Port guides

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

With its yacht-filled harbours, stunning beaches, volcanic backdrops and crystalline turquoise waters, it’s easy to see why the unparalleled natural beauty of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has long attracted sailors, adventurers and the rich and famous, and why it was chosen as the primary filming site for the “Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy. Located in the Lesser Antilles, the archipelago of St. Vincent and the Grenadines comprises 32 is-lands and cays, only 9 of which are inhabited. St. Vincent, the largest island in the chain, is home to Kingstown, the capital. Once you arrive on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise to Kingstown, you will visit Fort Charlotte, a British garrison named in honour of the wife of King George III. Built in 1806, it housed 600 troops in its heyday. Some 30 cannons are still visible today at the fort, where a number of paintings charting the history of the Black Carib people are showcased. From its summit, enjoy fantastic views of the archipelago; on a clear day, Grenada can be seen 90 miles to the south through binoculars. Explore the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere, on an MSC excursion. Established in the mid-18th century, the gardens played a critical role in the colonization of not just St. Vincent, but also other islands in the West Indies. They helped introduce, establish and distribute plants upon which the future economies and food supplies of most islands became based. These beautiful gardens are home to a wide variety of tropical and medicinal plants, as well as numerous bird species, including the rare St. Vincent parrot. For other opportunities to spot the indigenous parrot species, head on an MSC excursion to Parrot Lookout on the Vermont Nature Trail in the dense rainforest. The guided hike takes you through cultivated fields and forest plantations in the verdant Vermont Valley. St. Vincent has had a long tradition of cultivating sugarcane. On yet another MSC excursion, learn the history of Black Point - a tunnel dug during the height of the slave trade that was key in the transport of molasses used for making rum. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting at the rum distillery in Georgetown to discover how molasses is distilled into one of the strongest nips of rum in the Caribbean. “Pirates of the Caribbean” buffs won’t want to miss one of several MSC excursions that take you through the sites on the island where famous scenes were filmed. Visit the village of Wallilabou, board the Scaramouche, a traditional West Indian schooner for a pirate party, or kayak to the so-called Bat Cave near Byahut Cove. The cave is home to a noisy bat colony, and you can enjoy some swimming or snorkelling at the cove and experience the amazing marine life found around the reef. Accessible only by sea, the cove is one of the locations where the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films were shot. For something special, cruise on a catamaran to see the beguiling coastline of the Bequia, the second largest island in the Grenadines. Catch views of a private community called Moonhole, known for a way of life that seeks harmony with nature and with homes built directly into the landscape, most with neither windows nor doors. Move on to Petite Nevis, a spot where signs of whaling history are still visible and enjoy views of the neighbouring private isle of Mustique, famed for drawing a wealthy clientele that includes members of the British royal family.

179 cruises

Punta Arenas, Chile

South America

As we head back towards land, a statue of fellow explorer Ferdinand Magellan greets us. Located on the western side of the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is the capital of Chile's Magallanes Region and the bustling centre base for South Atlantic fishing boats and Antarctic research vessels. This busy port town is a melding of cultures from the English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors, all of which are a symbol of Chile's rich history. Punta Arenas' city centre features impressive mansions dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1982, Isla Magdalena was declared a Chilean Natural Monument. Residing in the Magellan Straits, it serves as a bird sanctuary specifically to the Magellanic penguins, who share their nesting area with cormorants amongst other seabirds and sea lions. We explore the island together with our ship staff, and learn more about these naturally curious and untamed creatures. However, simply watching 150,000 burrowing penguins share chores with their lifelong mates is quite amazing. Each morning and afternoon, the fishing penguins return to shore to switch places with their mate who has been taking care of the young. These same penguins return every year between October and March to lay eggs and raise their young.

