SANDY CAY: A NEW LUXURY PRIVATE ISLAND RETREAT IN THE BAHAMAS

Sandy Cay – a new luxury private island destination located adjacent to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas due to open in 2028. Designed for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests, the new island further elevates the Company’s vision of delivering truly unique and authentic travel experiences.

Conceived as an intimate complement to Ocean Cay, Sandy Cay offers a more secluded, elemental escape — inviting guests into a quieter, deeply immersive connection with the natural rhythms of the ocean and the spirit of The Bahamas.

Continue reading “SANDY CAY: A NEW LUXURY PRIVATE ISLAND RETREAT IN THE BAHAMAS”

May 8, 2026June 8, 2026

BWT ALPINE FORMULA ONE TEAM REVEALS 2026 LIVERY DURING SEASON LAUNCH EVENT ABOARD MSC CRUISES’ SHIP

MSC Cruises and BWT Alpine Formula One Team sailed into the history books today, with the team becoming the first in the sport’s history to reveal their car colours on board a cruise ship.

The team’s livery for its 2026 challenger, the A526, was revealed during an exclusive event aboard MSC Cruises’ European flagship, MSC World Europa, in Barcelona, whilst docked at MSC Cruises’ new state-of-the-art terminal.

This landmark occasion brought together drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto, Alpine Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago, and a select group of VIP guests.

Continue reading “BWT ALPINE FORMULA ONE TEAM REVEALS 2026 LIVERY DURING SEASON LAUNCH EVENT ABOARD MSC CRUISES’ SHIP”

April 20, 2026April 20, 2026

Message from Msc Euribia Captain Lauro Maresca

There is a boundary within me that I cannot see, but I recognize it every time I reach it. It is the point where my abilities end.

And for years, I believed that was the limit. But it isn’t. That is exactly where my faith begins.

Yesterday, while crossing Hormuz, I was not just a commander following procedures and reading instruments.

I was a man standing before something greater than myself. I felt the weight of responsibility, the subtle tension, the presence of fear. But it did not stop me.

Because in that moment, i clearly understood that my abilities and my faith are not two separate things. They work together.

My abilities keep me steady, give me control, allow me to move forward.

My faith, instead, carries me beyond, precisely when control is no longer enough.

The fear was there. But it was no longer in front of me. It was beside me, almost behind me, like something that no longer made decisions for me.

And as I moved forward, I felt that I was not just doing my job.
I was also crossing that boundary within myself.

The one where I stop relying only on what I know how to do… and truly begin to trust.

And every time I reach it, I realize it is not an end. It is a passage.

It is from there that I become more than I ever believed I could be.

https://facebook.com/share/14Z2XxSaMQZ/

March 8, 2026June 8, 2026

ROBOTS AND GAME SHOWS MSC CRUISES UNVEILS EXCITING NEW ENTERTAINMENT FOR 2026

MSC Cruises is taking entertainment at sea to the next level in 2026 with a refreshed programme for all ages.

This year, guests sailing with MSC Cruises will enjoy a range of brand-new and updated experiences across the fleet, from vibrant parties and interactive game shows to digital experiences and live music, there’s something for every type of traveller – including, in a world-first, AI-powered robot dogs from Unitree Robotics, currently being piloted on board MSC Bellissima in Asia.

Steve Leatham, MSC Cruises’ VP Entertainment said “As a family-owned company, we know how important it is to offer entertainment that brings generations together. In 2026, we are building on what our guests already love, while introducing new ideas, new energy and new cruise-industry first experiences – there is something for everyone, wherever they choose to sail.”

Matteo Mancini, MSC Cruises’ Family Entertainment Development Director said: “MSC Entertainment is fully focused on the future and is actively investing in the development of new, modern forms of entertainment, spanning digital and immersive experiences. From robots and game shows to interactive fun, active experiences, partnerships with celebrated brands, original mascots and music, this year’s offering on MSC Cruises is truly spectacular.”

New and enhanced experiences in 2026 include:

AI-powered robot entertainment: In a first for the cruise industry, MSC Cruises is piloting AI-powered robotic dogs, accompanied by humanoid robots, developed by Unitree Robotics on board select ships.

The initiative is already being tested on MSC Bellissima and will be available soon on both MSC Bellissima in Asia and MSC Magnifica during a segment of the World Cruise 2026.

Guests will enjoy meet-and-greets with the robots, robot-themed parade, interactive robotic workshops for children aged 7+ to introduce them to robotics and future technologies in a creative way and dance appearances during the cruise line’s Doremix Family Disco.

Updated shows, parties and live entertainment: Guest-favourite events return with a fresh new look in 2026, including a fully renewed ’70s Party rolling out fleetwide with refreshed music, upgraded costumes, and elevated interactive experiences.

