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Just a few decades ago, Abu Dhabi, the island capital of the United Arab Emirates, was a small fishing village with houses made of mud-brick and palm fronds. Today, as a result of revenue from oil, Abu Dhabi is one of the world's richest cities, with wide, tree-lined okulevards, lush green parks, gushing fountains and imposing skyscrapers. Somewhat of a dichotomy, Abu Dhabi is a combination of ultra-modern sophistication and Arab mystique, with friendly and hospitable people offering a warm welcome to visitors. Abu Dhabi's history originated in the 18th century, when, according to legend, a group of tribesmen pursuing a gazelle came upon a freshwater well which they named Abu Dhabi, or "Father of the Gazelle". In the 19th century, the first fort was built over this well by a sheikh of the Al-Nahyan dynasty. The fort's name is Al Husn Palace, also known as Old or White Fort, and it is one of the few buildings in Abu Dhabi that is more than 25 years old. Its whitewashed walls are eye-catching amid the backdrop of today's skyscrapers. Presently, it is home to the Cultural Foundation and serves as a documents centre. Abu Dhabi had little significance until the discovery of vast oil reserves in the late 1950s and early 1960s. In the years following, the city's economy and infrastructure developed rapidly and changed Abu Dhabi beyond recognition.

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Dubai sits on a golden sandy coastline in the Arabian Gulf, where the warm azure waves of the sea meet the desert. A high-rise oasis, this city is a pleasure-dome surrounded by dunes; one of the most fashionable on the planet thanks to its ability to satisfy the needs of legions of demanding vacationers. Dubai is about having fun—and it's one big adult playground.Nature plays her part here, with year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, dramatic arid landscapes, and warm waters, but it's the man-made attractions that make Dubai so alluring. You can launch yourself into high-adrenaline desert adventures, diving and water sports, and some of the world's best golf courses. The 5-, 6-, and 7-star hotels offer the ultimate in luxury, and the party scene is hot. Shopping malls are the biggest in the world and are packed full of high-class merchandise. And with hundreds of restaurants with cuisine from around the world, you can munch your way from Mexico to Malaysia.Dubai is an Arab country with a long history as a trading port. Traces of its traditional life, customs, and architecture can still be seen and explored, but today and tomorrow are much more important than yesterday. Almost every building in this metropolis is less than 20 years old and the most dramatic developments—groundbreaking megaprojects—have just been completed or are still under construction.The city is certainly unique. Islam is its anchor, but it has opened its doors to the rest of the world and has invited them in to work, rest, and play, which creates a truly international atmosphere. Unashamedly modern and materialistic, life here takes place at breakneck speed. The landscape is stark, the confidence is sky high, the can-do spirit is palpable, and the bling is in your face. Dubai produces strong reactions in people, but one thing is certain—love it or loathe it—you will not forget it. It is without a doubt, one of the world's true must-see destinations.Shisha: Smoke Without Fire. Emirati men love socializing, but as they don't drink alcohol they get together over coffee and shisha instead of a drink at the bar after work. The shisha, or hookah, is a smoking device, usually made of glass, that filters smoke through water before it reaches the smoker's mouth. Shisha tobaccos are aromatic and are often mixed with apple, cinnamon, or cherry, so their taste isn't as strong as other tobaccos. Smoking shisha is said to induce relaxation—but you'll have to decide if it's for you!

5 NIGHT Middle East CRUISE

Aida Deck

Otello Deck

Rigoletto Deck

La Traviata Deck

Norma Deck

Turnadot Deck

Tosca Deck

La Boheme

Sun Deck/Mini-Golf Deck

<ul><li>Surface 23 sqm, balcony 5 sqm, deck 12</li><li>Balcony</li><li>Sitting area with sofa</li><li>Spacious Wardrobe</li><li>Bathroom with bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar</li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Suite 0

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Suite 1

Deluxe Suite Aurea

<ul><li>Surface 13 sqm, balcony approx 3 sqm, deck 9-10, best ship positions</li><li>Sitting area with sofa</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar </li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

MSC Lirica Class Balcony Cabin

Deluxe Balcony Aurea

<ul><li>Surface 13 sqm, balcony approx 3 sqm, deck 9-10</li><li>Sitting area with sofa</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar </li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

