount Maunganui, the name of both the mountain that protects the port of Tauranga and the district overlooking the Pacific, with its long sandy beach and surfers. One of the city's main attractions is the Tauranga Art Gallery, which opened in 2007. The gallery is housed in a former bank that was transformed inside by creating large exhibition spaces; the exterior is completely sheathed with metal panels, similar to those of medieval armour. On The Strand, there is an ad hoc structure that houses the Te Awanui, a 14-metre long carved Maori war canoe used during ritual ceremonies; it is a truly remarkable example of New Zealand’s indigenous art. If you want to relax, seek out the roses and Begonias in Robbins Park, or if you prefer to dive into the past of Tauranga, there’s nothing better than a visit to the immaculate Elms Mission House, one of New Zealand's oldest standing houses, built between 1835 and 1847 for the first missionaries. A visit to this house, which still has its original furniture, is part of an MSC tour that ensures that you don’t miss out on anything in Tauranga. If you want to go further afield, about 70 km inland you can visit Tudor-style spa bath houses and the Government Gardens near the town of Rotorua, which are well worth a visit, as are the Glow-Worm Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set, where Peter Jackson reconstructed J.R.R Tolkien’s County for his The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Go to Tauranga, New Zealand Cruises visiting Tauranga, New Zealand

Tauranga, New Zealand photo — Day 35 Feb 8, 2027 Tauranga, New Zealand 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore These “sheltered waters”, the meaning of the name Tauranga in Maori, will also shelter you while on an MSC World Cruise in New Zealand. The city extends along a narrow peninsula dotted with parks and gardens lying behind a vibrant promenade, The Strand. Tauranga is a delightful city in which you can spend half a day wandering around between shops, restaurants and art galleries. If you miss the ocean, you can take a taxi to Mount Maunganui, the name of both the mountain that protects the port of Tauranga and the district overlooking the Pacific, with its long sandy beach and surfers. One of the city's main attractions is the Tauranga Art Gallery, which opened in 2007. The gallery is housed in a former bank that was transformed inside by creating large exhibition spaces; the exterior is completely sheathed with metal panels, similar to those of medieval armour. On The Strand, there is an ad hoc structure that houses the Te Awanui, a 14-metre long carved Maori war canoe used during ritual ceremonies; it is a truly remarkable example of New Zealand’s indigenous art. If you want to relax, seek out the roses and Begonias in Robbins Park, or if you prefer to dive into the past of Tauranga, there’s nothing better than a visit to the immaculate Elms Mission House, one of New Zealand's oldest standing houses, built between 1835 and 1847 for the first missionaries. A visit to this house, which still has its original furniture, is part of an MSC tour that ensures that you don’t miss out on anything in Tauranga. If you want to go further afield, about 70 km inland you can visit Tudor-style spa bath houses and the Government Gardens near the town of Rotorua, which are well worth a visit, as are the Glow-Worm Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set, where Peter Jackson reconstructed J.R.R Tolkien’s County for his The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Go to Tauranga, New Zealand Cruises visiting Tauranga, New Zealand

Day 36 Feb 9, 2027 Napier, New Zealand 11:30 – 18:00 6.5 hrs ashore Where Vineyards meet the Ocean As soon as you set foot in New Zealand on your MSC World Cruise, you will see just how charming and relaxing Napier is, the most populous city in Hawke's Bay. New Zealanders love it for its climate, very similar to that in the Mediterranean, the low cost of living and its well preserved Art Deco buildings, built after the earthquake of 1931. Enjoy walking around the city centre, where the streets are named after great English writers like Shakespeare or Dickens. Napier's main street is Emerson Street, which connects Marine Parade and the city’s beach (not suitable for bathing) to Clive Square. About 5 km from the centre, on the north side of Bluff Hill, there is the original Maori village of Ahuriri, where there are now clothes shops, cafes and trendy restaurants. From Napier, an MSC day trip will take you to visit the surrounding area, which is famous for its vineyards; there is also the New Zealand Wine Centre in the city if you want to find out more about the history of wine in this country. You can independently visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand, where the ocean marine fauna includes species from Africa, Asia and Australia. If you are passionate about architecture, a visit to the Art Deco district is a must. Inspired more by Californian than European architecture, the architects who rebuilt Napier after 1931 imitated their colleagues in Santa Barbara by using Mayan, Egyptian and Maori motifs to adorn the facades of buildings. Established forty years ago, the Art Deco Trust protects the buildings by restoring the original decorative elements (don't miss the ASB Bank, the former Hotel Central, the Daily Telegraph building, the Masonic Hotel or the Municipal Theatre). For lovers of adventure and outdoor activities, there is an MSC day trip which offers you the possibility to raft down the Mohaka River rapids, just 90 km from Napier. Go to Napier, New Zealand Cruises visiting Napier, New Zealand

Napier, New Zealand photo — Day 36 Feb 9, 2027 Napier, New Zealand 11:30 – 18:00 6.5 hrs ashore Where Vineyards meet the Ocean As soon as you set foot in New Zealand on your MSC World Cruise, you will see just how charming and relaxing Napier is, the most populous city in Hawke's Bay. New Zealanders love it for its climate, very similar to that in the Mediterranean, the low cost of living and its well preserved Art Deco buildings, built after the earthquake of 1931. Enjoy walking around the city centre, where the streets are named after great English writers like Shakespeare or Dickens. Napier's main street is Emerson Street, which connects Marine Parade and the city’s beach (not suitable for bathing) to Clive Square. About 5 km from the centre, on the north side of Bluff Hill, there is the original Maori village of Ahuriri, where there are now clothes shops, cafes and trendy restaurants. From Napier, an MSC day trip will take you to visit the surrounding area, which is famous for its vineyards; there is also the New Zealand Wine Centre in the city if you want to find out more about the history of wine in this country. You can independently visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand, where the ocean marine fauna includes species from Africa, Asia and Australia. If you are passionate about architecture, a visit to the Art Deco district is a must. Inspired more by Californian than European architecture, the architects who rebuilt Napier after 1931 imitated their colleagues in Santa Barbara by using Mayan, Egyptian and Maori motifs to adorn the facades of buildings. Established forty years ago, the Art Deco Trust protects the buildings by restoring the original decorative elements (don't miss the ASB Bank, the former Hotel Central, the Daily Telegraph building, the Masonic Hotel or the Municipal Theatre). For lovers of adventure and outdoor activities, there is an MSC day trip which offers you the possibility to raft down the Mohaka River rapids, just 90 km from Napier. Go to Napier, New Zealand Cruises visiting Napier, New Zealand

Day 37 Feb 10, 2027 Picton, NZ 11:30 – 18:00 6.5 hrs ashore Picton has developed a reputation in recent years. It’s the doorway to New Zealand’s South Island used by locals and international travelers alike to get to the islands and resorts of the Marlborough Sounds, an interconnected stretch of beautiful landscape. The surrounding area is famous for its wineries, so you can enjoy vineyard tours and tastings while stopped on Picton cruises. Picton is a hidden gem for international travelers. Beautiful scenery in the Marlborough Sounds and views of the New Zealand countryside make the area particularly memorable for first-time visitors. On the waterfront, explore Pollard Park for a leisurely stroll, or stop at EcoWorld Aquarium to see rescued and protected species during a tour of the wildlife rehabilitation center. On your New Zealand cruise, you’ll be endlessly surprised by its foodie and café scene, outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking, and beautiful water and mountain views.

Day 38 Feb 11, 2027 Christchurch, New Zealand 07:30 – 18:30 11.0 hrs ashore Lyttelton, South Island's leading port, is connected to Christchurch by road and rail tunnels. Wooden houses cling to steep streets above the harbor, bustling with cargo vessels, freighters, sailing yachts and sightseeing launches. Several 19th-century churches add to the town's historic attractions. The Canterbury pilgrims, who arrived in four shiploads at Lyttelton in 1850, made a historic trek across the Port Hills to establish Christchurch. Today, walkers still enjoy the old Bridle Path trail. Hundreds of modern-day pilgrims make the nostalgic hike between Lyttelton and Christchurch annually on the Sunday nearest December 16. Go to Christchurch, New Zealand Cruises visiting Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, New Zealand photo — Day 38 Feb 11, 2027 Christchurch, New Zealand 07:30 – 18:30 11.0 hrs ashore Lyttelton, South Island's leading port, is connected to Christchurch by road and rail tunnels. Wooden houses cling to steep streets above the harbor, bustling with cargo vessels, freighters, sailing yachts and sightseeing launches. Several 19th-century churches add to the town's historic attractions. The Canterbury pilgrims, who arrived in four shiploads at Lyttelton in 1850, made a historic trek across the Port Hills to establish Christchurch. Today, walkers still enjoy the old Bridle Path trail. Hundreds of modern-day pilgrims make the nostalgic hike between Lyttelton and Christchurch annually on the Sunday nearest December 16. Go to Christchurch, New Zealand Cruises visiting Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 39 Feb 12, 2027 Dunedin, New Zealand 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The south-easterly coast of New Zealand's wild southern island is a haven for outdoor adventures, with masses of raw scenic beauty and thrilling coastline. Heading the Otago Harbour, Dunedin is a cosmopolitan city of culture and architectural splendour, with a distinctly tartan flare. Settled by the Scots in 1848, the romantically misty valleys and moody landscapes, continue to capture the hearts of visitors to these distant shores. Searing bagpipes echo down the streets in the Edinburgh of the South, which wears its Scottish origins proudly. Gothic revival architecture is scattered liberally, including the magnificent university - with its glorious clocktower - and the city's grand cathedral. Head to the elegant Octagon to see the statue to Robert Burns, whose nephew was a city founder. The railway station is perhaps the pick of this city's many artistic structures. Its glowing gardens and pretty mosaics add extra detail to the elegant, gingerbread building. It's also the perfect jumping-off point for romantic rail adventures along the coastline. The melodramatic coastline of the Otago Peninsula boasts dramatic cliffs and sea-sprayed beaches, as well as an abundance of animals. Explore cliffs laced with tunnels and hidden walkways, to get you up close and personal with Yellow-eyed penguins. Sea lions and seals also sprawl out on windswept beaches, drifting in and out of indulgent dozes. The south island's second-largest city regularly receives a top-up of youthful energy thanks to its healthy student population. Not that Dunedin is lacking a distinctly quirky personality of its own, as showcased by the event where locals race thousands of chocolate orbs down the world's steepest street - Baldwin Street. Museums in the city tell of Chinese influences, as well as the stories of early Maori settlers. Round off an active day sampling a South Island institution - an icy beer from Speight's Brewery. Go to Dunedin, New Zealand Cruises visiting Dunedin, New Zealand

Day 44 Feb 17, 2027 Hobart 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Mount Wellington's looming, cloud-wisped form is an ever-present sight as you explore booming Hobart, the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony, nowadays Australia’s second-oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs, landscaped gardens and rolling vineyards, Hobart is also well stacked with cultural pursuits including museums, and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls. View less With fresh sea breezes and a fabulous location, Hobart is a creative place, where you can browse the produce of local artisans in Saturday's massive Salamanca Market - which draws visitors from all across Tasmania and beyond. Eat at waterfront restaurants, or rise up Mount Wellington's slopes to appreciate the remoteness of Hobart's location. From this elevated platform, you can look down across views of flowing forests, undulating mountains and endless ocean swallowing up the city. Further away, animal sanctuaries introduce you to the island's famous inhabitants, including the famous Tasmanian devil. Thirsty? Hobart has a long brewing tradition - so enjoy a refreshing ale poured from the country's oldest brewery. The climate's blend of generous sunshine and cool Antarctic breezes helps Hobart to produce its acclaimed wines, and thick clumps of pinot noir grapes hang from vineyards dotted along the valleys nearby. Taste the wines, accompanied by a platter of artisan cheese and sausage. Whiskey aficionados aren't left in the cold either, with international award-winning distilleries close by.

Day 46 Feb 19, 2027 Melbourne 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore In many ways, Melbourne is the most European of all the Australian cities, its highlights making it one of the most unique stops on an MSC Grand Voyages cruise:magnificent landscaped gardens and parks provide green spaces near the centre, while beneath the skyscrapers of the Central Business District (CBD), an understorey of solid, Victorian-era facades ranged along tree-lined boulevards presents the city on a more human scale. The CBD lies at the heart of the city, a grid bounded by La Trobe, Spring, Flinders and Spencer streets, dotted with fine public buildings and plenty of shops. To the north of the CBD, a wander through lively, century-old Queen Victoria Market will repay both serious shoppers and people-watchers. In the east, the CBD rubs up against Eastern Hill, home to Parliament House as well as the landscaped Fitzroy Gardens, from where it’s a short walk to the venerable Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a must for sports fans. A shore excursion on your MSC Grand Voyages cruise can be the opportunity to visit the riverside’s most innovative development: the new 92-storey Eureka Tower located on the Southgate site and named after a landmark rebellion in Victoria’s gold-rush era (the top levels are clad in gold). Finished in 2006 and towering 300m, it is the tallest building in Melbourne. Visitors can enjoy amazing views of the city and beyond from the 88th-floor Skydeck, which features the stomach-churning “skywalk”, The Edge, a 3m glass cube that juts out over the city below. Another MSC excursion is the Serendip Sanctuary: a square kilometre of bush, marsh and wetlands where you can observe kangaroos, wallabies and emus, as well as numerous other water birds, in their natural habitat. Go to Melbourne Cruises visiting Melbourne

Melbourne photo — Day 46 Feb 19, 2027 Melbourne 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore In many ways, Melbourne is the most European of all the Australian cities, its highlights making it one of the most unique stops on an MSC Grand Voyages cruise:magnificent landscaped gardens and parks provide green spaces near the centre, while beneath the skyscrapers of the Central Business District (CBD), an understorey of solid, Victorian-era facades ranged along tree-lined boulevards presents the city on a more human scale. The CBD lies at the heart of the city, a grid bounded by La Trobe, Spring, Flinders and Spencer streets, dotted with fine public buildings and plenty of shops. To the north of the CBD, a wander through lively, century-old Queen Victoria Market will repay both serious shoppers and people-watchers. In the east, the CBD rubs up against Eastern Hill, home to Parliament House as well as the landscaped Fitzroy Gardens, from where it’s a short walk to the venerable Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a must for sports fans. A shore excursion on your MSC Grand Voyages cruise can be the opportunity to visit the riverside’s most innovative development: the new 92-storey Eureka Tower located on the Southgate site and named after a landmark rebellion in Victoria’s gold-rush era (the top levels are clad in gold). Finished in 2006 and towering 300m, it is the tallest building in Melbourne. Visitors can enjoy amazing views of the city and beyond from the 88th-floor Skydeck, which features the stomach-churning “skywalk”, The Edge, a 3m glass cube that juts out over the city below. Another MSC excursion is the Serendip Sanctuary: a square kilometre of bush, marsh and wetlands where you can observe kangaroos, wallabies and emus, as well as numerous other water birds, in their natural habitat. Go to Melbourne Cruises visiting Melbourne

Day 48 Feb 21, 2027 Eden, Australia 07:30 – 14:00 6.5 hrs ashore Known for the migrating whales that cruise through its waters between May and November, Eden sits in New South Wales’ scenic Twofold Bay. While the whales are now protected and cherished here, the town was initially founded as a whaling centre and has many fascinating stories to tell. Namely, a unique symbiotic relationship with the killer whales. Rewarded with the tongues from freshly caught whales, the orcas would help to round up baleen whales in the bay, making it easy for humans to land them. This mutually beneficial exchange came to be known as The Law of the Tongue. Find out more about it, and the area’s whaling past, at Eden Killer Whale Museum – where you can see the skeleton of the most famous orca accomplice, Old Tom. A yearly whale festival now celebrates the return of the magnificent whales to these waters. Head into Ben Boyd National Park for amazing bird watching, and to see the arches of soaring rock formations rising beside fire-red cliffs. View the glorious coastal scenery of frothing aqua-seas and rugged headlands, from the viewing deck on top of Boyd's Tower. Initially devised as a lighthouse, it would later be used as a lookout to spot whales breaching the bay's waters, and to see Old Tom splashing his tail to alert the whalers. Travel through more glorious scenery and tangled rainforest, to the verdant promontory of Green Cape Lighthouse. Jutting out into the South Pacific Ocean, the pearly-white lighthouse caps crumbling cliffs and offers sweeping views of the jagged cliffs and wave-thrashed rocks. The wrecks that lie offshore attest to the respect these sometimes-punishing waves demand. Go to Eden, Australia Cruises visiting Eden, Australia

Eden, Australia photo — Day 48 Feb 21, 2027 Eden, Australia 07:30 – 14:00 6.5 hrs ashore Known for the migrating whales that cruise through its waters between May and November, Eden sits in New South Wales’ scenic Twofold Bay. While the whales are now protected and cherished here, the town was initially founded as a whaling centre and has many fascinating stories to tell. Namely, a unique symbiotic relationship with the killer whales. Rewarded with the tongues from freshly caught whales, the orcas would help to round up baleen whales in the bay, making it easy for humans to land them. This mutually beneficial exchange came to be known as The Law of the Tongue. Find out more about it, and the area’s whaling past, at Eden Killer Whale Museum – where you can see the skeleton of the most famous orca accomplice, Old Tom. A yearly whale festival now celebrates the return of the magnificent whales to these waters. Head into Ben Boyd National Park for amazing bird watching, and to see the arches of soaring rock formations rising beside fire-red cliffs. View the glorious coastal scenery of frothing aqua-seas and rugged headlands, from the viewing deck on top of Boyd's Tower. Initially devised as a lighthouse, it would later be used as a lookout to spot whales breaching the bay's waters, and to see Old Tom splashing his tail to alert the whalers. Travel through more glorious scenery and tangled rainforest, to the verdant promontory of Green Cape Lighthouse. Jutting out into the South Pacific Ocean, the pearly-white lighthouse caps crumbling cliffs and offers sweeping views of the jagged cliffs and wave-thrashed rocks. The wrecks that lie offshore attest to the respect these sometimes-punishing waves demand. Go to Eden, Australia Cruises visiting Eden, Australia

Day 49 Feb 22, 2027 Sydney, Australia 07:30 – 12:00 4.5 hrs ashore If you want a snapshot of Australia's appeal, look no further than Sydney: The idyllic lifestyle, friendly locals and drop-dead natural beauty of this approachable metropolis and its attractions explain why the country tops so many travelers' wish lists. But Sydney is more than just the embodiment of classic antipodean cool—the city is in a constant state of evolution. A list of what to do in Sydney might start with the white-hot nightlife, with its new cocktail bars and idiosyncratic mixology dens. Inventive restaurants helmed by high-caliber chefs are dishing up everything from posh pan-Asian to Argentine street food, while the famous dining temples that put Sydney on the gastronomic map are still going strong too. The famed harbor is among the top sights—home to twin icons the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is the stepping-off point for some of the city's best cultural attractions and sightseeing. In one day you can sail around the harbor, get a behind-the-scenes tour of the opera house and climb the bridge, with time to spare for people-watching over a flat white at a waterfront café. Speaking of water, when you plan what to do in Sydney, you will want to include the iconic beaches, where surfers, office workers and tourists alike converge on some of the most gorgeous shoreline scenery anywhere. Bondi, Bronte and Clovelly are all within easy reach of the Central Business District, as is Manly, a charming seaside town located a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. Beyond the city you'll discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the chance to encounter Australia's cuddliest wildlife—a perfect way to round out your envy-inducing Sydney photo collection. Go to Sydney, Australia Cruises visiting Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia photo — Day 49 Feb 22, 2027 Sydney, Australia 07:30 – 12:00 4.5 hrs ashore If you want a snapshot of Australia's appeal, look no further than Sydney: The idyllic lifestyle, friendly locals and drop-dead natural beauty of this approachable metropolis and its attractions explain why the country tops so many travelers' wish lists. But Sydney is more than just the embodiment of classic antipodean cool—the city is in a constant state of evolution. A list of what to do in Sydney might start with the white-hot nightlife, with its new cocktail bars and idiosyncratic mixology dens. Inventive restaurants helmed by high-caliber chefs are dishing up everything from posh pan-Asian to Argentine street food, while the famous dining temples that put Sydney on the gastronomic map are still going strong too. The famed harbor is among the top sights—home to twin icons the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is the stepping-off point for some of the city's best cultural attractions and sightseeing. In one day you can sail around the harbor, get a behind-the-scenes tour of the opera house and climb the bridge, with time to spare for people-watching over a flat white at a waterfront café. Speaking of water, when you plan what to do in Sydney, you will want to include the iconic beaches, where surfers, office workers and tourists alike converge on some of the most gorgeous shoreline scenery anywhere. Bondi, Bronte and Clovelly are all within easy reach of the Central Business District, as is Manly, a charming seaside town located a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. Beyond the city you'll discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the chance to encounter Australia's cuddliest wildlife—a perfect way to round out your envy-inducing Sydney photo collection. Go to Sydney, Australia Cruises visiting Sydney, Australia