179 cruises

Bequia

St Vincent and Grenadines · Caribbean & Bahamas

An almost mythical utopia of virgin beaches, rustic rum shacks and bays so scenic you feel like you’re intruding - Bequia Island is an island mirage of Caribbean perfection. This is the real, unspoiled experience - and with just 6,000 locals living here, you quickly start to recognise the same smiling faces, welcoming you with outstretched arms. Offering glorious - often deserted - beaches of pure golden sand, and hillside sweeps of forest and almond trees, Bequia Island is an extraordinary feast for the senses. Unlike some of the flashier Caribbean islands, Bequia - a part of the Grenadines - is a rustic, unassuming and off-the-beaten-path choice. The staggeringly picturesque natural harbour, Admiralty Bay, greets you on arrival, and is peppered with day-tripping yachts bobbing on the gentle waves. The island’s tiny capital, Port Elizabeth, sits behind, with its bustling fruit and vegetable market, turtle sanctuary, and stalls selling hand-crafted model ships. This tiny, pretty island is ridged along the centre, and you can earn your beachside bliss with a gentle hike to the top of Mount Peggy, looking out over views of Grenada and St Vincent. At just seven miles long, you can discover the whole island in a few hours – but that would be to miss the point somewhat. Bequia Island coaxes you in to slow the pace and soothe your soul on blissful beaches, where you can revel in the uncomplicated joys of sitting, reading and swimming in heavenly shallow waters. The royally approved Princess Margaret Beach is one of the finest - an arching band of soft sand and cobalt-blue waters. As evening sets in, you may find you’re beckoned to share with communal barbecues of the day’s fresh catch with the locals, or to indulge in rum-heavy cocktails at beachside bars, lashed together from sea-blanched wooden limbs.

178 cruises

Camboriu, Brazil

South America

Balneário Camboriú is a resort city in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. It’s known for its high-rise buildings and beaches like Praia Central. Bars, restaurants and shops line Avenida Atlântica, a busy boulevard next to the beach. Unipraias Park sits at the mouth of the Rio Camboriú, offering city views from zip lines and cable cars. The Cristo Luz Monument, a huge statue of Christ, overlooks the city.

178 cruises

Grundafjordur

Northern Europe & Baltic

As double acts go, Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall and Kirkjufell Mountain are hard to beat. Said to be Iceland's most photographed spot, the perfectly symmetrical mountain taper of Kirkjufell complements the roaring waterfall, and is said to be the most photographed spot in Iceland. That's a bold claim, considering the country's abundance of natural assets, but this natural duo is an undeniably unique and mesmerising sight. Occasionally, as the sun fades away, a stunning trio is formed, with the northern lights dancing overhead, casting its ethereal green haze over the scene below. View less Reach the stirring views with a short walk from Grundarfjorudur town, or head out into the wilderness on horseback, along well-trampled bridleways. The mountain is known as Church Mountain, due to its isolated peak, which pierces the sky like a spire. You might recognise it as a 'mountain shaped like an arrowhead', however, which is how it was described during its Game of Thrones cameo. In Grundarfjorudur itself, fishing boats gently bob amid the dramatic, snow-flecked mountain scenery. With whales cruising the fjords and eagles diving overhead, you're also at the centre of some of Iceland's most spectacular and atmospheric wildlife. As a highlight of Iceland's glorious, cinematic scenery, Grundarfjorudur is sure to whet your appetite for Iceland's immense natural beauty – discover more with a read of our blog.

178 cruises

Germesheim

Northern Europe & Baltic

Germersheim is a town in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, of around 20,000 inhabitants. It is also the seat of the Germersheim district. The neighboring towns and cities are Speyer, Landau, Philippsburg, Karlsruhe and Wörth.

