MSC announced it will be operating two cruise ships simultaneously out of South Africa during the upcoming 2010/11 season in order to meet increased market demand and offer variety to the South African cruise market.

MSC Sinfonia, with a capacity of 1,544 guests, has enjoyed a highly successful maiden season operating out of Durban. She returns for a second extended cruise season from November 2010 until May 2011. MSC Melody, with a capacity of 1,064 guests, accompanies her to the South African market.

The decision to operate two ships simultaneously shows MSC Cruises’ commitment to the South African market. MSC Cruises will also make important investments into improving embarkation facilities at the Port of Durban as well as developing and enhancing areas of Portuguese Island in Mozambique.

Stefano Vigoriti, newly appointed managing director of MSC Cruises in South Africa, said, “The introduction of a second vessel will increase our capacity to over 100,000 guests for the season providing the general public, and especially the conference and incentive corporate market, greater options, competitive pricing, and more destinations from which to choose.”

MSC Sinfonia will continue its itinerary in and around the Indian Ocean islands while MSC Melody will offer South African and international travelers new and varied cruise options and experiences. Itineraries will feature cruises from Cape Town and offer longer cruises in Durban with ports of call in Madagascar, Mauritius, Reunion, and Seychelles.