MSC Cruises has announced an exciting deployment strategy for the Chinese market in 2025, marking a significant return to the region after a four-year hiatus. The star of the show is the luxurious MSC Bellissima, which will be setting sail from Shanghai to offer unforgettable cruise experiences to Japan and South Korea.
Starting on January 16th, 2025, the MSC Bellissima will embark on a series of four- and five-night winter voyages, taking passengers to popular destinations in Japan and South Korea. This initial phase of the deployment will run until March 10th, 2025, giving travelers the opportunity to explore these vibrant destinations during the winter months.
Following a period of operations across Asia, the MSC Bellissima will return to Shanghai on July 13th, 2025, to kick off a summer cruise program that will continue through September 7th, 2025. During this time, the 4,500-passenger vessel will offer a variety of shorter cruises, once again featuring stops in Japan and South Korea. This will provide passengers with more flexibility to customize their itineraries and explore these fascinating destinations at a more leisurely pace.
The upcoming 2025 deployment marks a significant milestone for MSC Cruises and the Chinese cruise industry as a whole. The MSC Bellissima’s return to Shanghai signifies the resurgence of foreign-flagged cruise ships in the region, a testament to the industry’s resilience and the growing demand for cruise travel.
The MSC Bellissima first made its debut in Asia earlier this year, marking MSC Cruises’ long-awaited return to the Chinese market after a four-year absence due to the pandemic. The ship’s initial operations in 2024 have been a resounding success, indicating a strong appetite for cruise travel in China and the broader Asian region.
With its exciting itinerary and the promise of exceptional onboard experiences, the MSC Bellissima is poised to capture the hearts of Chinese travelers in 2025, offering them the opportunity to explore the beauty and culture of Japan and South Korea in style and comfort.