MSC Cruises obtains additional safety stamp

MSC Splendida in Valetta Harbour 

MSC Cruises has obtained a further stamp of approval for its ability to reduce the risk of infection on board its flagship.

MSC Grandiosa, currently operating in the Mediterranean, has been awarded the Biosafe Ship additional class notation assigned by the classification society RINA.

RINA had previously verified that MSC Cruises’ health and safety protocols met European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) Joint Guidance, which incorporates additional health standards including those from the EU Healthy Gateways Joint Action, allowing it to restart sailings in August.

The Biosafe Ship is an additional goal-based and voluntary notation that certifies that the ship is equipped with systems, components and has a layout and operational procedures that reduce infection risk.

Grandiosa is on her eighth consecutive weekly cruise serving guests from the Schengen area, with UK guests currently unable to board. Its other ship, MSC Magnifica, is scheduled to resume sailing on October 19.

New procedures on both ships include universal Covid-19 testing for all guests and crew prior to embarkation, protected “social bubble” shore visits at each destination and the introduction of a Covid Protection Plan of insurance.