DAY 1 - 02 May 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 4 PM
With a history dating back to the 5th century and the accolade of European Capital of Culture 2013, in Marseille you’ll find an old city full of charm to explore and pretty modern districts alike. Tuck into a classic pissaladière at the old port before visiting the famous coves of the Calanques National Park to the south- a stunning sight and only 25 minutes away by car. Before you leave don’t forget to buy a Marseille soap to give your suitcase a delicious holiday scent!
Things to do in Marseille (Provence):
Calanques National Park
Lying just 25 minutes' drive from Marseille, this stunning national park forms a natural harbour on the Mediterranean coastline. Boasting over 8,000 hectares of green landscapes and dramatic coves, don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins from the cliff edge.
History Museum of Marseille
With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Marseille History Museum is the ideal way to walk the paths of Marseille’s engrossing past. Covering everything from the ancient Greek founders and Roman traders, to more recent affairs, the museum is a must for those in love with archaeology and French history.
Le Panier District
This old district of Marseille has witnessed many moments of history, from the turbulence of ancient times to the darkness of WW2. Today you’ll find charming narrow streets to wander, dotted with artisan shops, cafés, bars and bistros.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Affectionately called the “Good Mother”’ by locals, Notre-Dame de la Garde was built in the 12th century on the site of an old fort and has seen countless renovations. Standing proudly 157 metres above the city, this is the place for unrivalled views of the city.
Vieux Port
The Port of Marseille is the cradle not only in terms of location but in bringing trade, culture and wealth to Marseilles. Nowadays you’ll find the famous fish market a scenic waterfront ideal for sipping pastis while watching the world go by.
La Corniche
Renamed in honour of US President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963, this pretty boulevard boasts architecture from many different eras, and is the perfect place to go for a stroll and admire the pretty beaches and coastline of Marseille.
Barcelona
DAY 2 - 03 May 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
This vibrant seaside city is home to unforgettable architecture and creative scenes from renowned artists. The buildings you’ll find here are unlike anything you’ve ever seen, such as Park Güell and Casa Batllo, while foodies will be spoilt for choice with 20 different Michelin star restaurants. At the end of a busy day of shopping enjoy the energetic nightlife, or relax on the beach with newfound friends. Whatever your interests, Barcelona has the perfect itinerary for you.
Things to do in Barcelona:
Las Ramblas
Visiting Las Ramblas is an absolute must when in Barcelona. Visitors can experience the weird and the wonderful, from the Museu de l’Erotica to the Miró Mural, in between trying a range of authentic tapas bars and cafes before a much needed siesta.
Sagrada Familia
Although the Sagrada Familia is not technically complete, it’s still an impressive sight to behold. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this spectacular Basilica hosts many masses, events and a place to simply marvel at in wonder.
Barcelona City History Museum
Home of the cultural heritage of Barcelona, the Barcelona City History Museum manages several sites of interest including archaeological sites and historic houses. Visitors will discover the Roman colony, prehistoric Spain, Barcelona’s Jewish community and more.
Park Guell
Comprising of vibrant gardens and beautiful architecture, Park Güell was designed by Antoni Gaudí and officially opened in 1926. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding showcase of Gaudí’s genius design, Park Güell makes a wonderful place to go for a walk.
Casa Batllo
Another one of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, Casa Batllo is a truly eye-catching building to explore. Visitors are able to explore this fantastic showcase of the designer’s work, and even enjoy live music and other events on the roof terrace.
Casa Mila
This modernist building was the last residence to be designed by Antoni Gaudí and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the building with an audio guide, and even enjoy rooftop shows on a romantic evening.
Sant Sebastia
One of Barcelona’s oldest beaches, Sant Sebastià Beach features everything you need for a fantastic day in the sun. With indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms and amenities for lounging, visitors can go for a dip, enjoy an ice cream and find dinner all in one area.
Camp Nou Stadium
With capacity for over 99,000 people, Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and cathedral to the Catalans’ second religion- the beautiful game! Visitors can catch an exciting game of football here or take a guided or un-guided tour of the grounds.
At Sea
DAY 3 - 04 May 2022
You will be at sea on day 3 while travelling from Barcelona to La Goulette (for Tunis).
La Goulette (for Tunis)
DAY 4 - 05 May 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Palermo, Sicily
DAY 5 - 06 May 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Palermo is the capital of Sicily, as well as the fifth Italian municipality by population. The city has a long history: it was in fact founded by the Phoenicians at the turn of the 7th and 6th centuries BC and was subject to the conquests of various populations, including Romans and Saracens. Numerous buildings are recognised by the State as national monuments due to their historical and artistic features, such as the Cathedral and the Martorana Church.
