MSC Cruises has cancelled the whole winter programme of MSC Orchestra in the Red Sea from 8 November 2023 to 17 April 2024 due to the proximity of some of the ship’s ports of call to Israel and the number of restrictions in bordering countries that would have adversely affected the holiday experience for passengers.

Because of the present geopolitical scenario and to guarantee the safety of its passengers and crew, the company is also making alterations to some of its other itineraries.  MSC Cruises also stated that local authorities in specific destinations have imposed travel restrictions and that certain national governments have advised against travelling to certain areas.

The MSC Sinfonia’s winter schedule from 12 November 2023 to 15 April 2024 has also been cancelled since the ship’s principal stop on its route was Haifa, Israel.  There are some slight alterations to the grand voyage itineraries for MSC Virtuosa, MSC Opera, and MSC Splendida, as well as two 11-night sailings for MSC Armonia.

Passengers affected by the changes can transfer their trip of a similar length to a different ship and itinerary or request a full refund.

MSC Cruises stated that the safety of its passengers and staff is always its top priority and that during an evolving scenario, it would continue to monitor the situation and, if required, modify ship itineraries.