MSC Cruises introduces new itineraries

Listening to cruise passenger feedback, and ensuring that cruise passengers have the best experience possible, the new itineraries have been designed to suit. Changes include longer calls off the Portuguese islands as well as the introduction of Inhaca as a sought after destination. Additional changes include replacing the weather dependent Bara Lodge with a call at Inhaca as part of the four-night cruise itinerary.

The seven-night cruise to Madagascar now also includes a stop at Inhaca as well as the popular Fort Dauphin/Port d'Ehoala, with Anakoa having been taken off the route.

"Both Bara Lodge and Anakoa are open ocean landings and are dependent on prevailing weather conditions. In previous seasons we have had a 20% and 30% landing rate respectively." Notes Allan Foggitt, marketing and sales director, MSC Cruises SA. "To allow guests a better cruise and shore experience the change to Inhaca has been instituted for the upcoming season".

Inhaca has long been a desired itinerary for cruise enthusiasts, with passengers being able to enjoy both the islands of the Inhaca Archipelago. This paradise offers a choice of seafood restaurants, bars and curio stalls. The Pestana lodge is a popular stop for its tropical vegetation, lush gardens, warm hospitality and delicious food. MSC has partnered with the lodge to ensure guests are able to enjoy outdoor pools and the surrounding hospitality.

MSC Opera has 856 cabins of which 172 are balcony cabins and 28 are balcony suites. The ship has four restaurants, eleven bars, two pools, and two whirlpools. The cruise ship boasts the MSC Aurea Spa and Solarium, a disco, video games room, internet café, casino, team building facilities and a medical centre. The ship has a wonderful array of duty free shops and caters for children with the Buffalo Bill children's play area, mini and junior clubs, and teen clubs. Additional facilities include the Cotton Club bar and a stage on deck for outdoor entertainment.