Written by: MSC Cruises
Article source: JOY! Magazine
MSC Opera – MSC Cruises’ 2658 passenger vessel – will grace local South African shores from November 2025 for her second exciting season in the country. And with that comes the opportunity for you and your loved ones to a enjoy a unique, festive holiday experience this summer!
A holiday designed for elegance and exploration.
MSC Opera’s thoughtful design prioritises open deck space and personalised, traditional service, which means guests can enjoy an intimate cruising experience without compromising on worldclass amenities.
37 sailings on the horizon
The upcoming season will include 37 sailings out of Durban’s Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal and the Cape Town Cruise Terminal, between November 2025 and April 2026. Each cruise promises guests elegant accommodation, fine dining experiences, entertainment and nightlife, onboard relaxation, and fun for the entire family, with the ever-popular New Year’s cruise as perhaps one of the sailings with the most exciting itinerary.
Two-week luxury cruise
You and your loved ones can enjoy 14-nights onboard, featuring sun-kissed views, lazy days by the pool, water spray park adventures, refreshing drinks, and indulgent local and international flavours with every dining experience.
Four stunning destinations
The cruise takes guests to not one, not two, but four stunning destinations along one of Africa’s most picturesque coastlines. Experience the amazing architecture and rich culture of Port Louis in Mauritius; discover the marvels of nature of La Possession in Reunion; get to know Madagascar’s largest and busiest tourist destination, Nosy Be, and immerse yourself in the majestic mountains and long sandy beaches of Antsiranana in Madagascar.
Curated experiences to create lasting memories
Add something extra special to your cruise with a curated excursion that will help you create loving memories with your loved ones and get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonderful experiences each destination offers.
MADAGASCAR
Nosy Be at a relaxed pace: gourmet food, beauty, and culture
A unique excursion that allows you to enjoy the best of Nosy Be in one day: culture, spectacular scenery, sea, and tasty food! On Madirokely beach, famous for its white sands, crystal-clear water, and rich marine life, the beautiful Le Zahir Lodge awaits you for moments of relaxation, enjoying a delicious cocktail of fresh seasonal fruit, with its wonderful freshwater pool and stunning views of the sea in shades of blue. A true feast for the eyes.
MADAGASCAR
Lemuria land and panoramic tour
This half-day excursion combines a visit to the Lemuria Land Park and the discovery of the small capital Hell-Ville. In Lemuria Land, you will discover a natural and botanical reserve nestled among ancient Ylang Ylang plantations. During your visit, you will walk along paths that lead along a stream, surrounded by fragrant vegetation of rare and endemic Madagascar plants as well as a vast array of palm trees and spectacular bamboo canes up to 25 metres high.
REUNION
Snapshots of Reunion by helicopter
Why not add a special touch to your cruise holiday and treat yourself or a loved one to an excursion with a difference? This exceptional tour includes a flight in a helicopter to discover the contrasts of Reunion’s awesome landscape. As you board the helicopter, have your camera ready and prepare to embrace beauty, as you fly over the Cirque de Salazie on your way to “Trou de Fer” and the vast crater of the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanos on the planet.
Don’t miss out!
Whether you’re looking for adventure and thrills, relaxation and timeout, or special moments with family and loved ones, the New Year’s cruise has something special to offer for every member of your group.
Start planning your unique festive holiday now and book your 14-night New Year’s cruise onboard MSC Opera, from the 27th of December 2025 to the 10th of January 2026.
Visit www.msccruises.co.za for more information, or click here to book your tickets!
This article is featured in the November issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 29/10/2025
Feature image: MSC Opera
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