MSC Cruises has made the difficult decision to cancel its upcoming cruises in the Persian Gulf for March and April, citing concerns over the Coronavirus and port shutdowns in the United Arab Emirates as the reason for this decision. This will impact two of their ships, the MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica.
In response, MSC Cruises is offering guests a Future Cruise Credit and on board credit for the cancelled cruises.
As we navigate these challenging times, it is important to consider the benefits and considerations of cruising, as well as tips for beating the crowds.
Key Takeaways
- MSC Cruises has cancelled all March and April cruises in the Persian Gulf due to port closures and concerns over the Coronavirus.
- The cancellations affect two MSC Cruise ships, MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, with the cancellations starting from March 14.
- Guests on cancelled cruises will receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to the value of the cancelled cruise, which can be used for any future sailing before December 31, 2021.
- Additional on board credit is being offered for specific cruises, and tips are provided for beating the crowds on a cruise.
MSC Cruises Cancellations
I just read that MSC Cruises has cancelled their March and April Persian Gulf cruises due to the Coronavirus and port closures.
The cancellations are a result of the ongoing Coronavirus fears and the closing of cruise ports in the United Arab Emirates. Two MSC Cruise ships, the MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, are affected by these cancellations.
The decision to cancel these cruises was made in order to prioritize the safety and well-being of the guests and crew members. As the virus continues to spread and ports remain closed, it is necessary for the cruise line to take these precautionary measures.
While this may be disappointing for those who had planned to take these cruises, MSC Cruises is offering Future Cruise Credit to guests on cancelled cruises, which can be used for any future sailing before December 31, 2021.
Reasons for Cancellations
The cancellations of the March and April cruises were caused by the closure of ports and concerns about the spread of the virus. This decision was made to prioritize the safety and well-being of both passengers and crew members.
The closure of ports in the United Arab Emirates, where the cruises were scheduled to embark and disembark, made it impossible for the ships to operate as planned. The rapid spread of the coronavirus also heightened concerns about the health risks associated with travel.
These cancellations have had a significant impact on the tourism industry, particularly in the Persian Gulf region. Many travelers who had planned to take these cruises are now left disappointed and may have to reconsider their travel plans. The tourism industry in the region will also face financial losses due to the cancellations of these cruises.
Affected Ships
Amidst the chaos caused by the recent outbreak, two majestic ships were left stranded, their grand voyages abruptly halted. The MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, both affected by the cancellation of March and April Persian Gulf cruises, have become unfortunate victims of the coronavirus pandemic.
As a result, many passengers are left wondering about cruise ship refunds and the impact on local economies. While MSC Cruises has offered Future Cruise Credit to guests on cancelled cruises, providing them with the opportunity to use the value of their cancelled cruise for any future sailing before December 31, 2021, the economic repercussions on the local ports and communities cannot be ignored.
With ports in the United Arab Emirates closing, the loss of cruise ship traffic can have a significant impact on the local economies that heavily rely on tourism and the cruise industry.
Credit for Cancelled Cruises
As a result of the cancellations caused by the coronavirus outbreak and port closures, guests on the affected cruises are being offered Future Cruise Credit to use towards any future sailing before December 31, 2021. This credit is equal to the value of the cancelled cruise and provides flexibility for guests to plan their next vacation. In addition to the Future Cruise Credit, guests also receive on-board credit of $100 per stateroom for cancelled cruises up to 6 nights, and $200 per stateroom for cruises of 7 nights or longer. This on-board credit is refundable if not used in full during the cruise. For specific cruises like the MSC Bellissima Grand Voyage from Dubai to Yokohama and the MSC Lirica Grand Voyage from Dubai to Venice, guests receive an additional on-board credit of $400 per stateroom. These credit options provide guests with the opportunity to rebook their future cruise and enjoy the benefits of cruising while making use of the value from their cancelled trip.
| Credit Options | Future Cruise Bookings |
|---|---|
| Future Cruise Credit | Use towards any future sailing before December 31, 2021 |
| On-board Credit | $100 per stateroom for cancelled cruises up to 6 nights; $200 per stateroom for cruises of 7 nights or longer |
| Additional On-board Credit | $400 per stateroom for specific cruises |
Additional On Board Credit
I’m excited to learn about the additional on board credit options available for guests on cancelled cruises.
