The South America“>MSC Seaview departed from the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, this past Saturday, embarking on an exciting trans-Atlantic journey towards the captivating shores of South America.
This voyage marks the beginning of the local cruise season in Brazil, with the MSC Cruises vessel charting a course that will see it explore stunning destinations in Italy, France, and Morocco before its much-anticipated arrival in Santos on November 8, 2024.
After leaving the bustling port of Barcelona, the Seaview is scheduled to make stops at four picturesque ports in the Mediterranean: the glamourous Cannes, the historic city of Genoa, the bustling port of Civitavecchia, and the stunning island of Palma de Mallorca.
Following its Mediterranean explorations, the 20-night cruise will venture further across the North Atlantic, featuring enticing visits to vibrant Casablanca and the idyllic Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The MSC Seaview is poised to relish six days at sea, offering guests a blend of relaxation and adventure before making its inaugural stop in Brazil at Salvador de Bahia. This will be succeeded by exciting visits to Ilhéus and the lively city of Rio de Janeiro.
Once the ship docks in Santos, it will initiate a thrilling schedule of cruises ranging from three to eight nights, visiting diverse destinations across Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Running through mid-April, this local deployment will also include a selection of themed charter sailings organized by PromoAção, a well-known Brazilian travel operator specializing in unique cruise experiences.
Sailing roundtrip from Santos, the ship’s carefully curated itineraries will offer guests the opportunity to explore breathtaking locales such as Búzios, Salvador, Ilhéus, Rio de Janeiro, Angra dos Reis, Ilhabela, Balneário Camboriú, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo.
In addition to the MSC Seaview, MSC Cruises will also feature the MSC Grandiosa, the MSC Poesia, the MSC Orchestra, and the MSC Armonia in South America for the 2024-25 season, showcasing the company’s commitment to delivering extraordinary cruise experiences.
The deployment of these six ships will set sail from various ports of call across Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, including bustling hubs like Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Maceió, Paranaguá, Itajaí, Santos, and Buenos Aires.
The local cruise season in South America will be further enriched by the presence of three vessels from Costa Cruises: the elegant Costa Diadema, the majestic Costa Favolosa, and the charming Costa Pacifica.
In a show of robust interest, other esteemed cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Silversea, and Holland America are also planning visits to this vibrant region in the 2024-25 season, enhancing options for travel enthusiasts.
Interview with Maria Smith, Director of Guest Experience for MSC Cruises
Editor: Maria, thank you for joining us today. The MSC Seaview has just embarked on an exciting trans-Atlantic journey. Can you tell us more about what makes this trip so special for guests?
Maria: Absolutely! This voyage not only kicks off the local cruise season in Brazil, but it also offers our guests the unique opportunity to experience a diverse range of cultures and destinations. From the vibrant city of Barcelona to the beautiful shores of Brazil, this journey is packed with adventure and relaxation.
Editor: That sounds amazing! The cruise is scheduled to explore multiple ports in the Mediterranean. What highlights can guests look forward to in places like Cannes and Palma de Mallorca?
Maria: Each port offers its own charm! In Cannes, guests can indulge in the glamour of the French Riviera, and in Genoa, they can explore centuries of history. Civitavecchia is the gateway to Rome, giving our guests a chance to immerse themselves in Italy’s rich heritage. And Palma de Mallorca is known for its stunning beaches and delightful local cuisine. There’s truly something for everyone!
Editor: Following the Mediterranean stops, the Seaview will head across the North Atlantic. What can guests expect during these days at sea?
Maria: Our guests are in for a treat! With six days at sea, we provide a variety of activities and entertainment options onboard. Whether guests prefer lounging by the pool, enjoying a spa treatment, or participating in engaging workshops, there’s plenty to keep them entertained. Our culinary team also prepares special menus featuring local cuisines from the destinations we visit.
Editor: After the Mediterranean adventures, the cruise will make its inaugural stop in Brazil. What does this mean for MSC Cruises and for local communities?
Maria: It’s a momentous occasion for us! Arriving in Brazil signifies our commitment to expanding our presence in South America. We’re excited to bring tourism to destinations like Salvador, which will benefit local businesses and showcase the region’s vibrant culture. We aim to create memorable experiences for our guests while supporting the communities we visit.
Editor: Thank you, Maria, for sharing these insights. It sounds like the MSC Seaview’s journey will be quite the adventure for all on board!
Maria: Thank you for having me! We can’t wait to welcome our guests and create unforgettable memories together.
North Atlantic. Can you share some details about the experiences guests can expect during this part of the journey?
Maria: Certainly! After enjoying the Mediterranean, guests will have six days at sea, which is a fantastic opportunity to unwind and take advantage of the ship’s amenities. Once we reach the Atlantic, we’ll make stops in vibrant Casablanca, where guests can experience the rich blend of cultures, and the picturesque Santa Cruz de Tenerife, known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. We aim to create a dynamic travel experience aboard the MSC Seaview!
Editor: And then the ship will arrive in Brazil! What are some of the key highlights for passengers when they reach South America?
Maria: Brazil offers an incredible array of experiences! Our first stop will be in Salvador de Bahia, renowned for its Afro-Brazilian culture and stunning colonial architecture. Following that, we’ll visit Ilhéus, famous for its cocoa production and beautiful beaches, and then the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, where guests can marvel at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy the vibrant local culture. This combination of historical charm and modern allure is sure to captivate our guests!
Editor: It sounds like an incredible itinerary! Once the Seaview docks in Santos, what can guests expect in terms of future cruise options within Brazil and beyond?
Maria: Once we’re docked in Santos, we’re excited to offer a range of cruises from three to eight nights to popular destinations across Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Guests will have the chance to explore breathtaking places like Búzios and Angra dos Reis, as well as icon cities like Buenos Aires and Montevideo. We’re also introducing themed charters in collaboration with PromoAção, designed to cater to diverse interests. There’s really something for every traveler!
Editor: Fantastic! With MSC Seaview and other MSC vessels operating in the region, what do you think sets MSC Cruises apart from other lines in South America?
Maria: Our commitment to offering unique and tailored cruise experiences is what truly sets us apart. Each ship has its distinct vibe, and our carefully curated itineraries make it easy for guests to choose a cruise that matches their interests. Plus, with our partnerships with local operators, we can enhance the cultural experiences available to our passengers. The blend of luxury, exploration, and rich regional culture is central to what we offer at MSC.
Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Maria! It’s clear that the upcoming cruise season is going to be an exciting one for both MSC Cruises and travelers alike.
Maria: Thank you for having me! We can’t wait for our guests to embark on their journeys with us!
