Sydney rolled out the red carpet for MSC Poesia as the ship made its debut visit to the city as part of its 119-day world cruise from Genoa, Italy. MSC Cruises, the contemporary arm of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, is no stranger to Australia, having previously sent MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra to the region in recent years. However, the arrival of MSC Poesia marks only the third time that the brand has brought one of its ships Down Under.
The world cruise marks an industry first, as sister ship MSC Magnifica set sail from Genoa on the same day as MSC Poesia, with the two vessels sailing alongside each other at the start of their respective journeys. While MSC Magnifica will make stops in New Zealand and Hobart, Australia, MSC Poesia’s itinerary includes visits to Brisbane and Cairns following its overnight stay in Sydney.
To celebrate the maiden call, MSC Cruises hosted a series of events throughout the day, welcoming travel agents and media representatives to get an up-close look at the ship and experience its unique Mediterranean hospitality. Lisa Teiotu, Commercial Director of MSC Cruises Australia and New Zealand, expressed her excitement at the ship’s arrival, noting that “having a ship in port provides a great opportunity for our trade partners and media to experience our Mediterranean hospitality.”
The arrival of MSC Poesia is not just a boon for the cruise industry; it also has a positive impact on the wider tourism sector. With a full day of events planned for passengers during the ship’s stay, local businesses and attractions will benefit from the increased foot traffic, and the exposure generated by the visit will help to promote Sydney as a premier destination for tourists from around the world.
As the world slowly emerges from the pandemic, the arrival of MSC Poesia is a reminder of the important role that the tourism industry plays in supporting local economies and fostering cultural exchange. With more and more travellers eager to explore new destinations and connect with people from different backgrounds, it is crucial that we continue to support initiatives like the world cruise and encourage responsible tourism practices that benefit both visitors and locals.
So if you happen to be in Sydney, Brisbane, or Cairns in the coming days, be sure to give a warm welcome to MSC Poesia and its passengers, and take the opportunity to discover all that these vibrant cities have to offer.
Let’s support responsible tourism and promote cultural exchange by welcoming travellers from around the world with open arms. Whether you work in the tourism industry or are simply a passionate traveller, let’s do our part to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and fosters understanding.
Written by: Anne Keam
