MSC Bellissima—the recent recipient of the “Best Asia Cruise” award—returned to the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, officially kicking off the 2025 summer cruise season in the Chinese mainland. The upgraded vessel brings with it a reimagined European-style leisure experience at sea, featuring exclusive family-friendly activities, wellness and relaxation programs, diverse destination itineraries, and renewed premium services throughout the season.

To further elevate the onboard experience, MSC Cruises has introduced a new guest feedback campaign titled “Share Your Ideas, Get Rewarded,” creating a two-way communication channel that invites guests to help shape a higher-quality vacation product.

Departing from Wusongkou, the MSC Bellissima will sail to popular, visa-free destinations across Japan and South Korea. The summer season is expected to welcome nearly 3,000 international guests, giving full play to the homeport effect and injecting new vitality into two-way cross-border travel.

Yesterday, MSC Bellissima, the “Asian flagship” of MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise line, made a graceful return to Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, officially marking the start of the 2025 summer sailing season. Following the successful completion of its winter-spring homeport season in Shanghai earlier this year, MSC Bellissima returned with renewed acclaim to present guests with an upgraded LEGO sea park, China’s first-ever LEGO-themed onboard parade, the “Onboard Medical Lecture Series”, and other signature themed experiences. The summer season also features brand-new shore excursion offerings and enhanced services. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, MSC Bellissima launches the “Share Your Ideas, Get Rewarded” campaign, encouraging guests to submit valuable feedback and helping continuously improve the onboard experience. With a rich maritime heritage spanning over three centuries, MSC Cruises warmly invites travelers to embark on a summer voyage of European-style ease, elevated quality, and joyful surprises across the seas.

MSC Bellissima, the “Asian Flagship”, officially launches its 2025 Summer Cruise Season

On the afternoon of July 22, MSC Bellissima welcomed the first group of 5,300 domestic and international guests aboard for the summer season, departing from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal en route to two popular East Asian destinations: Sasebo and Busan. Notably, this summer season sees MSC Bellissima leveraging Shanghai’s strategic role as a homeport hub. In addition to over 400 international guests aboard the maiden voyage, the ship is expected to attract more than 3,000 international travelers to Shanghai throughout the season. These guests will not only enjoy the relaxing European-style cruise experience but also have the opportunity to explore Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, sample authentic local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of this dynamic oriental metropolis.

Helen Huang, President of MSC Cruises China and Explora Journeys Brand：

“Since her return to the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal earlier this year, MSC Bellissima has continuously upgraded her onboard facilities and services, earning widespread acclaim from both consumers—especially families—and the broader cruise industry. While receiving positive feedback, the team has continued to listen attentively to passenger suggestions in hopes of striking a balance between MSC’s “300-year European heritage” and the preferences of Chinese travelers. This ongoing dialogue has helped shape a high-quality cruise product tailored specifically to the Chinese market.

Today, we are thrilled to welcome more than 5,300 guests from home and abroad aboard MSC Bellissima, departing from Shanghai to embark on an elevated summer journey at sea. The recently expanded visa-free transit policy has provided a strong boost to MSC Cruises’ homeport operations in China. We are delighted to welcome our first group of international passengers boarding from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal today, and we hope this marks the beginning of a broader strategy to attract a global customer base. Our goal is to deliver an increasingly international homeport cruise experience, starting right here in Shanghai.”

Launched in 2019, MSC Bellissima is one of MSC Cruises’ “Meraviglia-class” ships and represents the highest standard of quality and design within the fleet. The ship accommodates up to 5,686 guests, with a gross tonnage of 172,000 and 2,217 well-appointed cabins. Since her debut, MSC Bellissima has won multiple accolades. At the recent Asia Cruise Forum, the ship was once again named “Best Cruise Ship in Asia”—an honor it has now earned for two consecutive years. From now until September, this award-winning “beauty of the seas” will operate 13 summer itineraries departing from Shanghai, heading to a variety of visa-free destinations including Jeju, Busan, Fukuoka, Okinawa, Kagoshima, and Sasebo. It is designed to appeal to a wide range of travelers, from families with children to friend groups and senior guests, enabling both Chinese and international passengers to enjoy a carefree and refined European-style vacation at sea.