177 cruises

Monemvasia

Greece · Mediterranean

A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia boasts a glorious natural setting - perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly from the waves. A truly unique castle city, the island is linked to the mainland by just a single solitary causeway. It is hard to imagine a better – and more impenetrable - setting for a fortress town than this, and the rock is laced with tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. View less Known as the Gibraltar of Greece, you would be forgiven for assuming that the limestone monolith was unoccupied as you approach from the seas. Look a little closer, however, and you’ll begin to pick out the ancient walls and terracotta roofs of the quaint town clinging to its steep, dramatic slopes - and the walls of the fortress crowning it. A natural stronghold of overwhelming romantic beauty – the rock is said to lend couples wedded here extra strong foundations to build from. Arrive on the island to wander the historic knot of streets of a true Adriatic wonder. Encounter gorgeous, tree-shaded terraces, which look out across the rippling blue waves. Visit the picturesque Church of Christ Elkomenos, where you can shelter in the cool interior, and see storied religious iconography. A historic paved pathway twists back on itself, rising sharply up the slope on a daunting ascent to the now uninhabited upper fortress. The views from here are even more incredible, as you look down across the rustic domes of the lower village’s churches and stone-paved streets below.

177 cruises

Ben Tre

Asia

Bến Tre is the capital city of Bến Tre Province, in the Mekong Delta area of southern Vietnam. Located 85 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the city covers an area of 65.75 km² and has a population of 143,639 as of 2009. Nowadays, Bến Tre is connected to the surrounding provinces by the Rạch Miễu Bridge.

174 cruises

Chobe National Park

Africa

Chobe National Park is in northern Botswana near the vast, inland Okavango Delta. It's known for its large herds of elephants and Cape buffalo, which converge along the Chobe Riverfront in the dry months. Lions, antelopes and hippos inhabit the woods and lagoons around Linyanti Marsh. The floodable grasslands of the Savuti Marsh attract numerous bird species, plus migrating zebras.

174 cruises

Dendera, Egypt

Middle East & Red Sea

Dendera, also spelled Denderah, ancient Iunet, Tentyris or Tentyra is a small town and former bishopric in Egypt situated on the west bank of the Nile, about 5 kilometres south of Qena, on the opposite side of the river. It is located approximately 60 kilometres north of Luxor and remains a Latin Catholic titular see.

174 cruises

Ko Samui

Thailand · Asia

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.

174 cruises

Grand Cayman

Cayman Islands · Caribbean & Bahamas

When Columbus made his landfall in the Caymans in 1503, he found tortoises and sea turtles in such profusion that he promptly named the islands Las Tortugas. But the name that stuck for the islands was the Carib word "Caimanas." Fitting, since the caiman is a New World crocodilian and the islands were long the lair of pirates, buccaneers, and assorted freebooters. Despite their past, the Caymans are a Caribbean demi-paradise of white-sand beaches, coral gardens, and offshore waters harboring spectacular shipwrecks. Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman also boast the highest standard of living in the entire Caribbean. This union of natural beauty and cosmopolitan style makes Grand Cayman a spectacular port of call for today's adventurers. Note: Grand Cayman is an anchorage port. Passengers transfer to shore via ship's tender. In certain sea conditions, an alternate pier is used to transfer passengers ashore. This may cause tour durations to vary.

173 cruises

Aomori

Japan · Asia

From fiery festivals to spectacular mountain scenery, soaring temples to castles surrounded by cherry blossom blooms, Aomori is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Framed by dark peaks clad with dense forestry, the city enjoys a picturesque location on Japan’s main island Honshu. While there are gorgeous pink tinted parks, tiered castles and towering Buddha statues to explore, the Aomori Prefecture’s capital is perhaps best known for the summer festival of fire that lights it up each year. Lavish illuminated floats fill the streets during Nebuta Matsuri festival, as dancing locals wave flickering lanterns through the night sky - and drummers pound out pulsating rhythms. Nebuta Matsuri has a euphoric and energetic atmosphere which makes it stand out as an unmissable experience compared with some of Japan’s more restrained festivals. At other times of the year, places like the stunning Hirosaki Castle bloom with rose-pink cherry blossom, as spring’s sunshine clears away winter’s plentiful snowfall. The castle’s moat, glowing with the pale hue of fallen blossom, is a truly mesmerising sight to behold. Don’t worry if you’re too late though, you might be able to catch the pink-flush of the apple blossom - which comes slightly later. Extraordinary prehistoric Jomon period history is waiting to be unearthed at the living archaeological site, Sannai-Maruyama Ruins. Or, the untouched wilderness of UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Sanchi is within reach. This sprawling mass of beech trees covers a third of the Shirakami mountain range, and the dense forestry once blanketed the majority of northern Japan’s land. Visit to scratch the surface of this untamed landscape’s beauty and see sprawling waterfalls cascading down mountainsides, in a beautiful off-bounds landscape, where black bears roam freely.