Day 53 Feb 26, 2027 Kangaroo Island 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Kangaroo Island is with 1,740 square miles the third largest island off the coast of Australia. It is 96 miles long and 34 miles wide, and known for its outstanding natural beauty. Due to its remote location, Kangaroo Island was less affected than the mainland by the impact of European development. To this day, the island is rich in diverse flora and fauna seldom found elsewhere. As one of the world’s last unspoiled wilderness places, about 30 percent of the island has been designated as National Parks. View less The most important one is Flinders Chase at the western end of Kangaroo Island, with Seal Bay Conservation Park following close behind. Its large sandy beach and dune area is home to Australian sea lions where they come to rest and nurse their young. Kingscote, formerly known as Queenscliffe, is the largest town on the island and its main supply depot. Tourism is a significant element in the local economy. A mix of attractive small townships, wildlife sanctuaries and fascinating wilderness areas guarantee a steady stream of visitors each year. Go to Kangaroo Island Cruises visiting Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island photo — Day 53 Feb 26, 2027 Kangaroo Island 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Kangaroo Island is with 1,740 square miles the third largest island off the coast of Australia. It is 96 miles long and 34 miles wide, and known for its outstanding natural beauty. Due to its remote location, Kangaroo Island was less affected than the mainland by the impact of European development. To this day, the island is rich in diverse flora and fauna seldom found elsewhere. As one of the world’s last unspoiled wilderness places, about 30 percent of the island has been designated as National Parks. View less The most important one is Flinders Chase at the western end of Kangaroo Island, with Seal Bay Conservation Park following close behind. Its large sandy beach and dune area is home to Australian sea lions where they come to rest and nurse their young. Kingscote, formerly known as Queenscliffe, is the largest town on the island and its main supply depot. Tourism is a significant element in the local economy. A mix of attractive small townships, wildlife sanctuaries and fascinating wilderness areas guarantee a steady stream of visitors each year. Go to Kangaroo Island Cruises visiting Kangaroo Island

Day 54 Feb 27, 2027 Adelaide 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore For those of you that might think that Adelaide lacks behind its coastal counterparts in terms of culture and creativity, think again. Adelaide is a thriving urban city with bright, leafy alleys that beg to be explored. The city’s labyrinthine lanes and alleys are bursting with bars and eateries, serving everything from local craft beer to a modern Australian cuisine. Uber aware of their carbon footprint, Adeladians like to keep things close to home, so expect lots of local produce which is abundant, fresh and delicious. Unsurprisingly, Barossa wine from the neighbouring valley features prominently on wine lists everywhere. Naturally, a lot of life centres around the lovely beaches, which are home to surfers, sheltered waters and wide boulevards. The coast is blessed with acres of parkland, perfect for lazing the afternoon away. Many of Australia’s most beautiful (and historic) buildings can be found within the boundaries of the city including the handsomely-restored former Railway Building, numerous stately Colonial buildings, St. Peter's Cathedral, the grand old Parliament Buildings and nearby Government House, which all make a worthy addition to any visit. Adelaide is of course known for its wide diversity of faiths, and as such carries its nickname “the city of churches” with pride. Contrary to other Australian penal settlements, Adelaide was a free settlement. This meant that it was also a state free from religious persecution, leading rise to the construction of many churches. Go to Adelaide Cruises visiting Adelaide

Adelaide photo — Day 54 Feb 27, 2027 Adelaide 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore For those of you that might think that Adelaide lacks behind its coastal counterparts in terms of culture and creativity, think again. Adelaide is a thriving urban city with bright, leafy alleys that beg to be explored. The city’s labyrinthine lanes and alleys are bursting with bars and eateries, serving everything from local craft beer to a modern Australian cuisine. Uber aware of their carbon footprint, Adeladians like to keep things close to home, so expect lots of local produce which is abundant, fresh and delicious. Unsurprisingly, Barossa wine from the neighbouring valley features prominently on wine lists everywhere. Naturally, a lot of life centres around the lovely beaches, which are home to surfers, sheltered waters and wide boulevards. The coast is blessed with acres of parkland, perfect for lazing the afternoon away. Many of Australia’s most beautiful (and historic) buildings can be found within the boundaries of the city including the handsomely-restored former Railway Building, numerous stately Colonial buildings, St. Peter's Cathedral, the grand old Parliament Buildings and nearby Government House, which all make a worthy addition to any visit. Adelaide is of course known for its wide diversity of faiths, and as such carries its nickname “the city of churches” with pride. Contrary to other Australian penal settlements, Adelaide was a free settlement. This meant that it was also a state free from religious persecution, leading rise to the construction of many churches. Go to Adelaide Cruises visiting Adelaide

Day 55 Feb 28, 2027 Port Lincoln 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore Known as the seafood capital of Australia, Port Lincoln is a foodie paradise. Home to Australia's largest fishing fleet, numerous seafood restaurants and a prized local wine region, this is one destination where it pays to travel with your taste buds. The city’s traditional name in Barngala is ‘Kallinyalla’ (pronounced Galinyalla), literally translating as ‘sweet waters’. That should give you some indication of how seriously the ocean is taken in these parts – it provides employment, entertainment and experiences that are just unseen in other parts of the country. View less Add in contrasting coastal landscape that ranges from quiet coves to surf happy beaches to rugged oceanic coastline, and you’ll soon see why Port Lincoln is fast becoming one of Australia’s favourite places. The city is located on the lower Eyre Peninsula, on the shore of Boston Bay. Discovered by Matthew Flinders in 1802, Port Lincoln was once under consideration to become the state’s capital. However, a lack of freshwater mired that idea, forcing settlers to look 280 kilometres east, to Adelaide. While European discovery is fairly recent, historians should note that the region had been inhabited by Aboriginal groups including the Nauo (south-western Eyre), Barngarla (eastern Eyre), Wirangu (north-western Eyre) and Mirning (far-western Eyre) for over 40,000 years. For those who want to look beyond the city boundaries, Port Lincoln is home to some extremely diverse and abundant nature, and a trip to the National Park is well worth it.

Day 58 Mar 3, 2027 Albany, Australia 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Established in 1826, Albany was the first European settlement in Western Australia and quickly grew into a bustling commercial hub. Its historic heart has a certain faded grandeur, while the modern waterfront is undergoing major redevelopment. The area’s most striking features, however, predate the original settlement. Its natural wonders include stunning coastline stretching from Torndirrup National Park’s majestic cliffs to the tranquil bay at King George Sound. In the interior, the peaks of the Stirling Range reach heights of more than 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and offer opportunities for day hikes with breathtaking views. During the 19th century, Albany played an important role as a center of shipping between Britain and its Australian colonies, as it was long the only deepwater port on the continent. It was through Albany that some 40,000 Anzac troops departed for Europe, an event that is being recognized through 2018 with a series of events marking the centennial of World War I. The Whaling Station here, which did not cease operations until 1978, has been converted to a fascinating museum on the history of the industry. It has the distinction of being the last operating station in both the Southern Hemisphere and the English-speaking world. Humpback, southern right and blue whales continue to be pursued here, though now by curious sightseers on whale-watching cruises during the annual whale season from June to October. Today, “Amazing Albany” earns the adjective the city has bestowed upon itself, as it draws travelers eager to explore an unexpected and amazing corner of Australia. Go to Albany, Australia Cruises visiting Albany, Australia

Day 59 Mar 4, 2027 Margaret River, Australia 13:00 – 21:00 8.0 hrs ashore “The capital of the Margaret River region.” “The gateway to Margaret River wine country.” “The events capital of Western Australia.” Whatever you want to call it, “the coastal playground” of Busselton sure does have a lot of monikers—and even more things to do. The adventures begin the moment you step off the ship, as we dock next to the famed Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden pier in the world. From here you can walk to the beach and waterfront district, where there are more than enough water sports, shops, restaurants, cafés, and bars to entertain you for the rest of your stay in Busselton. Go to Margaret River, Australia Cruises visiting Margaret River, Australia

Margaret River, Australia photo — Day 59 Mar 4, 2027 Margaret River, Australia 13:00 – 21:00 8.0 hrs ashore “The capital of the Margaret River region.” “The gateway to Margaret River wine country.” “The events capital of Western Australia.” Whatever you want to call it, “the coastal playground” of Busselton sure does have a lot of monikers—and even more things to do. The adventures begin the moment you step off the ship, as we dock next to the famed Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden pier in the world. From here you can walk to the beach and waterfront district, where there are more than enough water sports, shops, restaurants, cafés, and bars to entertain you for the rest of your stay in Busselton. Go to Margaret River, Australia Cruises visiting Margaret River, Australia

Day 60 Mar 5, 2027 Fremantle Arrives 08:00 Although long since merged into the metropolitan area’s suburban sprawl, Perth’s port of Fremantle – “Freo” – retains an altogether different character to the centre of Perth: one that’s just waiting to be discovered on an MSC Grand Voyages excursion. It’s small enough to keep its energy focused, with a real working harbour and busy yacht marina, and has an eclectic, arty ambience without too many upmarket pretensions. A cruise to Fremantle is a good way to understand how this town attracts people with its famed weekend markets and café-lined “Cappuccino Strip” or South Terrace where funky boutiques are also found. Exploring Fremantle on foot, with plenty of streetside café breaks, is the most agreeable way of visiting the town’s compactly grouped sights. The cheery Fremantle Markets include a fruit and veg market, and a more tourist-focused section crammed with stalls selling souvenirs, arts and crafts and New Age paraphernalia. The buskers who play here are said to be some of the city’s best. The lively E-Shed markets are located in a historic warehouse building on the waterside and are worth a quick look, especially for their budget food stalls. A shore excursion on your MSC Grand Voyages cruise can also be the opportunity to visit the city itself, Perth, Western Australia’s youthful capital; it has a reputation for endless sunshine and an easy-going lifestyle. Perth’s closest beaches extend along the Sunset Coast, 30km of near-unbroken sand and coastal suburbs stretching north of the Swan River, bordered by the Indian Ocean and cooled by afternoon sea breezes. Two of the most famous are Cottesloe Beach – 7km north of Fremantle, it’s the most popular city beach, with safe swimming; there are ice-cream vendors, cafés and watercraft-rental outlets aplenty – and Scarborough. Go to Fremantle Cruises visiting Fremantle

Day 65 Mar 10, 2027 Benoa/Bali 09:00 – 22:00 13.0 hrs ashore Benoa Harbour (Pelabuhan Benoa), 25km south of Denpasar, is the arrival and departure point for MSC Grand Voyages cruises to Indonesia. Benoa is a shelter for cruise ships sailing the Indian Ocean; it’s also a handy port for cruisers wanting to see Bali’s highlights. With pristine tropical beaches, elegantly sculpted rice paddies, volcanic peaks, and uncontaminated coastlines for world-class surf or sunbathing, Bali, with Lombok, is a tourist paradise; it has been attracting visitors for almost 100 years. An unmissable excursion during your MSC Grand Voyages cruise is Ubud, Bali’s cultural heartland, home to a huge number of temples, museums and art galleries, where Balinese dance shows are staged nightly, a wealth of craft studios provide absorbing shopping, and traditional ceremonies and rituals are observed daily. Once you get away from the main thoroughfares, Ubud’s lovely location is apparent, set amid lush, terraced paddies offering plenty of scope for hikes and bicycle rides, many of them with fine views up to the central mountains. Another MSC excursion can let you experience one of the greatest highlights of Bali and Indonesia: the Bali Safari and Marine Park. It draws several thousand visitors from all over the world who come to see animals from Indonesia, India and Africa (elephants, tigers, Komodo dragons and so on). There’s also a water park and theatrical shows.

Day 66 Mar 11, 2027 Celukan Bawang, Bali 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Explore the hidden wonders of northern Bali from this busy port, where modern seagoing vessels mingle with traditional Bugis schooners, high-prowed wooden ships that have plied these waters for centuries. More eclectic charms await in Bali’s former capital of Singaraja, whose colonial Dutch influence contrasts with the island’s age-old stone temples. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Bali Barat National Park, perhaps snorkeling among the luminous coral reefs surrounding Menjangan Island or sighting the graceful Bali starling in a lush monsoon forest. Stroll exotic botanical gardens in the lakeside village of Bedugul and browse a colorful farmer’s market for an authentic glimpse of Bali’s timeless allure. Go to Celukan Bawang, Bali Cruises visiting Celukan Bawang, Bali

Day 69 Mar 14, 2027 Singapore 08:30 – 22:00 13.5 hrs ashore Advanced, airy and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million call it home, but this is a city designed with space to breathe, and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens' skyscrapers and soaring structures. Once a quiet fishing village, now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education and technology. View less Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean - and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city's neighbourhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up - nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs - and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colourful orchids. Or breathe in more of the freshest air by heading up to wander the canopy strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay - a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples - like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore's cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city's eponymous gin-soaked cocktail - a Singapore Sling. Go to Singapore Cruises visiting Singapore

Singapore photo — Day 69 Mar 14, 2027 Singapore 08:30 – 22:00 13.5 hrs ashore Advanced, airy and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million call it home, but this is a city designed with space to breathe, and gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens' skyscrapers and soaring structures. Once a quiet fishing village, now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education and technology. View less Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean - and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city's neighbourhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up - nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs - and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colourful orchids. Or breathe in more of the freshest air by heading up to wander the canopy strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay - a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples - like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore's cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city's eponymous gin-soaked cocktail - a Singapore Sling. Go to Singapore Cruises visiting Singapore

Day 72 Mar 17, 2027 Laem Chabang Arrives 09:00 Laem Chabang is the starting point of an exploration of Bangkok with an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise. Located in Chonburi province, it is the most important industrial port of Thailand, and is the gateway to reach Bangkok from the sea. With an MSC cruise, you will visit the capital of Thailand and its main attractions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is rich in history and culture. There are many places and monuments to visit. These include the Royal Grand Palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty where you can also find the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of rare beauty made from a single piece of jade. At the Buddhist temple of Wat Po can be found the huge reclining Buddha, a good 46 meters long and 15 meters high. At Wat Po, the place where Thai therapeutic massage was invented, the pagodas are also not to be missed: Phrang Rabieng in white marble and Phra Maha Chedi with delicate and colorful floral patterns. The visit continues in the heart of the city: a journey on a typical boat through the canals – it is not surprising that Bangkok is called the "Venice of the East" – lined by the houses of this picturesque capital city to get to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its very high tower reminiscent of an Aztec elongated pyramid. An experience to be lived, on an MSC cruise, is to savor up-close the atmosphere of the Klongsuan market, where Buddhists and Muslims live and work together in harmony and where you can discover the traditions and customs of the people. The journey continues to Chachoengsao, the city where Sothon Wat can be found, the temple that houses the much venerated effigy of the Buddha: the Phra Phutthasothon. Finally, you arrive at the Bang Pa-In, the Summer Palace, consisting of five majestic buildings not to be missed. There is a Thai-style pavilion, built in the middle of an artificial lake, a two-story European-style pavilion, a residential pavilion, a Chinese-style pavilion and an observatory located on a small island.

Day 73 Mar 18, 2027 Laem Chabang Laem Chabang is the starting point of an exploration of Bangkok with an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise. Located in Chonburi province, it is the most important industrial port of Thailand, and is the gateway to reach Bangkok from the sea. With an MSC cruise, you will visit the capital of Thailand and its main attractions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is rich in history and culture. There are many places and monuments to visit. These include the Royal Grand Palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty where you can also find the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of rare beauty made from a single piece of jade. At the Buddhist temple of Wat Po can be found the huge reclining Buddha, a good 46 meters long and 15 meters high. At Wat Po, the place where Thai therapeutic massage was invented, the pagodas are also not to be missed: Phrang Rabieng in white marble and Phra Maha Chedi with delicate and colorful floral patterns. The visit continues in the heart of the city: a journey on a typical boat through the canals – it is not surprising that Bangkok is called the "Venice of the East" – lined by the houses of this picturesque capital city to get to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its very high tower reminiscent of an Aztec elongated pyramid. An experience to be lived, on an MSC cruise, is to savor up-close the atmosphere of the Klongsuan market, where Buddhists and Muslims live and work together in harmony and where you can discover the traditions and customs of the people. The journey continues to Chachoengsao, the city where Sothon Wat can be found, the temple that houses the much venerated effigy of the Buddha: the Phra Phutthasothon. Finally, you arrive at the Bang Pa-In, the Summer Palace, consisting of five majestic buildings not to be missed. There is a Thai-style pavilion, built in the middle of an artificial lake, a two-story European-style pavilion, a residential pavilion, a Chinese-style pavilion and an observatory located on a small island.

Day 74 Mar 19, 2027 Laem Chabang Departs 22:00 Laem Chabang is the starting point of an exploration of Bangkok with an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise. Located in Chonburi province, it is the most important industrial port of Thailand, and is the gateway to reach Bangkok from the sea. With an MSC cruise, you will visit the capital of Thailand and its main attractions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is rich in history and culture. There are many places and monuments to visit. These include the Royal Grand Palace, the residence of the Chakri dynasty where you can also find the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of rare beauty made from a single piece of jade. At the Buddhist temple of Wat Po can be found the huge reclining Buddha, a good 46 meters long and 15 meters high. At Wat Po, the place where Thai therapeutic massage was invented, the pagodas are also not to be missed: Phrang Rabieng in white marble and Phra Maha Chedi with delicate and colorful floral patterns. The visit continues in the heart of the city: a journey on a typical boat through the canals – it is not surprising that Bangkok is called the "Venice of the East" – lined by the houses of this picturesque capital city to get to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its very high tower reminiscent of an Aztec elongated pyramid. An experience to be lived, on an MSC cruise, is to savor up-close the atmosphere of the Klongsuan market, where Buddhists and Muslims live and work together in harmony and where you can discover the traditions and customs of the people. The journey continues to Chachoengsao, the city where Sothon Wat can be found, the temple that houses the much venerated effigy of the Buddha: the Phra Phutthasothon. Finally, you arrive at the Bang Pa-In, the Summer Palace, consisting of five majestic buildings not to be missed. There is a Thai-style pavilion, built in the middle of an artificial lake, a two-story European-style pavilion, a residential pavilion, a Chinese-style pavilion and an observatory located on a small island.