Things to do in Palermo, Sicily:
Capella Palatina
The Palatine Chapel is located within the larger Palazzo dei Normanni complex. It is a basilica with three naves in Norman-Byzantine style and its construction began in 1129 at the behest of King Roger II of Sicily.
Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs
The Convent of the Capuchins, dating back to the 16th century but built on previous structures, is located in the Cuba district of Palermo. The basement houses the Capuchin Catacombs, where it is possible to admire the body of the little Rosalia Lombardo.
La Martorana
The Church of the Martorana is located in the historic centre of Palermo and boasts a Sicilian-Norman architectural style with Baroque influences. It is part of the circumscription of the Italian-Albanian Church and officiates the liturgy according to the Byzantine rite.
Monte Pellegrino
At Monte Pellegrino you can admire the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, patron saint of the city of Palermo, dating back to the 17th century. It was built on the remains of pre-existing religious buildings and is located inside a rock ravine.
Palazzo dei Normanni
The Palazzo dei Normanni is the oldest royal residence in all of Europe. Also declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2015, in the past it was the residence of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Sicily, imperial seat and of the Sicilian Parliament.
Palmero Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Palermo was established in 1866 and owes its name to Antonio Salinas, a Palermo archaeologist who directed the structure. You will be able to admire numerous finds of the peoples that have characterised centuries of Sicilian history.
Palermo Cathedral
The Cathedral of Palermo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, is the most important religious structure in the city. The current structure, built in the 12th century, presents different architectural styles with Norman and Islamic influences.
Naples
DAY 6 - 07 May 2022
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 1 PM
Naples is one of the most important cities in Italy. Its foundation dates back to the 8th century BC, and it once had an important relationship with Athens, due to its commercial power and position on the sea. The city is rich in history and there are numerous places of interest to visit, in particular the archaeological excavations of the nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Things to do in Naples:
Museo Nationale
The opening of the historic National Archaeological Museum of Naples took place in 1816. Built by Ferdinando I of Borbone, at the time king of the Two Sicilies, it boasts the richest collection of works and archaeological finds with regard to Roman history.
Museo d'arte contemporanea
The Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as the Madre Museum, is located inside Palazzo Donnaregina, in the center of Naples. It was established in 2005 with the aim of promoting cultural and artistic development in the territory of Campania.
Palazzo Reale
The construction of the Royal Palace began in 1600 and for a long time was the residence of the Spanish viceroys, before passing to the House of Bourbon and finally to the House of Savoy. The architectural style is a mixture of Baroque and Neoclassical. Today, the palace houses a museum and a library.
Pompeii
The history of Pompeii begins in the 9th century BC, when the area was inhabited by the Opici people - an ancient Latin population. Today the town is famous because of the eruption of Vesuvius, which occurred in 79 AD, which led to its total destruction.
Mount Vesuvius
The profile of Naples would not be the same without Mount Vesuvius that dominates the city skyline. Versuvius is known for the violent eruption of AD 79, which became famous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and was witnessed by Pliny the Younger.
Herculaneum
The tremendous eruption of Vesuvius, in 79 AD, not only destroyed Pompeii but also the ancient city of Herculaneum. The archaeological excavations of this city can be visited today and, since 1997, are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
San Gennaro Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are the most important Christian monument in Naples. The remains of San Gennaro, the main patron saint of the city, have been held here since the 5th century. The labyrinth of corridors also house Christian frescos from the 2nd century AD, and mosaics from the 5th century AD.
Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo is a medieval and Renaissance-era castle. Most commonly known as Maschio Angioino, its construction began in the 13th century at the behest of Charles I of Anjou, after he moved the Italian capital from Palermo to Naples in around 1268.
Piazza del Plebiscito
The Piazza del Plebiscito is located in the historic center of Naples and was of considerable importance after the construction of the Royal Palace. Today Palazzo Salerno, Palazzo della Prefettura, and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola are also located here.
Genoa
DAY 7 - 08 May 2022
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
The historic city of Genoa has played a pivotal role in Italy’s past, particularly when it comes to maritime endeavours. One of the world’s biggest shipbuilding yards – Fincantieri – is located here, and Genoa is also hometown to the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus. You can easily imagine the hustling, bustling travellers and traders of years gone by as you wander in the Old Port, and relive history in Piazza de Ferrari, and the mansions of Via Garibaldi. Sip on delicious wine and enjoy the very best seafood dishes in this pretty yet industrial Italian city.
