MSC Cruises, Etihad Team Up
MSC Cruises and Etihad Airways have launched a new global partnership agreement that will benefit MSC Cruises’ guests travelling to Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
The partnership with Etihad Airways reflects MSC Cruises’ long-standing commitment to its guests and is testament to the company’s wish to always make its all-around offering a best-in-class experience, both at sea and in the air – with “Fly & Cruise” packages from destinations around the world – with Etihad Airways or partner airlines in its network.
Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises chief executive officer, commented, “We are delighted to partner with Etihad Airways. Both companies are uniquely young, ambitious and dynamic market leaders. With our ‘Fly & Cruise’ packages, MSC Cruises guests will benefit from Etihad Airways’ and our company’s impeccable service from the minute they leave their homes for a memorable cruise experience on MSC Musica. Through our partnership and also together with Abu Dhabi Ports Company and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority we will work to develop Abu Dhabi as an ideal winter cruise destination to further strengthen our offer in the region.”
James Hogan, president and chief executive of Etihad Airways, added, “Abu Dhabi is being developed into a leading international cruise destination, with record passenger numbers and ship calls reported during the recent 2014/2015 season. Future projections are even stronger, as the new Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal opens at the end of this year, and world-class cultural attractions such as Abu Dhabi’s Louvre and Guggenheim museums enhance the local tourism offering.”
From Dec. 13 to March 27, 2016, MSC Musica will sail 16 seven-night cruises in the region from Abu Dhabi, calling Khor al Fakkan, Muscat, Khasab and Dubai.
Pictured (l-r) Onorato, Hogan, Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman MSC Cruises, Captain Mohamed al Shamsi, chief executive officer Abu Dhabi Ports Company.
