First cruise ship arrives in Venice since pandemic began

The MSC Orchestra has docked in Venice, the first cruise ship to enter the city since the Covid pandemic began. The vessel docked despite a ban being placed on cruise ships entering the city’s historic centre.

Environmental protesters are planning a rally, saying cruise ships are eroding the foundations of the Unesco World Heritage Site. A rival demonstration is also expected in support of the tourist trade.

Orchestra is scheduled to embark about 650 passengers on Saturday for a Mediterranean voyage, all of whom must produce negative Covid test.