172 cruises

Nordfjordeid

Norway · Northern Europe & Baltic

Nestled peacefully at the end of one of Norway’s most beautiful waterways, Nordfjordeid is a picturesque, hidden gem. Wander the old centre of town to find white-painted buildings brimming with cafés, restaurants, bakeries and shops, or discover unique architecture at the modern opera house or the 19th century Eid Church – home to spectacular carvings and intricate paintings. At the Sagastad Viking heritage centre you can interact with fascinating exhibits and step aboard the Myklebust, an authentic 100-foot-long replica ship based on the remains of one of the largest Viking ships ever unearthed. Visiting in the summer? Why not relax in the lush Saga Park which has its own beach by the fjord? Despite Nordfjordeid’s sleepy charm, this small village is big on adventure. Connect with the marine environment on a kayaking tour, go fishing for huge monkfish, wolf fish and mackerel, or ride a Fjord horse – one of the world’s oldest pure breeds. The surrounding emerald hillsides transform into towering mountains, and hikes in the immediate area reveal spellbinding views. Who knows, if you head up here you might even encounter the mythical Huldra – a seductive, sometimes dangerous forest creature who takes the form of a beautiful woman with a cow’s tail. If she doesn’t appear to mesmerise you, the spectacular vistas certainly will.

172 cruises

Wellington

New Zealand · Australia, NZ & South Pacific

Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula, Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact, well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes, New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious, easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific, there are shows to see, art installations to enjoy, and rich flavours to savour here. The sounds of rare and beautiful birdlife fill the hills around the city, and the bush of the green belt provides easy-to-access sanctuary, strolls and cycle rides. View less The Botanical Gardens break up the buildings, even more, while an iconic, cherry-red cable car rumbles up Wellington's slope to the city's best viewpoint, looking out over the city's scenic harbour from above. Zealandia has provided an urban home for rare and endangered birdlife, bringing many species back from the brink. Varied museums cover everything from Maori traditions to earthquake simulations and even the real-life Kraken - a displayed colossal squid. Wellington is only New Zealand's third-biggest city, but spend some time here and you'll realise that's a blessing. Eminently strollable, you can stop in at countless cool cafes to top up your caffeine levels whenever your energy is flagging - the smell of a fresh artisan espresso is never far away. The wines grown nearby are revered, and the city's craft beers are also making waves. Wander the breezy waterfront, and admire the surfers riding the wind-whipped rollers of the self-proclaimed 'coolest little capital in the world'.

171 cruises

Giardini Naxos, Sicily

Mediterranean

Hugging a long, sweeping bay, Giardini Naxos welcomes you ashore to some of Sicily’s most scenic and historic sites. Naxos was the first Greek settlement on Sicily, and it is surrounded by remarkable remains and swirling mythology. With a long arc of sun-soaked golden sand, you can kick back by the waves - and cool off with a dip into the sea's refreshing embrace. Up above the seaside revelry, the spectacular Taormina hillside town perches - containing rich Roman and Greek history. View less Visit to encounter one of Sicily’s best views, as you look down over the rejuvenating blue of the sea, and the looming backdrop of Mount Etna rising in the distance. The majestic, honey-coloured Greek theatre is a highlight, standing before the distant loom of the volcano. Head towards the puffs of cloud, and wisps of smoke, that gather around the peak of Sicily’s mighty volcano, which is among the most active in Europe. Arrive through vineyards, thriving in this fertile soil, before taking the 1,737-metre incline to the summit of the legendary mountain of fire, across fields of solidified lava flows. Known to the Greeks as the home of the God of Fire, and the one-eyed Cyclops, the mountain continues to amaze and awe with its restless power. Vineyards carpet the scenery - interrupted by occasional cactai and citrus groves – and produce some of Sicily’s most refined flavors. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos’ seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores.

