MSC POESIA COMPLETES PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT AHEAD OF ALASKA SEASON DEBUT

MSC POESIA COMPLETES PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT AHEAD OF ALASKA SEASON DEBUT

MSC Cruises today announced the newly refurbished successfullytransited through the Panama Canal during her 18-night Grand Voyage from Miami to Seattle, marking a key milestone as she prepares for her inaugural Alaska season.

The passage through the iconic Panama Canal is a standout highlight of the itinerary, offering guests a rare once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements while sailing between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans amidst breathtaking tropical landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Continue reading “MSC POESIA COMPLETES PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT AHEAD OF ALASKA SEASON DEBUT”

The best 2026 Msc Cruise Ships according to Cruiseline.com Reviews

Here’s a complete ranking of Msc Cruises ships, based on Cruiseline.com review scores and rankings, combined with overall trends (newer ships, size, innovation, and passenger feedback).

MSC Cruises Ships Ranked

🥇 Top Tier – The Best MSC Ships (Modern flagships & highest ratings)

1. MSC Seascape – ⭐ 4.18 The highest-rated ship overall, praised for design, size, and onboard features.

2. MSC Seaside – ⭐ 4.17 Revolutionary outdoor-focused design, extremely popular in the Caribbean.

3. MSC Meraviglia – ⭐ 4.17 One of MSC’s most successful ships, combining entertainment and family appeal.

4. MSC Fantasia – ⭐ 4.16 A classic but still highly rated thanks to the introduction of the Yacht Club concept.

5. MSC Virtuosa – ⭐ 4.15 Modern and tech-forward (including robotic bartender experiences).

Continue reading “The best 2026 Msc Cruise Ships according to Cruiseline.com Reviews”

MSC Poesia Grand Voyage Cruise departing on April 2026 from Civitavecchia, Rome Italy

MSC Poesia Grand Voyage departing on April 6, 2026 from Civitavecchia, Rome, Italy

This epic journey spans 35 nights, taking passengers from the heart of the Mediterranean across the Atlantic and through the Panama Canal to the Pacific Northwest.

​Itinerary Overview: From Civitavecchia to Seattle​The voyage is designed as a “Grand Voyage,” transitioning the ship between seasons and continents.

Continue reading “MSC Poesia Grand Voyage Cruise departing on April 2026 from Civitavecchia, Rome Italy”

REFURBISHMENT OF MSC POESIA GETS UNDERWAY AHEAD OF THE SHIP’S ALASKA DEBUT

REFURBISHMENT OF MSC POESIA GETS UNDERWAY AHEAD OF THE SHIP’S ALASKA DEBUT

MSC Cruises today announced that MSC Poesia will enter dry dock at Palumbo Malta Shipyard in Malta, marking the next phase of the cruise line’s ongoing investment in enhancing the guest experience across its fleet.

is the second ship from the line’s MSC Musica Class to undergo a major refurbishment at the Maltese shipyard, following sister ship MSC Magnifica, which left the shipyard in December.

The enhancements will introduce new premium spaces and experiences, combining elevated comfort with lively social venues, ahead of MSC Poesia’s debut season in Alaska in May 2026.

When the refurbishments are complete, MSC Poesia will feature an MSC Yacht Club, the brand’s exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering 69 elegantly appointed suites, private amenities, and 24-hour butler service, along with two new speciality dining venues – Butcher’s Cut, an authentic American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar – inspired by the Far East where guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.

The enhancement will also include a newly designed MSC Aurea Spa and MSC Gym powered by Technogym®, complete with Gentleman’s Barber, various workout studios, and outdoor Aurea area and Top 15 Exclusive Solarium.

Refurbishment work is expected to be completed in April, in time for MSC Poesia’s Alaska season.

Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, said:

“This major refurbishment of MSC Poesia reflects our continued efforts and commitment to investing in our fleet and delivering exceptional guest experiences. This refurbishment showcases MSC Cruises’ commitment to offering guests the best possible experience and modern amenities. We are proud to bring the addition of the MSC Yacht Club, new dining concepts and more to MSC Poesia and to offer guests more choice and more comfort than ever before, ahead of the ship’s Alaska season.

The refurbishment of MSC Poesia forms part of the most extensive upgrade and refitting programme undertaken by MSC Cruises in the past decade.

