I attended an incredible event hosted by MSC. The event highlighted the ushering in of a new vessel for 2023! The Splendida. There are two MSC ships in Durban, The Sinfonia and the Orchestra. The New Durban Terminal Inauguration will take place later. KZN has been through some difficult times as Ross felt it would be better to launch at a later time when the President can attend, and the people of KZN are somewhat recovered from recent events that have set us back.
Luxury that Durban deserves
More luxurious than ever, MSC Splendida offers a variety of themed bars and dining options, including specialty Mediterranean and American steakhouse restaurants. The ship also has four swimming pools, a nightclub called Club 33, an ultramodern gym, a squash court, and a running track. The ship will be staffed by nearly 1,400 crew members excited to provide our guests with an unforgettable experience, many of whom will be sourced and trained locally through the Shosholoza Academy in Durban.
A little sneak peek
The 14-deck passenger ship can accommodate up to 4,363 passengers and features the MSC Yacht Club for the first time in South Africa, a premium ship within a ship’ concept with 71 spacious suites, a dedicated concierge desk, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant, swimming pool, and sunbathing area.
MSC Splendida will be based in Durban beginning in November 2023, offering a variety of voyages lasting 3 to 14 nights to Namibia, Mozambique, and other Indian Ocean destinations. During 2023-24, MSC Cruises will operate 35 MSC Splendida sailings from Durban and Cape Town.
Ross Volk
I met Ross Volk at a press conference at the event, and I have to be honest, I am in love! He is not just smoke and mirrors. He loves South Africa and its people, which comes through when you talk to him. He does not report rehearsed phrases to repeat. He speaks from the heart. That is what Durban is all about, HEART! He is abundantly passionate about The cruise line’s positive effect on the tourism industry while providing recreation and respite to resilient KZN after so many recent events have knocked us down. Four days on the fabulous MSC cruise ships will allow the people of KZN to feel refreshed and restored.
Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa, said, “MSC Splendida will take cruising in South Africa to the next level and redefine holidays at sea. It will give our guests of all ages an incredible opportunity to indulge in wonderful, enjoyable, memorable experiences.”
“This further demonstrates our commitment to the South African tourism sector and MSC Cruises’ aim to drive both the tourism industry and the cruising sector with a positive economic impact on the country.
For more information on MSC Cruises, visit www.msccruises.co.za.
