MSC Cruises opens bookings for 32 sailings featuring Mozambique, Mauritius, Namibia and more
Mzansi, it might be time to swap the December traffic for ocean views and a cocktail on deck!
MSC Cruises has announced the return of MSC Sinfonia for the 2027/2028 local cruise season, with bookings now officially open.
The season kicks off on 12 November 2027, with 32 sailings departing from Durban and Cape Town and stopping at destinations including Portuguese Island, Maputo, Pomene, Walvis Bay and Mauritius.
Basically, your holiday itinerary is saying, “Please leave the house!”
From Durban to Cape Town and beyond
MSC Sinfonia will begin the season in Durban, operating cruises to Mozambique before heading off on the annual New Year’s cruise.
In January 2028, the ship will reposition to Cape Town for cruises to Namibia before eventually returning to Durban to wrap up the season.
Guests can choose from itineraries lasting 3, 4, 5, 7 or 12 nights, depending on how much time they have to escape the daily grind.
The ship is bringing the vibes
MSC Sinfonia can accommodate more than 2,500 guests across 976 cabins, with 13 decks packed with entertainment and relaxation options.
There are six bars and lounges, four dining venues, three outdoor bars and two swimming pools. There is also a shopping area, theatre, casino, disco and the MSC Aurea Spa.
For families, younger travellers can enjoy a spray park and kids' and teens' clubs, while fitness lovers can hit the Technogym gym.
So whether your holiday personality is “Let's explore!” or “Please don't disturb me, I'm on vacation”, there's something onboard.
Hello, Mozambique!
The itineraries include some seriously tempting stops.
At Portuguese Island, guests can swim in warm waters or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll around the uninhabited island.
In Maputo, travellers can explore the city's architecture, markets and vibrant streets, while Pomene offers white sandy beaches and a protected marine environment.
The ship will also visit Walvis Bay in Namibia, where guests can spot flamingos and pelicans or try activities such as quad biking, dune buggy racing and sandboarding.
And for the New Year’s cruise, guests can head further afield to Port Louis in Mauritius and La Possession in Réunion.
Corporate getaway, anyone?
MSC Sinfonia isn't only for holidaymakers. The ship also has conference and event facilities for corporate gatherings, accommodating between 130 and 550 delegates.
MSC Cruises South Africa Managing Director Ross Volk says the company is confident the ship will appeal to local travellers.
With bookings officially open, South Africans now have plenty of time to start planning that 2027 getaway.
Just remember: “I’ll book later” is how your dream cabin ends up being someone else’s balcony.