Published on
September 27, 2025
The MSC Bellissima is set to deliver unforgettable cruise experiences across Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China in 2025, offering travelers the chance to explore some of Asia’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations. With its exceptional amenities and world-class service, the ship provides a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. Passengers can immerse themselves in Japan’s mix of tradition and modernity, discover South Korea’s ancient landmarks and cutting-edge cities, and experience Taiwan’s scenic landscapes and rich history. The ship’s return to China adds the opportunity to explore the grandeur of Shanghai and other coastal cities. With carefully curated itineraries, MSC Bellissima promises a memorable journey for those seeking both cultural exploration and relaxation in some of the most captivating ports in Asia.
The ship, which can accommodate up to 4,500 passengers, first arrived in Shanghai in mid-January for its winter season deployment. During this period, the MSC Bellissima primarily offered short cruises to popular destinations in Japan and South Korea. These cruises typically lasted four or five nights, with sailings continuing through early March. Guests aboard these voyages had the opportunity to explore a variety of exciting locations, including Fukuoka, Sasebo, and Jeju, each offering unique cultural experiences and scenic beauty. The itineraries were designed to appeal to both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers, offering a combination of relaxation and adventure.
After completing its winter season, the MSC Bellissima repositioned to other destinations in Asia. This allowed the ship to diversify its offerings and reach even more guests across the continent. The vessel returned to Shanghai in mid-July as part of its summer deployment. During this time, the ship continued its cruises to Japan and South Korea, with additional stops in Okinawa, Busan, and Incheon. These new destinations expanded the options available to passengers, further enhancing the appeal of the MSC Bellissima’s itineraries. The summer season ran through early September, providing vacationers with an opportunity to enjoy the warm weather and explore these vibrant Asian cities.
Looking ahead, the MSC Bellissima is set to offer cruises departing from Tokyo in October. These sailings will focus on providing shorter itineraries, typically lasting four nights, and will include stops in various ports of call across Japan and Taiwan. The ship will visit destinations such as Ishigaki and Miyakojima, both known for their natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. These sailings are expected to run through the end of the year, and their short duration makes them ideal for travelers seeking a quick getaway or an introduction to cruising.
As part of MSC Cruises’ strategy in the region, the Bellissima is also expected to offer a series of similar cruises in early 2026. Departures from both Naha and Keelung are scheduled through late January, continuing the trend of providing accessible and exciting cruising options for guests in Asia. This ongoing deployment plan demonstrates MSC’s commitment to the Asian market and its dedication to providing a high level of service and variety for cruise enthusiasts.
In addition to its immediate plans, the MSC Bellissima is poised to return to China in the coming year. After completing its winter deployment in Japan and Taiwan, the ship is expected to initiate a repositioning cruise to Shanghai. This move will further solidify its role as a key player in the Asian cruise industry. The ship’s regular return to Chinese ports is indicative of the growing demand for luxury cruise experiences in the region.
The MSC Bellissima, with its 167,600-ton displacement, is the largest cruise ship currently operating in Asia. Its size and amenities make it a flagship vessel for MSC Cruises, offering guests a wide range of onboard experiences. The ship features a variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities, ensuring that passengers of all ages and interests have an enjoyable and memorable time at sea.
Since entering service in 2019, the MSC Bellissima has been a valuable asset to MSC Cruises. Built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, the ship was designed to cater to the growing demand for high-end cruise experiences. After its inaugural season in Europe, the Bellissima sailed in the Middle East and Red Sea before moving to the Far East, where it has been operating year-round since 2023. This strategic deployment allows MSC Cruises to serve an increasingly affluent and adventure-seeking clientele in Asia while offering an exceptional cruising experience.
Overall, the MSC Bellissima’s deployments across Asia highlight MSC Cruises’ commitment to the region and its focus on offering diverse and accessible cruising options. With an exciting itinerary lineup, top-notch amenities, and a focus on unique destinations, the ship is sure to remain a favorite among travelers seeking to explore Asia by sea for years to come.
