MSC Cruises has scrapped MSC Magnifica’s next four ex-UK departures due to Covid restrictions across Europe.
The cancelled sailings were due to depart on December 21, December 28, January 4 and January 11 from Southampton with planned calls into Ijmuiden in the Netherlands, Hamburg, Germany and French port Le Havre.
Currently, UK arrivals must quarantine for up to 10 days in the Netherlands, which has re-entered lockdown and Germany is currently only permitting its country’s citizens, residents and transit passengers to enter from the UK.
France banned travelling to and from the UK without “compelling reasons” last week.
Recently-introduced testing requirements in the UK have prevented passengers from disembarking and entering the country on a cruise ship.
Antonio Paradiso, the line’s UK and Ireland managing director, said: “It’s a shame. A cruise experience is made up of two parts. People want to enjoy the ship and the destinations.
“It’s better to stop for a bit and resume when the time is right.”
The line plans to resume Magnifica’s ex-UK programme next month.