16 nights · France Riviera · Departs Marseille (France) · Visiting Barcelona, Funchal, Arrecife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Salvador de Bahia, Rio de Janeiro · Aboard MSC Cruises on the MSC Virtuosa
Image courtesy of MSC Cruises ©
| Cruise line | MSC Cruises |
|---|---|
| Ship | MSC Virtuosa |
| Duration | 16 nights |
| Port calls | 7 |
| Departures | 1 sailings |
| From fare | $1,185 per person |
| Year built | 2021 |
| Guests | 6334 |
| Cabins | 2421 |
| Crew | 1704 |
| Length | 331 m |
| Beam | 43 m |
| Cruising speed | 23.0 kn |
Marseille is France’s oldest city, founded by Greek settlers around 600 BC, and it still faces the Mediterranean with confidence. Begin at the Vieux-Port, where fishing boats share the waterfront with cafés and ferries bound for nearby islands. Climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde for sweeping views, or explore Le Panier’s narrow lanes and lively squares. The Calanques’ limestone coves lie beyond the city; local markets bring Provençal flavors closer.
Barcelona is a Mediterranean port city built on Roman foundations, with Gothic lanes and striking modernist architecture. La Rambla runs from Plaça de Catalunya towards the waterfront and the old town. Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell show the city at its most distinctive. Set aside time for a market lunch and a walk through El Born, where medieval streets meet lively cafés. Barcelona’s beaches offer a welcome pause between visits.
Funchal sits in a broad, sunlit amphitheatre above Madeira’s deep Atlantic harbour. Its compact centre rewards exploration, from the Old Town’s painted doors to the cathedral’s carved cedar ceiling. Ride the cable car uphill to Monte for sweeping views, then descend through gardens or by traditional wicker toboggan. Madeira’s wines and market produce offer a taste of the island before your ship sails.
Arrecife is Lanzarote’s compact capital, where Atlantic light catches whitewashed buildings and fishing boats in the harbour. Step ashore near Charco de San Ginés, a sheltered lagoon edged with cafés, seafood restaurants and low houses. César Manrique’s vision shapes Lanzarote, from its striking architecture to gardens and cultural spaces. Beyond town, volcanic landscapes and vineyards reveal why the island feels unlike any other Canary Island.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria pairs a working Atlantic port with one of Spain’s finest urban beaches. Explore Vegueta’s cobbled lanes, cathedral and Casa de Colón, a museum linked to Columbus’s voyages. The seafront promenade invites an easy stroll beside Las Canteras’ broad sands and sheltered waters. Local seafood and Canarian wines reward a longer pause before you return to the ship.
Salvador rewards curious travellers with Brazil’s strongest blend of African heritage, Portuguese architecture and Atlantic spirit. In Pelourinho, within the city’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, pastel façades and baroque churches line steep cobbled streets. Ride the Elevador Lacerda from the upper city to the waterfront, where views open across Baía de Todos-os-Santos. Try acarajé, crisp black-eyed-pea fritters sold by baianas in traditional dress. Music carries traditions shaped by Candomblé and samba.
Granite peaks rise above Guanabara Bay; the city reaches toward the Atlantic. From the port, the landmarks are unmistakable: Sugarloaf Mountain guards the bay, and Christ the Redeemer watches from Corcovado. Balance the grand views with street-level pleasures: Copacabana, Ipanema, and the leafy avenues of the South Zone. Choose one or two sights, then leave room for a long lunch and the city’s beach culture.
Published August 18, 2026
Last updated October 3, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
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