MSC Group’s Cruise Division officially inaugurated the new MSC Barcelona terminal on the occasion of the first call of EXPLORA II at the new terminal – the second ship from luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand, Explora Journeys.

Dignitaries who attended the commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony included Jose Antonio Santano Clavero, the Spanish government’s State Secretary for Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Central Government Delegate, Carlos Prieto,  Fourth Deputy Mayor for the Area of Economy, Tax, Economic Promotion and Tourism , Jordi Valls, Albert Dalmau, Minister of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona along with Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group, Gianluca Suprani SVP Global Port Development, MSC Cruises and Anna Nash, Global President, Explora Journeys.

Pierfrancesco Vago said, “Barcelona has been a strategic partner for MSC Group for more than four decades and for MSC Cruises for more than 25 years, and our commitment is unwavering. The new terminal is not just an investment in modern port infrastructure but demonstrates that we are aligned with the city’s strategy for a more balanced and sustainable model of tourism, all whilst bringing positive economic benefits to the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona as our guests from MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys enjoy the benefits that this modern, innovative and sustainable cruise facility brings.”

The landmark terminal was designed by renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. This avant-garde building has been designed to provide continuity with the cruise experience. From the moment passengers arrive, they set out on a seamless journey that reflects the elegance, comfort, and service they will find on board.

The retail area, the spacious waiting lounge with generous seating, and the exclusive VIP lounge for our premium and luxury guests create an elevated pre-boarding experience with privileged views. Outside, ceramic cladding pays tribute to the rich Gaudi-inspired artistic history of Barcelona with a colour inspired by the sea.

Carefully designed with a strong focus on environmental features and energy efficiency the terminal incorporates energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials. This includes solar panels and optimised natural light, to minimise the need for artificial lighting along with a rainwater collection system to supply water for toilets and landscaped areas to reduce water usage. The terminal has achieved Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in recognition of its energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Shore to ship power connectivity will be available in 2027 when docked ships can switch off their engines, connect to the local power grid, eliminate emissions in port.

This summer, MSC Cruises will have a choice of five ships offering embarkation in Barcelona – MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra as part of their sailings in the Mediterranean Sea. Luxury ship EXPLORA II will regularly call throughout the summer season with Barcelona as one of her main homeports. Explora Journeys’ EXPLORA II will sail through the enchanting waters of the Western Mediterranean this summer, offering a series of immersive journeys that begin or end in the vibrant city of Barcelona. From the sun-kissed shores of Sardinia to the colourful harbours of the French Riviera and the storied coastlines of Italy, each itinerary blends relaxed luxury with rich cultural discovery. On board, guests enjoy refined European elegance, ocean-inspired wellness, and curated experiences designed to deepen their connection to the sea and each destination.