Day 76 Mar 21, 2027 Ko Samui 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore Koh Samui is an island of towering coconut trees, brilliant sunshine and beautiful white sand beaches. One of the three largest islands in Thailand, it is easy to forget the world in this paradise. On the south end of the island, the strange rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Ya are said to be the physical embodiment of a couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay. First settled by Malay fishermen, the island is rich with legends and tales like this one. The Big Buddha on the island's Northern shore is a popular attraction and an important symbol for the locals. Visit one of the world's most stunning waterfalls, Na Muang - or enjoy the simple beauty of rare butterflies, insects and bees at the Na Tian Butterfly Garden. Or you may want to watch the world go by under the shade of a coconut palm. Go to Ko Samui Cruises visiting Ko Samui

Ko Samui photo — Day 76 Mar 21, 2027 Ko Samui 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore Koh Samui is an island of towering coconut trees, brilliant sunshine and beautiful white sand beaches. One of the three largest islands in Thailand, it is easy to forget the world in this paradise. On the south end of the island, the strange rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Ya are said to be the physical embodiment of a couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay. First settled by Malay fishermen, the island is rich with legends and tales like this one. The Big Buddha on the island's Northern shore is a popular attraction and an important symbol for the locals. Visit one of the world's most stunning waterfalls, Na Muang - or enjoy the simple beauty of rare butterflies, insects and bees at the Na Tian Butterfly Garden. Or you may want to watch the world go by under the shade of a coconut palm. Go to Ko Samui Cruises visiting Ko Samui

Day 78 Mar 23, 2027 Ho Chi Minh City Arrives 09:00 Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant port of call for MSC cruise liners on MSC Grand Voyages cruise itineraries. It’s a fury of sights and sounds, and the crucible in which Vietnam’s rallying fortunes are boiling. Few corners of the city afford respite from the cacophony of construction work casting up new office blocks and hotels with logic-defying speed. An increasing number of cars and minibuses jostle with an organic mass of state-of-the-art Honda SUVs, choking the tree-lined streets and boulevards. Amid this melee, the local people go about their daily life: smartly dressed schoolkids wander past streetside baguette-sellers; women shoppers ride motorbikes clad in gangster-style bandanas to protect their skin from the sun and dust; while teenagers in designer jeans chirrup into mobile phones. MSC Cruises shore excursions can be a clever option to see much of Ho Chi Minh City’s fun that derives from the simple pleasure of absorbing its flurry of activity – something best done from the seat of a cyclo or a roadside café. To blink is to miss some new and singular sight, be it a motorbike stacked high with piglets bound for the market, or a boy on a bicycle rapping out a staccato tattoo on pieces of bamboo to advertise noodles for sale. For some visitors, the American war is their primary frame of reference and such historical hot spots as the Reunification Palace rank highly on their itineraries. In addition, ostentatious reminders of French rule abound, among them such memorable buildings as Notre Dame Cathedral and the grandiose Hotel de Ville – but even these look spanking-new when compared to gloriously musty edifices like Quan Am Pagoda and the Jade Emperor Pagoda, just a couple of the many captivating places of worship across the city. And don’t miss Ben Thanh Market, the teeming Vietnamese market par excellence, check the city’s pulse here on an early morning stroll. Go to Ho Chi Minh City Cruises visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City photo — Day 78 Mar 23, 2027 Ho Chi Minh City Arrives 09:00 Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant port of call for MSC cruise liners on MSC Grand Voyages cruise itineraries. It’s a fury of sights and sounds, and the crucible in which Vietnam’s rallying fortunes are boiling. Few corners of the city afford respite from the cacophony of construction work casting up new office blocks and hotels with logic-defying speed. An increasing number of cars and minibuses jostle with an organic mass of state-of-the-art Honda SUVs, choking the tree-lined streets and boulevards. Amid this melee, the local people go about their daily life: smartly dressed schoolkids wander past streetside baguette-sellers; women shoppers ride motorbikes clad in gangster-style bandanas to protect their skin from the sun and dust; while teenagers in designer jeans chirrup into mobile phones. MSC Cruises shore excursions can be a clever option to see much of Ho Chi Minh City’s fun that derives from the simple pleasure of absorbing its flurry of activity – something best done from the seat of a cyclo or a roadside café. To blink is to miss some new and singular sight, be it a motorbike stacked high with piglets bound for the market, or a boy on a bicycle rapping out a staccato tattoo on pieces of bamboo to advertise noodles for sale. For some visitors, the American war is their primary frame of reference and such historical hot spots as the Reunification Palace rank highly on their itineraries. In addition, ostentatious reminders of French rule abound, among them such memorable buildings as Notre Dame Cathedral and the grandiose Hotel de Ville – but even these look spanking-new when compared to gloriously musty edifices like Quan Am Pagoda and the Jade Emperor Pagoda, just a couple of the many captivating places of worship across the city. And don’t miss Ben Thanh Market, the teeming Vietnamese market par excellence, check the city’s pulse here on an early morning stroll. Go to Ho Chi Minh City Cruises visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Day 82 Mar 27, 2027 Da Nang 06:00 – 22:00 16.0 hrs ashore Overlooking the mouth of the river Hán, Da Nang is a popular Vietnamese destination on an MSC Cruise. This metropolis, called Tourane under French colonial rule, is in central Vietnam and has 1.350,000 inhabitants. It is one of the country’s economic, cultural and artistic hubs. You can take an excursion to Da Nang, where you can visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture. Dating back to about 1,000 years ago, these sculptures by the Cham, an ancient Vietnamese civilisation, are made of terracotta, bronze and sandstone. It is an extensive collection that includes over four hundred works dedicated to the most important Hindu deities, from Brahma to Shiva. Huế was the ancient capital of Vietnam and you can take an excursion to the remains of the Imperial City, located on the banks of the Perfume River and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The entrance, reminiscent of the famous Imperial City of Beijing, leads visitors into the Forbidden Purple City, where the emperor lived with his concubines. The complex was heavily damaged by American air raids during the Vietnam war. In 1999, the old town of Hoi An was also declared a World Heritage Site. Between the 16th and 17th centuries, the town ‒ called “Faifo” by European merchants ‒ was a nerve centre for Vietnamese Commerce, thanks to its strategic position on the estuary of the Thu Bon River. You can take an excursion to visit the old town: the colourful houses, red lanterns, narrow traffic-free streets and lush flowers make it an unforgettable experience. Go to Da Nang Cruises visiting Da Nang

Da Nang photo — Day 82 Mar 27, 2027 Da Nang 06:00 – 22:00 16.0 hrs ashore Overlooking the mouth of the river Hán, Da Nang is a popular Vietnamese destination on an MSC Cruise. This metropolis, called Tourane under French colonial rule, is in central Vietnam and has 1.350,000 inhabitants. It is one of the country’s economic, cultural and artistic hubs. You can take an excursion to Da Nang, where you can visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture. Dating back to about 1,000 years ago, these sculptures by the Cham, an ancient Vietnamese civilisation, are made of terracotta, bronze and sandstone. It is an extensive collection that includes over four hundred works dedicated to the most important Hindu deities, from Brahma to Shiva. Huế was the ancient capital of Vietnam and you can take an excursion to the remains of the Imperial City, located on the banks of the Perfume River and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. The entrance, reminiscent of the famous Imperial City of Beijing, leads visitors into the Forbidden Purple City, where the emperor lived with his concubines. The complex was heavily damaged by American air raids during the Vietnam war. In 1999, the old town of Hoi An was also declared a World Heritage Site. Between the 16th and 17th centuries, the town ‒ called “Faifo” by European merchants ‒ was a nerve centre for Vietnamese Commerce, thanks to its strategic position on the estuary of the Thu Bon River. You can take an excursion to visit the old town: the colourful houses, red lanterns, narrow traffic-free streets and lush flowers make it an unforgettable experience. Go to Da Nang Cruises visiting Da Nang

Day 84 Mar 29, 2027 Ha Long Bay Arrives 08:00 The extraordinary, mossy limestone mountains that rear from the waters of Ha Long Bay form one of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the planet. At least 1,600 green islands rise over a flotilla of strung-together fishing boats and floating villages. Spectacular at any time, sunset bathes the remarkable limestone formations in warm, honey-coloured light, adding an extra layer to the seascape's heart-stirring beauty. Emerald green sea washes around this immense network of islands and limestone outcrops, which you can explore at leisure on junk boats and by sea kayak. View less Local legend says the islands were formed when a dragon descended, spitting fire and emerald and jade jewels across the water to deter invaders. The sheer scale points to the supernatural – but scientists stubbornly maintain that this collection of towering sculptures was the result of various forms of erosion and a flood of seawater following the ice age. The water continues to chip away at the islands, and you can venture into the mouths of caves hollowed out by the relentless wash of the waves. Dau Go Cave and Sung Sot Caves are adorned with rows of spectacular stalactites, descending like dragon teeth from above. Investigate via boat, and find island jewels like Ti Top - a sharp, slope of land decorated with a crisp fringe of gleaming sand. The seaplanes that soar overhead, offer a magnificent bird's eye perspective. Located in Vietnam's northeast, the unique topography that forms the islands continues into neighbouring national parks like Cat Ba - which rises and falls in a similar, jaggedly undulating fashion, just without the flooded seawater in-between. Go to Ha Long Bay Cruises visiting Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay photo — Day 84 Mar 29, 2027 Ha Long Bay Arrives 08:00 The extraordinary, mossy limestone mountains that rear from the waters of Ha Long Bay form one of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the planet. At least 1,600 green islands rise over a flotilla of strung-together fishing boats and floating villages. Spectacular at any time, sunset bathes the remarkable limestone formations in warm, honey-coloured light, adding an extra layer to the seascape's heart-stirring beauty. Emerald green sea washes around this immense network of islands and limestone outcrops, which you can explore at leisure on junk boats and by sea kayak. View less Local legend says the islands were formed when a dragon descended, spitting fire and emerald and jade jewels across the water to deter invaders. The sheer scale points to the supernatural – but scientists stubbornly maintain that this collection of towering sculptures was the result of various forms of erosion and a flood of seawater following the ice age. The water continues to chip away at the islands, and you can venture into the mouths of caves hollowed out by the relentless wash of the waves. Dau Go Cave and Sung Sot Caves are adorned with rows of spectacular stalactites, descending like dragon teeth from above. Investigate via boat, and find island jewels like Ti Top - a sharp, slope of land decorated with a crisp fringe of gleaming sand. The seaplanes that soar overhead, offer a magnificent bird's eye perspective. Located in Vietnam's northeast, the unique topography that forms the islands continues into neighbouring national parks like Cat Ba - which rises and falls in a similar, jaggedly undulating fashion, just without the flooded seawater in-between. Go to Ha Long Bay Cruises visiting Ha Long Bay

Day 87 Apr 1, 2027 Hong Kong, China Arrives 08:00 A spectacular, serrated skyline of soaring towers and neon lights, Hong Kong is a vibrant, immersive metropolis and cultural hub. Dramatic harbour-front light shows transform the waterfront’s gleaming buildings into a colourful canvas – best seen from the Star Ferry, when the Symphony of Lights blares into life each evening. A city where future and tradition collides - perhaps best illustrated by the skyscrapers that feature gaping holes, designed to allow spirit dragons to soar from the hills to the waterfront unimpeded. View less Wander flowing shopping streets, wade through sprawling markets and soak up the neon glory of this one-of-a-kind city - which continues to reach for the sky. Hong Kong's dense jumble of activity is one of its main appeals, but once you've felt the thrill of rising to towering observation decks, to see the soaring city from above, it's surprisingly easy to find peace among Hong Kong's intense urban wonders. Victoria Peak is the highest point and it offers staggering views down over the city and harbour. The Peak Tram funicular can ferry you to the top, to the vantage point which was historically adored by the rich for the cooler air found here, away from the busy bustle of the city streets. Many elaborate temples add a tranquil element to Hong Kong’s whirr, and Tin Hau temple has a surprisingly urban location, considering its dedication to the Goddess of the Sea. It did once occupy the shorefront, but the city's growth saw land reclaimed from the sea around it, leaving the temple marooned inland. Having been leased to the British for 99 years, milky tea is a revered tradition here - enjoy your cup with a serving of local dim sum.While it's easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of today's Hong Kong, you need only walk or board a tram for the short jaunt west into Western to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditionally Chinese but no less high-energy. You'll discover the real Hong Kong to the east of Central, too, in Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and beyond. Amid the residential towers are restaurants, shopping malls, bars, convention centers, a nice smattering of museums, and—depending on fate and the horse you wager on—one of Hong Kong's luckiest or unluckiest spots, the Happy Valley Racecourse. Kowloon sprawls across a generous swath of the Chinese mainland across Victoria Harbour from Central. Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, is packed with glitzy shops, first-rate museums, and eye-popping views of the skyline across the water. Just to the north are the teeming market streets of Mong Kok and in the dense residential neighborhoods beyond, two of Hong Kong's most enchanting spiritual sights, Wong Tai Sin Temple and Chi Lin Nunnery. As you navigate this huge metropolis (easy to do on the excellent transportation network), keep in mind that streets are usually numbered odd on one side, even on the other. There's no baseline for street numbers and no block-based numbering system, but street signs indicate building numbers for any given block. Go to Hong Kong, China Cruises visiting Hong Kong, China

Day 90 Apr 4, 2027 Taipei 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Located on the north coast of Taiwan, and embraced by lush green mountains, Keelung City is Taiwan’s second-biggest port and a major gateway to Taipei's glittering lights and spectacular skyscrapers. It can get a little damp here at times - the city is known as the 'Rainy Port' after all - but even the elements fail to dampen the spirits in this Taiwanese hotbed of tradition, modernity and rich culture. View less Keelung is famous for its Mid-Summer Ghost festival – when dragons decorated with flowers and spitting pyrotechnics are paraded through the streets. Flickering lanterns glitter on the water’s waves, creating a beautiful, ethereal scene. If you do linger in Keelung, witness the city coming to life as the sun dips - and Keelung Miaokou night market floods with people below a blinding wash of lights. Most will choose to take the ride to the country's capital, Taipei, and visit this mesmerising modern city, which blends influences from around the world. A quirky city of museums and countless bustling markets. Stands and stalls work late into the night, serving up every food you can imagine. Wander between the salivating smells and rising flames of open fires, which cook up everything from fried oysters to chicken and fish pastries - as you ride the all-out sensory assault of the city's bustling markets. Incredible temples are sprinkled across Taipei, such as Bao-An Temple, a peaceful, incense-infused place of colourful artistry. The country's heritage is reflected in towering new architecture like the tiered pagoda of the Taipei 101 skyscraper, which dominates the skyline from every angle. Go to Taipei Cruises visiting Taipei

Day 91 Apr 5, 2027 Ishigaki Island 08:00 – 14:00 6.0 hrs ashore Talk with the Japanese a while about the Japanese and you’re going to hear the word shimagunikonjo. The breakdown is simple: shima—island; guni—nation; konjo—consciousness. In one word, it's the firm belief that people who live on islands are different from people who live on continents, and anyone who’s done both is likely to agree. American culture may be the strongest influence in Japan now, but the Japanese will understand the motivations of the Brits a whole lot better. Islands require a different mind-set than continents. Islands require manners. But what if your island was never meant to be part of another bunch of islands? That’s what’s happened with today’s Okinawa Prefecture. The people who’ve always been there are Okinawan, one of the healthiest, longest-living people on earth. But now they’re part of Japan and seriously outnumbered by the Japanese. (And they’re not at all happy that the Japanese interlopers gave so much of their land over to U.S. military bases.) Signs of Okinawan culture can be subtle but are easier to pick out in more remote islands of the chain, like Ishigaki. Traditional buildings are a mixture of Chinese and Japanese influences. In the markets, you’ll find fu chanpuru (an Okinawan stir fry dish) and whole-wheat soba, which the Japanese won't touch. The ryuso robe holds on despite crowded kimono stores. The few people left who speak Uchinaguchi are praying for a movement like the Hawaiian renaissance to bring the culture back. The tipping point is close. A trip to Ishigaki now is to witness either the beginning or the end. Go to Ishigaki Island Cruises visiting Ishigaki Island

Day 92 Apr 6, 2027 Naha (Okinawa Is.) 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore The sophistication, elegance and ages-old culture of Japan. On an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise, you can discover the ancient beauty of the Okinawa islands. Belonging to the archipelago of Ryūkyū, their capital is Naha. There are many attractions and monuments that can be visited. These include the Ryukyumura village and the UNESCO World Heritage site: Shikinaen Garden, where you can admire the characteristic wooden buildings with red tile roofs that overlook an artificial lake and vegetation that inspire meditation and peace. Peace Memorial Park has a great emotional impact: near the end of World War II, Okinawa was the scene of a bloody battle between Japan and the US, which killed about 200,000 people, more than half of which were civilians. The shopping and restaurant street in Naha isKokusai : two kilometers of bars, cafes, hotels and boutiques where you can linger and enjoy yourself sipping awamori , a typical liqueur from the island served with ice. The capital is also home to the museum of the former underground headquarters of the Japanese Navy and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum , where you can discover the history and culture of Okinawa. To understand how the inhabitants lived, you can also visit Ryukyumura Village , a small theme park that recreates a village where craftsmen shape pottery, weave clothing and blankets and where musicians play the sanshin guitar. Located in front of the East China Sea, the cliff of Cape Manzamou is a true natural sculpture shaped by the ocean: a part of it looks like the trunk of an elephant. It is impossible to leave without taking a photograph. Go to Naha (Okinawa Is.) Cruises visiting Naha (Okinawa Is.)

Naha (Okinawa Is.) photo — Day 92 Apr 6, 2027 Naha (Okinawa Is.) 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore The sophistication, elegance and ages-old culture of Japan. On an MSC Grand Voyages Cruise, you can discover the ancient beauty of the Okinawa islands. Belonging to the archipelago of Ryūkyū, their capital is Naha. There are many attractions and monuments that can be visited. These include the Ryukyumura village and the UNESCO World Heritage site: Shikinaen Garden, where you can admire the characteristic wooden buildings with red tile roofs that overlook an artificial lake and vegetation that inspire meditation and peace. Peace Memorial Park has a great emotional impact: near the end of World War II, Okinawa was the scene of a bloody battle between Japan and the US, which killed about 200,000 people, more than half of which were civilians. The shopping and restaurant street in Naha isKokusai : two kilometers of bars, cafes, hotels and boutiques where you can linger and enjoy yourself sipping awamori , a typical liqueur from the island served with ice. The capital is also home to the museum of the former underground headquarters of the Japanese Navy and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum , where you can discover the history and culture of Okinawa. To understand how the inhabitants lived, you can also visit Ryukyumura Village , a small theme park that recreates a village where craftsmen shape pottery, weave clothing and blankets and where musicians play the sanshin guitar. Located in front of the East China Sea, the cliff of Cape Manzamou is a true natural sculpture shaped by the ocean: a part of it looks like the trunk of an elephant. It is impossible to leave without taking a photograph. Go to Naha (Okinawa Is.) Cruises visiting Naha (Okinawa Is.)

