MSC Group Opens State-of-the-Art and Sustainable Cruise Terminal in Barcelona

Numerous prominent guests attended the official opening ceremony, including high-ranking representatives from Spanish authorities and members of the MSC Group's leadership. They acknowledged the significance of the new terminal for Barcelona as a cruise destination.

The architectural concept for the modern terminal building was developed by the renowned Catalan architectural firm Ricardo Bofill. The design combines an innovative architectural language with advanced, environmentally friendly technologies. Inside, passengers can expect an exclusive atmosphere featuring spacious waiting areas and a dedicated VIP lounge designed to meet the highest standards of comfort.

A special focus during planning and construction was placed on sustainability. This focus is reflected in the successful certification according to the LEED Gold standard, an internationally recognized seal for green building. As a further contribution to reducing environmental impact, there are plans to equip the terminal with shore power facilities starting in 2027. This will allow ships to switch off their engines while berthed in port, thus avoiding local emissions.

Starting in the summer season of 2025, various ships from the MSC Cruises fleet, alongside EXPLORA II, will regularly use the new terminal in Barcelona. EXPLORA II will offer exclusive Mediterranean voyages from here, with Barcelona serving as the starting and ending point for these luxury cruises.

MSC press release dated 03.04.2025

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The cruise division of the MSC Group officially opens the new terminal in the port of Barcelona

The cruise division of the MSC Group has officially opened the new MSC Barcelona Cruise Terminal on the occasion of the first call of the EXPLORA II. EXPLORA II is the second ship of the luxury lifestyle cruise brand Explora Journeys.

Dignitaries attending the inauguration ceremony included Jose Antonio Santano Clavero, Secretary of State for Transport and Sustainable Mobility of the Spanish Government, Carlos Prieto, Delegate of the Central Government, Jordi Valls, Fourth Deputy Mayor for Economy, Taxes, Economic Promotion and Tourism, Albert Dalmau, Prime Minister of Catalonia, and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona. Also present were Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the MSC Group's cruise division, Gianluca Suprani, SVP Global Port Development at MSC Cruises, and Anna Nash, Global President of Explora Journeys.

Pierfrancesco Vago commented: "Barcelona has been a strategic partner of the MSC Group for over 40 years and for MSC Cruises for more than 25 years. Our commitment remains as strong as ever. The new terminal is not only an investment in modern port infrastructure, but also underlines our support for the city's strategy towards a more balanced and sustainable tourism model. At the same time, it creates positive economic impetus for the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona. From now on, our MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests will be able to experience the benefits of this innovative and sustainable cruise facility."

The terminal was designed by the renowned Catalan architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. The avant-garde building is designed to seamlessly continue the cruise experience - from the moment of arrival, passengers experience a journey that reflects the elegance, comfort and exclusive service that awaits them on board, even when they are on land.

The shopping area, the spacious waiting hall with generous seating and the exclusive VIP lounge for premium and luxury guests create an upscale ambience before departure - including breathtaking views. The exterior ceramic cladding pays homage to Barcelona's rich Gaudí-inspired art history and picks up on maritime motifs in its color scheme.

The terminal was designed with a particular focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. It combines innovative, environmentally friendly technologies with sustainable materials - including solar panels, optimized use of daylight to reduce energy requirements and a rainwater management system for watering green areas and flushing toilets. These measures make a significant contribution to conserving resources and have earned the terminal LEED Gold certification, an award for outstanding energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Shore power will also be available from 2027: Docking ships will then be able to switch off their engines and be supplied emission-free via the local power grid.

This summer, five MSC Cruises ships are calling at Barcelona as part of their Mediterranean itineraries: MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra. In addition, Explora Journeys' luxury ship EXPLORA II will make regular stops in Barcelona, as it is one of the ship's home ports.

This summer, the EXPLORA II will embark on a voyage of discovery through the picturesque waters of the western Mediterranean. Her exclusive itineraries begin or end in vibrant Barcelona and lead to the sun-kissed shores of Sardinia, the glamorous ports of the French Riviera and the historically rich coasts of Italy - each voyage combines relaxed luxury with special cultural experiences. On board, guests can expect a perfect symbiosis of European elegance and maritime flair. Each individual experience is designed to connect travelers with the sea and the respective port of destination.

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