The project is fully designed and managed in-house by MSC Cruises’ Technical Department and will be carried out at Palumbo Malta Shipyard, a strategic hub for MSC Cruises’ fleet maintenance and large-scale refurbishment projects in Europe.

Earlier this month, MSC Cruises announced the expansion of its renowned MSC Yacht Club to two additional ships, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra.

Once complete, these latest enhancements will mean all four vessels in the Musica class, MSC Poesia, MSC Magnifica, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra, will have been upgraded to feature MSC Yacht Club.

From May through September 2026, will offer 7-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle, sailing to some of the region’s most iconic destinations.

Following her Alaska season, the ship will reposition to offer roundtrip Caribbean sailings from Miami during Winter 2026–2027, visiting destinations including Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curaçao, and Belize,before returning to Alaska in summer 2027 offering guests the opportunity to visit spectacular destinations including Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, and Juneau (Alaska), along with Victoria (British Columbia, Canada)

MSC Yacht Club suites aboard MSC Poesia are now available to book.

MSC MAGNIFICA TRANSITS PANAMA CANAL DURING MSC WORLD CRUISE 2026

MSC MAGNIFICA TRANSITS PANAMA CANAL DURING MSC WORLD CRUISE 2026

 MSC Cruises today released photos of the moment that the newly refurbished MSC Magnifica transited through the Panama Canal as part of her 2026 World Cruise.

The ship’s passage through one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements serves as a major highlight of the global journey, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience this iconic route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Beyond its engineering significance, the Canal offers breathtaking views of lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife. The journey provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending natural beauty with a pivotal moment in maritime history.

With her extensive refurbishment complete, MSC Magnifica provides an enhanced onboard experience designed to make the World Cruise journey even more memorable for guests seeking cultural discovery, destination diversity and exceptional service at sea. The upgraded ship features a brand-new MSC Yacht Club, the line’s exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept, as well as an upgraded MSC Aurea Spa, cutting-edge gym and specialty restaurants Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar.

The ship has already travelled from the Mediterranean across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and Central America, where it completed its unforgettable Panama Canal transit. Now sailing along the Pacific coast, MSC Magnifica will continue her 131-night global journey through North America before crossing the Pacific to Polynesia, New Zealand and Australia. The voyage will then span key regions of Asia, followed by the Indian Ocean islands and Southern Africa, before returning to Europe to conclude her journey.

For guests wishing to embark on a similar once-in-a-lifetime adventure, MSC Cruises offers upcoming Panama Canal sailings on MSC Poesia in 2026 and 2027, as well as the exceptional 2027 World Cruise aboard MSC Magnifica.

MSC Poesia Grand Voyage (2026 and 2027)

Guests inspired by MSC Magnifica’s journey will soon experience their own Panama Canal adventure aboard MSC Poesia. The ship will reposition from Miami to Seattle on 23 April 2026 on an 18-night sailing featuring a full Panama Canal transit. On board the freshly upgraded ship, guests may now book a suite at the MSC Yacht Club and enjoy its ultimate level of luxury, dine in newly added specialty restaurants Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar, and enjoy relaxing treatments at the refreshed MSC Aurea Spa.

In addition, guests can join MSC Poesia’s Grand Voyage between 8 April and 26 April 2027, offering a memorable journey ahead of her second Alaska season.

More information here.

MSC Magnifica MSC World Cruise 2027

MSC Cruises’ 2027 World Cruise aboard MSC Magnifica will begin on 5 January 2027, sailing for 121 nights across five continents and 45 destinations in 25 countries, including a bucket list transit of the Panama Canal. MSC Magnifica will offer guests an unforgettable world voyage showcasing iconic cities, remote islands and extraordinary cultural experiences.

Guests can embark from Civitavecchia for Rome, Genoa (Italy), Marseille (France), and Barcelona (Spain) from 4, 5, 6 and 7 January 2027 respectively, visiting some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. ​

DIRTY DANCING TO COME ABOARD MSC POESIA FOR UPCOMING SUMMER SEASON IN ALASKA

DIRTY DANCING TO COME ABOARD MSC POESIA FOR UPCOMING SUMMER SEASON IN ALASKA

MSC Cruises is bringing Dirty Dancing: In Concert – the live-to-film concert created by Lionsgate and GEA Live – to MSC Poesia for her highly anticipated summer season in Alaska, starting 11 May 2026.