Day 94 Apr 8, 2027 Baoshan (Shanghai) Arrives 13:00 When your MSC cruise brings you to Shanghai it is easy to understand that after years of stagnation, this great metropolis is undergoing one of the fastest economic expansions the world has ever seen. As Shanghai begins to recapture its position as East Asia’s leading business city, a status it last held before World War II, the skyline is filling with high-rises – there are well over a thousand now. Gleaming shopping malls, luxurious hotels and prestigious arts centres are rising alongside, while underneath everything snakes the world’s longest subway system. Shanghai’s 23 million residents enjoy the highest incomes on the mainland, and there’s plenty for them to splash out on; witness the rash of celebrity restaurants and designer flagship stores. MSC Grand Voyages cruises also offer excursions to the Bund – Shanghai’s original signature skyline –, a strip of grand Neoclassical colonial edifices on the west bank of the Huangpu River Pudong on the opposite shore – a backdrop domestic visitors queue up against to have their picture taken. Named after an old Anglo-Indian term, “bunding” (the embanking of a muddy foreshore), the Bund’s official name is Zhongshan Lu but it’s better known among locals as Wai Tan (literally “Outside Beach”). By whatever name, this was old Shanghai’s commercial heart, with the river on one side and the offices of the leading bank and trading houses on the other. Jinmao Tower is a beautiful building, an elegant tapering postmodern take on Art Deco, has an observation deck on the 88th floor. An ear-popping lift whisks you up 340m to the top in a matter of seconds. The spectacle of the city spread out before you is of course sublime, but turn round for a giddying view down the building’s glorious galleried atrium. Shanghai Museum is one of the city’s highlights, with a fantastic, well-presented collection. Go to Baoshan (Shanghai) Cruises visiting Baoshan (Shanghai)

Baoshan (Shanghai) photo — Day 94 Apr 8, 2027 Baoshan (Shanghai) Arrives 13:00 When your MSC cruise brings you to Shanghai it is easy to understand that after years of stagnation, this great metropolis is undergoing one of the fastest economic expansions the world has ever seen. As Shanghai begins to recapture its position as East Asia’s leading business city, a status it last held before World War II, the skyline is filling with high-rises – there are well over a thousand now. Gleaming shopping malls, luxurious hotels and prestigious arts centres are rising alongside, while underneath everything snakes the world’s longest subway system. Shanghai’s 23 million residents enjoy the highest incomes on the mainland, and there’s plenty for them to splash out on; witness the rash of celebrity restaurants and designer flagship stores. MSC Grand Voyages cruises also offer excursions to the Bund – Shanghai’s original signature skyline –, a strip of grand Neoclassical colonial edifices on the west bank of the Huangpu River Pudong on the opposite shore – a backdrop domestic visitors queue up against to have their picture taken. Named after an old Anglo-Indian term, “bunding” (the embanking of a muddy foreshore), the Bund’s official name is Zhongshan Lu but it’s better known among locals as Wai Tan (literally “Outside Beach”). By whatever name, this was old Shanghai’s commercial heart, with the river on one side and the offices of the leading bank and trading houses on the other. Jinmao Tower is a beautiful building, an elegant tapering postmodern take on Art Deco, has an observation deck on the 88th floor. An ear-popping lift whisks you up 340m to the top in a matter of seconds. The spectacle of the city spread out before you is of course sublime, but turn round for a giddying view down the building’s glorious galleried atrium. Shanghai Museum is one of the city’s highlights, with a fantastic, well-presented collection. Go to Baoshan (Shanghai) Cruises visiting Baoshan (Shanghai)

Day 99 Apr 13, 2027 Tianjin Arrives 07:00 Set on the north-east coast of the Bohai Sea, Tianjin’s port opens up the city and serves as a gateway to Beijing - which lies approximately three-hours drive inland. Tianjin is a vast and impressive city in its own right, with oodles of character and charm – especially since it received a comprehensive facelift for China’s Olympic Games in 2008. There is deep international history here, as the area was conceded to foreign powers during the Opium Wars. View less As a result, it’s peppered with historical buildings, temples and palaces, and you'll encounter a dizzying swirl of cultures. There is a distinctive European flavour in places - notably the architecture of the Five Avenues, which features a blend of historical buildings from Europe's past empires. The skyscrapers of modern China’s booming economy have also sprung up, along with ambitious structures like the flowing curves of the library. Unique creations like the Tianjin Eye span the river – a fusion between a ferris wheel and a bridge, it glows brightly over the river's water at night. The Ancient Culture Street is a traditional Qing Dynasty style stretch of bustling, living history. For most, however, the allure of one of China and the world’s mega-cities, Beijing, will be too strong a draw. Visit immense cultural treasures like the extraordinary Forbidden City, an incredible central labyrinth of 800 palaces. The vast and iconic Tiananmen Square stretches out close by - watched over by a ginormous Chairman Mao portrait - where you can see the Chinese flag ceremonially hoisted high into the sky each day, and a venue where dramatic and iconic events of Chinese history have played out. You’re also within reach of one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks - the undulating expanse of the Great Wall of China, which snakes across the area's mountains. Go to Tianjin Cruises visiting Tianjin

Day 102 Apr 16, 2027 Seoul (Incheon) 06:30 – 22:00 15.5 hrs ashore Once upon a time, Incheon was a quiet seaside village, pretty typical for Korea. The men went fishing, the women made kimchi. There were maybe a couple thousand people altogether in the region. And then it got caught in the middle of a war. Incheon is where, late in 1950, the U.S. Marines landed, marking the beginning of the end of the Korean War, a war that ultimately claimed more than 40,000 American soldiers’ lives and an undetermined number of Koreans. After the fighting, when Incheon had a chance to dig itself out from the mud and shrapnel, it became part of the Korean economic miracle, the country’s first official free-enterprise zone. With its perfect natural port, flat landscape and 3 million residents, it’s become as much a part of the Seoul megalopolis now as it is a place of its own. Visit Incheon with a Korean War vet, and they likely won’t recognize a thing, except maybe a small area around Freedom Park. Where once there were rice ponds, there are now high-rise apartment buildings. Even the beach the Marines landed on has been filled and reshaped to make more room for the Korean economic miracle. But there’s an entire generation haunted by this place, and it’s well worth looking around.

Day 104 Apr 18, 2027 Yeosu, South Korea 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Cruise to Yeosu, South Korea and experience one of the country’s most scenic coastal destinations on the Yeosu Peninsula in South Jeolla Province. The area is naturally protected by the surrounding islands of Namhae, Dolsan, and Geumo, creating calm waters and a distinctive coastal atmosphere that defines this region. Yeosu is known for its active fishing industry and serves as a starting point for travelers who want to visit nearby islands. Visitors can easily reach Odongdo Island and Geumodo Island, both popular choices for sightseeing and island excursions. The waterfront offers inviting scenery along with seafood restaurants and a fisheries market, providing an authentic taste of Yeosu’s maritime culture. Jasan Park is located near the shoreline and offers relaxing walking paths and elevated views over the coastal landscape. Yeosu also holds cultural importance because its harbor and shoreline served as the main setting for Expo 2012, an internationally recognized event focused on oceans and coastlines. Whether you visit for coastal scenery, fresh seafood, or island hopping, choosing to cruise to Yeosu, South Korea provides a memorable introduction to the natural and cultural beauty of the southern coast.

Day 105 Apr 19, 2027 Busan, South Korea Arrives 08:00 "A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colours, intense seafood flavours, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious natural setting on the Korean Peninsula's south-east. One of the largest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million people call South Korea's second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook. A spacious, playful and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, liveable city, cradled by lush mountains and endless ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple's multi-storey pagoda is adorned with lions - each representing a different emotion. Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees, into a colourful explosion of creativity and curiosity. Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for expression. Lose yourself among vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow and baby-blue painted facades in this unique area. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef and rice, from street food vendors, before relaxing on one of South Korea's best beaches - Haeundae's banana bend of sand. Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder and are mirrored by elaborate sandcastles and sculptures during the annual sand festival - when spontaneous water fights and firework displays also take place. Gwangalli beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge - the country's second largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this engineering marvel in colour." Go to Busan, South Korea Cruises visiting Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea photo — Day 105 Apr 19, 2027 Busan, South Korea Arrives 08:00 "A tapestry of kaleidoscopic colours, intense seafood flavours, and urban beach bliss, Busan rolls across a glorious natural setting on the Korean Peninsula's south-east. One of the largest and busiest ports in the world, 3.5 million people call South Korea's second city home, and the amiable locals help to lend the city its quirky, offbeat outlook. A spacious, playful and cosmopolitan place, Busan is a lively, liveable city, cradled by lush mountains and endless ocean scenery. Haedong Yonggung Temple nestles on a dramatic cliffside, just above the crumbling rocks and crashing waves of the East Sea. Dating back to 1376, the temple's multi-storey pagoda is adorned with lions - each representing a different emotion. Elsewhere, lanterns glitter in the night sky around Mount Geumjeongsan, freshly released from the beautiful Beomeosa Temple, which was established in AD 678. The hillside shantytown of Gamcheon Culture Village has completed an improbable transformation, blossoming from a sea of makeshift homes for Korean war refugees, into a colourful explosion of creativity and curiosity. Local artists have been let loose to create interactive installations, and the entire area is now an expansive canvas for expression. Lose yourself among vibrant alleyways of flamingo-pink, lemon-yellow and baby-blue painted facades in this unique area. Sample bibimbap, fiery-hot beef and rice, from street food vendors, before relaxing on one of South Korea's best beaches - Haeundae's banana bend of sand. Metallic skyscrapers offer an unusual backdrop to this pristine expanse of golden powder and are mirrored by elaborate sandcastles and sculptures during the annual sand festival - when spontaneous water fights and firework displays also take place. Gwangalli beach is another urban option, laying out spectacular views of the reaching Gwangan Bridge - the country's second largest bridge. At night, 16,000 bulbs bathe this engineering marvel in colour." Go to Busan, South Korea Cruises visiting Busan, South Korea

Day 107 Apr 21, 2027 Fukuoka 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Kyushu’s largest city, Fukuoka is one of the most likeable places in Japan – indeed, despite the fact that it’s not exactly a household name abroad, it regularly pops up on global best-places-to-live lists. While it boasts few actual sights, there’s a certain Kyushu-style joie de vivre here, best exemplified at the umpteen rustic street-side yatai, where locals slurp happily away on their ramen while knocking back beer, sake or whatever takes their fancy. Until recently, the city was an industrial nonentity, notable only for its transport connections to Korea and the rest of the island, but its renaissance has been remarkable. When you are cruising the Pacific Ocean with MSC Cruises you’ll find that Fukuoka is a squeaky-clean metropolis; it deserves a day of any cruiser’s time. Highlights here include one or two excellent museums and ranks of eye-catching modern architecture – most notable in the latter category are Canal City, a self-contained cinema, hotel and shopping complex built around a semi-circular strip of water, and Hawks Town, which forms part of a major seafront redevelopment incorporating venues for shopping, eating and entertainment. If you feel like something more educational during your MSC Grand Voyages cruise, head for Fukuoka renowned festivals and folk crafts, which are presented at Hakata Machiya Folk Museum. As with any self-respecting Japanese city of this size, Fukuoka maintains a lively entertainment district, in this case crammed onto the tiny island of Nakasu, though it’s safer on the wallet to head for the less glitzy bars and restaurants of Tenjin, the city’s main downtown area. There are also a couple of excellent sights just south of Fukuoka: the ancient temple town of Dazaifu, once the seat of government for all of southern Japan, but now a pleasant backwater best known for its collection of temples and shrines; and the healing waters of nearby Futsukaichi Onsen. Go to Fukuoka Cruises visiting Fukuoka

Day 109 Apr 23, 2027 Hiroshima 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Hiroshima means “wide island” in Japanese. The city was established in the 16th Century on Japan’s largest island, Honshu, and grew into an important shipping center and prefecture capital, boasting a fine castle. Although it was an important city in Japan throughout the imperial period, its reputation in the greater world was burned into history when it became to target of the first atomic bombing of a civilian target in August of 1945. The United States airplane Enola Gay dropped a nuclear device nicknamed “Little Boy” on the city that morning, obliterating everything within a two-kilometer radius and directly killing 80,000 people. Approximately 70 percent of Hiroshima’s buildings were destroyed. Within a year, injury and radiation illness had killed an additional 90, 000 to 116,000 citizens. The attacks on Hiroshima and nearby Nagasaki quickly led to the surrender of Japan and effectively precipitated the end of World War II in Asia. Within a few years, Hiroshima had begun to rebuild, and the city became the focus of an international movement to eliminate nuclear weapons from future wars. Relics of its past such as the impressive Hiroshima Castle and the tranquil Shukkeien Garden were rebuilt, and the city undertook the construction of a Memorial Peace Park, which today attracts visitors from around the world. The park, which holds a museum and a memorial “Atomic Dome” constructed on the closest remaining building to the blast site, is a moving and impactful place of pilgrimage in this re-born City of Peace. One notable feature is a colorful memorial to Sadako Sasaki, a young woman whose dying wishes for world peace were recounted in the story A Thousand Paper Cranes. Go to Hiroshima Cruises visiting Hiroshima

Hiroshima photo — Day 109 Apr 23, 2027 Hiroshima 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Hiroshima means “wide island” in Japanese. The city was established in the 16th Century on Japan’s largest island, Honshu, and grew into an important shipping center and prefecture capital, boasting a fine castle. Although it was an important city in Japan throughout the imperial period, its reputation in the greater world was burned into history when it became to target of the first atomic bombing of a civilian target in August of 1945. The United States airplane Enola Gay dropped a nuclear device nicknamed “Little Boy” on the city that morning, obliterating everything within a two-kilometer radius and directly killing 80,000 people. Approximately 70 percent of Hiroshima’s buildings were destroyed. Within a year, injury and radiation illness had killed an additional 90, 000 to 116,000 citizens. The attacks on Hiroshima and nearby Nagasaki quickly led to the surrender of Japan and effectively precipitated the end of World War II in Asia. Within a few years, Hiroshima had begun to rebuild, and the city became the focus of an international movement to eliminate nuclear weapons from future wars. Relics of its past such as the impressive Hiroshima Castle and the tranquil Shukkeien Garden were rebuilt, and the city undertook the construction of a Memorial Peace Park, which today attracts visitors from around the world. The park, which holds a museum and a memorial “Atomic Dome” constructed on the closest remaining building to the blast site, is a moving and impactful place of pilgrimage in this re-born City of Peace. One notable feature is a colorful memorial to Sadako Sasaki, a young woman whose dying wishes for world peace were recounted in the story A Thousand Paper Cranes. Go to Hiroshima Cruises visiting Hiroshima

Day 110 Apr 24, 2027 Beppu 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells”, is a town that’s prettier than a picture. The town is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens). The viewing pools have evocative names; think Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell and Tornado Hell. While the names might seem a little off putting, the reality is stunning; sulphur laced air and vast spectrums of blues and reds, depending on the mineralisation of the earth. As if the gorgeous palette of colours at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu’s most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots. If not lucky enough to be in the area during Sakura, from May to June rhododendrons colour the mountain. The view from this 1,375m mountain is beyond impressive, allowing you to see all the way to the Kuju Mountains, Chugoku and Shikoku. If brave enough to climb all the way to the top, the stone Buddhas that were carved into the mountainside during the Heian Period (794-1185) are a worthy reward! As with much of Japan, duality is ever present. Modernity sits very comfortably by ancient buildings. While Beppu’s biggest pull is by far the hot springs and the thermal baths, nearby (10 km) Yufuin has a wealth of art museums, cafes and boutiques, catering to trend setters and urbanites alike. Go to Beppu Cruises visiting Beppu

Day 111 Apr 25, 2027 Kochi, Japan 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore An MSC cruise will take you to Kochi, situated in the prefecture of the same name, on the island of Shikoku. You can visit Kochi castle on an excursion; it is one of the twelve Japanese castles to have survived fires, wars and other catastrophes of the post-feudal age. It was built between 1601 and 1611. What you can see of the building today however, dates back to 1748, the year in which the castle was rebuilt after a fire. Curiosity: its main tower was not used only for military purposes, but it was also the residence of noble families. Quite unusual, since the nobility would usually reside in other parts of the castle. The wooden interior is typical of the traditional style of the Edo period. Near Kochi harbour is the picturesque beach of Katsurahama. In the local restaurants you can eat Katsuo, a type of tuna which is typical to Japanese waters, cut into slices and lightly grilled on straw fuelled fire which gives it a slightly smoky flavour. Seventy kilometres from Kochi there is an unusual tourist attraction, the ancient Kazurabashi Bridge, 45 meters wide and 2 metres wide, it stretches 14 metres above the waters of the river Iya. Today, the bridge – which is made from Actinidia arguta wood, a kind of vine similar to a kiwi plant – is reinforced with steel wires. It should not be missed for the surrounding landscape and the brief but thrilling walk it offers. Closer to Kochi is the wonderful Oboke gorge: we cross the river Yoshino on a boat and marvel at how over hundreds of millions of years the river has eroded the rocks of the Shikoku mountains shaping the stone into bizarre shapes. Go to Kochi, Japan Cruises visiting Kochi, Japan

Day 112 Apr 26, 2027 Kobe Arrives 08:00 The Japanese city of Kobe needs no introduction. The name is synonymous with its home grown superstar. We are not talking of its stunning shrines, cherry trees laden with blossom during sakura or effervescent city, buzzing with life 24/7. We are of course talking of a much more grass roots hero – its eponymous beef. The delicacy might have put the city on the map, but there is far more to Kobe than its meat. Naturally, Kobe wears its cuisine as a badge of honour. View less Its port history has given it a gastronomy that is quite different from its neighbours. Seafood and sushi is naturally some of the freshest and most diverse you can find, but Kobe’s multi-cultural nature (the city is home to 98 different nationalities) means that it has one of the most diverse gastronomic cultures in Japan. Bread and bakeries are also an (unexpected) delicacy. Additionally, Sake is taken very seriously – Kobe even has its own museum dedicated to the national spirit. Historically, Kobe has always been a key city for Japan. Renamed in 1889, it was known as Owada no Tomari during the Nara Period (710-784 C.E.). Kobe’s location on the calm Inland Sea between Osaka and Kyoto has proven to be pivotal in Japanese history; it is mentioned in famous literary works such as The Tale of Genji (from approximately late 9th century) and the Taiheiki (14th century). The city and region are home to many attractions including the Himeji Castle (widely considered to be Japan's most beautiful feudal castle), a short ride away.

Day 113 Apr 27, 2027 Kobe Departs 16:00 The Japanese city of Kobe needs no introduction. The name is synonymous with its home grown superstar. We are not talking of its stunning shrines, cherry trees laden with blossom during sakura or effervescent city, buzzing with life 24/7. We are of course talking of a much more grass roots hero – its eponymous beef. The delicacy might have put the city on the map, but there is far more to Kobe than its meat. Naturally, Kobe wears its cuisine as a badge of honour. View less Its port history has given it a gastronomy that is quite different from its neighbours. Seafood and sushi is naturally some of the freshest and most diverse you can find, but Kobe’s multi-cultural nature (the city is home to 98 different nationalities) means that it has one of the most diverse gastronomic cultures in Japan. Bread and bakeries are also an (unexpected) delicacy. Additionally, Sake is taken very seriously – Kobe even has its own museum dedicated to the national spirit. Historically, Kobe has always been a key city for Japan. Renamed in 1889, it was known as Owada no Tomari during the Nara Period (710-784 C.E.). Kobe’s location on the calm Inland Sea between Osaka and Kyoto has proven to be pivotal in Japanese history; it is mentioned in famous literary works such as The Tale of Genji (from approximately late 9th century) and the Taiheiki (14th century). The city and region are home to many attractions including the Himeji Castle (widely considered to be Japan's most beautiful feudal castle), a short ride away.

Day 114 Apr 28, 2027 Shimiju, japan 10:30 – 20:00 9.5 hrs ashore Feel your heart thumping, at your first sight of Japan’s most heavenly vision - Mount Fuji’s cone emerging through the haze. With its summit dipped in pure white snow, the iconic volcano’s cone is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world - and a picturesque backdrop for Shimizu. View less Come ashore to this serene vision of beauty – and whether you head straight for the siren-call of the volcano’s slopes, or the sanctuary of gorgeous, heritage-rich shrines, and tranquil tea plantations - spine-tingling views of Japan’s most tallest mountain are never far away. A perfectly symmetrical spectacle, visible for miles around, Mount Fuji is an adored national symbol of Japan. Travel closer to its slopes to soak in some of the country’s finest panoramas. Or take in the views with a dash of local culture, at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine – an elegant shrine, that stands in thrall to the salt and pepper volcano close by. The Shiraito Waterfall World Heritage Site flows just beneath the volcano – visit to see the gloriously wide curtain of water gushing through the thick vegetation. Visit Kunozan Toshogu Shrine for another perspective, or to soak up the tranquil site before swinging above on a scenic ropeway. Located on the adjacent Mount Kuno – privileged views of the mountain and Suruga Bay will unroll before you. Nihondaira Plateau is another option, where you can soak in panoramic views of the bay and Mount Fuji dominating behind. However you choose to experience it, Shimizu welcomes you into the heart of Japan, to absorb the mesmerising panoramas of the country’s most famous sight.

