Exploring Europe: A Journey Aboard the MSC World Europa

Traveling across Europe offers countless ways to experience its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures. While trains, high-speed rail, and air travel are ideal for inland cities, cruise ships provide a unique way to explore coastal destinations. Europe is home to a vast network of cruise routes, offering travelers seamless access to its magnificent cities while enjoying world-class amenities at sea.

One of the best ways to embark on such a journey is through a luxury cruise, which combines travel and leisure without the hassle of multiple flights, hotel transfers, and tedious packing and unpacking. Cruising allows travelers to wake up in a new city every day, with time to explore historic sites, experience local culture, and indulge in regional cuisines.

Our family embarked on a 7-day cruise aboard the MSC World Europa from February 16 to February 23, 2024, discovering breathtaking cities along the Western Mediterranean. This blog shares our experience and why cruise travel should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Itinerary Highlights

Barcelona, Spain (February 16, 2024 – Departure Port)

Our journey began in Barcelona, Spain, after arriving from New York. We embarked on the MSC World Europa in the afternoon, stepping aboard the largest cruise ship in MSC's fleet.

Marseille, France (February 17, 2024)

The charming port city of Marseille welcomed us with its blend of historic landmarks, stunning coastal views, and lively markets. We took the Le Petit Train Touristique, a tram ride that took us through the city’s highlights, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of Marseille. The mix of medieval architecture and vibrant urban life made Marseille a great first stop.

Genoa and Portofino, Italy (February 18, 2024)

Genoa, known for its medieval alleys and stunning coastal scenery, was our next stop. The city’s charming old town and historic landmarks reminded us of the narrow streets of Rome, filled with rich history and local charm.

From Genoa, we traveled about an hour to Portofino, a picturesque coastal village famous for its colorful buildings, luxury yachts, and scenic harbor. Before returning to the ship, we explored several smaller towns, visited a historic Catholic church, and enjoyed a delightful Italian lunch, making the most of our time in this enchanting region.

That night, we celebrated our daughter’s 10th birthday onboard, made even more special by the restaurant crew, including a Filipino staff member, who sang a birthday song and helped us celebrate in true cruise style.

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (February 19, 2024)

From the port of Civitavecchia, we traveled to Rome, a city that never loses its grandeur no matter how many times you visit. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City were among our stops. A fun highlight was our lunch at Jollibee Rome, a nostalgic taste of home, although we agreed the flavors were slightly different from the Philippine version.

We missed the chance to enter St. Peter’s Basilica due to long lines and time constraints, a reminder that planning ahead is essential for popular attractions. Despite the crowds, exploring Rome with family and friends made the experience even more meaningful.

Palermo, Sicily, Italy (February 20, 2024)

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, welcomed us with a fascinating mix of Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences. We visited Santuario di Santa Rosalia, a pilgrimage site built into a mountain cave, believed to have miraculous powers. From the sanctuary, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the city below, a striking contrast between urban life and natural landscapes.

We also visited one of Sicily’s stunning beaches, untouched by commercial developments. While the weather was too chilly for swimming, the scenic coastline looked like a scene from a romantic film. The open-air markets and historic plazas made Palermo a must-visit destination, blending culture, history, and natural beauty.

Valletta, Malta (February 21, 2024)

Valletta, the smallest capital city in Europe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient fortifications, grand palaces, and rich maritime history. We explored St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering stunning views of the Grand Harbour.

A highlight was visiting Fort St. Elmo, which reminded us of Fort Santiago in Manila—a walled structure rich in historical significance yet fully functional today. Valletta’s charm lies in its well-preserved architecture, making visitors feel as though they’ve stepped back in time.

At Sea (February 22, 2024)

A full day at sea was the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ship’s amenities, from the MSC Aurea Spa to the Venom Drop @ The Spiral, an 11-deck dry slide—the longest at sea. The ship’s dining experiences, pools, live shows, and entertainment hubs ensured there was never a dull moment.

Barcelona, Spain (February 23, 2024 – Return Port)

Back in Barcelona, we took time to explore the city, with a major stop at Sagrada Familia. While the long lines prevented us from going inside, the awe-inspiring architecture was enough to appreciate Gaudí’s masterpiece. We spent the rest of the day visiting other city attractions, but it was clear one day wasn’t enough to take in all of Barcelona’s wonders.

The MSC World Europa: A New Era of Cruising

The MSC World Europa, built by Chantiers de l'Atlantique, was launched on December 2, 2021, and made its maiden voyage on December 20, 2022. Measuring 333.3 meters in length with a gross tonnage of 215,863 GT, it ranks among the largest and most advanced cruise ships in the world.

The ship accommodates 6,762 passengers across 2,626 cabins and is supported by a crew of 2,138. Unlike older cruise ships, it is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), making it one of the most environmentally friendly vessels in the industry.

Among its standout features:

  • Venom Drop @ The Spiral – The longest dry slide at sea (11 decks high).
  • 22 decks filled with entertainment, dining, and wellness options.
  • MSC Yacht Club – An exclusive luxury retreat with premium services.
  • Seven swimming pools, including one with a retractable roof.

Filipinos play a significant role in the ship’s operations, making up a large percentage of its hospitality and technical crew. Their presence ensures a warm and welcoming experience for guests worldwide.

Why Choose a Cruise?

A cruise is more than just transportation—it’s a luxury vacation, cultural adventure, and seamless travel experience all in one. You get to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of airport transfers, all while enjoying world-class dining, entertainment, and relaxation at sea.

For those seeking adventure, comfort, and unforgettable memories, a cruise is an exceptional way to see the world. Why wait? Start planning your dream voyage today and discover the world from the comfort of a cruise ship!