Building on MSC Cruises existing collaboration with Lionsgate, MSC Poesia will become the third ship in the cruise line’s fleet to feature the hit live-to-film concert, following its highly successful reception aboard MSC World America sailing from Miami in the U.S. and on MSC Virtuosa for her summer sailings from Southampton in the UK. The concert is also set to continue on MSC Virtuosa for her upcoming winter season in the Southern Caribbean.

The spectacular 90-minute live-to-film concert will bring Lionsgate’s beloved 80s film, Dirty Dancing, to life, featuring a talented live band alongside sensational singers and dancers, performing in sync with the beloved movie.

Guests travelling aboard MSC Poesia will have the chance to catch the live-to-film concert throughout their cruise, including matinee showings on sea days – all while travelling to captivating destinations in Alaska and Canada from the ship’s homeport in Seattle, U.S.

Steve Leatham, Vice President of Entertainment at MSC Cruises, said: “We are thrilled to have “Dirty Dancing: In Concert” on board MSC Poesia for MSC Cruise’s first ever sailings to Alaska this summer season. Following the incredible response we have seen since the launch on MSC World America and MSC Virtuosa, we’re excited to be able to offer it on more of our ships for our guests to enjoy this truly one-of-a-kind experience at sea.”

In addition to Dirty Dancing: In Concert, MSC Poesia will offer plenty of world-class entertainment options this summer season, including:

  • A diverse and colourful live music programme:
    • Live jazz, party bands, salsa and Latin music groups spread around the ship.
    • For MSC Yacht Club guests, an elegant music programme and piano host exclusively based in the Top Sail Lounge. 
  • Themed parties and activities, plus an expanded theatre lineup including seasoned U.S. comedians, large-scale shows such as Divas, performed by an outstanding multi-skilled cast.
  • Specialist activity coaches delivering wellness sessions, sports activities, arts & crafts workshops.
  • Regional enrichment specialists offering expert talks, narrated events and hands-on workshops that bring Alaska’s geography and nature to life.

As recently announced, MSC Poesia will undergo one of the largest upgrades in MSC Cruises’ history including the addition of the MSC Yacht Club, two specialty restaurants, Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar, a newly refreshed MSC Aurea Spa and an enhanced MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®. Guests sailing aboard MSC Poesia will be able to enjoy these new features on MSC Cruises’ inaugural season in Alaska, offering 7-night sailings to some of the region’s most picturesque destinations including Ketchikan, Icy Strait Hoonah, Tracy Arm, Juneau (Alaska, U.S.) and Victoria (British Columbia, Canada).

About MSC Cruises

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the privately-owned MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America.

A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality.

For more information visit here.

About Lionsgate Global Products & Experiences

Lionsgate Global Products & Experiences is a division within Lionsgate (NYSE: LION), one of the world’s leading standalone, pure play, publicly-traded content companies. By leveraging the studios’ world-class portfolio of film and television brands and franchises, the division drives incremental revenue and builds consumer engagement via live shows and experiences, location-based entertainment destinations, games, physical and digital merchandise, and select strategic partnerships and investments.

The group has announced multiple stage productions (Dirty DancingLa La LandWonder and Nashville for Broadway, and The Hunger Games– now open in London), integrations with marquee games (Call of Duty, Dead By Daylight, Roblox, and Fortnite), and collaborations with best-in-class consumer products licensees (LEGO, American Classics, Hot Toys, Funko, and more). Attractions based on Lionsgate’s top franchises The Hunger GamesJohn WickSAW and other iconic IP can be found at theme parks and destinations in Asia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East, with the highly anticipated JOHN WICK EXPERIENCE now open in Las Vegas. 

ALASKA SEASON – SUMMER 2027 ITINERARIES NOW AVAILABLE TO BOOK

ALASKA SEASON – SUMMER 2027 ITINERARIES NOW AVAILABLE TO BOOK

MSC Cruises today opened sales for its Summer 2027 Alaska itineraries. Starting 26 April 2027, MSC Poesia will homeport in Seattle and offer seven-night itineraries to some of the region’s most breathtaking destinations, departing each Monday through to September 2027. 

