In a groundbreaking move, MSC Cruises has announced the establishment of a new base in Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, for its upcoming Atlantic voyages.
This strategic decision, confirmed by Leonardo Massa, Vice President for Southern Europe at MSC Cruises, is a significant milestone for the island, promising economic growth and increased global exposure.
The luxurious MSC Fantasia will be at the forefront of this venture, offering passengers a blend of comfort and adventure as they embark on unforgettable journeys across the Atlantic. With Arrecife designated as the home port for 2026 and 2027, travellers can look forward to immersive stays in Lanzarote as part of their cruise experience.
The MSC Fantasia is poised to captivate passengers with its diverse itineraries, featuring stops at prominent destinations such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura, and the picturesque island of Madeira, with its charming capital, Funchal.
Another enticing route includes visits to Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz De La Palma, and Puerto del Rosario, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural and scenic exploration across the Canary Islands and Madeira.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm by Arrecife's Mayor, Yonathan de León, who also serves on the Board of Directors of the Port Authority of Las Palmas. He applauded MSC Cruises' decision, highlighting the recent inauguration of two state-of-the-art cruise terminals at Los Mármoles and Puerto de Naos. These facilities are set to officially open on May 20th, emphasising Arrecife and Lanzarote's rise as a premier destination within the cruise circuit.
In 2024, Arrecife welcomed over 610,000 cruise passengers and accounting for nearly 35% of the total passenger traffic managed by the State's network of ports in the Las Palmas province.
Eli Merino, the head of the Department of Tourism and Commerce, said: "Becoming a home port for a cruise company elevates the potential for tourist spending at the destination, expanding the array of businesses that will benefit from these new tourist services".
