MSC Cruises cancelled a repositioning voyage to South Africa that was scheduled to take place onboard the MSC Armonia in late 2026.
According to a statement sent to booked guests, the sailing cannot take place due to the geopolitical situation in the Red Sea region.
“Due to the persistent geopolitical situation in the Suez region and the impact this is having on maritime transport, it is now clear that we will not be able to guarantee safe transit through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea,” the company said.
The cruise onboard the MSC Armonia was scheduled to depart from Marghera, Italy, on November 1, 2026.
Sailing to Durban, the 26-night voyage was set to visit destinations in Croatia and Greece before transiting the Suez Canal.
The 2001-built vessel was then scheduled to sail to ports in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, such as Aqaba, Mahé, Diego Suarez and Port Louis.
“Your safety and well-being are our highest priority, and we want to offer you the certainty and peace of mind you need before leaving for your cruise,” MSC continued, noting that the decision to cancel the cruise was taken “after careful consideration.”
“We know that you have dedicated time to planning your cruise, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
The company said affected passengers will have three options, including canceling the booking with no penalty for a full refund.
Guests will also be able to transfer their reservations to any other MSC Grand Voyage of similar duration, the company said, adding that sailings with up to three additional nights are eligible.
In this case, MSC will guarantee the more favorable cruise fare between the original departure and the new one.
The company said passengers can also move their reservations to any other cruise currently scheduled without penalty.
The price of the newly selected cruise will be applied, and any payment already made for the previous cruise will be transferred to the new one, the company explained.
Debuting in the region, the MSC Armonia is scheduled to offer cruises in South Africa during the 2026-27 winter season.