Day 115 Apr 29, 2027 Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Arrives 08:00 Your MSC cruise will take you to Tokyo, symbol of Japanese modernity and traditions. Located on the island of Honshū, this metropolis has almost 14 million inhabitants and is the capital of Japan. It is a multifaceted city, with futuristic buildings and skyscrapers, historical and religious monuments, ancient districts and lush parks. Not to mention art, music, design, shopping and theatre. This city has everything, so much so, that it is impossible to see it all. MSC offers a few excursions to give you the possibility to focus your visit on the places that you should really see. Like the historic district of Asakusa, named after a guard of the city of Tokyo, famous for the Sensō-ji Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. You can also take an excursion to marvel at modern Tokyo, starting from the famous district of Shibuya and the Shibuya crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, where six major roads converge. Moving on, you can lose yourself in the city’s many state-of-the-art buildings, like the Sumida Hokusai Museum, the experimental architecture in Ginza or the almost 300-feet high Ao Building. Strolling along the Sumida River, which flows through the city, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wonders of Tokyo. There is an excursion that will take you to the most important of the many museums in this metropolis, like the Tokyo National Museum, which houses artistic and archaeological finds, the MairaKan, a permanent exhibition of emerging science and innovation, or the Edo Tokyo Open Air Museum, which preserves the city’s architectural heritage. The National Art Center in Roppongi ‒ part of the Roppongi Art Triangle together with the Mori Art Museum and the Suntory Museum of Art ‒ is an absolute must. The district of Roppongi itself is also well worth a visit: with its Tokyo Tower, it is a city within a city, full of restaurants, clubs, bars and shops for a shopping spree. Go to Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Cruises visiting Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan photo — Day 115 Apr 29, 2027 Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Arrives 08:00 Your MSC cruise will take you to Tokyo, symbol of Japanese modernity and traditions. Located on the island of Honshū, this metropolis has almost 14 million inhabitants and is the capital of Japan. It is a multifaceted city, with futuristic buildings and skyscrapers, historical and religious monuments, ancient districts and lush parks. Not to mention art, music, design, shopping and theatre. This city has everything, so much so, that it is impossible to see it all. MSC offers a few excursions to give you the possibility to focus your visit on the places that you should really see. Like the historic district of Asakusa, named after a guard of the city of Tokyo, famous for the Sensō-ji Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. You can also take an excursion to marvel at modern Tokyo, starting from the famous district of Shibuya and the Shibuya crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, where six major roads converge. Moving on, you can lose yourself in the city’s many state-of-the-art buildings, like the Sumida Hokusai Museum, the experimental architecture in Ginza or the almost 300-feet high Ao Building. Strolling along the Sumida River, which flows through the city, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wonders of Tokyo. There is an excursion that will take you to the most important of the many museums in this metropolis, like the Tokyo National Museum, which houses artistic and archaeological finds, the MairaKan, a permanent exhibition of emerging science and innovation, or the Edo Tokyo Open Air Museum, which preserves the city’s architectural heritage. The National Art Center in Roppongi ‒ part of the Roppongi Art Triangle together with the Mori Art Museum and the Suntory Museum of Art ‒ is an absolute must. The district of Roppongi itself is also well worth a visit: with its Tokyo Tower, it is a city within a city, full of restaurants, clubs, bars and shops for a shopping spree. Go to Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan Cruises visiting Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Day 118 May 2, 2027 Miyako,Iwate, Japan 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore A pretty prefecture located on the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan's main island, Miyako, Iwate, is situated along the Pacific coast surrounded by stunning scenery of Sanriku Fukko National Park and a sandy coastline defined by dramatic rock formations carved by the pounding surf. This iconic landscape invokes images of the 'Pure Land,' a Buddhist concept of paradise, and is best appreciated from the deck of a cruise boat on the waters of Jodogahama. The city's natural wonders are woven within its cultural highlights, and a visit to Kamaishi Daikannon Statue, a towering statue of the Buddhist 'Goddess of Mercy,' showcases sparkling Kamaishi Bay, while the historic Rokando Cave, is home to "the waterfall of the heavenly cave," an underground cascade. No visit to Miyako's shores would be complete without paying reverence to the tragedy that occurred on March 11, 2011, when a powerful earthquake triggered a devastating 17-meterhigh tsunami. The Taro Kanko Hotel Tsunami Remains is a testament to the power of the community's resiliency and serves as commemorative site, an important destination for those lucky enough to visit the island as it blooms with renewal.

Day 126 May 10, 2027 Kodiak, Alaska 06:00 – 17:00 11.0 hrs ashore The domain of grizzlies, brown and black bears, Kodiak Island is a raw, wild, and utterly authentic Alaskan wilderness. The Emerald Isle is the USA's second-largest island, and with a wilderness stretching out over 3,670 square miles, it's a thrilling voyage into the Alaskan unknown. The weather may get a little cloudy at times, but the locals actively welcome a covering of cloud – perhaps partly because the clouds and fog are said to have deterred Japanese attacks during World War II's hostilities. View less Be sure to bring your camera with you; it's nigh on impossible to take a bad photo of these irresistible vistas - and you'll quickly see why Kodiak Island is the destination of choice for wildlife documentary producers. Cinematic setpieces regularly play out, as eagles soar over expansive sweeps of fir-tree forested mountains and still lakes, releasing occasional piercing calls. Some of the animal kingdom's most feared and revered creatures call Kodiak Island home, and your first sight of a bear reaching a massive paw into the water, or treading through a gently burbling stream, will live with you forever. Soar in a seaplane to track the bears with an expert guide. Masters of disguise, it often takes a trained eye to spot the bears in their natural habitats. Brush up on the skills you'll need in advance, with a read of our bear watching blog. [Insert blog: 7 tips for bear watching in Alaska]. The waters of Kodiak Island are also home to some of the world's most productive fishing. Try out your own skills, or accompany a seafaring fishing vessel, to witness life on the waves first-hand, as they plunder the depths of the ocean.

Day 128 May 12, 2027 Juneau 09:00 – 23:00 14.0 hrs ashore Extraordinary adventures amid nature's wildest staging await at Juneau. The majestic Mendenhall Glacier sprawls down from Juneau Icefield, which provides an icy cap to the area's rip-roaring scenery. State capitals simply don't get more dramatic than this isolated, remote city lost amid the Alaskan wilds. Even the roads eventually peter out, absorbed by forests and viewpoints, firmly underlining the isolated location, hidden behind an impenetrable wall of rigid mountains. Rise up to Mount Roberts Tramway's viewpoint, to see the city swallowed by this most colossal backdrop. View less This is glacier country, and no fewer than 38 ice flows branch off from the main Juneau Icefield, slowly carving out valleys in their wakes. Taku Glacier cuts deep into the mountain, forming a colossal sculpture that is one of the world's thickest - almost a mile deep. Mendenhall Glacier cascades down, just 12 miles away from downtown, terminating in its own lake and visitor centre. With 1,500 square miles of ice field to explore, one of the best ways to take in the magnitude and majesty of this epic ice sculpture is to hold on tight on as the propeller whirs, and you soar into the skies on an exhilarating sightseeing flight. Cruising up above the icy world that fills in these serrated mountain peaks is a once in a lifetime experience. The animals that inhabit the Southeast Alaskan wilds are just as inspiring as the landscapes – families of bears patrol the riverbanks, bald eagles survey the surroundings watchfully, and Pacific humpbacks migrate from Hawaii's waters to feast on the krill rich, icy waters. Fish for huge catches, power across the ice in a snow-sledge, or kayak just below glaciers. However you choose to immerse yourself in it, Juneau's incredible outdoor adventures never disappoint. Go to Juneau Cruises visiting Juneau

Juneau photo — Day 128 May 12, 2027 Juneau 09:00 – 23:00 14.0 hrs ashore Extraordinary adventures amid nature's wildest staging await at Juneau. The majestic Mendenhall Glacier sprawls down from Juneau Icefield, which provides an icy cap to the area's rip-roaring scenery. State capitals simply don't get more dramatic than this isolated, remote city lost amid the Alaskan wilds. Even the roads eventually peter out, absorbed by forests and viewpoints, firmly underlining the isolated location, hidden behind an impenetrable wall of rigid mountains. Rise up to Mount Roberts Tramway's viewpoint, to see the city swallowed by this most colossal backdrop. View less This is glacier country, and no fewer than 38 ice flows branch off from the main Juneau Icefield, slowly carving out valleys in their wakes. Taku Glacier cuts deep into the mountain, forming a colossal sculpture that is one of the world's thickest - almost a mile deep. Mendenhall Glacier cascades down, just 12 miles away from downtown, terminating in its own lake and visitor centre. With 1,500 square miles of ice field to explore, one of the best ways to take in the magnitude and majesty of this epic ice sculpture is to hold on tight on as the propeller whirs, and you soar into the skies on an exhilarating sightseeing flight. Cruising up above the icy world that fills in these serrated mountain peaks is a once in a lifetime experience. The animals that inhabit the Southeast Alaskan wilds are just as inspiring as the landscapes – families of bears patrol the riverbanks, bald eagles survey the surroundings watchfully, and Pacific humpbacks migrate from Hawaii's waters to feast on the krill rich, icy waters. Fish for huge catches, power across the ice in a snow-sledge, or kayak just below glaciers. However you choose to immerse yourself in it, Juneau's incredible outdoor adventures never disappoint. Go to Juneau Cruises visiting Juneau

Day 129 May 13, 2027 Icy Strait Point, Alaska 07:30 – 16:00 8.5 hrs ashore If there is one word that sums up Alaska it is nature. Mile and miles of it. And Icy Strait Point – one of Alaska’s most unspoilt destinations has – nature in spades. To begin with, Icy Straight Point is stunningly beautiful. It is the Alaska of your imagination: eagles soaring overhead, whales breeching before your eyes. Moody, low-hanging clouds set the scene while velvety green mountains provide the backdrop. Sparklingly clear waters lap at pebbly shores. View less These are beaches of the adventure kind, you won’t find sun loungers and sombreros here, more like kayaks and canoes, ready for those who want to take their discovery off shore. The village prides itself on being home to “more brown bears than humans”, so expect immersive wilderness experiences, from ATV adventures to zip lining through a canopy of trees! Located on Chichagoff Island, 35 miles west of Juneau and right in the centre of Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point began life as a salmon cannery business, providing employment for the residents of nearby Hoonah. The cannery has served the community in many ways, including proving housing for employees after a fire in 1944 destroyed many resident’s homes. It ceased to function entirely in 1999 and in 2001, the landing was repurposed as America’s only private cruise ship terminal. The Alaskan owned and operated terminal funnels all its profits back into the local environment and provides employment for around 85% of local residents, many of whom live in Alaska’s largest Native Tlingit village. Go to Icy Strait Point, Alaska Cruises visiting Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Icy Strait Point, Alaska photo — Day 129 May 13, 2027 Icy Strait Point, Alaska 07:30 – 16:00 8.5 hrs ashore If there is one word that sums up Alaska it is nature. Mile and miles of it. And Icy Strait Point – one of Alaska’s most unspoilt destinations has – nature in spades. To begin with, Icy Straight Point is stunningly beautiful. It is the Alaska of your imagination: eagles soaring overhead, whales breeching before your eyes. Moody, low-hanging clouds set the scene while velvety green mountains provide the backdrop. Sparklingly clear waters lap at pebbly shores. View less These are beaches of the adventure kind, you won’t find sun loungers and sombreros here, more like kayaks and canoes, ready for those who want to take their discovery off shore. The village prides itself on being home to “more brown bears than humans”, so expect immersive wilderness experiences, from ATV adventures to zip lining through a canopy of trees! Located on Chichagoff Island, 35 miles west of Juneau and right in the centre of Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point began life as a salmon cannery business, providing employment for the residents of nearby Hoonah. The cannery has served the community in many ways, including proving housing for employees after a fire in 1944 destroyed many resident’s homes. It ceased to function entirely in 1999 and in 2001, the landing was repurposed as America’s only private cruise ship terminal. The Alaskan owned and operated terminal funnels all its profits back into the local environment and provides employment for around 85% of local residents, many of whom live in Alaska’s largest Native Tlingit village. Go to Icy Strait Point, Alaska Cruises visiting Icy Strait Point, Alaska

Day 130 May 14, 2027 Ketchikan 11:30 – 22:00 10.5 hrs ashore The Salmon Capital of the World is a thrilling introduction to wild and wonderful Alaska, sitting at the southern gateway to the Inside Passage's famed route of larger than life scenery. Cruise through the waters, or soar just above in a sightseeing plane, to take in the full majesty of the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument. Home to grizzly and black bears - as well as cruising whales and swimming seals - the wildlife spotting opportunities in this majestic corner of the world are nothing short of spectacular. View less Towered over by steep banks and valley walls, Ketchikan's ocean inlet is peppered with granite stacks, looming from the waters. Surrounded by glorious landscapes, head to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, which is alive with bald eagles, black bears and remarkable, thick, yellow banana slugs - the squeamish are advised to keep well clear. Visit Ketchikan's Heritage Centre, where a collection of intricately carved totem poles rise up, preserving the heritage of the indigenous Tlingit and Haida people of these lands. Ketchikan has the world's largest collection, and some of the oldest and most precious totems in existence. This frontier city hasn’t always been so wholesome, however. See the colourful historic street that is built on crooked stilts over Ketchikan Creek, which has a crude history as the main red-light district in the city. The brothels closed in the 1950s, but you can explore this legendarily seedy past at Dolly’s House - a brothel turned museum. See the Married Man trail, a historical route used to enter Creek Street away from prying eyes. Go to Ketchikan Cruises visiting Ketchikan

Ketchikan photo — Day 130 May 14, 2027 Ketchikan 11:30 – 22:00 10.5 hrs ashore The Salmon Capital of the World is a thrilling introduction to wild and wonderful Alaska, sitting at the southern gateway to the Inside Passage's famed route of larger than life scenery. Cruise through the waters, or soar just above in a sightseeing plane, to take in the full majesty of the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument. Home to grizzly and black bears - as well as cruising whales and swimming seals - the wildlife spotting opportunities in this majestic corner of the world are nothing short of spectacular. View less Towered over by steep banks and valley walls, Ketchikan's ocean inlet is peppered with granite stacks, looming from the waters. Surrounded by glorious landscapes, head to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, which is alive with bald eagles, black bears and remarkable, thick, yellow banana slugs - the squeamish are advised to keep well clear. Visit Ketchikan's Heritage Centre, where a collection of intricately carved totem poles rise up, preserving the heritage of the indigenous Tlingit and Haida people of these lands. Ketchikan has the world's largest collection, and some of the oldest and most precious totems in existence. This frontier city hasn’t always been so wholesome, however. See the colourful historic street that is built on crooked stilts over Ketchikan Creek, which has a crude history as the main red-light district in the city. The brothels closed in the 1950s, but you can explore this legendarily seedy past at Dolly’s House - a brothel turned museum. See the Married Man trail, a historical route used to enter Creek Street away from prying eyes. Go to Ketchikan Cruises visiting Ketchikan

Day 133 May 17, 2027 Vancouver, Canada 07:30 – 21:00 13.5 hrs ashore Boasting mountains, sea, culture, art and so much more, many cities claim to have it all, but few can back it up like Vancouver. Famously livable, just visiting this highrise city - surrounded by staggering natural beauty - is a thrill. Offering all of the creature comforts of an ultra-modern, worldly metropolis - even downtown has a hint of mountain-freshness to its air - and part of Vancouver's appeal is how easily you can swap the skyscrapers for whale-filled oceans and mountain-punctured skies. View less Head up to the Vancouver Lookout Tower for the ultimate 360-degree views of the city glistening, amid the beautiful embrace of the beckoning wilderness beyond. But what to see first? Art lovers might choose the Vancouver Art Gallery or the Contemporary Art Gallery. Nature lovers might rush for the ferry to visit Vancouver Island - where they can encounter grizzly bears, whales and orcas. Culture vultures, on the other hand, will probably head for the sights and sounds of Canada's biggest Chinatown. From steaming dim sum for lunch to Chinese apothecaries offering herbs to soothe any illness, it’s all here thanks to the migrant workers of the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind treasure of Stanley Park brings wild wonder and natural beauty to this cosmopolitan city's doorstep, and the pine-tree clad park offers isolated trails and amazing views. Wander the Seawall that encircles it - a 20-mile coastal path, full of joggers, whizzing skaters and wandering couples. Grab a bike and cycle between Coal Harbour and Kitsilano Beach. You can top up your tan on the shore, as you soak in the glorious views of the mountains and cityscape from the sands. Go to Vancouver, Canada Cruises visiting Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, Canada photo — Day 133 May 17, 2027 Vancouver, Canada 07:30 – 21:00 13.5 hrs ashore Boasting mountains, sea, culture, art and so much more, many cities claim to have it all, but few can back it up like Vancouver. Famously livable, just visiting this highrise city - surrounded by staggering natural beauty - is a thrill. Offering all of the creature comforts of an ultra-modern, worldly metropolis - even downtown has a hint of mountain-freshness to its air - and part of Vancouver's appeal is how easily you can swap the skyscrapers for whale-filled oceans and mountain-punctured skies. View less Head up to the Vancouver Lookout Tower for the ultimate 360-degree views of the city glistening, amid the beautiful embrace of the beckoning wilderness beyond. But what to see first? Art lovers might choose the Vancouver Art Gallery or the Contemporary Art Gallery. Nature lovers might rush for the ferry to visit Vancouver Island - where they can encounter grizzly bears, whales and orcas. Culture vultures, on the other hand, will probably head for the sights and sounds of Canada's biggest Chinatown. From steaming dim sum for lunch to Chinese apothecaries offering herbs to soothe any illness, it’s all here thanks to the migrant workers of the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind treasure of Stanley Park brings wild wonder and natural beauty to this cosmopolitan city's doorstep, and the pine-tree clad park offers isolated trails and amazing views. Wander the Seawall that encircles it - a 20-mile coastal path, full of joggers, whizzing skaters and wandering couples. Grab a bike and cycle between Coal Harbour and Kitsilano Beach. You can top up your tan on the shore, as you soak in the glorious views of the mountains and cityscape from the sands. Go to Vancouver, Canada Cruises visiting Vancouver, Canada

Day 134 May 18, 2027 Seattle 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Even if you think you know Seattle, we guarantee that by your next visit, the city will have changed. Because that is the nature of Seattle, always marching unashamedly towards the future. This is the city that gave us Starbucks, Nirvana and Fraser (plus numerous other celebrities from music legends to retail giants). It’s a city that knows how to surf the next wave with aplomb and grace. It is the city of the future. That is not to say that it doesn’t treat its past with respect. View less Settled by five pioneer families in 1851, the town quickly grew after the Northern Railway was extended to meet the coast in 1893. The Gold Rush of 1897 sealed the city as one of the great places on the west coast. The history of the city’s 100 Mercer girls – girls that were brought back by pioneer Asa Mercer who deemed the city had shortage of marriageable women – is just one of the quirky facts that makes the Seattle impossible not to love. Seattle is the largest city in the state of Washington, yet there is a village vibe that is uncommon in metropolises. If you truly want to enjoy the unique hybrid of tradition and progression, then take a tour of Pike Place, Seattle’s famous farmer’s market. This was where the term “locavore” was coined, and local producer-customer meetings are not only commonplace, but are encouraged. Go hungry as the huge indoor market is laden with tasty options of food options, from fresh vegetables and fruit from to prepared food that can be eaten whilst enjoying a great view of the bay. Go to Seattle Cruises visiting Seattle

Seattle photo — Day 134 May 18, 2027 Seattle 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Even if you think you know Seattle, we guarantee that by your next visit, the city will have changed. Because that is the nature of Seattle, always marching unashamedly towards the future. This is the city that gave us Starbucks, Nirvana and Fraser (plus numerous other celebrities from music legends to retail giants). It’s a city that knows how to surf the next wave with aplomb and grace. It is the city of the future. That is not to say that it doesn’t treat its past with respect. View less Settled by five pioneer families in 1851, the town quickly grew after the Northern Railway was extended to meet the coast in 1893. The Gold Rush of 1897 sealed the city as one of the great places on the west coast. The history of the city’s 100 Mercer girls – girls that were brought back by pioneer Asa Mercer who deemed the city had shortage of marriageable women – is just one of the quirky facts that makes the Seattle impossible not to love. Seattle is the largest city in the state of Washington, yet there is a village vibe that is uncommon in metropolises. If you truly want to enjoy the unique hybrid of tradition and progression, then take a tour of Pike Place, Seattle’s famous farmer’s market. This was where the term “locavore” was coined, and local producer-customer meetings are not only commonplace, but are encouraged. Go hungry as the huge indoor market is laden with tasty options of food options, from fresh vegetables and fruit from to prepared food that can be eaten whilst enjoying a great view of the bay. Go to Seattle Cruises visiting Seattle

