Morocco & Portugal - MSC Poesia

Day 1: Genoa, Italy

Embark on MSC Poesia from Genoa port. The ship departs at 16.00

Day 2: Barcelona, Spain

The ship arrives at Barcelona port at 13:00 and departs at 18:00

Among the "Ramblas" you will discover great food and beer, but you are always under the watchful eye of Gaudi, who captured and expressed the soul of Barcelona in his architecture. The city is home to an innovative contemporary art museum, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, and Camp Nou. Also, after visiting these popular destinations, you can discover the Catalan culture. During the stop in Barcelona, take a walk down La Rambla before visiting the Picasso Museum. In the city, you can see memorable architecture everywhere. Before leaving pay a visit to the neighborhood in the port of Barcelona. Completely renovated for the Olympic Games in 1992, it has become a place filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. 

Not to be missed: Helicopter ride, The masterpieces of Gaudí or Sightseeing tour of Barcelona and Camp Nou stadium
 

Day 3: At sea

Day at your leisure onboard the ship MSC Poesia to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the ship.

Day 4: Casablanca, Morocco

The ship arrives at Casablanca, at 09:00 and departs at 22:00

Which city can best express the allure of mystery, if not Casablanca? The city that inspired the famous film by Curtiz is also the centre of an extremely refined gastronomic street culture.
The true Moroccan trade hub, Casablanca is a city not to be missed. Strongly characterised by French influence, it’s distinguished by the fusion of Moorish architectural styles and a very “Western” culture that jumps right out at you. It is impossible to stay in the city without visiting the formidable minaret of the Hassan II Mosque. Treat yourself to a visit to the Arab League Park and the Royal Palace, located in the district of Habous. Before sailing from the port of Casablanca, the old Medina and its small shops are ideal to enjoy the traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Not to be missed: The Arab League Park, The District of Habous, The Hassan II Mosque

Day 5: At Sea

Day at your leisure onboard the ship MSC Poesia to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the ship. 

Day 6: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

The ship arrives at Santa Cruz de Tenerife at 08.00 and departs at 16.00

The port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the city’s access to the sea and characterized by a mix of cultures that have managed to coexist in harmony with each other.
Santa Cruz is a cosmopolitan city of different influences and varied trends, as you can see from the mix of historic buildings and modern architecture. After leaving the port, start your tour with a visit of the Auditorio de Tenerife and the “Circulo de Amistad." Then take a visit to the Nuestra Señora de África market, where you will find crafts and artisanal products made from natural ingredients, as well as the famous wine of the region. Finally, check out the local cuisine made with potatoes, chilies and exotic spices.

Not to be missed: Auditorio de Tenerife, Nuestra Señora de África market, Circulo de Amistad

Day 7: Funchal, Portugal

 The ship arrives at Funchal at 09.00 and departs at 16.00

Funchal is the capital of the Madeira archipelago in Portugal. On this cruise you will dock at its unique port, formed from a natural bay that protects ships.

It owes its name to the fennel plants found in the surrounding areas. The port of Funchal is the International Maritime Station of Madeira. The city is nestled in the mountains and has an atmosphere of tranquillity. Take advantage of the park for a brief visit to the Monte Palace tropical garden, a real paradise on Earth where vegetation and stone decorations create a wonderful harmony. If you want to get to know the locals and buy souvenirs, take a hike to the city market, the Mercado dos Lavradores, and finally, take the cable car to enjoy the amazing view of the city.

Not to be missed: Monte Palace Tropical Garden, Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal cable car

Day 8: At Sea

Day at your leisure onboard the ship MSC Poesia to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the ship.

Day 9: Malaga, Spain

The ship arrives at Malaga port at 08:00 and departs at 17:00

All the flavour of Spain in our stop at the port of Malaga, a city perched on the heights of the Costa del Sol that dominates the Mediterranean with pride.
The port of Malaga is one of the access ports to the Spanish province. The city, perched on the Costa del Sol, is synonymous with art, culture and sunshine, while its hills invite you to explore the surrounding area. Here you will find the Cenachero, Platero and Biznaguero, three emblematic statues that surround the spirit of the place. For cars lovers, the automobile museum traces the history of the innovations seen in the industry. The Montes Natural Park offers several options for excursions of varying difficulty, from beginners to those trails for experienced hikers. Finally, we suggest that you do not miss a show of the Malagueña dancers.

Not to be missed: Discover Gibraltar, Visit to Malaga, Marbella and Puerto Banus

Day 10: At sea

Day at your leisure onboard the ship MSC Poesia to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the ship.

Day 11: Marseille, France

The ship arrives at Marseilles port at 09.00 and departs at 17.00

On the spectacular coastline of the French Riviera lies Marseille. This atmospheric port city is known for its unique mix of grit and glamour, seen in its labyrinth of streets and historical architecture. Only a few miles from Marseille’s charismatic cafes and bustling Vieux Port, stunning cities are to be found. Visit Aix-en-Provence, birthplace of Cézanne, or take in the ancient beauty of Avignon.

The seaport of Marseille remains a must-see destination for its culture, colour, and atmosphere. Explore the port and its primary landmark: the Neo-Byzantine basilica Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, constructed between 1853 and 1864. From the summit, you can take in incredible views over the city and the deep blue Mediterranean. Don’t miss a stroll along Marseille’s waterfront, past the aristocratic Borély Castle and Garden. See Longchamp Palace in the town centre before spending time in the old port.
 
Visit the southern French town of Aix-en-Provence. Explore the religious landmark of St. Saviour Cathedral, which was built over the remains of a Roman temple. Honouring the sun god Apollo, this richly decorated structure features Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque features. Next, enjoy a pleasant hike to the Four Dolphins Fountain and the Mazarin Quarter, home to honey-hued mansions from the 17th-century.
 
If you appreciate rich medieval history and sophisticated culture, visit ancient Avignon. This amazing city is home to the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting medieval Gothic architecture. A former residency to Popes of history, you’ll marvel at the building’s tapestries and frescoes. Afterwards, wander the mesmerising streets and have a spot of lunch in a French brasserie-restaurant.
 

Day 12: Genoa, Italy

The ship arrives at Genoa port at 07.00