Welcome Aboard: The Gulf Is Becoming One Of the Biggest Cruise Hubs In the World

by Sofia Brontvein

Welcome Aboard: The Gulf Is Becoming One Of the Biggest Cruise Hubs In the World

19 May 2025

Angelo Capurro serves as the Global Executive Director of MSC Cruises, where he plays a pivotal role in steering the company's commercial strategy and global expansion. With a focus on emerging markets, Capurro has been instrumental in enhancing MSC Cruises' presence in regions such as the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean. MSC Cruises has rapidly ascended as one of the world’s most dynamic cruise brands, welcoming over 4 million guests in 2023 across 385 unique itineraries in 102 countries. With a modern fleet of 23 ships — the company continues to actively invest in research and development, focusing on developing new ship technologies. Flagships like MSC World Europa, its first LNG-powered vessel, are an essential component of the group’s decarbonisation strategy, underscored by a 38% reduction in carbon intensity since 2008..

Explora Journeys is the luxury cruise brand launched by the MSC Group, the parent company of MSC Cruises. Established in 2021, Explora Journeys represents MSC's strategic expansion into the ultra-luxury cruise market, aiming to redefine ocean travel with a focus on elegance, personalization, and immersive experiences.

Source: explorajourneys.com

— Angelo, you are saying the Gulf is going to be a new big hub for cruises. Could you give us some details?

— We have always believed strongly in this part of the world, especially as a destination. There is no significant time zone difference, which is important for a one-week cruise. You don’t have issues with jet lag, which makes it perfect for short vacations.

There was also a lot of interest in enjoying summer during the winter and escaping to good weather. So, that is why we initially started here. Together with our GSAs and distribution departments — those representing and distributing our company in the local markets — we began developing the idea of cruising not just for international tourists, but also for the local market.

When we plan deployment, we always consider segments dedicated to the local market. At a certain point, getting flights becomes difficult or too expensive. That is when a cruise-only option becomes very important. We started pushing that idea, although at first, the local population wasn’t sure what to expect from a ship coming from abroad.

Over time, we developed the product together. A big shift happened after the pandemic. We suddenly had the opportunity to offer different cruise durations — seven nights, or split into three and four-night options. We ran tests, and they worked very well, especially because seven nights was too long for the local market. This helped increase awareness of cruising.

We saw growing interest not only from locals but also from international markets — especially during the summer. This summer, local residents are looking beyond Europe and the Mediterranean for travel. We have seen a big spike in demand. Now, production is evenly split: 50% local, 50% international, which is a big change compared to four or five years ago.

We are also excited that Explora Journeys will come for the first time to the Gulf in the 2026–2027 season.

— That is interesting. What are your local itineraries? Where do you go from here?

— We start in Dubai, where MSC Euribia is homeported, and stay overnight here so guests can enjoy the area. Then we go to Abu Dhabi, Doha in Qatar, and Sir Bani Yas Island — an island owned by Abu Dhabi and dedicated to cruise passengers.

— And then back?

— Yes, back to Dubai.

— But with Explora Journeys, you will have longer trips. I’ve seen itineraries going to Cairo?

— Yes, in the future Explora Journeys is planning different kinds of Egyptian itineraries. Eventually, we hope to cross the Suez Canal for some of them. Some itineraries would stay in the Red Sea. Then, we would move the ship from the Red Sea to Dubai, deploying it in a similar way as MSC Cruises here in the Gulf. At the end of the season, the ship would return to the Red Sea for more activity. This will all of course be contingent on safety conditons being met.

Source: explorajourneys.com

— Which destinations are the most fascinating to you? Say I have never been on a cruise — where would you suggest?

— My personal favourite is the South Caribbean. I always love going there — having the chance to enjoy beaches and beautiful destinations during the day, and moving at night. Visiting seven islands in seven days is something unique. I am Italian, so I live in the Mediterranean and know it well. For someone visiting from outside, the Mediterranean offers incredible itineraries and cultural experiences.

Another place I love, though it is a bit of a debate with my wife, is Northern Europe in the summer. She prefers beach destinations, but I love the sailing experience and the scenery. It is one of the few cruise regions where the sailing itself — from one port to another — is part of the experience. In the North, you really feel the journey.

— For those who have never tried a cruise — what do you think are the biggest benefits?

— Exactly as you have mentioned before, it is stress-free. You get to see amazing places without the burden of logistics. If you want to disconnect from daily stress, work, constant running, a cruise is the best way. You have comfortable accommodation, space to relax, you go out, explore or just stay onboard with a book when others go on excursions.

It is also great for all stages of life. I started cruising when my children were very young — it was the perfect environment. They had fun, met kids from other countries and cultures, and I could relax knowing they were safe. Now they are 19 and 21 and still enjoy cruises. Each of us does our own thing, and we come together easily because everything is close. That balance is a big benefit.

— I really agree. Especially in Dubai — it is such a fast-paced city. On a cruise, you enter this ocean state of mind, where time slows down. You can just read for eight hours in a row, sip a cocktail, and that is it. So, you have two companies — MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys — how do I choose?

— When choosing between MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, consider what kind of experience aligns best with your preferences.

MSC Cruises provides a dynamic and engaging environment with a wealth of activities, entertainment, and family-friendly options—ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty to explore. Meanwhile, Explora Journeys offers a more intimate and personalised experience, designed for guests seeking a refined and immersive journey at sea.

— I don’t have kids, and I enjoy the peace of not being surrounded by them.

