- MSC Cruises strengthens its presence in Greece this summer with six ships calling at ports across the Mediterranean, following its first-ever year-round deployment in the region
- Itineraries include iconic destinations in Greece, Italy, Croatia and Türkiye with weekly departures from Piraeus and Venice-Marghera
- Luxury brand Explora Journeys complements the offering with immersive Eastern Mediterranean voyages aboard EXPLORA I through November 2025
MSC Cruises marked the start of its 2025 Summer season in Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean with a special trade event held aboard MSC Armonia at Piraeus Port. The celebration follows the cruise line’s successful inaugural winter season in Greece, making 2025 the first year MSC Cruises offers year-round itineraries in the region.
Acknowledging Greece’s growing popularity as a hub for cruise destinations in the Mediterranean, MSC Cruises is reinforcing its presence in the region for Summer 2025. In total, six MSC Cruises ships will be sailing throughout the season in the region, underscoring the country’s key role in the line’s expanded Eastern Mediterranean operations. This new commitment allows guests to navigate through the regions’ most captivating locations, allowing travellers to unwind and explore on a vacation to destinations including Greece, Italy, Croatia, and Türkiye.
Itineraries include:
MSC ARMONIA offering 7-night cruises from Piraeus to Split, Venice-Marghera, Brindisi, Mykonos, Piraeus, from April to October 2025.
MSC FANTASIA offering 9-night cruises from Piraeus, Kusadasi, Istanbul, Corfu, Bari, Trieste, Katakolon, Piraeus from May to October 2025.
MSC DIVINA offering 7-night itineraries from Civitavecchia to Mykonos, Kusadasi, Santorini, Naples, Civitavecchia, from May to October 2025.
MSC LIRICA offering 7-night cruises from Venice-Marghera to Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini, Ancona, Venice-Marghera, from April to October 2025.
MSC OPERA offering 7-night cruises from Venice-Marghera to Dubrovnik, Corfu, Kotor, Bari, Zadar, Venice-Marghera, from May to October 2025.
MSC SINFONIA continues to homeport weekly in Piraeus, following its successful winter deployment, and will operate seven-night itineraries throughout the summer and winter seasons. The sailings include calls in Corfu and a range of Mediterranean highlights such as Izmir and Istanbul in Türkiye, as well as Bari in Italy.
Summer itineraries start at €449 and are available to book now.
“Greece is incredibly important for MSC Cruises. We are proud to further deepen our commitment to the region with a year-round presence,” said Norbert Stiekema, Executive Director for MSC Cruises. “With six ships visiting and based in Greek ports this summer and our luxury brand Explora Journeys sailing immersive itineraries through the Eastern Mediterranean, we are offering guests more opportunities than ever to explore the beauty, culture, and heritage of this remarkable country.”
MSC Cruises’ year-round presence in Greece is aligned with the country’s strategic goals to expand its tourism season beyond the traditional summer months. By promoting Greece’s cultural richness, varied natural beauty, and favorable climate, MSC Cruises supports the development of responsible and sustainable efforts to promote off-season travel and position the country as a year-round destination.
Throughout both the summer and winter programs, MSC Cruises will offer more than 40 shore excursions across its Greek ports of call. All excursions are delivered in partnership with local suppliers, highlighting authentic Greek culture, cuisine, and heritage. This approach not only enhances the guest experience but also delivers meaningful support to local businesses and communities across the country.
MSC Group’s commitment to Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean is further underscored by the presence of its luxury brand, Explora Journeys. EXPLORA I, the first of the fleet, will sail the region until November 2025, offering immersive, slow-paced journeys designed for discerning travelers seeking deeper cultural connections and elevated onboard experiences.
Highlights of EXPLORA I’s Eastern Mediterranean program include:
- A Journey to Cypress-studded Hills and Cobalt Harbors (7–14 June 2025): A 7-night sailing from Piraeus (Athens) to Fusina (Venice), featuring stops in Corfu, Dubrovnik, and the picturesque port town of Rovinj.
- An Extended Journey of Magical Greek Gifts and Turkish Treasures (21 June–5 July 2025): A 14-night roundtrip from Piraeus exploring the Aegean and beyond, including calls in Mykonos, Istanbul, and lesser-known gems across the region.
With extended port stays, overnight calls, and the ability to combine itineraries, guests may enjoy the Mediterranean at an unhurried pace — complemented by curated destination experiences, refined cuisine, holistic wellness offerings, and the relaxed elegance of spacious oceanfront suites.
To find out more about MSC Cruises’ and Explora Journeys’ itineraries, visit www.explorajourneys.com