169 cruises

Pecs

Mediterranean

Pécs is an ancient city in southern Hungary, close to the Croatian border. Founded by the Romans, it's known for its architectural landmarks such as the Early Christian Mausoleum, which features frescoed tombs. Vast Pécs Cathedral towers over central Szent István Square. The domed Mosque of Pasha Gazi Kasim was built in the 16th century during the Ottoman occupation of the city and is now a Catholic church.

169 cruises

Port Stanley

Falkland Is · South America

The Falkland Islands are situated some 350 miles east of Tierra del Fuego, 1,000 miles north of Antarctica and, as the locals claim, a mere 8,000 miles from Britain. Port Stanley is home to the majority of the island's residents -1,990 out of a total population of 2,490. These 700 islands have long been of historical importance to scientists and seamen alike. Prior to the construction of the Panama Canal, they offered safe anchorage and provisions for sailing vessels as they headed around Cape Horn. Today, maritime interests center mostly on the British Royal Navy, fishing fleets from a variety of nations and scientific expeditions to Antarctica. In 1982, world attention was riveted on these islands when Argentine and British forces fought fiercely for the right to call them their own. A number of vessels, numerous aircraft, thousands of troops and many local residents were involved in the conflict. After heavy combat, the will of Britain, supported by the island people, prevailed and the Falkland Islands remain British to this day.

169 cruises

Skjolden, Norway

Northern Europe & Baltic

Skjolden, Norway- Skjolden is the innermost port of Norway, located at the head of the longest navigable fjord in the world, Sognefjord. The village population may average 200, but its terrain is far from quaint. Experience the grand and pristine beauty of the north on your Skjolden cruise. The Breheimen National Park, home to three majestic glaciers and Feigumfossen Waterfall in an idyllic setting on the southern side of the Lusterfjord are only a few of the scenic attractions you’ll find here. Take the short walk into the falls or admire the view from the National Tourist Route on the northern side of the fjord. For the outdoors-y type that wants to take in a great hike, take the Rv55, one of Norway's most scenic roadways, to the pristine fishing waters of Eidsvatnet lake. For more breathtaking scenery, head just a bit north to the Mørkridsdalen Valley where verdant mountains surround fields of colorful wildflowers and rushing streams.

169 cruises

Bodrum

Turkey · Mediterranean

Today Bodrum is a picturesque yacht harbor filled with traditional wood-varnished sailboats, charming outdoor cafes and streets bursting with small shops selling carpets, leatherwear, jewelry and local artwork. In antiquity, it was the site of ancient Halicarnassus. Under King Mausolus, the city prospered, and in death, the king left the city its most enduring legacy, his majestic tomb, from which we derive the term "mausoleum." Only its massive foundations remain today but it was the largest tomb ever built by the Greeks and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Models on the site recreate its form for visitors. Alexander the Great attacked the city in 334 BC, leveling all but the Mausoleum, which was later destroyed by an earthquake. When the Knights of St. John lost their castle in Smyrna in 1402, they came here. Finding the mausoleum in ruins, they used the stone to construct the Castle of St. Peter, which proudly stood sentinel to the city. Together with their fortifications on Kos and Rhodes, the Knights dominated the southeastern Aegean, running a hospital for passing pilgrims and ruling the seas as privateers in swift vessels. They remained until 1523, when Ottoman ruler, Suleyman the Magnificent, conquered Rhodes and the Knights' position became untenable. The castle still dominates the harbor and houses an archeological museum.