Things to do in Genoa:
Aquarium of Genoa
One for all the family to enjoy, the Aquarium of Genoa is the largest in Italy. It was designed by local architect Renzo Piano, and built in 1992 to mark the 500 year anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the New World. Within its more than 70 tanks live around 600 different animal species, and 200 species of plants. You’ll find representations of the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic, and Caribbean Sea at the aquarium.
Via Garibaldi
Originally called the Strada Maggiore, or Strada Nuova, this street was named after famous general Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1882. Over the 16th and 17th centuries the wealthy nobility of the area set about restoring and reforming existing dated mansions, which resulted in the creation of more than ten fabulous palazzi (palaces). The street became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006, and today the beautiful buildings act as banks, shops, offices, the Town Hall, and clubs.
Saint Lawrence Cathedral
The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo was first built in the late 11th century. It houses the ashes of St John the Baptist, the city’s patron saint, which are said to have arrived in Genoa at the end of the First Crusade. Over the years the building has suffered destruction and consequent repair works, which has led to the juxtaposition of varying architectural styles. There is evidence of Romanesque, Gothic, Mannerist, and Byzantine style which makes for a beautiful and intriguing image.
Piazza De Ferrari
The city’s main square is named after Raffaele de Ferrari, the Duke of Galliera who donated a large sum of money to modernise Genoa in the mid-19th century. There are both modern and historic buildings surrounding the square, and it also boasts a beautiful fountain in the middle which many people enjoy sitting at with a gelato in hand. Piazza de Ferrari is a popular meeting place among tourists and locals alike, and is also frequently used for events.
Lighthouse
It is believed that Genoa’s lighthouse dates back to the 12th century. It has long represented Genoa, proudly displaying the city’s coat of arms since the mid-14th century – a feature that can be seen on many ancient nautical maps. The signalling light was once fuelled by fragrant plants such as juniper, heather, and briar root, until (olive) oil lamps were introduced in around 1345. The lighthouse has seen many keepers over the centuries, one of whom was Antonio Columbus – Christopher Columbus’ uncle.
Royal Palace Museum
Today, the Palazzo Reale is a spectacular national museum displaying a range of 17th, 18th and 19th century furniture, art, and other artefacts. It was constructed for the Balbi family in 1618, sold to the Durazzo family in 1677, and then became the royal House of Savoy’s property in 1823. Since 1919 the palace has belonged to the state, and has welcomed visitors. The Gilded Hall of Mirrors and collection of 17th century art are particularly special.
Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli
Le Strade Nuove is Italian for ‘the new street’, and in Genoa this collectively refers to the magnificent Via Garibaldi, Via Cairoli, and Via Balbi. This area of the city is home to some exquisite mansions, which in 1576 were registered on the Palazzi dei Rolli – a list of palaces. Being on this list meant that when important visitors came to Genoa, the wealthy families who owned the mansions would take turns in hosting them.
Old Port
Many say that the activity at the historic port of Genoa is what inspired local boy Christopher Columbus in his childhood to go on to undertake discovery voyages – one of which would lead to European settlement in the Americas. Today, a walk around the bustling port can transport you to years gone by, as you imagine the travellers, trade, and business that went on way back when just as it does now. Gaze at historic buildings and busy streets, many of which were revamped in the 1990s by Italian architect Renzo Piano.
Marseille (Provence)
DAY 8 - 09 May 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 4 PM
With a history dating back to the 5th century and the accolade of European Capital of Culture 2013, in Marseille you’ll find an old city full of charm to explore and pretty modern districts alike. Tuck into a classic pissaladière at the old port before visiting the famous coves of the Calanques National Park to the south- a stunning sight and only 25 minutes away by car. Before you leave don’t forget to buy a Marseille soap to give your suitcase a delicious holiday scent!
Things to do in Marseille (Provence):
Calanques National Park
Lying just 25 minutes' drive from Marseille, this stunning national park forms a natural harbour on the Mediterranean coastline. Boasting over 8,000 hectares of green landscapes and dramatic coves, don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins from the cliff edge.
History Museum of Marseille
With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Marseille History Museum is the ideal way to walk the paths of Marseille’s engrossing past. Covering everything from the ancient Greek founders and Roman traders, to more recent affairs, the museum is a must for those in love with archaeology and French history.
Le Panier District
This old district of Marseille has witnessed many moments of history, from the turbulence of ancient times to the darkness of WW2. Today you’ll find charming narrow streets to wander, dotted with artisan shops, cafés, bars and bistros.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Affectionately called the “Good Mother”’ by locals, Notre-Dame de la Garde was built in the 12th century on the site of an old fort and has seen countless renovations. Standing proudly 157 metres above the city, this is the place for unrivalled views of the city.
