MSC Cruises Boosts Southern Africa Itineraries with Mayotte Addition
MSC Cruises is set to enhance its presence in the Southern African cruise market, introducing exciting developments for the 2025/26 season. Travel agents across Africa can anticipate increased business opportunities with the expansion of itineraries and the addition of a captivating new destination.
The upcoming season will see the MSC Opera arriving earlier than usual, commencing operations in November. This allows for an extra departure from Durban, catering to the growing demand for cruise travel in the region. A key highlight of the expanded itineraries is the inclusion of Mamoudzou, the vibrant capital of Mayotte, a picturesque island in the Mozambique Channel. This addition complements existing popular routes, including Portuguese Island and Pomene Bay, offering diverse options for travelers.
Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season: “We have introduced two exciting additions: an extended season with an additional November departure and the enchanting destination of Mamoudzou.” He further emphasized the appeal of Mayotte, describing Mamoudzou as “a beautiful city on the coast, offering another remarkable destination for our guests.”
This strategic move by MSC Cruises aims to revitalize the South African cruise market, particularly targeting repeat cruisers. While the previous season with MSC Musica saw a slight dip in passenger numbers compared to 2018/19, MSC Cruises remains confident in the market's potential. The recent inauguration of the state-of-the-art Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban underscores their commitment to the region's growth.
Volk highlighted the positive trend in local cruise demand: “We are delighted to welcome back our loyal customers each season and are equally thrilled to see new travelers embracing cruising as a value-for-money holiday option. The demand for local cruising continues to grow steadily.”
The MSC Opera will offer a total of 37 sailings from Durban and Cape Town between November 2025 and April 2026. In addition to the Durban-Mayotte and Durban-Pomene routes, the ship will continue its popular Durban-Mauritius extended voyage. Furthermore, repositioning cruises between Durban and Cape Town, along with Cape Town-Walvis Bay itineraries, will provide travelers with diverse exploration options along the Southern African coast.
Mamoudzou, with its unique blend of French and Comorian cultures, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. Travel agents can highlight the city's bustling markets, where travelers can discover local crafts and savor the flavors of Comorian cuisine. The island's natural beauty, including Mont Choungui and the volcanic crater beach of Plage de Moya, provides further allure for nature enthusiasts. Mayotte's remarkable marine environment, featuring a vast lagoon and diverse coral reefs, presents exceptional opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Travel agents can leverage these new offerings to curate attractive travel packages, catering to a wide range of interests and budgets. By emphasizing the unique experiences and convenient access provided by MSC Cruises' expanded itineraries, agents can effectively tap into the growing demand for cruise tourism in Southern Africa. The combination of established routes and the allure of Mayotte positions MSC Cruises as a key player in the region, offering exciting prospects for both travelers and travel professionals alike.
This strategic expansion by MSC Cruises aligns with broader tourism trends in Southern Africa. The region is witnessing significant growth in cruise tourism, driven by increasing demand for unique travel experiences and ongoing investments in infrastructure. The cruise sector's contribution to local economies and job creation further reinforces its importance within the regional tourism landscape. As Southern Africa continues to emerge as a prominent cruise destination, travel agents are well-positioned to capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities and contribute to the industry's continued success.
