New Red Sea cruises for MSC and Scenic

MSC Cruises and The Scenic Group are both adding Red Sea sailings to their programmes this summer.

The Scenic Group is set to bring Scenic Eclipse to the Red Sea for the first time in July.

The line’s first purpose-built ocean cruise ship – equipped with an on-board submarine and two helicopters – will sail Saudi waters from July 17 to December 9, 2021.

Glen Moroney, founder and chairman of Scenic Group said: “Saudi Arabia will be one of the hottest tourist destinations in coming years and we’re very glad our guests will get to experience it in 6-star comfort on board Scenic Eclipse.

The luxury liner will homeport in Jeddah and will offer tailor-made itineraries, as well as pre-planned itineraries.

Highlights include popular diving spot Yanbu, which features the Iona wreck, a British merchant steamer sunk in 1915 which can be explored by diving, snorkelling or submarine.

MSC Cruises vessel MSC Bellissima has added 21 voyages from Jeddah to its Red Sea programme between late July and November.

The ship will offer three- and four-night cruises to Safaga, Egypt, or Aqaba, Jordan.

Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises executive chairman, said: “As the tourism industry of Saudi Arabia grows progressively for its own residents and international visitors, we at MSC Cruises are looking forward to make a positive and lasting contribution as more people explore and discover the rich heritage and incredible cultural attractions it has to offer.

“In the Red Sea we are committed to serve holidaymakers with the very best cruise experiences.  This, we believe, will accelerate the attractiveness of holidays at sea in the region and significantly help in the growth of tourism.”