As recently announced, MSC Poesia will undergo one of the largest upgrades in MSC Cruises’ history including the addition of the MSC Yacht Club, two speciality restaurants, Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar, a newly refreshed MSC Aurea Spa and an enhanced MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®. Guests sailing aboard MSC Poesia will be able to enjoy these new features on MSC Cruises’ inaugural season in Alaska, commencing in May 2026 through to the ship’s second season in the region, with sales opening today for Summer 2027.

Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises said: We are delighted to offer a second season in Alaska following the high demand and enthusiasm we have seen since the launch of our first Alaska in 2026. As a global company, we are proud to offer an unparalleled choice of destinations and embarkation ports from every corner of the world. Expanding in this region allows us to offer our guests even more opportunities to explore this remarkable destination while enjoying the world-class experiences that MSC Cruises is known for.”

MSC Poesia’s Alaska itineraries will offer guests the chance to explore some of the region’s most picturesque destinations including Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, and Juneau (Alaska), along with Victoria (British Columbia, Canada), where they can enjoy breathtaking natural beauty, spectacular landscapes, magnificent wildlife and rich Alaska Native culture heritage.

A range of MSC Cruises’ excursions will be on offer at each port of call to suit every type of traveller – from tasting local culinary delights to exploring remote wilderness or gliding through serene waters in search of exceptional wildlife.

On board, guests will enjoy MSC Cruises’ signature cruise experience combining European style with American comfort, while sailing through the magnificent channels of the region, filled with captivating natural wonders.

Prior to her Summer 2027 Alaska season, MSC Poesia will reposition from Miami to Seattle over an 18-night sailing departing 8 April 2027. This sailing will provide guests an unforgettable experience of a lifetime, offering a unique Panama Canal crossing – a rare opportunity for adventure-seeking travellers.

Highlights of MSC Poesia’s Alaska itineraries include:

  • Ketchikan, Alaska – The best fishing town in Alaska offers prime opportunities for catching or eating wild salmon, as well as spotting the abundant population of bald eagles. Historic Creek Street is lined with an eclectic mix of shops, featuring an abundance of local artists and craftspeople. Ketchikan is also known for its impressive displays of authentic totem poles dating back to the 19th century.
  • Icy Strait Point, Alaska – Alaska’s first Indigenous-owned cruise destination is set amid more than 23,000 acres of private beach and temperate rainforest about a mile from Alaska’s largest Tlingit village, Hoonah. It features the largest zip line in the world, the most accessible coastal brown bear viewing platforms in Southeast Alaska, whale watching, fishing, local cultural dances and oral histories, cooking classes, kayaking and more. The facilities include a museum and locally owned retail shops in a restored 1912 salmon cannery, along with several restaurants offering local seafood, craft beer and more.
  • Tracy Arm, Alaska – The journey along Tracy Arm is every bit as amazing as the destination, with every hairpin turn along the way to the Sawyer Glaciers revealing something new. Entering the narrow fjord, guests will marvel at cliffs rising 3,000 feet along either side of the narrow and winding passage. Excitement builds as the ship passes waterfalls, roaming bears and a local seal colony. After 27 miles, a final turn reveals the intense blue colour of the Sawyer Glaciers towering above the waterline.
  • Juneau, Alaska – The state capital is only accessible by air or sea, which makes a cruise the perfect way to experience Juneau’s snow-capped mountains, historic landmarks and breathtaking views. The city was founded during a gold rush in 1880 and continues to invite visitors to try their hand at panning for gold. Right at the cruise port, the Goldbelt Tram rises 1,800 feet up Mount Roberts, offering the perfect vantage point for taking in the Chilkat Mountains, Douglas Island, the Gastineau Channel, and more.
  • Victoria, British Columbia – The calm waters of the Salish Sea and the towering rainforests of Vancouver Island surround a city known for its British heritage, colourful gardens, and magnificent architecture such as striking architectural marvels like the famed Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel. Before entering the harbour, wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to spotting whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals and birds. Foodies will find nearly infinite choices with the highest concentration of restaurants anywhere in Canada. Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city—among the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest region.

Final remaining cabins and MSC Yacht Club suites for MSC Cruises’ summer 2026 Alaska season are still available to book HERE.

To book MSC Poesia’s newly opened Summer 2027 Alaska sailings, click HERE.

# # # 

Notes to Editors

Guests booking the newly added MSC Yacht Club will enjoy an exclusive, all-inclusive experience featuring 24-hour butler and concierge service, spacious and elegantly appointed suites, and access to a private oasis of facilities, including a dedicated restaurant, lounge, sundeck with whirlpools, and grill restaurant and bar, all seamlessly integrated within the ship.