Day 135 May 19, 2027 Victoria, British Columbia, Canada 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Of all the cities in Canada, Victoria may be the furthest from Great Britain, but it has the most British vibe. Between sipping afternoon tea, visiting flower gardens and castles and stopping in at pubs, one could easily forget about the Pacific Ocean lapping at the other side of Vancouver Island. The influence of the First Nations culture is also strong here in Victoria, with totem poles taking a front-and-center position on the Inner Harbour and in Beacon Hill Park. Extensive galleries are devoted to the history of the First People at the Royal British Columbia Museum, too, one of Victoria's top tourist attractions. Other waves of immigration besides that of the English are evident in the streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown here, as well as on the menus of the city’s many restaurants, pizzerias and tavernas. Start your visit to Victoria's sights and attractions at the Inner Harbour. Whale-watching cruises and sightseeing floatplanes take off and return from their excursions here and government buildings, museums, the Visitor Centre and the grand Fairmont Empress provide a dignified welcome. Just around the point, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a lively contrast with working fishing boats, barking harbor seals and busy seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Take time for a jaunt to the famous Butchart Gardens, a truly stunning show garden developed on the site of a depleted quarry. Enjoy afternoon tea or a walk in the park or a shopping trip to Market Square or along Government Street. However you choose to spend your day here or decide where to go in Victoria, the city’s civilized delights will charm you. Go to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Cruises visiting Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada photo — Day 135 May 19, 2027 Victoria, British Columbia, Canada 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Of all the cities in Canada, Victoria may be the furthest from Great Britain, but it has the most British vibe. Between sipping afternoon tea, visiting flower gardens and castles and stopping in at pubs, one could easily forget about the Pacific Ocean lapping at the other side of Vancouver Island. The influence of the First Nations culture is also strong here in Victoria, with totem poles taking a front-and-center position on the Inner Harbour and in Beacon Hill Park. Extensive galleries are devoted to the history of the First People at the Royal British Columbia Museum, too, one of Victoria's top tourist attractions. Other waves of immigration besides that of the English are evident in the streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown here, as well as on the menus of the city’s many restaurants, pizzerias and tavernas. Start your visit to Victoria's sights and attractions at the Inner Harbour. Whale-watching cruises and sightseeing floatplanes take off and return from their excursions here and government buildings, museums, the Visitor Centre and the grand Fairmont Empress provide a dignified welcome. Just around the point, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a lively contrast with working fishing boats, barking harbor seals and busy seafood restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Take time for a jaunt to the famous Butchart Gardens, a truly stunning show garden developed on the site of a depleted quarry. Enjoy afternoon tea or a walk in the park or a shopping trip to Market Square or along Government Street. However you choose to spend your day here or decide where to go in Victoria, the city’s civilized delights will charm you. Go to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Cruises visiting Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Day 136 May 20, 2027 Astoria,Oregon 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore Scenic Astoria, Oregon, is awash in history and raffish port town charm. For a city of just 10,000 people, there’s much to do. Climb its famous column to see a vast panorama of water and woods. Pub-crawl the waterfront Riverwalk with the help, in season, of an old-fashioned trolley. Feast on fresh seafood. Explore a state-of-the-art maritime museum, a low-tech cannery museum or a river pilot’s Gilded Age mansion. Or take a short trek to Fort Clatsop, named for the local tribe, where Lewis and Clark hunkered down in the cold, rainy winter of 1805. Six years later, John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company started the first permanent U.S. settlement on the west coast. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria became a vibrant port with a strong economy based on shipping, fishing and timber. In the 1980s both the Bumble Bee Seafood canneries and the Astoria Plywood Mill closed and the era of tourism began. Starting with The Goonies, the town also became a popular movie set—scenes in Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy, Short Circuit, The Ring Two, Into the Wild and The Guardian were all shot in the charming, steep-hilled town. Today Astoria’s fine restaurants, brewpubs, trendy hotels and quirky shops—along with its impressive views and nearby Pacific beaches—make it a great place for a relaxed visit. Go to Astoria,Oregon Cruises visiting Astoria,Oregon

Astoria,Oregon photo — Day 136 May 20, 2027 Astoria,Oregon 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore Scenic Astoria, Oregon, is awash in history and raffish port town charm. For a city of just 10,000 people, there’s much to do. Climb its famous column to see a vast panorama of water and woods. Pub-crawl the waterfront Riverwalk with the help, in season, of an old-fashioned trolley. Feast on fresh seafood. Explore a state-of-the-art maritime museum, a low-tech cannery museum or a river pilot’s Gilded Age mansion. Or take a short trek to Fort Clatsop, named for the local tribe, where Lewis and Clark hunkered down in the cold, rainy winter of 1805. Six years later, John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company started the first permanent U.S. settlement on the west coast. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria became a vibrant port with a strong economy based on shipping, fishing and timber. In the 1980s both the Bumble Bee Seafood canneries and the Astoria Plywood Mill closed and the era of tourism began. Starting with The Goonies, the town also became a popular movie set—scenes in Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy, Short Circuit, The Ring Two, Into the Wild and The Guardian were all shot in the charming, steep-hilled town. Today Astoria’s fine restaurants, brewpubs, trendy hotels and quirky shops—along with its impressive views and nearby Pacific beaches—make it a great place for a relaxed visit. Go to Astoria,Oregon Cruises visiting Astoria,Oregon

Day 140 May 24, 2027 San Diego, California 06:30 – 20:00 13.5 hrs ashore Free from smog and jungle-like freeways, San Diego sits gracefully around a beautiful curving bay. Although affluent and conservative, this second largest city in California is also amiable and easygoing. San Diego has a vibrant and active downtown area, and since the late 1970s several blocks of early 20th century architecture have been stylishly renovated, while the sleek modern bank buildings symbolize the city's growing economic significance on the Pacific Rim. San Diego is the birthplace of California. Portuguese explorer Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo landed here in 1542; since then, San Diego has been under Spanish, Mexican and after 1846, American rule. The city really took off with the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in the 1880s, but in terms of trade and significance it has long played second fiddle to Los Angeles. However, during World War II the U.S. Navy made San Diego their Pacific Command Center and the military continue to dominate the local economy, along now with tourism. Within easy reach of the downtown area, encompassing 1,400 acres of cultural, recreational and environmental delights, San Diego's Balboa Park is a sumptuous place with trees, gardens, traffic-free promenades and a large concentration of Spanish-colonial style buildings. The Hillcrest area is the lively and artsy center of the city, and Old Town San Diego is now a historical park where the city's Spanish and Mexican history and heritage are most evident. The Gaslamp Quarter, once the heart of frontier San Diego, is today filled with smart streets lined with chic cafés, antique stores, art galleries and gas lamps (powered by electricity). Most of the eastern part of the county is taken up by the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert. Another must-see is the city's most famous attraction, the San Diego Zoo. Go to San Diego, California Cruises visiting San Diego, California

Day 143 May 27, 2027 Cabo San Lucas 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Found at the tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is where the desert meets the ocean. Although it has received a makeover of modern Americana in recent years, this place is still a world away from everywhere else in Mexico. A trip to Cabo (the San Lucas is optional) will not leave you disappointed. With swaying palm trees, turquoise seas and long ribbons of white sand, this is a resort that ticks every box: great food, great nightlight which equal great times – for some. Others may prefer to scratch the surface just a bit deeper and travel along the peninsula that is known for its dramatic scenery of desert terrain and rugged coastline marked by many unusual formations. The sweeping views of the bay are simply sensational. A quick turn inward takes you to San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas’ older and more grown up sister. Offering a very much calmer and much more authentic atmosphere, just half an hour along the coast leaves you in its desert terrain, and leaves a very different impression from the lively beachfront bars and cafes of San Lucas. Perhaps one of the most stunning ways to see Cabo though is from the water. With the Arco de Cabo San Lucas featuring highly on many must-see lists, a trip around the bay is a must. The braver among you might also like to indulge their inner adrenalin junkie and swim with whale sharks – a memorable and totally risk-free experience if there ever was one. End your day of sightseeing with a fabulous sunset, a (tequila) sunrise in hand, watching the fishermen come home from their adventures. Go to Cabo San Lucas Cruises visiting Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas photo — Day 143 May 27, 2027 Cabo San Lucas 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Found at the tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is where the desert meets the ocean. Although it has received a makeover of modern Americana in recent years, this place is still a world away from everywhere else in Mexico. A trip to Cabo (the San Lucas is optional) will not leave you disappointed. With swaying palm trees, turquoise seas and long ribbons of white sand, this is a resort that ticks every box: great food, great nightlight which equal great times – for some. Others may prefer to scratch the surface just a bit deeper and travel along the peninsula that is known for its dramatic scenery of desert terrain and rugged coastline marked by many unusual formations. The sweeping views of the bay are simply sensational. A quick turn inward takes you to San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas’ older and more grown up sister. Offering a very much calmer and much more authentic atmosphere, just half an hour along the coast leaves you in its desert terrain, and leaves a very different impression from the lively beachfront bars and cafes of San Lucas. Perhaps one of the most stunning ways to see Cabo though is from the water. With the Arco de Cabo San Lucas featuring highly on many must-see lists, a trip around the bay is a must. The braver among you might also like to indulge their inner adrenalin junkie and swim with whale sharks – a memorable and totally risk-free experience if there ever was one. End your day of sightseeing with a fabulous sunset, a (tequila) sunrise in hand, watching the fishermen come home from their adventures. Go to Cabo San Lucas Cruises visiting Cabo San Lucas

Day 147 May 31, 2027 Puerto Quetzal 09:30 – 20:00 10.5 hrs ashore A voyage between fire and water, between majestic volcanoes and stunning lakes. There are so many colors, you can get lost in them, from the bright traditional clothes of the people to the church facades. Everything is a rainbow of life in Guatemala, starting from Puerto Quetzal, the largest port in the country found on the Pacific Ocean and one of the stops of your MSC World Cruise. In the heart of the Mayan culture in Central America, you will begin an adventure that will combine the beauty of an artistic heritage with natural splendors, the discovery of ancient civilizations and the ruins of a still alive and vivacious people, such as can be found at the impressive ruins of Tikal, the largest of the ancient Mayan cities. The Mayan culture survives in the clothes of the people, religious processions, markets and sawdust and petal carpets, a symbol of Guatemalan sacredness. All of this can be found surrounded by an unspoiled habitat, one of the highest volcanoes in the region and what is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Your MSC cruise will take you along the enchanting shores of Lake Atitlan, formed 84,000 years ago in the highlands of Guatemala. Surrounded by many villages, where the inhabitants still wear Mayan traditional dress, the Atitlan boasts immense crops of coffee, avocado groves and a wide variety of agricultural crops along its shores. From Puerto Quetzal, you can easily reach another stop on your holiday: Antigua, a beautiful colonial city located in the center of the country. Famous for its examples of well-preserved Hispano-American Baroque architecture, the city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. With MSC Cruises, you can experience the lifestyle of Guatemala and its ancient evocative traditions, changing it from a dream into reality. Go to Puerto Quetzal Cruises visiting Puerto Quetzal

Puerto Quetzal photo — Day 147 May 31, 2027 Puerto Quetzal 09:30 – 20:00 10.5 hrs ashore A voyage between fire and water, between majestic volcanoes and stunning lakes. There are so many colors, you can get lost in them, from the bright traditional clothes of the people to the church facades. Everything is a rainbow of life in Guatemala, starting from Puerto Quetzal, the largest port in the country found on the Pacific Ocean and one of the stops of your MSC World Cruise. In the heart of the Mayan culture in Central America, you will begin an adventure that will combine the beauty of an artistic heritage with natural splendors, the discovery of ancient civilizations and the ruins of a still alive and vivacious people, such as can be found at the impressive ruins of Tikal, the largest of the ancient Mayan cities. The Mayan culture survives in the clothes of the people, religious processions, markets and sawdust and petal carpets, a symbol of Guatemalan sacredness. All of this can be found surrounded by an unspoiled habitat, one of the highest volcanoes in the region and what is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Your MSC cruise will take you along the enchanting shores of Lake Atitlan, formed 84,000 years ago in the highlands of Guatemala. Surrounded by many villages, where the inhabitants still wear Mayan traditional dress, the Atitlan boasts immense crops of coffee, avocado groves and a wide variety of agricultural crops along its shores. From Puerto Quetzal, you can easily reach another stop on your holiday: Antigua, a beautiful colonial city located in the center of the country. Famous for its examples of well-preserved Hispano-American Baroque architecture, the city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. With MSC Cruises, you can experience the lifestyle of Guatemala and its ancient evocative traditions, changing it from a dream into reality. Go to Puerto Quetzal Cruises visiting Puerto Quetzal

Day 148 Jun 1, 2027 Acajutla, El Salvador 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Located in southwest El Salvador, the Pacific coast town of Acajutla was founded in 1524 and is the country’s primary seaport. It’s also a gateway to canopy tours of the Apaneca forests, day trips to the Izalco Volcano and beautiful beaches like Los Cabanos, which is popular amongst surfers and divers. Follow the Route of the Flowers, which winds its way through picturesque small towns, and celebrates cultural events and cuisine, or visit Chalchuapa, home to the pre-Colombian archeological site of Tazumal. These Mayan ruins are believed to date back to AD 100, and are considered the best preserved in all of El Salvador. Go to Acajutla, El Salvador Cruises visiting Acajutla, El Salvador

Day 150 Jun 3, 2027 Puntarenas, Costa Rica 08:00 – 21:00 13.0 hrs ashore The Pearl of the Pacific Ocean On a fine sandy peninsula, 8 km long and an average width of 400 meters, Puntarenas, the "Pearl of the Pacific" can be found. During your MSC World Cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit this city, formerly the largest port in the country and now a busy place full of life, characterized by beautiful beaches and lush nature. One of the best excursions during your holiday in this land will be the Rainforest Skywalk, a combination of suspension bridges and trails through the rain forest to get you acquainted with one of the most complex ecosystems in the world made up of numerous native plant and animal species that can be observed directly in their natural habitat. Puntarenas is also famous for another treasure: its coffee, known as "Grano de Oro". It is not only among the best and most appreciated across the planet, but it has played a key role in the development of Costa Rica, affecting social institutions, culture and politics in the country. Thanks to your MSC Cruise, you will have the chance to taste exceptional coffee in its land of origin, where its roots can be found in the late 1700s in this fertile land with a cool climate, and which even today is one of the main agricultural exports of the country . Our cruise ship will also lead you on the discovery of San José, the capital city which is 115 km from Puntarenas. It is a must-see for its natural beauty, museums, historical sites and its characteristic streets markets. On its streets, you will find a cosmopolitan culture but one that is at the same time very close to roots. Surrounded by mountains and full of rivers and streams, San José is the icing on the cake of your vacation with MSC Cruises. Go to Puntarenas, Costa Rica Cruises visiting Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Puntarenas, Costa Rica photo — Day 150 Jun 3, 2027 Puntarenas, Costa Rica 08:00 – 21:00 13.0 hrs ashore The Pearl of the Pacific Ocean On a fine sandy peninsula, 8 km long and an average width of 400 meters, Puntarenas, the "Pearl of the Pacific" can be found. During your MSC World Cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit this city, formerly the largest port in the country and now a busy place full of life, characterized by beautiful beaches and lush nature. One of the best excursions during your holiday in this land will be the Rainforest Skywalk, a combination of suspension bridges and trails through the rain forest to get you acquainted with one of the most complex ecosystems in the world made up of numerous native plant and animal species that can be observed directly in their natural habitat. Puntarenas is also famous for another treasure: its coffee, known as "Grano de Oro". It is not only among the best and most appreciated across the planet, but it has played a key role in the development of Costa Rica, affecting social institutions, culture and politics in the country. Thanks to your MSC Cruise, you will have the chance to taste exceptional coffee in its land of origin, where its roots can be found in the late 1700s in this fertile land with a cool climate, and which even today is one of the main agricultural exports of the country . Our cruise ship will also lead you on the discovery of San José, the capital city which is 115 km from Puntarenas. It is a must-see for its natural beauty, museums, historical sites and its characteristic streets markets. On its streets, you will find a cosmopolitan culture but one that is at the same time very close to roots. Surrounded by mountains and full of rivers and streams, San José is the icing on the cake of your vacation with MSC Cruises. Go to Puntarenas, Costa Rica Cruises visiting Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Day 153 Jun 6, 2027 Cartagena, Colombia Arrives 13:30 Cobbled streets, balconies overflowing with blooming bougainvillea and pastel-coloured buildings lining elegant plazas make Cartagena in Colombia one of the Caribbean's most photogenic cities, and a memorable stop on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Founded in 1533, this Spanish colonial city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is steeped in history. Its location made it a popular target for plunderers and English pirates, and arguably features the most impressive collection of forts in the Caribbean. Today the city is eager to share its treasures with modern visitors. Magnificent colonial structures such as the 16th-century Santa Catalina Cathedral, with its striking stuccoes and dome tower, and the three-arch clock gate, the Torre del Reloj, are just two of the many landmarks of this enchanting city dotted with many squares and sidewalk cafés. A wonderful photo stop on our Cartagena City MSC excursion is the San Felipe de Barajas fortress, a marvel of colonial Spanish military engineering. Its construction began in 1536. Slaves la-boured for more than 120 years to erect this fortress - built on high ground with dominating ap-proaches to the city by land and sea to fend off pirates - and its network of tunnels. On yet another MSC excursion, enrich your palate as you learn about the rich aromas and flavours of Colombian coffee. Introduced by the Jesuits in 1723, coffee quickly became a key crop in Colombia, which is now one of the top producers of Arabica coffee in the world. Colombia is also the world’s top producer of emeralds. If jewellery and gems fascinate you, learn all about these green precious stones and make your own emerald-studded jewellery in sterling silver during a hands-on MSC excursion that guides you step-by-step. And you don’t need to go far to explore nature. An MSC excursion takes you by canoe through mangrove tunnels to Ciénaga de la Virgen, where you can witness a diversity of birds from king-fishers and white herons to pelicans and pink-feathered roseate spoonbills. Go to Cartagena, Colombia Cruises visiting Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia photo — Day 153 Jun 6, 2027 Cartagena, Colombia Arrives 13:30 Cobbled streets, balconies overflowing with blooming bougainvillea and pastel-coloured buildings lining elegant plazas make Cartagena in Colombia one of the Caribbean's most photogenic cities, and a memorable stop on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Founded in 1533, this Spanish colonial city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is steeped in history. Its location made it a popular target for plunderers and English pirates, and arguably features the most impressive collection of forts in the Caribbean. Today the city is eager to share its treasures with modern visitors. Magnificent colonial structures such as the 16th-century Santa Catalina Cathedral, with its striking stuccoes and dome tower, and the three-arch clock gate, the Torre del Reloj, are just two of the many landmarks of this enchanting city dotted with many squares and sidewalk cafés. A wonderful photo stop on our Cartagena City MSC excursion is the San Felipe de Barajas fortress, a marvel of colonial Spanish military engineering. Its construction began in 1536. Slaves la-boured for more than 120 years to erect this fortress - built on high ground with dominating ap-proaches to the city by land and sea to fend off pirates - and its network of tunnels. On yet another MSC excursion, enrich your palate as you learn about the rich aromas and flavours of Colombian coffee. Introduced by the Jesuits in 1723, coffee quickly became a key crop in Colombia, which is now one of the top producers of Arabica coffee in the world. Colombia is also the world’s top producer of emeralds. If jewellery and gems fascinate you, learn all about these green precious stones and make your own emerald-studded jewellery in sterling silver during a hands-on MSC excursion that guides you step-by-step. And you don’t need to go far to explore nature. An MSC excursion takes you by canoe through mangrove tunnels to Ciénaga de la Virgen, where you can witness a diversity of birds from king-fishers and white herons to pelicans and pink-feathered roseate spoonbills. Go to Cartagena, Colombia Cruises visiting Cartagena, Colombia

Day 157 Jun 10, 2027 Miami, Florida 06:30 – 18:00 11.5 hrs ashore Miami is called the gateway to the Americas, and it’s indeed a very glamourous global city to explore at the start or end of an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Home to many cultures, the city of Miami sizzles with flavours from the Americas, beginning with Cuba and the Little Havana neighbourhood - one of the most historically significant places, while Wynwood is famous for its wall art and Puerto Rican history. Across Biscayne Bay lies the city of Miami Beach, home to the world-famous South Beach. An MSC-arranged guided private tour opens up a world of possibilities for you: enjoy the beach, take in the city’s Art Deco architecture and enjoy a drink on legendary Ocean Drive, where you can people watch, and perhaps spot a celebrity. If time permits, take a stroll on artsy Lincoln Road packed with street side cafes and shops. Facing the MSC Cruises port in downtown Miami is Bayside Marketplace - a lively commercial centre that is a staging area for boat tours of Miami. Seeing the city from the water, with its impressive skyline and waterfront mansions, is an experience in itself. The downtown area also boasts the dazzling Performing Arts Centre, the Museum of Science, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (known as the PAMM), scenic Bayfront Park and the arena where the 3-time NBA champion Miami Heat basketball team plays. Miami is renowned for its shopping. Hop on a tour to see the major city sights followed by retail therapy at one of Miami's largest and newest shopping malls: Dolphin Mall. With more than 240 retail outlets, you’re bound to need a bit of room in your luggage for your purchases. Luckily, there are several luggage stores at the mall to fill that need. Head west past the city into untamed wilderness on an MSC excursion into the Everglades. At this national park where water is the central feature, unlike any other in North America, nature enthusiasts can hop on an airboat tour through the swampland and waterways to spot alligators and a variety of birds. Go to Miami, Florida Cruises visiting Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida photo — Day 157 Jun 10, 2027 Miami, Florida 06:30 – 18:00 11.5 hrs ashore Miami is called the gateway to the Americas, and it’s indeed a very glamourous global city to explore at the start or end of an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Home to many cultures, the city of Miami sizzles with flavours from the Americas, beginning with Cuba and the Little Havana neighbourhood - one of the most historically significant places, while Wynwood is famous for its wall art and Puerto Rican history. Across Biscayne Bay lies the city of Miami Beach, home to the world-famous South Beach. An MSC-arranged guided private tour opens up a world of possibilities for you: enjoy the beach, take in the city’s Art Deco architecture and enjoy a drink on legendary Ocean Drive, where you can people watch, and perhaps spot a celebrity. If time permits, take a stroll on artsy Lincoln Road packed with street side cafes and shops. Facing the MSC Cruises port in downtown Miami is Bayside Marketplace - a lively commercial centre that is a staging area for boat tours of Miami. Seeing the city from the water, with its impressive skyline and waterfront mansions, is an experience in itself. The downtown area also boasts the dazzling Performing Arts Centre, the Museum of Science, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (known as the PAMM), scenic Bayfront Park and the arena where the 3-time NBA champion Miami Heat basketball team plays. Miami is renowned for its shopping. Hop on a tour to see the major city sights followed by retail therapy at one of Miami's largest and newest shopping malls: Dolphin Mall. With more than 240 retail outlets, you’re bound to need a bit of room in your luggage for your purchases. Luckily, there are several luggage stores at the mall to fill that need. Head west past the city into untamed wilderness on an MSC excursion into the Everglades. At this national park where water is the central feature, unlike any other in North America, nature enthusiasts can hop on an airboat tour through the swampland and waterways to spot alligators and a variety of birds. Go to Miami, Florida Cruises visiting Miami, Florida

