On July 4, 2025, MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise company, announced an expansion of its homeport deployment in China. The MSC Bellissima, which will return to its Shanghai homeport on July 13 this year, will add six new sailings departing from Shanghai in 2026, covering the peak travel periods of September and October, including the Golden Autumn, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day holidays. These voyages will take guests to popular destinations in Japan and South Korea, such as Fukuoka, Okinawa, Kagoshima, Busan, Jeju, and Sasebo, inviting multi-generational families, seniors, and working professionals seeking holiday getaways during the “dual festivals and dual weeks” to celebrate at sea. By then, the MSC Bellissima will offer a total of 26 annual sailings from Shanghai, covering peak travel seasons like winter and summer vacations, the Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day Golden Week. Additionally, the MSC Bellissima will launch a special repositioning voyage from Shanghai to Tokyo on October 4, allowing guests to enjoy a unique dual experience of both sea and land in Japan during the Golden Week. Bookings for the 2026 sailings are now available through all official MSC Cruises channels, with early-bird perks such as free child fares for select voyages until August 31.
“Since its debut in China in 2024, the MSC Bellissima has won the hearts of Chinese travelers with its iconic European elegance, exquisite dining, and innovative entertainment. To date, the ship has successfully operated 37 homeport voyages, carrying over 170,000 passengers from mainland China. MSC Cruises continuously strives to enhance guest satisfaction by refining its offerings and curating immersive experiences tailored to Chinese preferences, blending ‘European maritime heritage’ with ‘local tastes’ to become one of the top choices for cruise vacations,” said Ms. Huang Ruiling, President of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys China. “This summer, the MSC Bellissima has seen overwhelming demand, with some sailings already sold out. The 2026 itinerary upgrade reflects our long-term commitment and confidence in the Chinese market, as well as our response to consumer enthusiasm. By extending the 2026 season to cover the National Day holiday, we hope more Chinese guests can experience MSC’s relaxed European-style cruise vacations.”
From off-peak escapes to festive celebrations, autumn voyages offer diverse choices. The six new itineraries include leisurely “light travel” in early-to-mid September, Mid-Autumn Festival reunions at sea, and laid-back National Day getaways, ensuring unforgettable autumn voyages.
Early-to-mid September sailings avoid summer crowds, offering a relaxed “light travel” experience. Guests can enjoy onboard amenities while exploring Japan’s Kyushu and South Korea’s Jeju, savoring the autumn charm.
The Mid-Autumn Festival voyage on September 25, 2026, coincides with the holiday, inviting families to admire the moon, enjoy hot pot, and celebrate at sea. Ports of call include Fukuoka and Busan, blending tradition with exotic culture.
The National Day voyage on September 30, 2026, kicks off the Golden Week early, letting guests unwind at sea and visit Okinawa’s coastal beauty. For those seeking a combined sea-and-land experience, the October 4 repositioning cruise to Tokyo offers two leisurely sea days before exploring Japan independently, delivering a cost-effective and immersive journey.
Embrace European elegance and slow-paced luxury at sea. MSC Cruises, with 300 years of maritime heritage, recreates European nobility’s lifestyle aboard its “Asian flagship,” the MSC Bellissima. Designed for diverse preferences, it offers a hassle-free, all-inclusive vacation where every detail exudes relaxed sophistication.
– **Family Fun**: The LEGO-themed play area and China’s first LEGO parade at sea delight kids, while professional childcare allows parents to relax. The Arizona Waterpark ensures splashy fun for all ages.
– **Senior Wellness**: Scenic ocean walks, Balinese-inspired spa treatments, and slow-paced activities cater to seniors, promoting tranquility and rejuvenation.
– **Social Vibes**: F1 simulators, bowling alleys, and themed bars create lively social hubs for working professionals to connect and unwind.
– **Exclusive Retreats**: The MSC Yacht Club, a “ship-within-a-ship,” offers 24/7 butler service, private dining, and serene pool decks for elite indulgence.
As summer approaches, the MSC Bellissima returns to Shanghai on July 13, 2025, for a 13-voyage season to visa-free Japanese and Korean ports like Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Okinawa, promising unforgettable summer escapes.
