MSC announces 14-night Gulf itineraries to complement Qatar Airways partnership

MSC Cruises has announced new two-week cruises in the Gulf aboard its latest ship, MSC Bellissima, for the winter 2019/20 season. Doha, Qatar will be the new embarkation point.

The itineraries complement MSC’s new partnership with Qatar Airways, which means guests will be able to fly from London to Doha as part of a fly-cruise package with the five-star-rated airline.

CEO of MSC Cruises Gianni Onorato said: “We are committed to constantly enriching our itineraries and providing our guests with as many options as possible – that’s why we’re delighted to introduce a new 14-night cruise to our already diverse offering in the Gulf. We now offer a third embarkation port in this region with the addition of Doha, Qatar. We have also introduced a new partnership with Qatar Airways that will make this a convenient and easily accessible port. With these new additions, we’re able to offer a wide choice of cruises to suit any guest looking for a winter-sun holiday in the ever-popular Gulf region.”

Qatar and its capital, Doha, have become popular tourist spots thanks to its cultural offerings and significant investment in infrastructure and attractions. Around two million holidaymakers visit the country each year.

MSC’s new itineraries visit nine ports of call including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas – a beach oasis – Muscat and Khasab in Oman, and Bahrain, where guests can visit the Unesco-designated Bahrain Fort.

MSC Cruises will deploy two ships in the Gulf from November to March. MSC Lirica will offer 11-night cruises as well as 14-night cruises that also visit India. In addition to the new 14-night itineraries, MSC Bellissima will offer seven-night Gulf cruises embarking in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

MSC Bellissima debuted in March. The ship boasts the latest technology for an enhanced on-board experience, including the world’s first virtual personal cruise assistant, Zoe, in every cabin. It also has 12 international dining venues, 20 bars, Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows and its own water park.

The new itineraries are now on sale, with the first cruise departing November 28, 2019.