Vieux Port
The Port of Marseille is the cradle not only in terms of location but in bringing trade, culture and wealth to Marseilles. Nowadays you’ll find the famous fish market a scenic waterfront ideal for sipping pastis while watching the world go by.
La Corniche
Renamed in honour of US President John F. Kennedy after his assassination in 1963, this pretty boulevard boasts architecture from many different eras, and is the perfect place to go for a stroll and admire the pretty beaches and coastline of Marseille.
I have travelled on this ship before, however the customer service is not has good as it used to be. Also the choice of food in the restaurant is not very good and when there is a formal night, no choice at all, not good if you have allergies, or vegetarian etc. The room was clean and comfy, and the countries we visited, lovely, however I am not too sure if I will be using MSC again.
Cuban cruise 15 nights. MSC Opera. Just returned from a lovely holiday, definitely the best way to see Havana and live in relative comfort. There is however a few points to observe if your planning this trip. If you fly Air Euorpa via Madrid it’s worth mentioning there is no complementary drinks London to Madrid. After a 2 hr wait you then finish the flight with them on the 10 hr trip to Havana. The seat pitch is minimum, the entertainment system was rubbish, mine didn’t work going and all I got coming back was the map with your location. I can assure you it moves very slowly. If the opportunity arises to change the airline grab it. I have since found out you can go with Air France via Paris, which may well be worth while. The gratuities on the ship are €10 per day per person, they are removable. What is not is the mandatory 15% service charge on drinks and services. Draft lager was €6.33 for 0.4L. Cheapest all day drink package on board is €29 per person per day. You do the maths. Every time you enter Cuba you need a visa provided by the ship. First one is free, if you do 14 days you’ll need another two which charges your onboard account with another €30 per person.
Disappointed with the overall experience as a first cruise - spoilt by the weather and unusual storms in the Mediterranean - last minute booking and had to upgrade to an exterior Fantastica cabin - reasonably comfortable but small for the money paid - lacked armchairs to relax in and impressed as 'cramped. Was told by Iglu salesperson that we would have an opening patio door - we didn't and not even an opening window to let any fresh air into the cabin and so completely reliant on the air conditioning consequently on 24/7 - relatively noisy - so made getting off to sleep difficult and with long periods of rain - air was damp and clammy so we both returned to UK with bad colds. Breakfasts were ok - good and plentiful choice but lacking in overall quality - evening meals good - service efficient but we were allocated our table with no chance of moving from a 2 to a 4 to 6 people sitting in order to develop the comaradary one goes cruising to experience. Drinks package a complete rip off - with branded drinks charged for additionally and when I complained and managed to cancel after 3 days of negotiations, faced with a 15 per cent service charge on all bar drinks - also £20 per day service charge excessive as an addition but able to cancel as we tipped waiters and cleaners separately to ensure they benefitted. Overall not a bad experience but it is obviously a money making trip and one has to be careful about extras and the drinks packages need careful thought because they are presented as 'non cancellable' and the whole package at approx 350 to provide Euros each per weeek to provide 'branded drinks and, allegedly fully inclusive - (we elected for 26 Euros per day)is hard to justify if one is not a seasoned drinker - might try a different ship - Opera ok very clean and furnishings in good condition but a little 'dated' - packed a lot into a little time - one week - shame about the weather and the onboard prices akin to top hotel rates but surroundings and waitress service don't justify / live up to the premium.
A clean ship, food in the self service restaurant was fine, cannot complain. The staff were all very friendly. and tried their best to speak english. We did feel that the majority of the passengers were either Italian or French, and if you were a lone English person you would have found it extremely difficult to have a conversation with anyone for a whole week. Entertainment during the day was fine, although we did find that the theatre entertainment was a bit boring, the entertainment team made up for it though they were brilliant. Excursions were OK, but a bit on the expensive side, and you didnt get enough time to make the most of where you were, which was a shame. Our flight was late on arriving at Nice airport, and the transfer, did not wait for us. so , please make sure if you are booking your own flight that you allow sufficient time for delays as the transfer coaches will not wait longer than 30 minutes, when we contacted MSC for help, I am afraid they just did not want to know. they didnt show any duty of care at all, and were willing to leave 2 full paying passengers, in a strange country in a strange airport, unable to speak the language and I am afraid they just didnt care!!!!!
