MSC Cruises’ new flagship to be christened in Qatar
The LNG-powered MSC World Europa will be named at Doha’s new Grand Cruise Terminal ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup
The christening of MSC Cruises’ new flagship MSC World Europa will take place in Qatar in November.
The ceremony will take place at Doha’s new Grand Cruise Terminal on November 13, ahead of the start of the 2022 FIFA World Cup which is being held in the Gulf state.
The 2,626-cabin vessel is the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet and will be used as a floating hotel during the World Cup, before it embarks on its maiden voyage on December 20.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “MSC World Europa represents the future of cruising, a totally new platform that will provide our guests with an unforgettable cruise not experienced anywhere else before.
“Qatar will continue to play an important role in our strategy to expand our presence in the broader Gulf region, as we see greater demand from our guests to visit this culturally rich and yet fully discovered part of the world.”
Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker added: “Qatar has taken important steps to position itself as a world-class destination for cruise passengers, and the naming ceremony of MSC World Europa in Doha is another landmark event as we grow this important tourism sector.
“As Qatar places great importance on sustainability, it is fitting that we host this ceremony for such an environmentally focused cruise ship.”
Free transfers and drinks deals on Fred Olsen 2023 itineraries
The line is offering the added value packages to more than 80 of its 2023 itineraries sailing from UK regional ports
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is offering guests free door-to-door transfers or an all-inclusive drinks package on a selection of its 2023 itineraries.
Between September 6 and October 31 2022, guests booking a selected 2023 cruise of 16 nights or less can enjoy a free all inclusive drinks package, or, for selected 2023 cruises of 17-nights or more, free door-to-door transfers of up to 200 miles to the port.
More than 80 itineraries are included in the offer – including sailings to see the midnight sun in Norway, the Amalfi Coast in Italy and the Fredericia Festivities in Denmark – with regional departures available from Liverpool, Newcastle, Dover, Southampton and Rosyth.
Clare Ward, director of product and customer service at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We know these added value packages mean a great deal to our guests. With a drinks package, you can relax in one of our bars or lounges with your favourite tipple as you recharge after a day of exploring ashore.
“All of our cruises set sail from a regional UK port, meaning you can enjoy a stress-free check-in avoiding long queues and delays, and with the option of door-to-door transfers included on selected 2023 cruises, our guests can start to relax and enjoy their holiday from the moment they leave their front door.”