Junior Balcony

Balcony Bella

BINGO BALCONY

<ul><li>Surface 22 sqm, deck 9.</li><li>Window with sea view</li><li>Relaxing armchair</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar </li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

MSC Lirica Class ocean view Cabin

Premium Ocean View 

<ul><li>Surface 13 sqm, deck 7-8</li><li>Window with sea view</li><li>Relaxing armchair</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar </li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

Junior Ocean View

<ul><li>Surface 13 sqm, deck 7</li><li>Window with sea view</li><li>Relaxing armchair</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar </li></ul>The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View

BINGO OUTSIDE

<ul><li>Surface 13 sqm, deck 7-8</li><li>Relaxing armchair</li><li>Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer</li><li>Comfortable double or single beds (on request*)</li><li>TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar</li></ul>*Cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility have single beds only.The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

MSC Lirica Class Inside Cabin

Junior Interior

BINGO INSIDE

Ocean View Bella

Interior Bella

L'Approdo Restaurant is located on deck 6.

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MSC Cruises MSC Opera L'Approdo Restaurant 1

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L'Approdo Restaurant

La Caravella Restaurant is located on deck 5.

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La Caravella Restaurant

Alfresco restaurant, serving pizza and fast-food styled dishes.

MSC Cruises MSC Opera II Patio Pizza & Pasta 0

MSC Cruises MSC Opera II Patio Pizza & Pasta 1

II Patio Bar

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A cafeteria style, self-service buffet.

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MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Vele Buffet 1

Le Vele Self Service Buffet

MSC Cruises is proud to bring the very best in artisanal gelato to our travellers. Venchi has been making superlative desserts since 1878 and owes much of its success to the use of 100% natural ingredients and exclusive recipes, from its intense extra dark chocolate to luscious gianduja and refreshing fruit sorbets.Freshly made daily on board

MSC Lirica Class Ice cream

Venchi Ice Cream Bar

Bar with vitamin drinks made from fresh fruits and juice such as Orange Delight and Carrot Fantasy.

MSC Lirica Class Vitamin Bar

Vitamin Bar

Your cruise experience is at the centre of everything we do. To help make your holiday with us truly memorable, we give you the chance to tailor your experience to your needs and desires. For example, you can either leave the choice of cabin to us and benefit from the best rates available, or choose your own ideal cabin and location, while enjoying extra flexibility and additional benefits to make your cruise even more special.<ul><li>Bella Experience</li><li>Fantastica Experience</li><li>Aurea Experience</li><li>MSC Yacht Club Experience</li></ul>

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Unique Feature

One of the best ways to explore a city is from the seat of a bicycle. Hit the road on your next MSC Cruise on a MSC BIKE ADVENTOURS experience.See, hear, smell and feel the destination like never before. You’re guaranteed to leave with a deeper connection.

MSC Cruises Bike Tours

Bike Tours

What are ProtectoursWe are committed to preserving a beautiful world for future generations to enjoy. By focusing on environmental sustainability, PROTECTOURS contribute to that vital goal. 70% of the tours involve activities with zero environmental impact – like walking, cycling, or kayaking – while others make a direct contribution to the environment, for example, tree planting or beach cleaning. So, you can enjoy original insights into the natural world while preserving its beauty and helping to ensure a greener future!A world of amazing experiencesPROTECTOURS offer you unforgettable experiences in close contact with nature and communities in a variety of environments around the world. Local guides, with an expertise in wildlife or traditions, will help you save baby sea turtles in the Caribbean, clean the desert in Abu Dhabi, explore Iceland by horseback, or immerse yourself in Corfu’s beautiful countryside and the magical world of bees.MSC Cruises and the environmentOur love and respect for the marine environment are reflected in our certified eco-ships, with their innovative systems for energy saving, waste treatment and recycling. Naturally, our commitment to the environments extends to our onshore activities too. PROTECTOURS is not only a way to offer our guests a variety of eco-friendly shore excursions, but also a means of encouraging our onshore partners to develop tours that pay ever more attention to environmental sustainability. Just one example is that no single-use plastic or other items are accepted on these tours.