MSC Cruises is offering generous on board credits for specific cruises that were cancelled due to the Coronavirus and port closures. For the MSC Bellissima Grand Voyage from Dubai to Yokohama, guests will receive $400 per stateroom in on board credit. Similarly, for the MSC Lirica Grand Voyage from Dubai to Venice, guests will also receive $400 per stateroom in on board credit.
These credits can be used for various onboard expenses and are refundable if not fully utilized during the cruise. To make the most of this on board credit, guests can consider booking specialty dining experiences, spa treatments, or even shore excursions.
It’s a great opportunity to enhance the cruise experience and enjoy additional amenities while on board.
Tips for Beating the Crowds
To beat the crowds on a cruise, I recommend planning shore excursions during off-peak times, taking advantage of onboard activities during port days, making dinner reservations in advance, exploring lesser-known areas of the ship, and utilizing early embarkation and late disembarkation options.
Here are some tips to maximize your onboard activities and explore hidden gems:
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Participate in enrichment activities: From cooking classes to art workshops, cruises offer a wide range of activities that cater to different interests. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn something new and make the most of your time onboard.
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Discover lesser-known areas of the ship: While the main areas like the pool deck and dining venues can get crowded, there are often hidden corners and quiet spaces that are less frequented. Explore these areas to find a peaceful retreat and enjoy some solitude.
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Take advantage of early embarkation and late disembarkation options: Arriving early at the port can give you a head start in exploring the ship before the crowds arrive. Similarly, staying onboard during port days can allow you to enjoy the ship’s amenities without the usual rush.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your cruise experience and avoid the crowds, while maximizing your onboard activities and discovering hidden gems.
Benefits of Cruising
Now let’s talk about the benefits of cruising. Cruises offer a unique opportunity for relaxation and downtime, allowing you to escape from your daily routines and enjoy some much-needed rest. Onboard amenities such as spas, pools, and lounges provide the perfect setting for relaxation. Additionally, sea days give you uninterrupted time to bond with your travel companions, creating lasting memories together.
Another great aspect of cruising is the wide range of family-friendly activities available. Cruise ships are designed to cater to guests of all ages, with options for kids, teens, and adults. From water parks and waterslides to Broadway-style shows and character experiences, there is something for everyone in the family.
To grab your attention, here’s a table showcasing some of the popular family-friendly activities offered on different cruise ships:
| Cruise Ship | Family-Friendly Activities |
|---|---|
| Symphony of the Seas | Ultimate Family Suite, numerous family-friendly activities |
| Harmony of the Seas | Waterslides, zip line, adventure-packed amenities |
| Allure of the Seas | Broadway-style shows, DreamWorks character experiences |
| Oasis of the Seas | Largest kids’ aqua park at sea |
| Freedom of the Seas | Youth programs, various activities |
Cruising provides the perfect balance of relaxation and family fun, making it an ideal vacation choice for many.
Considerations for Solo Cruisers
Considering cruising as a solo traveler can offer both independence and the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Solo cruise experiences can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to have the freedom to do as you please and explore the ship at your own pace.
However, it’s important to take into account the availability of solo cabins on different ships. While some cruise lines offer dedicated cabins for solo travelers, others may have limited options or charge a single supplement fee, which can make the experience more expensive.
Feeling lonely or isolated is also a potential downside of cruising solo, so it’s important to consider your comfort level with being on your own.
Overall, solo cruising can be a fantastic way to embark on a new adventure and create unforgettable memories.
Cost Considerations for Luxury Cruises
When considering luxury cruises, it’s important to thoroughly research the cost factors such as cabin type, location, and additional expenses like gratuities, specialty dining, and shore excursions in order to make an informed decision. Luxury cruise pricing can vary based on the cruise line, ship, and itinerary. Factors such as the type and location of the cabin can also affect the cost. It’s worth noting that luxury cruises often offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a great value for travelers. These packages typically include accommodations, meals, drinks, and some onboard activities. However, it’s important to carefully review what is included in the package to ensure it meets your preferences and needs. Booking early or taking advantage of promotions can also help save money on luxury cruises.
| Luxury Cruise Considerations | |
|---|---|
| Cost Factors | Cabin type, location, additional expenses |
| Pricing Variations | Cruise line, ship, itinerary |
| All-Inclusive Packages | Accommodations, meals, drinks, some onboard activities |
Best Royal Caribbean Ship for Kids
I believe the best Royal Caribbean ship for kids is Symphony of the Seas. It offers the ultimate family suite and a wide range of adventure-packed amenities that will keep kids entertained throughout their cruise.