MSC Bellissima Summer Cruise Itinerary Information

From attentively listening to guest feedback to designing exclusive family experiences and wellness programs, MSC Bellissima continues to elevate the summer cruise experience with enhanced service quality and innovative entertainment. Through upgraded travel quality and ever-evolving shore excursion offerings, the ship promises a warmer, more personalized holiday at sea, inviting more families to embrace the joy of summer amid azure skies and open waters.

Upgraded LEGO Sea Park

China’s First LEGO-Themed Cruise Adventure

This summer, MSC Bellissima brings a host of exclusive and custom-designed family programs, adding surprise and delight to every journey. A major highlight is the debut of the first-ever LEGO-themed cruise experience in Chinese mainland, delivering a series of playful, interactive activities for families at sea. Specially invited LEGO Masters will host onboard LEGO Masterclasses, where children can develop creativity and concentration through hands-on brick building—learning while laughing in an inspiring environment. On selected sailings, MSC Bellissima will also welcome popular comic artist Murong Yindao, who will guide young guests through a heartwarming “Drawing Journey”. Classic onboard programs have also been refreshed. DOREMIX Family Disco is reimagined as a parent-child dance party, with the beloved MSC mascot Doremi making surprise appearances as “DJ Judge.” The BOXES Mystery Challenge and the Passport Stamps Collection game combine the thrill of exploration with fun tasks, promoting immersive family participation and bonding.

This summer, MSC Bellissima will launch the first-ever LEGO-themed cruise experience at sea in the Chinese mainland

Renowned Doctors Onboard: Enhancing the Cruise Experience for Senior Travelers

This summer, MSC Bellissima introduces the special “Health Talks at Sea” series, featuring renowned medical experts from Shanghai. These professionals will host lectures, Q&A sessions, and one-on-one consultations on a range of popular health topics. The program offers practical and thoughtful wellness guidance, especially tailored for senior guests and health-conscious travelers.

Elevated Executive Privileges for a More Refined Holiday

As Chinese travelers increasingly seek premium travel experiences, MSC Cruises has launched a newly upgraded Executive Privilege Package for its summer sailings from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. Guests staying in Executive Balcony Rooms and Executive Balcony Suites will enjoy a host of exclusive benefits—including a new executive beverage package, access to a private pool and thermal area, and a dedicated dining section in the main restaurant for all three daily meals. These enhancements are designed to maximize comfort and deliver a relaxing, refined European-style vacation at sea.

MSC Bellissima | Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal

Upgraded Privileges for Summer Sailings

New Shore Excursion Options: Photo Journey & Classic Half-Day Tour

Capture Your Perfect Summer Moments

To meet the growing demand for personalized travel experiences, MSC Bellissima is introducing two brand-new shore excursion packages this summer: the “Photo Journey” and the “Classic Half-Day Tour”, covering popular visa-free destinations such as Okinawa, Fukuoka, and Sasebo. The Photo Journey features a professional photography team accompanying guests throughout the excursion to capture beautiful moments, making it easier than ever to return home with frame-worthy vacation photos. The Classic Half-Day Tour is designed with families and seniors in mind, offering shorter durations and a slower pace. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore effortlessly, relax more, and enjoy a worry-free experience.

Summer Celebrations for All Ages

Where Every Day Feels Like a Holiday

This summer, MSC Bellissima transforms each day at sea into a full-ship celebration. New interactive entertainment programs—such as Guess the Song, Bellissima’s Got Talent, and Dance Battle—bring guests together for non-stop fun. Signature events like the At-Sea Guinness Challenge and Stand-Up Comedy Performances by Fang Hedi ensure laughter and surprises from morning to night, creating cherished memories for the whole family.

