SA return of MSC Cruises: Everything you need to know about the modifications

 SA return of MSC Cruises: Everything you need to know about the modifications

For the 2022–2023 season, MSC Cruises will dedicate two ships to the South African market, although there are some restrictions for those who are not immunized.

SOUTH AFRICAN SHORES: MSC RETURNS

Ready to set sail? For the 2022–2023 season, MSC Cruises will send two ships to South Africa in an effort to take advantage of the uptick in leisure travel following the lockdown. Travelers who have not had vaccinations will be permitted to do so as long as they have passed a COVID-19 test.

In November 2022, the MSC Orchestra will visit South African soil once more. Around 40 voyages to Mozambique and nearby locations will be made by the ship. About 22 sailings will be offered by MSC Sinfonia from Cape Town to Namibia and other local locations.

Ross Volk, MD of MSC Cruises South Africa, stated, "We are thrilled to be bringing two ships to South Africa this upcoming season, and we reaffirm our commitment to affordable and safe cruise holidays for South Africans.

We were able to establish a second cruising centre in Cape Town because to our commitment to helping the tourism industry in South Africa recover. For the rest of the cruise season, MSC Sinfonia will be stationed permanently in Cape Town and will provide our passengers wanting a more cultural experience with trips to Namibia, Volk said.

MSC Cruises returns to South Africa. Image via Flickr.

THE COVID-19 CRUISER PROTOCOLS

Although some COVID-19 regulations may have been abolished, the cruise line nevertheless follows certain procedures to guarantee the security of its passengers. What you need to know is as follows:

 Both vaccinated and unvaccinated passengers are welcome to board.

 Therefore, travelers who have had vaccinations won't need to present a negative test result before leaving.

 However, unvaccinated travelers – who are five years and older – need to provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test 48 hours prior to departure. This needs to be “in accordance with the local government regulations in South Africa,” according to Business Insider.

 Children under five will not need to take a test.