MSC launches first-ever Northern Europe winter itinerary

The seven-night ex-UK cruises begin on November 14 and are open for booking now

MSC Cruises has introduced an ex-UK winter city getaway to Northern Europe.

The launch of MSC’s Northern Pearls itinerary marks the first time that the company has operated a winter programme in the region.

MSC Magnifica is offering seven-night cruises, calling at five European cities, including Hamburg, Germany; IJmuiden/Amsterdam, Netherlands; Zeebrugge for Bruges and Brussels; Le Havre for Paris and Southampton for London.

The cruise ship will embark weekly from Southampton’s new Horizon Cruise Terminal from November 14 until April 2022.

The ship will stay in port for up to 12 hours to allow guests to make the most of their time ashore.

Winter is a great time to visit Northern European cities as they come alive with festive decorations and Christmas markets. They are also not as busy with tourists.

Antonio Paradiso, managing director of MSC Cruises UK & Ireland said: “Following on from a full summer season with one of our newest ships, MSC Virtuosa, sailing in the UK, we are pleased to be able to bring another first to our British guests with a winter itinerary in Northern Europe.

“MSC Magnifica, a popular ship with our guests, will offer weekly embarkation in Southampton from the brand-new Horizon Cruise Terminal that opened this summer. This gives holidaymakers direct and convenient access to some of Europe’s best cities for a great winter cruise.”