Two MSC Cruises ships to be used as floating hotels during FIFA World Cup in Qatar

The two ships, MSC Europa, the company's first LNG-powered cruise ship, and MSC Poesia will act as floating hotels during the tournament providing a combined total of 4,000 cabins. They will be berthed at Doha Port, giving fans a spectacular view of the West Bay skyline.

The month-long tournament will kick-off on November 21, 2022.

'We are pleased to collaborate with MSC Cruises to deliver this unique accommodation option for fans in 2022,' said Hassan Al Thawadi, secretary general of the Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), responsible for overseeing construction and infrastructure projects for World Cup 2022. 'We are sure fans from all over the world will be excited at the prospect of staying on board a cruise ship, with a fabulous view of West Bay, and fast access to all the stadiums and fan zones.'

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman, MSC Cruises, said: 'We are delighted that Qatar has selected our ships to ensure that tourists who will visit the country during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have high-end accommodation and services available to further enrich their experience. The tournament is one of the world’s most popular events and this will be another opportunity for holidaymakers from across the globe converging on Doha to experience our ships and enjoy the unique international experience that only MSC Cruises can offer.'

MSC Europa to run on LNG at berth

MSC Europa is currently under construction at Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France. She will run on LNG while at berth in Doha.

The cruise ships will be served by shuttle buses which will take fans to Qatar’s transport infrastructure, including Doha Metro, from where they will be able to access stadiums, fan zones and other attractions.

Qatar’s other accommodation options will include hotels, apartments and fan villages.