MSC Cruises Excursions Protectours

Sustainable Shore Excursions: MSC Protectours

MSC Family Explorer ClubExplore the destination together on a fun filled family adventure, inspired by history and designed to cover all the highlights.Family friendly programmingTours typically start later in the morning, are shorter in duration and are accompanied by expert guides and story tellersTours that the whole family can enjoyEach experience is developed to keep both children entertained while also providing an enriching and educational experience for adultsFamily-Friendly Prices 50% offChildren tickets are always half-pricePeace of MindWhen you choose an MSC Family Explorer Club you can relax in the knowledge that all our tours are operated by carefully selected partners who can easily make contact with your ship throughout the day.

MSC Cruises Family Explorer Club Excursions

MSC Family Explorer Club

Explore each destination at your own paceOur Easy &amp; Accessible Tours make exploring comfortable for everyone!These tours allow slow walkers, wheelchair, scooter users and any guests that like to leisurely explore, to visit the best each destination has to offer on easy tours created just for them. Through specifically selected itineraries and specially designed tours, guests will be able to enjoy step free routes at their own pace, experiencing the wonders of our destinations in total comfort. Special needs vehicles will be available to accommodate small groups, and tours itineraries will always include access to special needs restrooms.Please note that vehicles and their wheelchair &amp; scooter requirements (width, height, weight) vary from tour to tour so make sure to carefully check the specific requirements within each tour description.

msc world europa accessible excursions

Easy & Accessible Excursions

713 seat theatre, and the main show lounge onboard. Offers tiered seating, and features small-scale production shows and cabaret performances.

MSC Lirica Class Teatro dell'Opera 3

MSC Lirica Class Teatro dell'Opera 4

MSC Lirica Class Teatro dell'Opera 

MSC Lirica Class Teatro dell'Opera 2

Teatro Dell'Opera

Our casinos are elegantly designed, featuring games for all types of players. You’ll be able to try your hand at Roulette or Blackjack, challenge yourself at one of our Poker tables, or choose among a variety of slot machines.

MSC Lirica Class Casino

MSC Lirica Class Casino 2

Med Pearl Casino

Late-night bar and nightclub with a 450 square foot dance floor.

MSC Lirica Class Bybios Disco

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Byblos Discoteca

Byblos Discoteca

Show lounge, with piano and bar and 193 square foot dance floor.

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La Cabala Piano Bar & Lounge

The ship's card room is located on deck 7 and seats 28 guests.

MSC Lirica Class The card room 2

MSC Lirica Class The card room

The Card Room

Sottovento Pub is located on deck 5.

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Sottovento Pub

Piazza di Spagna Lounge is located on deck 5.

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MSC Cruises MSC Opera Piazza Spagna 0

Piazza di Spagna Lounge

Lo Spinnaker Pool Bar is located on deck 11.

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Lo Spinnaker Pool Bar

Lo Spinnaker Pool Bar

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Cotton Club Music Hall 2

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Cotton Club Music Hall 1

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Cotton Club Music Hall 0

Cotton Club

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Aroma Coffee Bar 1

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Coffee Bar

If a bit of poolside therapy sounds like your idea of heaven, look no further than one of our numerous swimming pools to get your fill of sun and relaxation, while our pool attendants can cater to your every need.

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park 2

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park 1

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park 0

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park 3

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park 4

Le Piscine and Doremi Spray Park

While away a few enjoyable hours of game play at the Arcade on board the ship. Pit your wits and skill against those of your friends in any number of typical arcade options, including video games, pinball and more. Great fun guaranteed.

MSC Cruises Arcade

Arcade

It’s all white for a night with dazzling décor and costumes to suit the theme, plus a special performance starring our theatre cast.

MSC Cruises White Party

White Party

Think you’ve got what it takes to be a star in our on-board talent competition, The MSC Factor? Then come and showcase what you can do in the most exciting talent show at sea. Whatever your specific talent may be, don’t be shy – come and show the world what it’s been missing.

MSC Cruises MSC Factor

MSC Factor

The world's best-loved food show awaits you on the MSC Cruises fleet! Experience the adrenaline-fuelled creativity of an extraordinary on-board cooking competition for adults and junior guests.

MSC Cruises Master Chef

Master Chef

A start-of-the-cruise event celebrating the ship's departure, led by the Entertainment Team and Dancers in a spectacular Costume Parade.