MSC Yacht Club highlights on MSC Poesia include:

  • NEW! 69 elegant suites across four suite types for every type of traveller, including ocean-view balcony suites and connected options ideal for families. The ultra-luxurious Royal Suite accommodates up to six guests and features a private whirlpool, an expansive 78 sqm terrace as well as a private outdoor shower with endless panoramic ocean views, while the Two-Room Grand Suite offers a more intimate setting coupled with a spacious balcony for serene outdoors moments. All suites are thoughtfully designed and include bathrooms with marble finishings, premium bespoke embroidered towels, a Nespresso coffee machine and a complimentary minibar, plus 24-hour room service.
  • NEW! Private sundeck with a Grill & Bar and two whirlpools, offering chic cabanas, sun loungers, and relaxed outdoor dining in a serene, modern setting, inviting guests to unwind in the sun with a cocktail in hand.
  • NEW! Exclusive MSC Yacht Club Restaurant, delivering an unforgettable dining experience, with refined menus, 24/7 culinary staff, and sommelier service.
  • NEW! Top Sail Lounge private bar and lounge, a light-filled, elegant space located on the foredeck, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a tranquil ambiance for cocktails, live music, or quiet moments.

Additional enhancements also include:

  • NEW! Butcher’s Cut – In this traditional American-style steakhouse, guests may have a taste of premium cuts of meat, including beef from Meat by Linz and a wide selection of succulent steaks and classic sides.
  • REIMAGINED! Kaito Sushi Bar – In this elegant, reimagined venue inspired by the Far East, guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.
  • REVAMPED! MSC Aurea Spa – In this serene oasis, guests looking for a revitalising escape from daily life will find a wealth of wellness options, including two steam rooms, a salt room, Kneipp path, emotional showers and a tranquil area to relax with fresh tea.
  • ENHANCED! MSC Gym Powered by Technogym® – Travellers looking to stay active will enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness centre with breathtaking ocean-facing workout areas at the aft of the ship, as well as a yoga room, jogging track, and basketball and tennis courts.

MSC POESIA TO UNDERGO MAJOR UPGRADES INCLUDING MSC YACHT CLUB

MSC POESIA TO UNDERGO MAJOR UPGRADES – INCLUDING MSC YACHT CLUB

MSC Cruises is bringing its award-winning luxury all-inclusive cruising concept, the MSC Yacht Club, to MSC Poesia as part of a major upgrade – one of the largest of the cruise line’s history. The revamp will also introduce Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar speciality restaurants, a refreshed MSC Aurea Spa and enhanced MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®.

Guests on MSC Cruises’ inaugural season in Alaska aboard MSC Poesia will be able to enjoy these new features and for the first time, will be able to explore Alaska’s unrivalled beauty, spectacular scenery, magnificent wildlife and rich Alaska Native culture heritage with MSC Cruises. Itineraries sail through picturesque destinations including Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, and Juneau (Alaska), along with Victoria (British Columbia, Canada). A variety of excursions will be offered at each port of call, from sampling the culinary delights of the region to exploring remote wilderness areas or gliding through serene waters in search of exceptional wildlife.

Onboard MSC Poesia, guests will enjoy MSC Cruises’ signature sailing experience combining European style with American comfort, while sailing through the breathtaking channels of the Inside Passage.

Guests booking the newly added MSC Yacht Club will enjoy an exclusive, all-inclusive experience featuring 24-hour butler and concierge service, spacious and elegantly appointed suites, and access to a private oasis of facilities, including a dedicated restaurant, lounge, private sundeck with whirlpools, and grill restaurant and bar, all seamlessly integrated within the ship.

