Velvet Anchor – Genoa, Malta & Provence

About this cruise

There's a reason 7-night cruises are the most popular length. This one sails from Barcelona on April 24, 2026 and visits Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Messina and Valletta. The itinerary clusters several port calls together. Fast-paced for a few days, then the sea days hit and you can catch your breath. Crossing 3 borders through the Western Mediterranean: France, Italy and Malta. You'll notice the culture shift at every stop. You get around 9 hours in each port, which is enough for an excursion, lunch, and some wandering around on your own. When you're not ashore, MSC World Europa takes the food seriously, with 9 restaurants to choose from. 4 are included, and the rest are worth the splurge. If you like having options (restaurants, bars, activities, entertainment), a big ship delivers that. Pro tip: fly in the day before. Barcelona has plenty to offer, and you'll board relaxed instead of rushed. An April departure catches that sweet window of warm-enough weather before the summer rush. You'll probably start planning the next one before this one's even over.