The MSC Bellissima continues to expand its presence across Asian waters, with a deployment plan that underscores MSC Cruises’ commitment to the region.
In 2025, the vessel will operate itineraries spanning Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China, offering travelers opportunities to experience some of the continent’s most dynamic ports of call. The program reflects a careful balance between cultural exploration and leisure at sea, supported by the ship’s scale, modern amenities, and reputation for service.
The vessel, capable of accommodating more than 4,500 passengers, began its most recent Asian operations with a winter season out of Shanghai. Arriving in mid-January, the Bellissima conducted short voyages of 4 to 5 nights, primarily calling at Japanese and Korean ports. Guests traveled to Fukuoka, Sasebo, and Jeju, each providing distinctive scenery and cultural attractions. These itineraries, which continued through early March, were structured to appeal both to new cruise passengers and to more experienced travelers seeking variety in shorter journeys.
Following the close of its winter program, the ship repositioned to alternate destinations within Asia, broadening its reach before returning to Shanghai in mid-July. The summer season extended into early September and featured an expanded roster of ports including Okinawa, Busan, and Incheon. These additions strengthened the schedule by offering a wider range of cultural and coastal experiences during the region’s warm-weather months.
Later in the year, the Bellissima is scheduled to sail from Tokyo beginning in October. These deployments will emphasize shorter 4-night itineraries, incorporating calls at Ishigaki and Miyakojima, known for their natural landscapes and tranquil settings. The program is expected to run until year’s end, designed for those seeking concise voyages or introductory cruise experiences. Early 2026 will see a continuation of this strategy, with additional departures from Naha and Keelung through January, maintaining the line’s accessible approach to Asian cruising.
The ship is also scheduled to return to China following its winter service in Japan and Taiwan, with a repositioning cruise to Shanghai reinforcing its role in the Chinese market. MSC’s sustained presence in the region reflects the increasing demand for cruise travel among Asian passengers, particularly within China’s coastal cities.
With a displacement of 167,600 tons, the Bellissima remains the largest cruise ship currently operating in Asia. Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France and delivered in 2019, the vessel has since served multiple markets, including Europe and the Middle East, before moving to Asia for year-round operations in 2023. Its design incorporates extensive dining options, entertainment venues, and recreation spaces, ensuring a comprehensive onboard experience for guests.