• MSC Virtuosa returns to the UK for summer 2022 offering biggest ever season with 20 sailings from Southampton

• Ship offers a range of stunning itineraries including seven nights exploring the Norwegian Fjords

and 14 nights taking in the West Med

• MSC Cruises announces that at least one ship will home port in Southampton throughout 2022

• This comes as the Company announces the whole fleet of 19 ships will be back at sea for Summer 2022

London, United Kingdom – 2^nd December, 2021. MSC Cruises has today announced MSC Virtuosa will return to Southampton visiting exciting destinations across Europe. From two night mini cruises taking in the popular St Peter Port, to 12 nights exploring the Baltics or 14 nights exploring the best beaches in the West Med, the biggest ever season sailing from Southampton offers something for every holidaymaker. The 2022 season will be the ships’ second summer season following a successful inaugural season sailing round the British Isles, with the high demand for these sailings contributing to the decision to bring a big ship back to Southampton for a second year running.

Of the news Antonio Paradiso, Managing Director MSC Cruises UK & Ireland said “We had such an amazing response to sailing MSC Virtuosa from Southampton this summer that we couldn’t turn down the opportunity to bring this popular ship back to UK shores, but this time with a variety of new and exciting itineraries. The feedback from passengers has been that they loved MSC Virtuosa and are eager to get back onboard and explore more of the world on this fabulous ship.

“Despite the challenges of 2021 we had a record breaking year with passengers sailing from Southampton and it was great to see so many new to cruise guests amongst them. We have listened to the feedback from consumers and travel agents and have delivered itineraries with more choice, new destinations and longer cruises to warmer climates – all departing from Southampton.”

The popularity of the summer 2021 season, and existing booking trends for 2022 has driven the decision to place a ship in Southampton year round in 2022. MSC Virtuosa is now confirmed for Summer 2022 with the exact ship sailing in winter 2022/2023 from Southampton to be announced later this year.

Commenting on the news MSC Cruises will have a ship based in Southampton throughout 2022 Mr Paradiso said “Five years ago we announced our intention to grow our business in the UK market and I am pleased to say that this announcement is further evidence of our commitment to this target. We have made a series of investments, from increasing the number of sailings from UK ports visiting new and exciting destinations, to supporting the building of the new Horizon Cruise Terminal in Southampton, that all helps us achieve our goal to give UK guests the holidays they want, and travel agents the cruises they want to sell.”

This news comes as the cruise Company confirms the entire fleet of 19 ships will be sailing during summer 2022 - with almost 500 departures to choose from in destinations from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. All MSC cruise holidays are now only open to vaccinated guests a requirement that will continue for summer 2022. The line will continue to implement the appropriate measures to ensure that guests can enjoy one of the safest holidays options out there all whilst having a memorable time on board.

MSC Virtuosa will offer a range of different cruises next summer with all 20 sailings embarking guests in Southampton from the new Horizon Cruise Terminal. Some itinerary highlights include:

The perfect mini cruise

This 3-night sailing to Rotterdam is perfect for the first time cruiser who wants a taste of a holiday at sea, or an experienced cruiser looking to make the most of a long weekend away. Prices start from £299 in an inside cabin.

Baltic Capitals

There are three opportunities to discover the much-loved Baltic Capitals, departing in May, July and September. Offering the opportunity to visit ports including Oslo and Tallinn with an overnight onboard stay in the fabulous St Petersburg. Prices starting from £1149 for an inside with an upgrade to a balcony for just £1499.

Norway Your Way

With so many beautiful ports to explore in Norway choose from one of four different Norwegian Fjord itineraries setting sail across the summer season. Explore much loved ports including Flamm and Stavanger and new destinations for MSC Cruises Maloy and Olden. Cruises depart throughout the summer with 6 different departures to choose from. A balcony cabin is an absolute must as there’s as much to see from the ship as outside it – prices starting from £869.

14 nights perfect for families

Following guest and agent feedback this 14-night cruise to some of the Mediterranean’s most loved destinations has been developed with families in mind. With two departures on the 16^th and 30^th July these no-fly adventures offer action packed itineraries allowing you to explore seven different ports including a late sail from the fabulous Palma de Mallorca. Prices starting from £1549 per adult with children travelling at reduced rates. 

MSC Virtuosa will replace MSC Magnifica for summer 2022 which was scheduled to sail from British shores. All those passengers already booked on MSC Magnifica will be automatically re-protected to the nearest like for like MSC Virtuosa sailing. Agents with booked guests and direct customers will be contacted with all information pertaining to the change.

For more information or to book now visit www.msccruises.co.uk, see your local travel agent or call 0203 426 3010.