MSC Splendida, deployed in Asia for winter 2019/20, has canceled its next three four and five-night scheduled sailings from Shanghai in China and will reposition to Singapore to start its 27-night ‘Grand Voyage’ to the Middle East and Europe for a February 14 departure, the company said in a satement.

The itinerary changes are a result of the coronavirus health situation in China although there have been no reported cases among passengers or crew on board MSC Splendida while she has served the Asia market throughout the winter.

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “The decision to reposition the ship from Shanghai to Singapore has been taken in the best interests of the safety and wellbeing for our passengers and crew, as was the decision to cancel our next three scheduled sailings from China.

“Many major airlines have either canceled or reduced their flight frequency to China and the Grand Voyage, a maritime tradition whereby a ship moves from one part of the world to another for a new sailing season, was entirely booked with guests flying from abroad to enjoy the experience of a unique itinerary.

“In light of Singapore becoming a new embarkation port we have had to cancel calls to Naha, Japan and Hong Kong but it has also created an opportunity to update and enrich the Grand Voyage’s itinerary with four additional new ports; Langkawi, Penang and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, plus Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to create a new, one-of-a kind memorable cruise.”

Customers who booked an outbound flight ticket to Asia will need to contact their airline or travel agent for a refund or possible re-protection to Singapore.

MSC Splendida will dock in Singapore on Thursday February 13 and guests can board the ship starting at 6:00 p.m. Singapore time and onwards.  The ship will depart from Singapore on Friday February 14 at 11:00 p.m. Singapore time.