New Guest Engagement Program:

“Share Your Ideas, Get Rewarded”

During this summer cruise season, MSC Bellissima is launching a new interactive program exclusively for Chinese guests: “Share Your Ideas, Get Rewarded.” By submitting suggestions for service enhancements via the official WeChat mini program, guests will have the chance to receive cash rewards as a token of appreciation. The initiative reflects MSC Cruises’ commitment to listening to every voice and co-creating a better cruise experience.

With its state-of-the-art facilities and diverse offerings, MSC Bellissima seamlessly blends European elegance with Chinese vacation sensibilities, delivering a more immersive, intuitive, and refreshing summer getaway tailored for Chinese guests.

1,000 m² Water Park:

A Splashing Summer Adventure for All

Spanning 1,000 square meters, the Arizona Water Park on MSC Bellissima features three thrilling water slides and the daring Himalayan Bridge, offering an exhilarating aquatic adventure for guests of all ages. Beyond the water park, guests can unwind by the open-air pool with panoramic sea views, challenge friends in the F1 simulator or bowling alley, or indulge in a Balinese spa treatment at the MSC Aurea Spa & Beauty Center, ensuring relaxation on board.

A Fantastic Water Adventure at Sea for the Whole Family

Global Culinary Voyage at Sea: A Flavorful Journey for the Whole Family

MSC Bellissima offers a rich culinary journey, from authentic Chinese flavors to global gourmet selections. With a 20-hour buffet marketplace, three main dining rooms, and a variety of specialty restaurants from around the world, there’s something to satisfy every age and taste. Indulge in sweet moments at the Jean-Philippe Chocolate Atelier and Ice Cream Bar, or unwind at over 20 bars onboard, all part of a truly free and flavorful experience at sea.

A world of flavors for every age and taste aboard MSC Bellissima

Serenity, Privacy, and Personalized Service: An Exclusive Haven at Sea

Tailored for discerning travelers, the MSC Yacht Club spans over 3,000 square meters at the prestigious forward section of the ship. This private enclave combines a panoramic lounge, sun deck, pool area, and elegant dining room into a tranquil sanctuary at sea. Guests can unwind in luxurious suites, including the Royal Suite, Duplex Suite, and Crystal Suite, all complemented by 24-hour European-style butler and concierge service to ensure seamless comfort throughout the voyage. Guests can relax in the panoramic lounge with afternoon tea, all-day refreshments, and exclusive live entertainment, or savor global refined cuisine and refreshing beverages at the Yacht Club’s private restaurant. Here, every guest can find their own serene and luxurious escape at sea, a world away from the everyday.

An exclusive world at sea, designed for the discerning traveler

In 2026, MSC Bellissima will expand its itinerary offerings at Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal with a refreshed itinerary plan. A total of 26 boutique sailings are scheduled throughout the year, covering peak travel periods including winter and summer holidays, Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day. These thoughtfully timed departures cater to a wide range of travel preferences, inviting more Chinese guests to embark on a refined sea journey and discover the beauty of each holiday in true European style.

Sailings from Shanghai Wusongkou for 2025 and 2026 are now open for booking. Take advantage of limited-time promotional offers:

For 2025 select summer sailings departing from Shanghai:

– Save up to RMB 600 per cabin on select sailings and cabin categories

– Receive up to RMB 500 in onboard credit per cabin

For 2026 select sailings and cabin categories:

– Enjoy cruise fare discounts of up to 45%

– For select cabin types, the 3rd and 4th guests (under age 18) in the same stateroom may sail for free

– MSC Yacht Club bookings are eligible for up to 35% off

Promotional cabins are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

MSC Cruises reserves the right to interpret, modify, or terminate this promotion within the bounds of applicable law, subject to operational adjustments.