Page 131 - Demo

strategic hub for homeporting. We continue to invest in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism development. We have expanded our itineraries beyond traditional destinations to include Thessaloniki, Kavala, Volos, and Syros, offering travelers authentic experiences while ensuring more balanced tourism benefits. Reaching nearly 500 port calls in 2026 across more than 20 Greek ports by MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, our consistent year-round presence reflects our ongoing commitment to the country%u2019s tourism and economic development.%u201dExtending the tourism season & yearround presenceA cornerstone of MSC%u2019s strategy is the extension of the tourism season in Greece. The successful implementation of the winter cruise program for 2025%u20132026 demonstrated Greece%u2019s viability as a year-round cruise destination. During the period November 2025 to March 2026, the ships MSC Lirica and MSC Sinfonia operated more than 40 weekly itineraries with homeporting in Piraeus, establishing it as a key winter hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.This program resulted in approximately 85 cruise calls across Greek ports, including around 40 homeport calls in Piraeus, 20 in Corfu, and additional visits to Heraklion, Rhodes, Katakolo, and Chania (Souda), ensuring geographic dispersion of tourism activity. With a weekly capacity of approximately 4,300 passengers, the winter season generated an estimated 365,500 visits to Greek destinations, attracting travelers from 15 international markets.This year-round activity supports local economies, strengthens employment, and maintains infrastructure and services during low-demand periods, proving that cruising can be a strategic tool to combat seasonality and reposition Greece as an all-season destination.Investment in fleet & infrastructureMSC Group%u2019s investment strategy is built on continuous fleet expansion and destination development. The company is advancing the growth of Explora Journeys, targeting six luxury ships by 2028, while also expanding its World Class fleet and planning a new generation of ships from 2030, focusing on innovation, design, and enhanced passenger experience. At the same time, MSC collaborates with destinations to improve port infrastructure and visitor management, ensuring sustainable growth.Sustainability as a core prioritySustainability is central to MSC Group%u2019s Cruise Division strategy, guided by a clear decarbonization roadmap. This includes investment in energy-efficient ship design, optimization of operational performance, and the development of low- and net-zero carbon fuels.A key example is MSC World Europa, one of the company%u2019s LNG-powered vessels, capable of reducing CO2 emissions by up to 25% while virtually eliminating sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate emissions. The ship is also equipped with shore power connectivity, allowing nearzero emissions while docked.A balanced growth modelThrough its dual-brand approach, MSC Group combines scale and accessibility with luxury and exclusivity, addressing the evolving needs of global travelers. Its strong commitment to sustainability, investment, and year-round destination development%u2014particularly in Greece%u2014positions the company at the forefront of the cruise industry.By expanding beyond traditional destinations, supporting local communities, and promoting balanced tourism flows, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys are actively shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for global cruise tourism.May 2026 129