Day 160 Jun 13, 2027 New York 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Wake up to be part of a city that never sleeps. Fly by helicopter over the Manhattan Skyline for flawless images of the Statue of Liberty, neon-lit Times Square, sprawling Central Park, the skyscraping Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. Explore Picasso, Pollock and others at the Museum of Modern Art. Then create your own kitsch masterpiece from a blank canvas at a painting party in Havana’s emporium. Pay your respects and honour gallant heroes at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum mission. Listen to backstage stories in the Broadway theatre district, shop in the East Village, eat streetside hotdogs, sip cocktails in elegant bars, take in a show. And as evening falls, take a walk with your loved one over Brooklyn Bridge. Big, bold and brash – there's a lot to bite off in the Big Apple. Go to New York Cruises visiting New York

New York photo — Day 160 Jun 13, 2027 New York 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Wake up to be part of a city that never sleeps. Fly by helicopter over the Manhattan Skyline for flawless images of the Statue of Liberty, neon-lit Times Square, sprawling Central Park, the skyscraping Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. Explore Picasso, Pollock and others at the Museum of Modern Art. Then create your own kitsch masterpiece from a blank canvas at a painting party in Havana’s emporium. Pay your respects and honour gallant heroes at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum mission. Listen to backstage stories in the Broadway theatre district, shop in the East Village, eat streetside hotdogs, sip cocktails in elegant bars, take in a show. And as evening falls, take a walk with your loved one over Brooklyn Bridge. Big, bold and brash – there's a lot to bite off in the Big Apple. Go to New York Cruises visiting New York

Day 161 Jun 14, 2027 Newport, Rhode Island 08:30 – 18:00 9.5 hrs ashore A prime slice of New England coastline, Newport serves up colonial splendour, striking seascapes, and some of the freshest seafood around. One of America’s most historic cities, drop in on the oldest library in the country, visit an incredible fortress city, and wander beside spectacular summer houses. With wild beaches, wineries, breweries and festivals for every season, Newport has lost none of its enticing allure. View less The fresh, ocean air of Newport was much sought after during the Gilded Age, as the rich and powerful made their mark, building grand and stately mansions overlooking the waves. These magnificent houses - and landscaped gardens - add whitewash grandeur to the beautiful stretch of coastline. Take the 3.5-mile coastal walk, out across rugged cliffs with birds calling out, and wildflowers dotting the path. Be warned that the walk does become a little more difficult as it progresses. Stroll the coast, and sit to watch surfers catching Atlantic rollers, or take the twists and turns of Newport's incredible ocean drive, to soak in the wonderful views by road. Laced with underground tunnels, Fort Adams is Newport’s sprawling complex military fortress. Surrounded by Fort Adams State Park, you can enjoy the relaxed surroundings, absorbing scenic views of the harbour and Narragansett Bay. Unpack a picknick on the grass, as the swells of music carry on the sea breeze - especially during the annual folk and jazz festivals. Or try great Newport seafood in the bustling eateries of repurposed wharves - serving up Rhode Island specials like steamed lobster and clams.

Day 162 Jun 15, 2027 Boston, USA 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore If there is any American city where you can breathe some “European air”, it is Boston: a large city built for people, thanks to its center area that can be easily visited on foot or by public transport. Your MSC cruise will take you on the discovery of the capital of Massachusetts offering many opportunities to relive its history, immerse yourself in its arts, visit its museums and taste the flavors of one of America's most famous breweries. What makes Boston different is the unique way that it combines attention to the past with an ambitious enthusiasm for modernity. Walking through the city, it is not unusual to find a historical house from the times of the American Revolution placed next to a futuristic skyscraper, a truly fascinating mixture. A walk along the famous Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to breathe in the atmosphere of Boston and absorb the spirit of a city rich in historical monuments. An absolute must to visit is the area of Cambridge, the cradle of the greatest minds in the country, home to MIT and Harvard, two of the most important universities in the world where both prominent figures and US presidents have studied. When it comes to Boston, there are not only things to see, but also delights to be savored. If you like gourmet food, take a trip to QuincyMarket: this lively market is a great place to buy fast food and be surprised by eccentric street artists. Do you want to swim, hike, explore the ruins of an ancient fort and camp under the stars in a national park? You can do all of this in Boston on your MSC cruise. The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area consists of 34 narrow islands scattered around the historic New England harbor where you can visit “hidden pearls” by boarding one of the seasonal ferries that sail from Boston Long Wharf. Go to Boston, USA Cruises visiting Boston, USA

Boston, USA photo — Day 162 Jun 15, 2027 Boston, USA 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore If there is any American city where you can breathe some “European air”, it is Boston: a large city built for people, thanks to its center area that can be easily visited on foot or by public transport. Your MSC cruise will take you on the discovery of the capital of Massachusetts offering many opportunities to relive its history, immerse yourself in its arts, visit its museums and taste the flavors of one of America's most famous breweries. What makes Boston different is the unique way that it combines attention to the past with an ambitious enthusiasm for modernity. Walking through the city, it is not unusual to find a historical house from the times of the American Revolution placed next to a futuristic skyscraper, a truly fascinating mixture. A walk along the famous Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to breathe in the atmosphere of Boston and absorb the spirit of a city rich in historical monuments. An absolute must to visit is the area of Cambridge, the cradle of the greatest minds in the country, home to MIT and Harvard, two of the most important universities in the world where both prominent figures and US presidents have studied. When it comes to Boston, there are not only things to see, but also delights to be savored. If you like gourmet food, take a trip to QuincyMarket: this lively market is a great place to buy fast food and be surprised by eccentric street artists. Do you want to swim, hike, explore the ruins of an ancient fort and camp under the stars in a national park? You can do all of this in Boston on your MSC cruise. The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area consists of 34 narrow islands scattered around the historic New England harbor where you can visit “hidden pearls” by boarding one of the seasonal ferries that sail from Boston Long Wharf. Go to Boston, USA Cruises visiting Boston, USA

Day 164 Jun 17, 2027 Halifax 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Canada is a huge country that offers tourists a large number of wonderful attractions to visit and explore. One of those not to be missed is Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia found on the east coast of Canada and one of the places you can visit on an MSC Cruise. Each city has a symbol that represents it more than anything else: for Halifax, its citadel that dates back to the late 18th century, famous in Canada both for its beauty and for its historical importance, fills that role. Inside the star-shaped citadel, you can explore the history of Halifax on guided tours. The museum staff, dressed as soldiers of the army and navy, will show you the clothes used in the past and other items in maritime activities. To the south-west of the city, your MSC cruise will offer you an excursion to one of the most beautiful and evocative settings on the Atlantic coast, the small village of Peggy's Cove, famous for its red lighthouse that was built in 1868. In this fishing village, elements of nature and domestic intimacy coexist: it is a land of boulders eroded by glaciers where the presence of humans can be found only in a handful of colorful houses and fishing shacks over the waters of the marina. The village lighthouse stands on top of a granite outcropping, made slippery by the splashes of the ocean waves. Less than a kilometer from the public gardens of Halifax can be found another place of great historical-cultural interest that you can visit on your MSC cruise: the Fairview Cemetery, a Canadian cemetery, famous for being the resting place for 121 victims of the shipwreck of the Titanic. Halifax's connection with the famous naval tragedy on April 15, 1912 can also be seen at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which houses an excellent permanent exhibition on the disaster, including photographs, wooden artifacts and the only intact Titanic deckchair in the world. Go to Halifax Cruises visiting Halifax

Halifax photo — Day 164 Jun 17, 2027 Halifax 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore Canada is a huge country that offers tourists a large number of wonderful attractions to visit and explore. One of those not to be missed is Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia found on the east coast of Canada and one of the places you can visit on an MSC Cruise. Each city has a symbol that represents it more than anything else: for Halifax, its citadel that dates back to the late 18th century, famous in Canada both for its beauty and for its historical importance, fills that role. Inside the star-shaped citadel, you can explore the history of Halifax on guided tours. The museum staff, dressed as soldiers of the army and navy, will show you the clothes used in the past and other items in maritime activities. To the south-west of the city, your MSC cruise will offer you an excursion to one of the most beautiful and evocative settings on the Atlantic coast, the small village of Peggy's Cove, famous for its red lighthouse that was built in 1868. In this fishing village, elements of nature and domestic intimacy coexist: it is a land of boulders eroded by glaciers where the presence of humans can be found only in a handful of colorful houses and fishing shacks over the waters of the marina. The village lighthouse stands on top of a granite outcropping, made slippery by the splashes of the ocean waves. Less than a kilometer from the public gardens of Halifax can be found another place of great historical-cultural interest that you can visit on your MSC cruise: the Fairview Cemetery, a Canadian cemetery, famous for being the resting place for 121 victims of the shipwreck of the Titanic. Halifax's connection with the famous naval tragedy on April 15, 1912 can also be seen at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which houses an excellent permanent exhibition on the disaster, including photographs, wooden artifacts and the only intact Titanic deckchair in the world. Go to Halifax Cruises visiting Halifax

Day 166 Jun 19, 2027 St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada 08:00 – 20:00 12.0 hrs ashore A One-of-a-Kind Natural Microcosm Wild landscapes, valleys dotted with farms, fishing villages, parks and islands all along the coast: all of this and more awaits you in New Brunswick, a beautiful maritime province in French Canada. Your MSC cruise will take you on the discovery of a natural land filled with a thousand secrets, surprising you with its magnificent coastline, mountains, forests and rivers, as well as the variety of wild animals that live there including bears, whales, moose and seals. This region is home to one of the oldest cities in Canada overlooking the beautiful Bay of Fundy: Saint John. There is no other place in the Maritimes with the same urban charm of a historic city balanced with the grandiose, natural charm of a bay famous for its impressive tides. On your MSC cruise, you will have a chance to discover this port city with its delightful Victorian architecture and steep historical streets, watch the ships dock at the port and admire the restaurants and shops near historic sites such as the New Brunswick Museum, home to the Hall of Great Whales and three floors of fascinating galleries . Saint John City Market is also not to be missed as it is the oldest agricultural market in North America: its beams are reminiscent of a ship's inverted hull offering a unique shopping experience. In Saint John, there is a natural microcosm that awaits you, especially in the Bay of Fundy where you can observe a truly unique phenomenon: the highest and most powerful tides in the world that can reach up to 16 m high. The surrounding landscape has been sculpted by billions of tons of water pouring in and out of the bay twice daily. The Bay of Fundy is also home to Hopewell Rocks Park, a group of rock formations that dot the water like islands during high tide and seem to be towers during low tide.

Day 171 Jun 24, 2027 Cobh, Ireland Arrives 17:00 When you step ashore from your MSC Northern Europe cruise in Cork, everywhere there is evidence of its history as a great mercantile centre, with grey-stone quaysides, old warehouses, and elegant, quirky bridges spanning the River Lee to each side of the city’s island core. But equally powerful draws are its lively atmosphere and large student population, combined with a vibrant social and cultural scene. Massive stone walls built by invading Normans in the twelfth century were destroyed by William III’s forces during the Siege of Cork in 1690, after which waterborne trade brought increasing prosperity, as witnessed by the city’s fine eighteenth-century bow-fronted houses and ostentatious nineteenth-century churches. The graceful arc of St Patrick’s Street – which with Grand Parade forms the commercial heart of the centre – is crammed with major chain stores. Just off here on Princes Street, the English Market offers the chance to sample local delicacies like drisheen (a peppered sausage made from a sheep’s stomach lining and blood). The west of the city is predominantly residential, though Fitzgerald Park is home to the Cork Public Museum, which focuses on Republican history. Kinsale, 25km south of Cork city, is also waiting to be enjoyed on an MSC Northern Europe cruise excursion. Kinsale enjoys a glorious setting at the head of a sheltered harbour around the mouth of the Bandon River. Two imposing forts and a fine tower-house remain as evidence of its former importance as a trading port, and Kinsale has built on its cosmopolitan links to become the culinary capital of the southwest. Add in plenty of opportunities for watersports on the fine local beaches and a number of congenial pubs, and you have a very appealing, upscale resort town. Go to Cobh, Ireland Cruises visiting Cobh, Ireland

Day 173 Jun 26, 2027 Plymouth, UK 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Plymouth, the largest city in Devon, has a long maritime history. Construction on the Royal Naval Dockyard was begun by William III in the late 17th century, and the site continues to serve as a naval base today. Excellent views of Plymouth Sound, with its many bays and inlets, may be enjoyed from the grassy esplanade known as the Hoe. Although heavy bombing destroyed much of Plymouth during World War II, a fascinating part of the past may still be seen in the Barbican, the oldest surviving section of the city. The Mayflower Steps mark the spot from which the Pilgrims sailed for the New World in 1620. You may wish to take a look inside the massive Royal Citadel, built by Charles II in 1666. The city houses Europe's premier oceanography institute with an unrivalled aquarium. An excursion into the lovely Devonshire countryside should prove a most pleasant diversion. Go to Plymouth, UK Cruises visiting Plymouth, UK

Day 174 Jun 27, 2027 Le Havre 07:00 – 18:30 11.5 hrs ashore As you sail on your MSC cruise to France, you’ll come to Le Havre, the country’s second-largest port, which takes up half the Seine estuary. However, the town itself, home to almost 200,000 people, is a place of pilgrimage for fans of contemporary architecture. Le Havre – “The Harbour” – is the principal trading post of northern France and a port of call of our MSC Northern Europe cruises. Following its near-destruction during World War II, Le Havre was rebuilt by a single architect, Auguste Perret, between 1946 and 1964. The sheer sense of space can be exhilarating: the showpiece monuments have a winning self-confidence, and the few surviving relics of the old city have been sensitively integrated into the whole. While the endless mundane residential blocks can be dispiriting, even those visitors who fail to agree with Perret’s famous dictum that “concrete is beautiful” may enjoy a stroll around his city. A shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise can also be the opportunity to discover Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy, one of France’s most ancient cities. Standing on the site of Rotomagus, built by the Romans at the lowest point where they could bridge the Seine, it was laid out by Rollo, the first duke of Normandy, in 911. Captured by the English in 1419, it became the stage in 1431 for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc, before returning to French control in 1449. Rouen today can be very seductive, its lively and bustling centre well equipped with impressive churches and museums. North of the Seine at any rate, it’s a real pleasure to explore. As well as some great sights – Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, all the delightful twisting streets of timbered houses – there’s history aplenty too, most notably the links with Joan of Arc. Go to Le Havre Cruises visiting Le Havre

Le Havre photo — Day 174 Jun 27, 2027 Le Havre 07:00 – 18:30 11.5 hrs ashore As you sail on your MSC cruise to France, you’ll come to Le Havre, the country’s second-largest port, which takes up half the Seine estuary. However, the town itself, home to almost 200,000 people, is a place of pilgrimage for fans of contemporary architecture. Le Havre – “The Harbour” – is the principal trading post of northern France and a port of call of our MSC Northern Europe cruises. Following its near-destruction during World War II, Le Havre was rebuilt by a single architect, Auguste Perret, between 1946 and 1964. The sheer sense of space can be exhilarating: the showpiece monuments have a winning self-confidence, and the few surviving relics of the old city have been sensitively integrated into the whole. While the endless mundane residential blocks can be dispiriting, even those visitors who fail to agree with Perret’s famous dictum that “concrete is beautiful” may enjoy a stroll around his city. A shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise can also be the opportunity to discover Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy, one of France’s most ancient cities. Standing on the site of Rotomagus, built by the Romans at the lowest point where they could bridge the Seine, it was laid out by Rollo, the first duke of Normandy, in 911. Captured by the English in 1419, it became the stage in 1431 for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc, before returning to French control in 1449. Rouen today can be very seductive, its lively and bustling centre well equipped with impressive churches and museums. North of the Seine at any rate, it’s a real pleasure to explore. As well as some great sights – Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, all the delightful twisting streets of timbered houses – there’s history aplenty too, most notably the links with Joan of Arc. Go to Le Havre Cruises visiting Le Havre

Day 176 Jun 29, 2027 Amsterdam 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Few can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste. Go to Amsterdam Cruises visiting Amsterdam

Amsterdam photo — Day 176 Jun 29, 2027 Amsterdam 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Few can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste. Go to Amsterdam Cruises visiting Amsterdam

Day 178 Jul 1, 2027 Warnemunde 07:30 – 21:00 13.5 hrs ashore The Warnemünde quarter in Rostock is a famous German seaside resort that you can visit when you reach the German coasts on your MSC cruise of northern Europe. At the mouth of the river Warnow, in the Baltic Sea, Warnemünde will surprise you with its villas, hotels and the large white and silver beach. Its heart is Am Strom, next to the port, where the homes of old captains and fishermen have been turned into coffee shops and boutiques. With an excursion during the cruise, you can continue towards Schwerin. Surrounded by lakes and with a fairytale Schloss that tickles the imagination, the town represents a pleasant surprise, given by the architecture and spirit of a historic capital. Continuing the excursion you can admire Lubeck, one of the few cities along Europe's northern coasts that preserves the glory of medieval times. For more than two centuries the standard bearer of the Hanseatic League, this was one of the wealthiest and most powerful of European cities, the Venice of the Baltic. The commercial opulence is best expressed in its architecture: from the oldest Rathaus in Germany to the churches with the tallest bell-towers to the merchants’ mansions. Lubecca is the first city in Northern Europe to be included in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in 1987. Finally, you should not leave out a visit to the cosmopolitan Berlin, the largest and liveliest city in Germany. Amongst the monuments to visit are the Brandebourgh Gate. Situated close to the Reichstag, the seat of the German parliament, the monument, designed on the model of Athens’ Acropolis, was built as the city’s arch of triumph in 1791 and soon became the symbol of unified Germany. The Brandenburg Gate looms over the ornamental gardens in Pariser Platz which extends eastwards towards the wide, tree-lined Unter den Linden avenue, that means “Beneath the linden trees”, flanked by shops and cafés. Go to Warnemunde Cruises visiting Warnemunde

Warnemunde photo — Day 178 Jul 1, 2027 Warnemunde 07:30 – 21:00 13.5 hrs ashore The Warnemünde quarter in Rostock is a famous German seaside resort that you can visit when you reach the German coasts on your MSC cruise of northern Europe. At the mouth of the river Warnow, in the Baltic Sea, Warnemünde will surprise you with its villas, hotels and the large white and silver beach. Its heart is Am Strom, next to the port, where the homes of old captains and fishermen have been turned into coffee shops and boutiques. With an excursion during the cruise, you can continue towards Schwerin. Surrounded by lakes and with a fairytale Schloss that tickles the imagination, the town represents a pleasant surprise, given by the architecture and spirit of a historic capital. Continuing the excursion you can admire Lubeck, one of the few cities along Europe's northern coasts that preserves the glory of medieval times. For more than two centuries the standard bearer of the Hanseatic League, this was one of the wealthiest and most powerful of European cities, the Venice of the Baltic. The commercial opulence is best expressed in its architecture: from the oldest Rathaus in Germany to the churches with the tallest bell-towers to the merchants’ mansions. Lubecca is the first city in Northern Europe to be included in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in 1987. Finally, you should not leave out a visit to the cosmopolitan Berlin, the largest and liveliest city in Germany. Amongst the monuments to visit are the Brandebourgh Gate. Situated close to the Reichstag, the seat of the German parliament, the monument, designed on the model of Athens’ Acropolis, was built as the city’s arch of triumph in 1791 and soon became the symbol of unified Germany. The Brandenburg Gate looms over the ornamental gardens in Pariser Platz which extends eastwards towards the wide, tree-lined Unter den Linden avenue, that means “Beneath the linden trees”, flanked by shops and cafés. Go to Warnemunde Cruises visiting Warnemunde

Day 179 Jul 2, 2027 Ronne, Bornholm 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore When you dock in Rønne on Bornholm, you’ll be joining a long list of historic visitors. Only about 40,000 people live here, but the island’s location in the middle of the Baltic Sea has made it a stopping point for sailors since the 1100s. The only difference now is that it attracts more international tourists than Vikings. People come to savor the beautiful scenery that includes craggy cliffs and white sand beaches, all topped with a dollop of sunshine. Add in a side of quaint churches, artists’ workshops and fresh local foods, and you’ve got quite a treat. Stop at Bornholm’s friendly welcome center if you want recommendations from locals.

