The MSC Poesia will sail from Hamburg to Southampton in October 2025. This route is perfect as a trial run if you’ve never taken a cruise before. Of course, it’s also worth a look for seasoned cruise fans. At the moment, you can book 4 nights in an inside cabin for just €287 per person.
Do you have questions about the offer, need help, or are you looking for a cruise that suits you even better? Feel free to contact us via our inquiry form. We’re glad to help.
The listed prices include all meals in the main and buffet restaurants, as well as coffee, tea, water, and milk. Gratuities for the crew are also included in the total price, and you can use most of the onboard facilities—such as the pool area, sun loungers, gym, and theatre shows—at no extra charge.
The Route
This short cruise starts in the German port city of Hamburg. The MSC Poesia departs the country’s second-largest city around 8:00 p.m., sailing down the Elbe River toward the North Sea. After a day at sea, the ship arrives in Zeebrugge, Belgium, from where you can take an excursion to Bruges.
The journey then continues to Le Havre, the largest city in Normandy, with around 170,000 residents. Heavily destroyed during World War II, Le Havre was later famously redesigned by Belgian architect Auguste Perret. Its city centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. After 4 nights, the cruise concludes in Southampton.
Here’s the detailed itinerary:
| Date | Ziel | Ankunft | Abfahrt |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 12 | Hamburg | 20:00 | |
| October 13 | At sea 🌊 | ||
| October 14 | Zeebrugge, Belgium | 07:00 | 18:00 |
| October 15 | Le Havre, Normandy | 09:00 | 20:30 |
| October 16 | Southampton | 08:00 |
Please note that, as of April 9, 2025, you must apply in advance for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to enter the United Kingdom. This costs £16 per person and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
The Ship
The MSC Poesia, launched in 2008, is one of MSC Cruises’ mid-sized ships, carrying around 2,500 passengers. Compared to the newer, much larger ships in the fleet, it offers a more traditional cruise experience with a layout that’s easier to navigate and a slightly calmer atmosphere. The interior design leans on MSC’s signature mix of marble, glass, and bold colours, giving the ship a distinctly European style.
Public spaces include a central atrium with a piano bar, a large theatre for nightly shows, several lounges, and themed bars. Outdoors, passengers will find two main pools, hot tubs, and open deck space for sunbathing or casual activities. There’s also a spa and fitness centre, along with areas for sports like tennis and basketball. Bars and lounges offer a mix of atmospheres, from lively spots with music to quieter corners for a drink.
Cabins are available in a range of categories, from inside staterooms to suites with balconies. While the ship doesn’t feature the latest attractions seen on MSC’s newer flagships, it appeals to travellers who prefer a smaller scale, a straightforward layout, and a more classic style of cruising with a European influence.
Cover Picture: © Pjotr Mahhonin under cc-by-sa-3.0