MSC Cruises’ MSC Musica is scheduled to offer a unique cruise to the sub-Antarctic islands of Prince Edward as part of its 2024-25 deployment in South Africa. This special sailing, arranged in partnership with BirdLife South Africa—a non-profit organization focused on bird conservation—is planned for January 24, 2025.

The seven-night voyage, departing roundtrip from Durban, will concentrate on wildlife conservation and bird watching while cruising around the Prince Edward Islands Marine Protected Area. According to the BirdLife South Africa website, the organization is currently seeking a special permit from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to approach Marion Island, one of the two islands in the archipelago. Although passengers will not be permitted to disembark, the MSC Musica is expected to come within one kilometer of the island.

The cruise will feature over 50 seabird and marine mammal experts onboard to assist guests in wildlife watching sessions. The seabirds expected to be seen include King Penguins, Wanderings, Grey-headed, Sooty and Light-mantled Albatrosses, as well as Kerguelen, Grey, and Blue Petrels. The onboard program will also offer a range of informative lectures and a special workshop led by seabird expert, author, and artist Peter Harrison.

Initially, bookings were opened to BirdLife South Africa’s donors and members, but the cruise is now available to the general public. MSC Cruises has announced that all profits from this voyage will be donated to the Mouse-Free Marion campaign. This initiative, led by BirdLife South Africa in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, aims to restore Marion Island’s ecosystems and secure a healthy future for the seabirds inhabiting the island.

During the 2024-25 season, MSC Musica will be operating out of South African ports, offering a series of three- to 12-night cruises departing from Durban and Cape Town, catering to the local market.