168 cruises

Vinh Long

Asia

Vĩnh Long is a city and the capital of Vĩnh Long Province in Vietnam's Mekong Delta. Vĩnh Long covers 48.1 kilometres and has a population of 147,039.

168 cruises

Batina, Croatia

Mediterranean

Batina is a port village on the right bank of the Danube in Baranja, Croatia. Its elevation is 105 m. Administratively, it is located in the Draž municipality within the Osijek-Baranja County.

167 cruises

Durban

South Africa · Africa

When you alight from your MSC cruise in Durban – South Africa’s third-largest city and the continent’s largest port – you will be captured by its tropical colours and holidaying people. A shore excursion on your MSC South Africa cruise can be the opportunity to discover Durban’s second-largest ethnic group, its Indian population, whose mosques, bazaars and temples are juxtaposed with the Victorian buildings of the colonial centre. The pulsing warren of bazaars, alleyways and mosques that makes up the Indian area around Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street is ripe for exploration, and there are some excellent restaurants around Durban’s photogenic harbour area. Durban’s city centre grew around the arrival point of the first white settlers, and the remains of the historical heart are concentrated around Francis Farewell Square. Durban’s expansive beachfront on the eastern edge of the centre has one of the city’s busiest concentrations of restaurants, a surfeit of tacky family entertainment. Durban’s beachfront, a high-energy holiday strip just east of the centre, is South Africa’s most developed seaside. MSC South Africa cruises also offer excursions to the 6km-stretch of the beach from the Umgeni River in the north to the Point in the south, traditionally called the Golden Mile. The big draw of Addington Beach – and the only really worthwhile attraction along the beachfront – is instead uShaka Marine World. This impressive water adventure wonderland is a tropical African theme park, complete with palm trees, fake rock formations and thatched bomas. The most appealing section is uShaka Sea World, designed in and around a superb mock-up of a wrecked 1920s cargo ship. The complex also includes a dolphin stadium and a seal pool, where daily shows (three a day) feature these creatures, as well as uShaka Wet ’n Wild, a series of pools and water slides, including The Drop Zone, the highest water slide in Africa.

167 cruises

Itajai

Brazil · South America

Next stop: Brazil! An MSC cruise will have you discovery this colorful Country, by docking in its second port located between Porto Alegre and Sao Paulo: Itajaí, in the state of Santa Catarina. Founded by the Portuguese coming from Madeira and the Azores, the city is located on the banks of the rio Itajaí-Açú and, being an important export trade point, it is a strategic hub of Brazilian economy. Itajai is also a city full of history, as you will see by walking through its historic center, rich in traditions thanks to the old fish market, and visiting the imposing church of the Santissimo Sacramento. Brazil is renown above all for its beaches. An excursion will take you to Praia Brava, between Itajaí and Balneário Camboriú. Known for its natural beauty and the clear sea, this beach is the ideal destination for relaxation, whether you just want to sunbathe or swim between the calm waves. A little further south is Balneário Camboriú. This is one of the capitals of tourism of Santa Caterina that during summer can reach even 1 million inhabitants. Av. Brazil is a vibrant shopping street, while Atlantic Avenue runs along the beach with its sidewalk in pavê like the one in Copacabana. Here, you can stop in a bar or restaurant to admire the sea and the island of Cabras, just offshore. For nature lovers, the area around Itajai offers the Parque Unipraias Camboriu. An excursion will take you to the Barra Sul Station, where you can take the cable car to Morro de Aguada at 240 meters of height and to the Mata Atlântica station. There are various paths to take to immerse yourself in this forest and come in contact with the Brazilian flora and fauna or the youngest visitors can cross it on board a sledge. Downhill the destination is the beach of Praia das Laranjeiras, the ideal place to enjoy some free time.

167 cruises