Day 180 Jul 3, 2027 Gdynia 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Gdynia is your gateway port to Poland's fabled city of Gdansk. The city is over a millennium old - the first mention of Gdansk in history occurs in the year 997 A.D. A member of the Hanseatic League, Gdansk was the richest port on the Baltic and a cultural center that drew artists and intellectuals from across Europe. That heritage was imperiled, however, on September 1, 1939, when a German warship opened fire on a garrison north of the city, heralding World War II. By the war's end, Gdansk was in ruins and proud Poland lay in the grip of Russian occupation. The city proved indomitable as residents set about rebuilding the old city. In 1980, the spirit of Gdansk's people proved even stronger than the iron grip of communism: a food riot led to the birth of Solidarity, the trade-labor movement that played a pivotal role in bringing down the Iron Curtain. Gdansk is one of the amber centers of the world. This petrified tree resin has been revered for both jewelry and as a source of folk remedies for centuries. Gdansk's Old Town is a superb place to browse for amber jewelry and goods. Go to Gdynia Cruises visiting Gdynia

Gdynia photo — Day 180 Jul 3, 2027 Gdynia 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Gdynia is your gateway port to Poland's fabled city of Gdansk. The city is over a millennium old - the first mention of Gdansk in history occurs in the year 997 A.D. A member of the Hanseatic League, Gdansk was the richest port on the Baltic and a cultural center that drew artists and intellectuals from across Europe. That heritage was imperiled, however, on September 1, 1939, when a German warship opened fire on a garrison north of the city, heralding World War II. By the war's end, Gdansk was in ruins and proud Poland lay in the grip of Russian occupation. The city proved indomitable as residents set about rebuilding the old city. In 1980, the spirit of Gdansk's people proved even stronger than the iron grip of communism: a food riot led to the birth of Solidarity, the trade-labor movement that played a pivotal role in bringing down the Iron Curtain. Gdansk is one of the amber centers of the world. This petrified tree resin has been revered for both jewelry and as a source of folk remedies for centuries. Gdansk's Old Town is a superb place to browse for amber jewelry and goods. Go to Gdynia Cruises visiting Gdynia

Day 181 Jul 4, 2027 Klaipeda, Lithuania 07:30 – 14:00 6.5 hrs ashore When you arrive in Klaipeda, the cruise ship will berth in the only Lithuanian port, one that has been operating since the middle of the 13th century. The historic centre, that dates back to when the city was known as Memel, is built in the typical fashion of the German medieval towns, including the square with the majestic clock tower. Klaipeda is divided into two parts: the new town, right of the river Dane and the old town that develops on the left bank. The latter is built in the classic chessboard layout of the 17th century German towns and still sports handsome trellised buildings like, for example, those in the artisan district: used as warehouses in the past, they now host art galleries, cafés or clubs. There is a variety of sculptures around town, starting from that of the Four Winds, in the port, at the entrance of the terminal where your MSC cruise ship is berthed. Visit the handsome neo-classic Dramos theatre, which is the main building in the square and where you also find a statue dedicated to the poet, Simon Dach. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe also offers two excursions, both along the coast. Palanga, in the north, is the largest Lithuanian seaside resort with a walk that ends at the long pier on the sea. This is located along the ancient Amber Road and it is not rare to find bits of this resin stone on the white beach after a heavy storm. For sure you can admire this stone in the city’s Amber Museum. To the south instead we find the Neringa peninsula, a 98km long sand bar that separates the Curi lagoon from the Baltic Sea and where, in Nida, you find the largest dune in Nothern Europe; this is a UNESCO world heritage site for its importance in the biosphere. Go to Klaipeda, Lithuania Cruises visiting Klaipeda, Lithuania

Klaipeda, Lithuania photo — Day 181 Jul 4, 2027 Klaipeda, Lithuania 07:30 – 14:00 6.5 hrs ashore When you arrive in Klaipeda, the cruise ship will berth in the only Lithuanian port, one that has been operating since the middle of the 13th century. The historic centre, that dates back to when the city was known as Memel, is built in the typical fashion of the German medieval towns, including the square with the majestic clock tower. Klaipeda is divided into two parts: the new town, right of the river Dane and the old town that develops on the left bank. The latter is built in the classic chessboard layout of the 17th century German towns and still sports handsome trellised buildings like, for example, those in the artisan district: used as warehouses in the past, they now host art galleries, cafés or clubs. There is a variety of sculptures around town, starting from that of the Four Winds, in the port, at the entrance of the terminal where your MSC cruise ship is berthed. Visit the handsome neo-classic Dramos theatre, which is the main building in the square and where you also find a statue dedicated to the poet, Simon Dach. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe also offers two excursions, both along the coast. Palanga, in the north, is the largest Lithuanian seaside resort with a walk that ends at the long pier on the sea. This is located along the ancient Amber Road and it is not rare to find bits of this resin stone on the white beach after a heavy storm. For sure you can admire this stone in the city’s Amber Museum. To the south instead we find the Neringa peninsula, a 98km long sand bar that separates the Curi lagoon from the Baltic Sea and where, in Nida, you find the largest dune in Nothern Europe; this is a UNESCO world heritage site for its importance in the biosphere. Go to Klaipeda, Lithuania Cruises visiting Klaipeda, Lithuania

Day 182 Jul 5, 2027 Riga 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, a great city to visit when you are on a MSC cruise to Latvia. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife. An MSC Cruises excursion is a good way to experience Old Rīga, grouped loosely around Town Hall Square and Cathedral Square, which forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town. Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Art Nouveau motifs. If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church, a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire; climb the tower for excellent panoramic views. From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture and which once served as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white St Maurice as their patron (hence the name “Blackheads”). Go to Riga Cruises visiting Riga

Riga photo — Day 182 Jul 5, 2027 Riga 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, a great city to visit when you are on a MSC cruise to Latvia. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife. An MSC Cruises excursion is a good way to experience Old Rīga, grouped loosely around Town Hall Square and Cathedral Square, which forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town. Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Art Nouveau motifs. If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church, a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire; climb the tower for excellent panoramic views. From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture and which once served as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white St Maurice as their patron (hence the name “Blackheads”). Go to Riga Cruises visiting Riga

Day 184 Jul 7, 2027 Tallinn, Estonia 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Tallinn, Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital, with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. A cruise of the Baltic Sea with MSC Cruises can take you to visit the heart of Tallinn, its Old Town, still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats, the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea, the hilltop stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages. Raekoja plats, the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town, is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Town Hall (Raekoda), boasting elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. Near the summit of the steeple, Vana Toomas, a sixteenth-century weather vane depicting a medieval town guard, is Tallinn’s city emblem. The well-labelled and informative museum inside the cellar hall depicts Tallinn town life through the ages, and there is a good view from the belfry. For an even better view of the town square, climb the spiral staircase of the Town Hall Tower. The fourteenth-century Church of the Holy Ghost (Puhä Vaimu kirik) on Pühavaimu is the city’s oldest church, a small Gothic building with stuccoed limestone walls, stepped gables, a carved wooden interior, a tall, verdigris-coated spire and an ornate clock from 1680 – the oldest in Tallinn. Contrasting sharply is the late Gothic St Nicholas’s Church (Niguliste kirik), south-west of Raekoja plats. It now serves as a museumof church art, including medieval burial stones and the haunting Danse Macabre (“Dance With Death”) by Bernt Notke. Go to Tallinn, Estonia Cruises visiting Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia photo — Day 184 Jul 7, 2027 Tallinn, Estonia 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore Tallinn, Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital, with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. A cruise of the Baltic Sea with MSC Cruises can take you to visit the heart of Tallinn, its Old Town, still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats, the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea, the hilltop stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages. Raekoja plats, the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town, is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Town Hall (Raekoda), boasting elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. Near the summit of the steeple, Vana Toomas, a sixteenth-century weather vane depicting a medieval town guard, is Tallinn’s city emblem. The well-labelled and informative museum inside the cellar hall depicts Tallinn town life through the ages, and there is a good view from the belfry. For an even better view of the town square, climb the spiral staircase of the Town Hall Tower. The fourteenth-century Church of the Holy Ghost (Puhä Vaimu kirik) on Pühavaimu is the city’s oldest church, a small Gothic building with stuccoed limestone walls, stepped gables, a carved wooden interior, a tall, verdigris-coated spire and an ornate clock from 1680 – the oldest in Tallinn. Contrasting sharply is the late Gothic St Nicholas’s Church (Niguliste kirik), south-west of Raekoja plats. It now serves as a museumof church art, including medieval burial stones and the haunting Danse Macabre (“Dance With Death”) by Bernt Notke. Go to Tallinn, Estonia Cruises visiting Tallinn, Estonia

Day 185 Jul 8, 2027 Helsinki, Finland 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore "A thriving, flawlessly-designed seaside city, Helsinki is famously livable and inspiring. A regional powerhouse of outstanding design and creativity, Helsinki lies across a confetti scattering of 300 islands and skerries in the Gulf of Finland. Known for the light granite hue of its buildings - which lend the city a bright, whitewashed appearance - traditional buildings mingle seamlessly with bold new structures, showcasing Finland's celebrated design outlook. Helsinki Cathedral is the crowning glory - rising high over the city's waterfront with its pearly white domes gleaming. View less A city that reveres knowledge and creativity above all else, artworks and statues litter the streets and parks, honouring creative minds of the past. Open parks offer space to lie back and soak up summer's sun, while sculptures like the abstract organs of the Sibelius Monument celebrate national heroes like composer Jean Sibelius - whose music gave Finland national identity in the quest for independence. Feel the stunning acoustics of the incredible Rock Church deep in your gut, as you witness a performance in this collaboration between man and nature. Built into the rock underground, the amphitheatre's soaring copper bowl roof is suspended dramatically on a bed of glass windows. One of Helsinki's many incredible buildings, the Design Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the city's balance of style, function and form. Helsinki's easy-going, forward-thinking way of life was hard fought for, and the spectacular Suomenlinna fortress rears out of the waves as a reminder of the historical struggles that have played out in this stretch of sea. The chain of forts covers six islands and was built to defend the archipelago when it fell under Swedish rule. Sail out to the quaint little beaches, and waterfront pathways that now lend a calm, peaceful ambience to this UNESCO World Heritage Site." Go to Helsinki, Finland Cruises visiting Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland photo — Day 185 Jul 8, 2027 Helsinki, Finland 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore "A thriving, flawlessly-designed seaside city, Helsinki is famously livable and inspiring. A regional powerhouse of outstanding design and creativity, Helsinki lies across a confetti scattering of 300 islands and skerries in the Gulf of Finland. Known for the light granite hue of its buildings - which lend the city a bright, whitewashed appearance - traditional buildings mingle seamlessly with bold new structures, showcasing Finland's celebrated design outlook. Helsinki Cathedral is the crowning glory - rising high over the city's waterfront with its pearly white domes gleaming. View less A city that reveres knowledge and creativity above all else, artworks and statues litter the streets and parks, honouring creative minds of the past. Open parks offer space to lie back and soak up summer's sun, while sculptures like the abstract organs of the Sibelius Monument celebrate national heroes like composer Jean Sibelius - whose music gave Finland national identity in the quest for independence. Feel the stunning acoustics of the incredible Rock Church deep in your gut, as you witness a performance in this collaboration between man and nature. Built into the rock underground, the amphitheatre's soaring copper bowl roof is suspended dramatically on a bed of glass windows. One of Helsinki's many incredible buildings, the Design Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the city's balance of style, function and form. Helsinki's easy-going, forward-thinking way of life was hard fought for, and the spectacular Suomenlinna fortress rears out of the waves as a reminder of the historical struggles that have played out in this stretch of sea. The chain of forts covers six islands and was built to defend the archipelago when it fell under Swedish rule. Sail out to the quaint little beaches, and waterfront pathways that now lend a calm, peaceful ambience to this UNESCO World Heritage Site." Go to Helsinki, Finland Cruises visiting Helsinki, Finland

Day 186 Jul 9, 2027 Stockholm Arrives 13:00 Without a doubt Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and a vacation in Sweden with an MSC cruise will prove it. Built on no fewer than fourteen islands, where the fresh water of Lake Mälaren meets the brackish Baltic Sea, clean air and open space are in plentiful supply here. An MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to appreciate its port front, reach the Baltic Sea and experience the atmospheres with a tour of the town where broad boulevards lined with elegant buildings are reflected in the deep blue water, and rows of painted wooden houseboats bob gently alongside the cobbled waterfront. But Stockholm is also a hi-tech metropolis, as you will find out on your excursion on land during your cruise, with futuristic skyscrapers and a bustling commercial heart. The old town, Gamla Stan, is a district with cobbled streets and narrow alleyways huddled together on a triangular-shaped island. Today the area is an atmospheric mixture of buildings surrounded on all sides by a latticework of medieval lanes and alleyways. The district of Norrmalm swaps tradition for a thoroughly contemporary feel: this is downtown Stockholm where you’ll find shopping malls, huge department stores and conspicuous, showy wealth. In the green island of Djurgården you can see an extraordinary 17th century warship, the Vasa, rescued and preserved after sinking in Stockholm harbour. Cross Norrbron or Riksbron from the Riksdagshuset and up rears the most distinctive monumental building in Stockholm, Kungliga Slottet – a low, square, yellowy-brown construction, with two arms that stretch down towards the water. It’s uniform and sombre outside, but with a magnificent Rococo interior that’s a swirl of staterooms and museums. Itssheer size is quite overwhelming: you should not miss the Royal Apartments and the Treasure Room. The former are used for royal receptions and the second keeps a collection of crowns studded with precious stones. Go to Stockholm Cruises visiting Stockholm

Stockholm photo — Day 186 Jul 9, 2027 Stockholm Arrives 13:00 Without a doubt Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and a vacation in Sweden with an MSC cruise will prove it. Built on no fewer than fourteen islands, where the fresh water of Lake Mälaren meets the brackish Baltic Sea, clean air and open space are in plentiful supply here. An MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to appreciate its port front, reach the Baltic Sea and experience the atmospheres with a tour of the town where broad boulevards lined with elegant buildings are reflected in the deep blue water, and rows of painted wooden houseboats bob gently alongside the cobbled waterfront. But Stockholm is also a hi-tech metropolis, as you will find out on your excursion on land during your cruise, with futuristic skyscrapers and a bustling commercial heart. The old town, Gamla Stan, is a district with cobbled streets and narrow alleyways huddled together on a triangular-shaped island. Today the area is an atmospheric mixture of buildings surrounded on all sides by a latticework of medieval lanes and alleyways. The district of Norrmalm swaps tradition for a thoroughly contemporary feel: this is downtown Stockholm where you’ll find shopping malls, huge department stores and conspicuous, showy wealth. In the green island of Djurgården you can see an extraordinary 17th century warship, the Vasa, rescued and preserved after sinking in Stockholm harbour. Cross Norrbron or Riksbron from the Riksdagshuset and up rears the most distinctive monumental building in Stockholm, Kungliga Slottet – a low, square, yellowy-brown construction, with two arms that stretch down towards the water. It’s uniform and sombre outside, but with a magnificent Rococo interior that’s a swirl of staterooms and museums. Itssheer size is quite overwhelming: you should not miss the Royal Apartments and the Treasure Room. The former are used for royal receptions and the second keeps a collection of crowns studded with precious stones. Go to Stockholm Cruises visiting Stockholm

Day 189 Jul 12, 2027 Copenhagen, Denmark Arrives 06:30 Effortlessly cool and down to earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter. You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star - the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to truly explore Copenhagen and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to whizz around and explore the modern angular architecture of the centre, and the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront. Head out to the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale - the strikingly-restrained statue is the perfect landmark for Copenhagen; unshowy, self-assured and utterly irresistible. The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books. Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars. Go to Copenhagen, Denmark Cruises visiting Copenhagen, Denmark

Pricing

Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 89-day span: $71,179 · range $71,179–$178,729

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

Not available

Oceanview

Not available

Balcony

from $77,719

$413 / night

Fare rows

Club Veranda Stateroom

Cabin grade

Available

from $77,719

$413 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Suite

from $178,729

$950 / night

Fare rows

Club Spa Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $178,729

$950 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Prices verified Jun 21, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Azamara and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

Price history

30 days

Cabin grades

Add a line to the chart

Oceanview

Lowest Oceanview 05 Club Oceanview Stateroom

Balcony

Lowest Balcony $77,719 P3 Club Veranda Plus Stateroom V2 Club Veranda Stateroom $77,719 V3 Club Veranda Stateroom

Suite

Lowest Suite $178,729 SP Club Spa Suite $178,729

Lines step between recorded price changes. Plot up to 6 grades at once.

All cabin grades (27) Detailed cabin specs available at booking.

Name	Supplier code	Type
Not listed
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom	P1	Balcony
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom	P2	Balcony
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom	P3	Balcony
Club Veranda Stateroom	V1	Balcony
Club Veranda Stateroom	V2	Balcony
Club Veranda Stateroom	V3	Balcony
Club Veranda Stateroom - Guaranteed	X	Balcony
Club Veranda Plus Stateroom - Guaranteed	XP	Balcony
Club Interior Stateroom	09	Inside
Club Interior Stateroom	10	Inside
Club Interior Stateroom	11	Inside
Club Interior Stateroom	12	Inside
Interior Stateroom - Guaranteed	Z	Inside
Club Oceanview Stateroom	04	Oceanview
Club Oceanview Stateroom	05	Oceanview
Club Oceanview Stateroom	06	Oceanview
Club Oceanview Stateroom (Obstructed View)	08	Oceanview
Oceanview Stateroom - Guaranteed	Y	Oceanview
Club Ocean Suite	CO	Suite
Panorama Suite Stateroom	CS	Suite
Club World Owners Suite	CW	Suite
Grandview Suite Stateroom	E1	Suite
Club Continent Suite	N1	Suite
Club Continent Suite	N2	Suite
Club Spa Suite	SP	Suite
Suite - Guaranteed	W	Suite

Ship

Your ship Azamara Quest 5★ **30,277** GT **690** guests Built **2007** Your boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Quest is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for—plus some unexpected extras. Across the fleet, our authentic service goes beyond the expectations of even the most well-traveled cruisers. Friendly and approachable, our staff are attentive, and happy to offer everything from poolside service to recommendations for your on-shore exploration. After all, we love sailing the world just as much as you do! Re-imagined staterooms include modern amenities, furnishings, and European linens. Plus the ship features a large number of staterooms and suites with verandas, perfect for starting your day with fresh sea air and stunning views. Add to all of that world-class dining options, spa experiences to relax and refresh, and all-new entertainment offerings, you’ve got an onboard experience that’s matched only by the immersive cultural encounters we’ve got in store on shore. Go to Azamara Quest Cruises on Azamara Quest

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Frequently asked questions

How long is this cruise?

This cruise is 188 nights long. It includes 76 days at sea and 112 days in port.

Which ports does this cruise visit?

This cruise visits 95 ports, including Amsterdam, Miami, Florida, Boston, USA, Halifax, and Le Havre.

Which ship sails this itinerary?

This itinerary is sailed by Azamara Quest.

Where does this cruise depart from?

This cruise departs from San Francisco, California.

from $77,719 pp

Continues on Azamara's site

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