Here are four reasons why I think Symphony of the Seas is the top choice for families with children:
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Ultimate Family Suite: This ship features the Ultimate Family Suite, a spacious and luxurious accommodation that includes a separate bedroom for parents, a children’s room with bunk beds and a slide, and a private balcony with a whirlpool tub. It’s the perfect home away from home for families.
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Adventure-Packed Amenities: Symphony of the Seas has numerous family-friendly activities that cater to kids of all ages. From waterslides and a zip line to a mini-golf course and a carousel, there’s never a dull moment on this ship.
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Broadway-Style Shows: The ship is known for its Broadway-style shows, which are sure to captivate kids and adults alike. From musicals to acrobatic performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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DreamWorks Character Experiences: Allure of the Seas offers the opportunity to meet and interact with beloved DreamWorks characters like Shrek, Fiona, and Kung Fu Panda. Kids will love getting their pictures taken with their favorite movie characters.
Overall, Symphony of the Seas provides a fantastic experience for families with kids, offering the ultimate family suite and a variety of adventure-packed amenities that will create lasting memories.
Now let’s shift our focus to MSC Cruises’ response to the Coronavirus outbreak and its impact on the cruise industry. As the virus continues to spread, MSC Cruises has taken proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers and crew members. They have implemented rigorous safety measures and protocols to prevent the spread of the virus on their ships. These measures include enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures, health screenings for all guests and crew members, and the availability of hand sanitizing stations throughout the ships. Additionally, MSC Cruises has adjusted their itineraries and cancelled cruises in affected regions to comply with port closures and travel restrictions. While these measures may cause inconvenience for some passengers, the priority is to prioritize the health and safety of everyone on board. MSC Cruises is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to adapt their operations as necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable cruising experience.
| Safety Measures and Protocols by MSC Cruises during the Pandemic |
|---|
| Enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures |
| Health screenings for all guests and crew members |
| Availability of hand sanitizing stations throughout the ships |
| Adjusted itineraries and cancelled cruises in affected regions |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Persian Gulf cruises did MSC Cruises cancel due to the Coronavirus and port closures?
I can’t even begin to count the number of Persian Gulf cruises that MSC Cruises had to cancel due to the dreaded coronavirus and those pesky port closures. It’s a real blow to tourism, let me tell you.
What are the specific reasons for the cancellations of the MSC Cruises in the Persian Gulf?
The specific reasons for the cancellations of the MSC Cruises in the Persian Gulf are the closure of cruise ports in the United Arab Emirates and the concerns surrounding the Coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have had a significant impact on tourism in the region.
Besides the MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, were any other ships affected by the cancellations?
Yes, besides the MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, other ships were affected by the cancellations. Unfortunately, the specific names of these ships were not mentioned in the given background information.
What is the process for guests to receive credit for their cancelled cruises?
Guests who had their cruises cancelled by MSC Cruises have the option to receive Future Cruise Credit for the value of their cancelled cruise. They can use this credit for any future sailing before December 31, 2021. Additionally, guests will also receive on board credit ranging from $100 to $200 per stateroom, depending on the length of the cancelled cruise. This on board credit is refundable if not used in full during the cruise. For specific cruises, such as the Grand Voyages of MSC Bellissima and MSC Lirica, guests will receive an additional on board credit of $400 per stateroom. Again, this on board credit is refundable if not used in full during the cruise. This compensation process aims to provide guests with options for future travel and onboard amenities.
Are there any additional on board credits available for specific cruises that were cancelled?
Yes, there is additional compensation in the form of on board credit for specific cruises that were cancelled. The MSC Bellissima Grand Voyage Dubai-Yokohama and MSC Lirica Grand Voyage Dubai-Venice offer $400 per stateroom. This on board credit is refundable if not used in full during the cruise.
Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.
From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.
