MSC Cruises deploying a second ship to China in 2024

It was revealed last month that MSC Bellissima will offer international cruises from Baoshan Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal to neighbouring countries between March 16 and April 24. 

From January, the ship will offer cruises from Keelung in Taiwan becoming the second international cruise ship to return after Costa Serena this year.

MSC Splendida’s winter 2024 itineraries from Shenzhen are currently being finalised. 

Making a comeback

2024 will be the first year of cruise operations in China since 2020 when the global COVID pandemic brought cruising to a standstill. The expanded plan means MSC Cruises will be the only international cruise brand so far to base two ships in China next year. 

Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific makes its return this October in Hong Kong, inspired by the overarching theme 'Rebuilding Asia Cruising Together.’ 

Cruises from Shenzhen and Shanghai

MSC Bellissima will now operate itineraries from Shenzhen as well as Shanghai.

It will make its Shenzhen debut on June 29 with eight sailings of two- to five-night itineraries with calls to Hong Kong, Okinawa, Yaeyama Islands and Miyako Island.   

The vessel will operate eight sailings between 31 July and 6 September of four to six nights from Shanghai to Japan, including Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Osaka, Okinawa and Shimonoseki.

Highest direct sales bookings

Helen Huang, president, MSC Cruises China, explained, ‘The day that the first spring 2024 itineraries for MSC Bellissima were announced the number of direct sales bookings in a single day hit the highest record in our history in the country with family cabins and MSC Yacht Club suites contributing the largest share of revenue.

‘There is clearly a strong demand for vacations at sea in China and our decision to deploy two modern vessels in 2024 featuring our “ship within a ship concept” - MSC Yacht Club - to the country amply demonstrates a rapid recovery in its cruise industry and an appetite for premium voyages.’