In the early hours of 11 December, Saturday morning, Marmaris Cruise Port received an unexpected call from MSC Magnifica. The ship was originally scheduled to call at Rhodes but had to alter her course to Marmaris to avoid the severe weather conditions.

Once again, Marmaris Cruise Port proved to be a safe harbour providing superb protection for cruise liners from all weather conditions. Due to its natural sheltered harbour with an unobstructed turning basin, Marmaris Cruise Port makes berthing safe all year round, especially during the winter cruise months.

Every year, Marmaris receives surprise calls from such ships cruising in the Mediterranean finding it difficult to berth elsewhere and acts as a suitable last-minute alternative.

The 293 meter cruise ship MSC Magnifica berthed comfortably in the sheltered bay of Marmaris together with her 2,336 passengers and 958 crew members ensuring the safety of all on aboard.

Despite the fact this call was not anticipated, a warm welcome was arranged for MSC Magnifica’s arrival as this was her maiden call in Marmaris. The cruise passengers were greeted with traditional Turkish hospitality and red carnations. They had the chance to taste Turkish delights while choosing from various souvenirs such as evil eye beads, postcards, bookmarks and magnets as memorabilia.

MSC Magnifica’s master was presented a commemorative plaque which was made of a hand-painted traditional Turkish ceramic plate, placed in a beautiful wooden frame to mark her surprise inaugural visit to Marmaris.

Previously, during such severe weather conditions, Costa Concordia and MSC Opera found shelter in Marmaris Cruise Port.