MSC Unveils Modern Barcelona Cruise Terminal
MSC Group’s Cruise Division has officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art cruise terminal at the Port of Barcelona, marking a significant milestone in its longstanding partnership with the city. The launch event coincided with the maiden call of EXPLORA II, the second luxury vessel from Explora Journeys, MSC’s high-end ocean travel brand. A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the occasion with high-profile dignitaries and MSC Group’s leadership present, underscoring the terminal’s importance as both a modern port infrastructure investment and a commitment to sustainable tourism.
During the ceremony, key figures such as Jose Antonio Santano Clavero, Spain’s State Secretary for Transport and Sustainable Mobility; Carlos Prieto, the Central Government Delegate; and Jordi Valls, Barcelona’s Fourth Deputy Mayor for Economy, Tax, Economic Promotion, and Tourism, shared the significance of the project. Also in attendance were Albert Dalmau, Minister of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia, and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona. From MSC Group’s side, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman; Gianluca Suprani, SVP Global Port Development; and Anna Nash, Global President of Explora Journeys, highlighted the project’s strategic alignment with Barcelona’s vision for a more balanced and sustainable tourism model.
MSC Group’s Executive Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago, stated that the new terminal is not merely a modern facility but a tangible expression of MSC’s unwavering commitment to Barcelona. He emphasized that the terminal will bring significant economic benefits to the region while aligning with the city’s strategy for sustainable tourism. Designed by the renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura, the terminal’s sophisticated design mirrors the elegance and exceptional service guests can expect aboard MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys vessels.
The terminal boasts several innovative features, including an expansive retail area, a spacious waiting lounge with ample seating, and an exclusive VIP lounge dedicated to premium and luxury guests. The ceramic cladding of the terminal pays homage to Barcelona’s rich artistic heritage, drawing inspiration from Gaudí’s iconic style and the vibrant hues of the Mediterranean Sea. Built with sustainability at its core, the facility incorporates energy-efficient technologies and eco-friendly materials. Solar panels, optimized natural lighting, and a rainwater collection system all contribute to reducing energy consumption and water usage. These sustainable measures have earned the terminal a prestigious Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
Key details of the new terminal include: • A modern, innovative design by Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura that integrates seamlessly with the luxury cruise experience.
• An expansive retail area, airy waiting lounge, and exclusive VIP lounge enhancing the pre-boarding experience.
• Sustainable features such as energy-efficient technologies, solar panels, and rainwater collection, culminating in a Gold LEED certification.
• Plans for shore-to-ship power connectivity by 2027, which will allow docked ships to plug into the local power grid and reduce emissions.
• The terminal’s strategic role in supporting Mediterranean sailings this summer, serving as an embarkation point for MSC Cruises with five ships, as well as a regular homeport for EXPLORA II.
This summer, Barcelona will emerge as a key hub for Mediterranean itineraries, with ships including MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica, and MSC Orchestra offering captivating sailings. Additionally, EXPLORA II is set to call Barcelona regularly throughout the season, embarking on immersive voyages across the Western Mediterranean that showcase the French Riviera, Sardinia, and Italy’s historic coastlines.
The inauguration of this cutting-edge terminal not only cements MSC Group’s long-standing relationship with Barcelona but also sets a new standard for sustainable, innovative port facilities. As guests step into this modern gateway, they will immediately experience the elegance, comfort, and forward-thinking design that define the future of luxury cruising in the Mediterranean.
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