Gibraltar welcomed MSC Virtuosa on Tuesday 4th August 2026 on the occasion of the vessel’s inaugural call to the Rock.

The visit was marked by the traditional exchange of plaques on board the vessel to commemorate the occasion. Captain Jakobus Lefering exchanged plaques with Audisa Rodriguez, Senior Executive Officer at the Gibraltar Tourist Board and Douglas Robles, Terminals and Information Supervisor.

MSC Virtuosa brought around 6,000 passengers to Gibraltar, together with approximately 1,700 crew members, contributing to a particularly busy day for Gibraltar’s tourism sector.

The call coincided with one of the Main Street entertainment days organised by the Gibraltar Tourist Board, aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and encouraging visitors to spend more time within the town centre. Visitors and locals were able to enjoy music provided by DJ Nate, together with photo opportunities with the roaming I Love Gib sign, which appeared at locations across Main Street and surrounding areas, helping to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, the Hon. Christian Santos GMD MP said: “We are delighted to have welcomed MSC Virtuosa on her inaugural call and look forward to receiving her again later this month and again in September. It was great to see so many of her passengers, together with the many other visitors in Gibraltar that day, enjoying both our tourist attractions and Main Street. The entertainment adds to the overall visitor experience creating a vibrant atmosphere within the town centre and we want to encourage visitors to spend more time exploring this area which in turn supports our local businesses.”