This deployment marks a return to service for the vessel, which spent the previous winter in layup due to geopolitical challenges in the region. The current schedule is part of the ship’s year-round Eastern Mediterranean operations, which are set to continue through at least May 2026.
Winter 2024-25 Itineraries
For the winter season, MSC Sinfonia will visit a variety of ports in the region, including:
- Izmir in Turkey
- Corfu in Greece
- Piraeus (Athens), offering cultural and historical experiences
The seven-night cruises provide a balanced mix of cultural exploration and leisure while catering to diverse passenger interests. The program runs until late April 2025.
Summer 2025: Greek Isles Focus
Starting in May 2025, MSC Sinfonia will transition to a new seven-night itinerary focusing on the Greek Isles. Departing from Bari, the schedule includes:
- Santorini
- Katakolon (gateway to Olympia)
- Argostoli in Kefalonia
- Corfu
- Piraeus
Between July and October 2025, the ship will also make occasional visits to Syros, adding a unique destination to its itinerary.
Past Challenges and Modernization
The Sinfonia’s current operations follow a year of interruptions. During the 2023-24 winter season, its program was canceled due to the geopolitical situation in Israel. The original itinerary featured Haifa as a highlight, but safety concerns led to the suspension of cruises.
While out of service, the ship underwent routine maintenance and technical overhauls during a drydock at the Palumbo Shipyard in Valletta, Malta. The work included:
- Class inspections
- General upkeep of hotel areas
- Technical improvements
Previously, the vessel underwent a significant modernization project in 2015, which included:
- A 25-meter hull extension
- Addition of new cabins
- Introduction of enhanced onboard features
These updates have kept the 65,000-ton ship, built in 2002, competitive within MSC Cruises’ growing fleet.
MSC Sinfonia’s Position in the Fleet
As one of the smallest vessels in MSC Cruises’ lineup, the MSC Sinfonia offers an intimate cruising experience compared to the company’s larger, more modern ships. Its size allows access to ports that larger ships cannot visit, offering a unique itinerary for passengers seeking cultural richness and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Looking Ahead
The MSC Sinfonia’s deployment in the Eastern Mediterranean signals MSC Cruises’ commitment to the region, despite past challenges. The winter 2024-25 schedule offers a diverse range of experiences, blending iconic destinations like Athens and Santorini with emerging ports like Syros and Izmir.
With its refurbished facilities and carefully curated itineraries, the MSC Sinfonia is poised to deliver unforgettable journeys to its passengers while solidifying its role in MSC Cruises’ portfolio.
Tags: MSC Sinfonia, Greece, Italy, Turkey,MSC Cruises