MSC Cruises Sailaway Party

Sailaway Party

Fun-packed festive celebrations with a Bavarian flair - decorations, costumes, games, music and of course beer. There’s even a Master of Beer competition and a 6-metre-tall inflatable beer mug.

MSC Cruises Beer Festival

Beer Festival

Infuse your cruise with gifts that spark magical memories of your voyage across the waves! Navigate the MSC Logo Shop for everything from gadgets to books and novelty gifts! You’ll also find MSC’s very own DOREMI Mascot right here in the MSC Shop.

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Logo Shop 1

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Logo Shop 0

MSC Logo Shop

Browse the latest collections for men, women and children, plus an array of accessories for all tastes. Enjoy the expert guidance of our staff, here to help you find something for the special people in your life, whatever their age and taste!

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Lei & Lui Boutique 1

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Lei & Lui Boutique 0

Fashion Boutique

Top Italian brands such as Armani, Coccinelle, Furla and Fusaro feature alongside international names like Radley London, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren.Here you are sure to find serious sartorial inspiration for bags and accessories!

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Accessories Shop

Accessories

Discover everything the Duty Free shop has to offer, all at tax and duty-free prices*.You can choose between top-flight international tobacco products, technology products, fine wines, chocolate, make up and travel essentials.Our expert staff can provide you with all the help you need to make the perfect choice.

MSC Cruises Shopping Duty Free

Duty Free

Smile! Our professional team of photographers constantly roam the ship, capturing wonderful memories every day. Be sure to stroll through the Photo Gallery daily, so you don’t miss one of their great shots of you and your loved ones enjoying your cruise.

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MSC Cruises MSC Opera Photo Shop 1

Photo Shop

A dedicated Studio Photographer will provide you with a unique photo opportunity to capture the special moments of your cruise. During a private consultation you will be presented with the best locations around the ship so you can choose where your photoshoot will take place. Every photo will be taken with top of the line equipment by our highly-skilled, studio photographer using creative lighting techniques. Pictures will be re-touched and edited, and printed on premium photo paper. After your session choose from our different packages and take home lasting memories.

MSC Photo Portrait

Photo Portrait

MSC Aurea Spa boasts an exotic interior of natural stone, precious woods and rich mosaics, and is equipped with specific and massage treatment suites. Being pampered by a traditional Balinese Massage is a truly unique experience. Thanks to a blend of scented essences and aromatic oils, your body is enveloped in an endlessly peaceful and relaxing aura.

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MSC Aurea Spa

Enjoying time off on your cruise doesn’t need to mean letting your fitness routine slide, so gear up and rendezvous with the power walking and jogging track on deck to get your daily exercise fix while also savouring outstanding ocean views.

MSC Cruises Walking Track

Power Walking Track

Exclusively for adults, this calm, quiet and peaceful retreat can be found on the Sun Deck.

MSC Lirica Class Solarium

Top 13 Exclusive Solarium

Relaxing on one of our ships will do wonders for you, but we also have a few secrets on board to help you look and feel even better. Make the most of our range of safe and effective Anti-Ageing treatments and return from your cruise visibly rejuvenated.

MSC Cruises Medi Spa 

Medi Spa Center

Get a lasting sensation of absolute wellbeing that will accompany you well beyond your cruise. All our ships are equipped with a Thermal Area where you can enjoy a soothing sauna, a relaxing steam or an invigorating whirlpool bath.

MSC Cruises Thermal Area

Thermal Area

You can enjoy the expertise of highly specialised staff in aesthetic treatments to offer you excellent results and improve the relaxing effects of your cruise. Customize your cruise with the best treatments for your body. Unwind and feel fantastic! 

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Beauty Hair Salon 0

MSC Cruises MSC Opera Beauty Hair Salon 1

Beauty Salon

Refresh your look with a new hairstyle! There are different packages which include a personalised shampoo &amp; conditioning mask, a haircut and a single process colour treatment. Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening onboard.

MSC Cruises Hair Salon

Hair Salon

You’ll need to combine hand-to-eye coordination with a deft, light touch to get around our entertaining open-air Minigolf course on board the ship. Get together with your friends and family to see who has what it takes to be crowned the Minigolf King or Queen.

5 NIGHT Middle East CRUISE

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day

About this cruise

Available dates

L'Approdo Restaurant

Deck Plans

Ship Specifications