MSC Sinfonia’s Mediterranean Cruise Canceled: Technical Issues Force Changes to Itinerary

In the early hours leading up to a planned Mediterranean voyage, MSC Cruises canceled a scheduled trip on the MSC Sinfonia due to a technical malfunction. This last-minute cancellation affected over 1,000 passengers who were set to embark in Bari, Italy, on April 12 for an 8-day roundtrip journey.

Passengers were informed of the cancellation less than 12 hours before the scheduled departure. MSC Cruises communicated that guests would receive a full refund along with a 100% credit toward a future cruise, while also expressing apologies for the inconvenience.

The late notice left many travelers, who had already made arrangements by taking time off work, scrambling to adjust their plans. Initial reactions included skepticism about the authenticity of the cancellation notice, leading some to suspect a potential system error or cyber issue, until confirmation came through official MSC channels.

The technical difficulties originated from issues encountered during the MSC Sinfonia’s prior sailing, especially in Corfu, where the ship experienced a malfunction related to its engine room. Although safety was not jeopardized, the incident resulted in a significant reduction in the ship’s speed. After a preliminary engine check in Corfu did not rectify the issue, the ship continued its journey under escort, first by a tugboat and later by an Italian Coast Guard vessel upon entering Italian waters.

Currently, the MSC Sinfonia is docked in Bari, undergoing a detailed technical inspection to identify the root cause of the issues. Port authorities have indicated that results from this inspection may not be available until at least the following day, which could delay the ship’s upcoming sailings.

For ongoing updates on incidents involving the MSC Sinfonia, visit the ship’s CruiseMinus page.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.