MSC Yacht Club highlights on MSC Poesia include:

  • NEW! 63 elegant suites across five suite types for every type of traveller, including ocean-view balcony suites and connected options ideal for families. The ultra-luxurious Royal Suite accommodates up to six guests and features a private whirlpool, an expansive 78 sqm terrace as well as a private outdoor shower with endless panoramic ocean views, while the Two-Room Grand Suite offers a more intimate setting coupled with a spacious balcony for serene outdoors moments. All suites are thoughtfully designed and include bathrooms with marble finishings, premium bespoke embroidered towels, a Nespresso coffee machine and a complimentary minibar, plus 24-hour room service.
  • NEW! Private sundeck with a Grill & Bar and two whirlpools, offering chic cabanas, sun loungers, and relaxed outdoor dining in a serene, modern setting, inviting guests to unwind in the sun with a cocktail in hand.
  • NEW! Exclusive MSC Yacht Club Restaurant, delivering an unforgettable dining experience, with refined menus, 24/7 culinary staff, and sommelier service.
  • NEW! Top Sail Lounge private bar and lounge, a light-filled, elegant space located on the foredeck, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a tranquil ambiance for cocktails, live music, or quiet moments.

Additional enhancements also include:

  • NEW! Butcher’s Cut – In this traditional American-style steakhouse, guests may have a taste of premium cuts of meat, including beef from Meat by Linz and a wide selection of succulent steaks and classic sides.
  • REIMAGINED! Kaito Sushi Bar – In this elegant, reimagined venue inspired by the Far East, guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.
  • REVAMPED! MSC Aurea Spa – In this serene oasis, guests looking for a revitalising escape from daily life will find a wealth of wellness options, including the Ocean View Sauna, two steam rooms, a salt room, Kneipp path, emotional showers and a tranquil area to relax with fresh tea.
  • ENHANCED! MSC Gym Powered by Technogym® – Travellers looking to stay active will enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness centre with breathtaking ocean-facing workout areas at the aft of the ship, as well as a yoga room, jogging track, and basketball and tennis courts.

Itineraries now available to book on MSC Poesia featuring the new MSC Yacht Club include:

  • Summer 2026 – Alaska season: Seven-night sailings from Seattle, May through September 2026, exploring Alaska’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
  • Winter 2026/2027 – Caribbean & Central America: Roundtrip sailings from Miami to destinations including Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curaçao, and Belize – perfect for winter sun seekers.
  • Panama Canal Transits: Highly sought-after sailings between Seattle and Miami offering a once-in-a-lifetime Grand Voyage experience.

— ENDS —

NOTES TO EDITORS

Highlights of MSC Poesia’s Alaska itineraries include:

  • Ketchikan, Alaska – The best fishing town in Alaska offers prime opportunities for catching or eating wild salmon, as well as spotting the abundant population of bald eagles. Historic Creek Street is lined with an eclectic mix of shops, featuring an abundance of local artists and craftspeople. Ketchikan is also known for its impressive displays of authentic totem poles dating back to the 19th century.
  • Icy Strait Point, Alaska – Alaska’s first Indigenous-owned cruise destination is set amid more than 23,000 acres of private beach and temperate rainforest about a mile from Alaska’s largest Tlingit village, Hoonah. It features the largest zip line in the world, the most accessible coastal brown bear viewing platforms in Southeast Alaska, whale watching, fishing, local cultural dances and oral histories, cooking classes, kayaking and more. The facilities include a museum and locally owned retail shops in a restored 1912 salmon cannery, along with several restaurants offering local seafood, craft beer and more.
  • Tracy Arm, Alaska – The journey along Tracy Arm is every bit as amazing as the destination, with every hairpin turn along the way to the Sawyer Glaciers revealing something new. Entering the narrow fjord, guests will marvel at cliffs rising 3,000 feet along either side of the narrow and winding passage. Excitement builds as the ship passes waterfalls, roaming bears and a local seal colony. After 27 miles, a final turn reveals the intense blue colour of the Sawyer Glaciers towering above the waterline.
  • Juneau, Alaska – The state capital is only accessible by air or sea, which makes a cruise the perfect way to experience Juneau’s snow-capped mountains, historic landmarks and breathtaking views. The city was founded during a gold rush in 1880 and continues to invite visitors to try their hand at panning for gold. Right at the cruise port, the Goldbelt Tram rises 1,800 feet up Mount Roberts, offering the perfect vantage point for taking in the Chilkat Mountains, Douglas Island, the Gastineau Channel, and more.
  • Victoria, British Columbia – The calm waters of the Salish Sea and the towering rainforests of Vancouver Island surround a city known for its British heritage, colourful gardens, and magnificent architecture such as striking architectural marvels like the famed Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel. Before entering the harbour, wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to spotting whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals and birds. Foodies will find nearly infinite choices with the highest concentration of restaurants anywhere in Canada. Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city among the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest region.