What You Need To Know About MSC Cruises' World Cruise In 2020

The year 2020 may feel like some time away yet but it promises to be a memorable one. 

By 2020, we could be at the wheel of a car that can drive itself (if Nissan and Tesla meet their targets) while the military could be testing flying car prototypes. 
If not those fail to transpire, then we can look forward to the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan and the UEFA Euro 2020 football tournament being held in more than one country for the first time since the 1980s. 

2020 is also the year that MSC Cruises will launch its second ever around-the-world cruise, just 12 months after launching its first. 

In January 2019, MSC Magnifica will embark from Genoa on a 118-night, round-the-world voyage, sailing through the Caribbean, along the west coast of the U.S. as well as visiting New Zealand, Australia and south east Asia, before returning through the Mediterranean. 

But what should you know about this newly announced second cruise?

Where will it sail to? 
The itinerary for the 2020 World Cruise takes in more than 40 destinations across 23 countries, and many of the scheduled port calls in Europe and South America have already been confirmed. 
Two of the highlights include Darwin, which showcases the true Australia with beautiful beaches, lush lagoons and local wildlife all within a close proximity, and Ushuaia in Argentina, which is the world’s most southernly city and the home to stunning water scenery and snow-topped mountains. 
You’ll also have the opportunity to experience first-hand Easter Island’s unique carved-stone figurines that date back to the 13th century. 
Other scheduled port destinations include Mumbai in India, Chile’s Valparaiso, the Isle of Pines in New Caledonia with its Turtle Bay, Aqaba in Petra, Port Kelang in Kuala Lumpur, and Salalah in Oman, with its wonderful waterfalls and unusual animals.

How many days will it take to sail around the world? 
117 days. Forget Jules Verne’s 1873 tale of Phileas Fogg circumnavigating around the world in 80 days, this cruise isn’t a race, it’s a relaxing, exhilarating, insightful and, most of all, fun voyage to some of the most interesting places on the planet.

Where can I sail from? 
There will be four embarkation ports for MSC Cruises’ world cruise in 2020. Although the voyage will begin from Genoa in Italy, guests can hop onboard further south at Civitavecchia or at Marseille in France or Barcelona in Spain.

When will the cruise happen? 
After setting sail on January 5, 2020, it will sail for 117 days with no more than four sea days between two port destinations, before completing its voyage on April 30.

What kind of entertainment is onboard? 
Well, what kind of entertainment do you like? Because it will almost certainly be available on MSC Cruise’s world cruise in 2020. It will stage more than 90 shows in the ship’s 1,200-seat Royal Theatre, including 30 Broadway-style shows and a wide range of live music incorporating acts inspired by the itinerary. 
So whether you’re into live music, stage shows, karaoke and dancing the night away in our panoramic disco, or simply settling down with a book from the library, you’re sure to find your fun onboard the MSC Magnifica. You’ll even be able to try your luck at the Atlantic City Casino and Magnifica Poker Room or become immersed in the silver screen at the 4D cinema. 

How can we keep the kids entertained? 
The young ’uns have just as many fun facilities to go at, with arrangements in place to cater for children as young as 12 months, giving mums and dads some sure-to-be-appreciated downtime. 
A partnership with Chicco Toys means that all Mini Clubs are kitted out with the latest fun educational toys. 
Children aged between three and 11 can get creative with Lego bricks in the Mini and Junior Clubs, and the rest of the family can get involved too, with the Lego Experience On Board, which is an entire day dedicated to fun LEGO activities. 
The fun can literally eat into mealtimes too, with children able to dine with the entertainment staff in the buffet restaurant every day; again, affording parents a breather. 
Youngsters and teens are also able to get involved in the myriad daily activities such as dance contests, social network games, sports tournaments including football, basketball, dodgeball, mini golf, shuffleboard and table football, video game challenges and for teens, Teenage Kicks Spa Hair and Beauty Treatments in the MSC Aurea Spa.

Is the food any good on the ship? 
It sure is, and with two main restaurants, a 20-hour buffet and no fewer than 17 bars and lounges to choose from, there’s no shortage of variety and high quality choice. 
Whether it’s a quick-fix express lunch or a laid-back signature dish from the chef inspired by MSC Cruises’ Mediterranean heritage, the culinary selections are sure to satisfy. 
You can upgrade your MSC experience to an all-inclusive cruise by adding a balcony to your state room or by taking advantage of the unlimited beverage deals and various all-inclusive packages.

What else can I get up to inbetween port stops? 
If you love to treat yourself, then you’ll be right at home onboard MSC Cruises’ world cruise 2020 with a whole world of shopping and relaxation at your disposal. 
MSC Magnifica’s duty-free shops stock everything from premium watches and custom jewellery to classic duty-free, as well as swimwear, sunglasses and designer clothing. If you just fancy picking up a unique souvenir to remember your trip or need an essential item you left at home, there’s that too. 
In terms of relaxation, the ship’s award-winning MSC Aurea Spa means you can indulge in traditional Balinese massages and ultramodern beauty treatments with a sauna, Turkish bath, fitness centre, thalassotherapy room and relaxation area all onboard. 
If you prefer to get the blood pumping while you work up a sweat, there are facilities for energetic sports such as tennis, football, basketball, volleyball and mini-golf, as well as a gym and jogging track. 
There’s also a comprehensive activity schedule with theme evenings, language classes, cultural guest speakers and much more.

When can I book? 
Now. Booking opened to the general public on November 23, 2017. 

Head over here to book your world cruise for 2020 with MSC Cruises