— Even on MSC Cruises, we have adult-only areas. I often say the same kids’ club can be presented in two ways: for families, it is a space where kids are entertained and don’t want to leave. For solo travelers or couples, it is a place that keeps kids away, so they aren’t everywhere.

Besides, there is another option — the Yacht Club which offers a ship-within-a-ship concept. This private area comes with its own restaurant, spa, solarium, a butler dedicated to your cabin, , and so on. Guests can enjoy their own private oasis secluded from the rest of the ship, but can also step out and enjoy the main facilities and excursions of the ship anytime. You get privacy and freedom at once. It suits different life stages or needs.

Source: explorajourneys.com

— In terms of age, I like being around older people — no wild parties for me, please. I am still choosing between MSC and Explora for the Caribbean. Explora has one of the most outstanding services I have ever seen — all of my friends who stayed in top hotels say it is better than Four Seasons. I am just worried if the vibe will be the same.

— Both options offer fantastic experiences, each tailored to different styles of travel. On an MSC Cruises ship, the Yacht Club provides an exclusive, elevated experience with personalised service, all while allowing guests to enjoy the extensive facilities and entertainment across the entire ship. Meanwhile, Explora Journeys offers a more intimate and refined atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a boutique-style voyage with unparalleled attention to detail. No matter which you choose, you will find an experience that aligns perfectly with your preferences.

— I will remember that! I think you have just launched a new ship for MSC Cruises in Miami — MSC World America? It looks insane.

— Yes, it is a really beautiful ship. It is the sister ship to MSC World Europa. What is special is that we launched it at the perfect moment in the U.S. — we not only launched the ship, but we also opened our very own cruise terminal for the first time, MSC Miami Cruise Terminal.

— Like the one in Barcelona?

— Yes, but this one is on another level — for starters, it is the biggest terminal in North America. In terms of technology, it is incredibly advanced. You have to consider that, unlike in Europe where we embark passengers across several ports, in the U.S. it is different. Due to certain restrictions and laws, we can’t embark from multiple ports — so we do the full turnaround in just one port.

That means 7,000 passengers disembarking and 7,000 embarking — on the same day, in the same place. The MSC Miami Cruise Terminal was specifically designed to handle this kind of volume.

The technology is so advanced that you can pass through without even showing your passport, as ituses facial recognition. If you have done your check-in ahead of time, you just walk through. That is it. You simply enter — no lines, no papers.

Source: explorajourneys.com

— I will probably see it in December. Explora also uses that terminal, right?

— Yes, and just to add — on top of all that — we have also further developed our private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. We are also in the early development stages of another smaller, as-yet-unnamed island known internally as Little Cay, and are working closely with the relevant authorities, stakeholders, and partners in The Bahamas on the plan. This presents an opportunity for us to further develop an exclusive luxury experience for our guests. This second island will stay true to the ethos of Ocean Cay, offering an experience that connects guests to nature, pristine beaches, and the beauty of the ocean plus luxury facilities and water features.

— Outstanding. So you have your own island — sounds good! Is the new ship your biggest?

— Yes, it is our biggest. It carries almost 7,000 passengers.

— Plus the crew, right?

— Yes, we have a ratio — one crew member for three passengers.

— How many decks?

— 23.

— 23? Oh my God.

— If you stay in Dubai in 2026–27, the sister ship, MSC World Europa, will be stationed here.

— Okay, if I am not traveling then, I will definitely check it out. A friend of mine is onboard right now and I see their stories — it is confusing! You wake up and it feels like you are still in Dubai. It is a skyscraper on the sea. So — when will we see Explora III?

— In 2026. And then Explora IV will come, Explora V and Explora VI...

— Any changes coming for Explora III?

— Not really. We are making some minor changes in design — adjustments based on how customers use certain spaces. No major transformations.

— There will be an opportunity to buy watches, right?

— Exactly. Many of our guests love watches, and Explora is one of the few places where you can actually buy them — not just look. Onboard Explora, you can actually walk in and buy them.

— I remember being in Geneva for Watches & Wonders last year — it was like, “Nice display, but no buying.” So Explora keeps its boutique style, right? Fewer people, more elevated experience?

— Yes, we try to create an experience that feels like your own private yacht. The itineraries are built around that. Of course, we need to include some big ports for connectivity — so guests can fly in and out easily — but in between, we are always looking for smaller, beautiful spots. You have been there, so you know exactly what I am talking about.

— Yes — and I am intrigued. If I go to the Caribbean with Explora, it is all tender disembarkation, right? It is nice, I have never done that.

— Yes, and that is intentional, for the experience. Approaching Dubrovnik by sea, landing at a small dock just outside the city walls, feels exclusive, personal and elegant — it is like coming in on their own yacht. That is what we want for Explora guests.

Source: explorajourneys.com

— During my last cruise I was travelling with Captain Serena Melani. As far as I know, she is the first female ocean liner captain?

— I think P&O Cruises had the first female captain, actually. But yes, we absolutely support women in leadership. Having Captain Serena lead the launch of a new Explora Journeys ship was very special.

Mr. Vago, MSC Cruises Executive Chairman, really poured his heart into the design — he wanted to share his vision and his love for the sea with the world.

— One last question — I see a growing trend in expedition cruises. People are going to Antarctica, the Arctic. Are you considering something like that?

— Not for the time being. But you never know. A few years ago, no one thought we would be launching a luxury cruise line. There are other segments we could explore, like river cruising — which is a very interesting space, especially in Europe. We have seen companies start combining river and deep-sea cruises, like what Viking has done. But right now, our focus remains on what we are already building.

by Sofia Brontvein