This ship provides exactly what it says on the tin.Only our second cruise and from the reviews we were expecting something different from our first and a few iffy bits here and there.First impressions were good,a nice welcome on board and easy to find cabin.We took a risk on an ocean view cabin as we had a balcony previously.We were pleasantly surprised at the size and had no worries except for the very small shower which is a bit of a squeeze.We thought the food in the buffet was of a better standard than the dining room,which never seemed to be hot enough.Finding somewhere to sit and eat was a matter of timing in the buffet.We don't drink much so did not buy a drinks package,but what we did have was only a couple of euros more than in a hotel in the UK.All Msc excursions were very good and informative.You will only save a few euros buy going with another company,so its worth the extra to have an assured return time.The Opera was let down by three things we thought.The food could have been much hotter and provide more veg,the bar at the rear of the ship stank of cigarette smoke,which we had to run the gauntlet of each night after dinner as the Aproddo restaurant was accessed through here.(choose the Carravella if you can).The third thing was the plumbing, its showing its age and the shower frequently had a pong.The housekeeping man did sort it a few time but it kept coming back.All in all you could not fault the MSC Opera for value for money.We did enjoy the fact there were so many Italian and French etc passengers on board.
The ship was nicely appointed food was good destinations excellent but if you want to avoid mothers screaming and hitting their children avoid MSC. (the children were fine but the mothers were more interested in their phones than their children) We have done 27 cruise at least 8 on MSC and never experienced anything like this. can't rate the ship as it was good just the woman on it that made It bad
We Really enjoyed our trip on the MSC Opera, a nice clean ship not the largest in the fleet but well maintained and attractive. The Staff were friendly and the food excellent. I enjoyed the tours that we did. The only thing that bothered me was the market stalls that were erected around decks 5 and 6 of an evening selling, watches and perfume, it just was a bit cheap. Also being a smaller ship it did feel a bit crowded at times, especially around the pool deck and some of the bars. The shows were very well attended but that was understandable as they were great. I liked the MSC style it was fun and casual, Formal night was not that formal. Many thanks
Top class dancing entertainment and the specialist act 2 men doing hand to hand strongman is a must see show. I can only compare it to the Westend in London
Nice ship, very long since her new section... Lively, fun and very European... Obviously aimed at the Italian Market but all Nationalities are made to feel very welcome. Italian, French, Spanish and English are main ones and in that order... For example the Pianist in La Carabela sang in both English and Italian (i preferred Italian!) Everything is translated however the main language onboard is English. MSC don't do constant announcements in the various tongue unless absolutely necessary, i'm Pleased to say... The food was superb! Freshly made Pizza and Pasta from 10am-2am, like MaMa used to make, the buffet food was very nice and international. The main dining was excellent and varied and tantamount to fine dining with Themed Evenings and three Gala Evenings in a 12 Night Cruise. No freedom dining here! (Unless you are Aurea or Yacht Club Level) Most people adhered to the dress code... The entertainment in the main Piazza was geared toward ballroom dancing and latin and ballroom dancing lessons were twice a day but for ALL ages and all ages got involved (the E Dancers are very young) The E Team were great fun and laid back and interacted like friends with the Guests, lot's of quizzes, bingo, sport games at the pool bar and the staff are generally very friendly if a little cheeky at times but in a nice way... Impossible to get bored! The Allegrissimo Drinks Package was Superb value and the drinks are international labels and good quality. Our Balcony Cabin was a good size although would prefer a sofa between the second bed and the Balcony for ease of access. Great and instant reaction from the air con and Bathroom was a very nice size, even for me! Good cupboard and drawer space for to heavy travelers and extra coat hangers were readily available. I removed my Tips from my account and wasn't questioned about this at all. Excursions were well organised, timely and good value. Couldn't fault the holiday at all!
The ship was great - very clean, small but perfectly planned cabin. We had an ocean view on deck 8, this was perfect because the pools are deck 11, bars and restaurants deck 5. The food was excellent, and the drinks package was well worth it, with a huge range of cocktails, ice cream and water included, although the wines were a little disappointing. We always followed the dress code, but were a bit disappointed that many people didn't bother especially on the formal nights, which spoilt the atmosphere a bit. Second sitting was very late at 9.30 so we opted for first at 7pm, which was a bit early. Shows were quite dull. Pools were good and there are lots of sunbeds. We did our own thing at each port, and had no problem finding taxis to take us around Jamaica, Cozumel and Havana. We used Moby Dick tours for a great sting ray experience in Cayman. Embarkation was easy and well organised, as was disembarkation.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.