MSC Cruises, a privately-owned international cruise line, has partnered with UAE’s Etihad Airways, to offer its cruise guests travelling to Abu Dhabi and the UAE the best experience, both at sea and in the air.

The partnership will see MSC Cruises offer “Fly&Cruise” packages from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland and the UK - with Etihad Airways or partner airlines in its network. 

Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises chief executive officer, said: “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 on the MSC Musica cruise. 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, declared: “Our partnership with MSC Cruises, as well as Abu Dhabi Ports Company and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, for ‘Fly&Cruise’ will expand source markets for cruises in the UAE and regionally, bringing in more travellers from destinations across Europe. It will also ensure a comfortable travel experience for guests at all stages of their holiday, including their time in the air and on the sea.”

Under the terms of the agreement, MSC Cruises’ guests will be able to fly to Abu Dhabi from Europe with Etihad Airways to cruise in the region in the Arabian winter.

From December 13 to March 27, 2016, MSC Musica will sail 16 seven-night cruises in the region from Abu Dhabi, calling at Khor al Fakkan, Muscat, Khasab and Dubai. – TradeArabia News Service