MSC Group’s Cruise Division has officially inaugurated its new cutting-edge cruise terminal at the Port of Barcelona, marking a significant milestone in its long-standing partnership with the city. The event coincided with the maiden call of EXPLORA II, the second luxury vessel from Explora Journeys, the company’s high-end ocean travel brand.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the occasion, attended by key dignitaries, including 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. Also present were Albert Dalmau, Minister of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia, and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona. MSC Group’s Cruise Division leadership, including Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman; Gianluca Suprani, SVP Global Port Development; and Anna Nash, Global President of Explora Journeys, were also in attendance.
“Barcelona has been a strategic partner for MSC Group for more than four decades and for MSC Cruises for more than 25 years, and our commitment is unwavering,” said Vago. “The new terminal is not just an investment in modern port infrastructure but demonstrates that we are aligned with the city’s strategy for a more balanced and sustainable model of tourism, all whilst bringing positive economic benefits to the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona as our guests from MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys enjoy the benefits that this modern, innovative and sustainable cruise facility brings.”
The modern terminal, designed by the renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura, seamlessly integrates with the luxury cruise experience. The sophisticated design includes an expansive retail area, a spacious waiting lounge with ample seating, and an exclusive VIP lounge for premium and luxury guests. The terminal’s ceramic cladding pays homage to Barcelona’s rich artistic heritage, drawing inspiration from Gaudi and the colors of the Mediterranean Sea.
The iconic terminal was designed by the esteemed Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. This cutting-edge structure is designed to offer a seamless transition from the moment passengers arrive, mirroring the elegance, comfort and exceptional service they will experience aboard.
The expansive retail area, the airy waiting lounge with ample seating, and the exclusive VIP lounge for premium and luxury guests all enhance the pre-boarding experience, offering privileged views. Outside, the ceramic cladding draws inspiration from Barcelona's Gaudí-influenced artistic heritage, with a color palette reflecting the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
The new facility is built with sustainability at the forefront, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and eco-friendly materials. Solar panels and optimized natural lighting reduce energy consumption, while a rainwater collection system is in place to supply water for landscaping and restrooms, cutting down on overall water usage. These sustainable features have earned the terminal a prestigious Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, recognizing its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Further advancing its sustainability efforts, the terminal will offer shore-to-ship power connectivity by 2027. This will allow docked ships to plug into the local power grid, eliminating emissions while in port and improving the city’s environmental footprint.
This summer, Barcelona will serve as a key embarkation point for MSC Cruises, with five ships—MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra—offering Mediterranean sailings. Additionally, EXPLORA II will call Barcelona one of her main homeports, regularly calling in the Spanish metropolis throughout the summer season.
Explora Journeys’ EXPLORA II will take travelers on immersive Western Mediterranean voyages this summer, offering itineraries that highlight destinations such as the French Riviera, the sundrenched isle of Sardinia and the historic coastlines of Italy. Guests on board will experience sophisticated European luxury, ocean-inspired wellness, and bespoke experiences that enhance their connection to the sea and each unique destination.
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