20 New Big Band performances will debut on MSC Poesia, which will also feature the highly anticipated Dirty Dancing: In Concert. Meanwhile MSC Seaview and MSC Grandiosa will launch a complete refresh of its main production shows and guest favourite Paz, a popular Flamenco show, will make a return to MSC Meraviglia.

Dueling Pianos, popular with guests, will be introduced to MSC Seascape, along with a brand-new American Country Band experience, a live entertainment concept designed for country music enthusiasts.

Brand-new original MSC Cruises game shows: Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy two new original shows that are launching in 2026. Chart Toppers is a high-energy music game show celebrating the biggest hits from the 1970s to today, while Quiz O’Clock: The Battle is a competitive game-show experience, a twist on the line’s classic quiz show.

Professional Coaches expansion: Following a successful pilot, MSC Cruises’ Professional Coaches Programme, covering sports, wellness and arts and crafts, will expand to 15 ships in 2026, offering guests even more opportunities to stay active and try something new while at sea.

Expanded partnerships with leading global brands: MSC Cruises will be introducing its guest-favourite, the LEGO® Parade, onboard more ships, expanding the offering from seven to 14 ships in 2026. The popular parade, which brings seven LEGO® mascots together with MSC’s own mascot, Doremi, will be gradually rolled out to MSC Grandiosa, MSC Poesia, MSC Divina, MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview.

Meanwhile, across the fleet the MasterChef at Sea offering, will feature refreshed formats for adults, kids and teens.

Even more for families, kids and teens: Families can look forward to a refreshed, digital-first LEGO® Family Game Show launching fleet-wide, following the successful pilot on MSC World America. The format will feature a high-energy final round designed to unleash creativity for both children and parents, immersed in a vibrant experience surrounded by LEGO® bricks and mascots.

A new educational entertainment programme designed to inspire younger guests through interactive learning and play, Ocean Day by the MSC Foundation, will also be rolled out fleetwide.

March 8, 2026June 8, 2026

YOU CAN SEE FIFA WORLD CUP 26™ POWERED BY SPORT 24 LIVE ACROSS THE ENTIRE FLEET

Football fans on board MSC Cruises’ ships this summer won’t miss a moment of the action, as guests across the line’s fleet will be able to watch every match of the FIFA World Cup 26™ live on Sport 24 Special Event Channels as their national teams compete as their national teams compete in highly anticipated tournament.

A total of forty-eight teams are set to compete in this year’s Football Championship, one of the most highly anticipated sporting events of the year. Jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the tournament marks the first-ever tri-nation Football Championship.

Matches will be broadcast live across all of MSC Cruises’ ships between 11 June to 19 July 2026.

MSC Cruises guests will be able to watch the matches in a wide variety of onboard venues for every type of fan, including the lively sports bars, casino bars, poolside LED screens and designated lounges and theatres – creating a vibrant atmosphere for fans from around the world.

Beyond the live matches, guests can also enjoy a programme of tournament-themed activities for all ages including interactive games, quizzes and family-friendly fun.

Whether sailing through the Caribbean or cruising the Mediterranean, guests can cheer on their national team while exploring the world’s breathtaking destinations. While on board, guests can enjoy wide range of experiences across the fleet including gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, dedicated facilities for families and children of all ages, as well as luxurious spa and wellness options.

February 8, 2026June 8, 2026

PARTNERS WITH MARINE CONSERVATION ORGANISATION ORCA DURING INAUGURAL ALASKA SEASON

A landmark partnership with marine conservation organisation ORCA, deploying the first dedicated ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) aboard a ship during the cruise line’s inaugural Alaska season in summer 2026. This science-driven initiative reinforces MSC Cruises’ commitment to turning environmental responsibility into action as it expands operations while moving industry-wide standards forward.

As part of the partnership, an ORCA MMO will sail on board MSC Poesia for one month during the peak whale season from late July through late August 2026, one of the most whale-populous periods in Alaskan waters. This extended observation period enables statistically significant data collection on whale behavioral responses to vessel presence and activity.

The ORCA MMO will also be using this time to study whale behavior and collect data, notably their reaction to the presence of cruise vessels.

This information will be shared with the scientific community as well as used to inform the whale avoidance training that ORCA provides to deck crew of numerous cruise lines and shipping companies, including MSC Cruises.

Drawing on ORCA’s expertise in ethical and responsible whale watching, the organisation will offer support and guidance on Alaska destination experiences, including the review of current whale watching excursions. ORCA will help identify best-practice operators and work collaboratively throughout the season to conduct ongoing assessments, gathering near real-time quantitative feedback to support high standards of sustainable wildlife tourism.

Guest education is another core pillar of the collaboration. During each Alaska itinerary, ORCA’s MMO will host an on board educational session for guests, highlighting the research taking place and the potential positive impact of the partnership. Guests will also be introduced to ORCA’s citizen science initiatives, offering an opportunity to engage more deeply with Alaska’s marine environment.

Linden Coppell, Vice President, Sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises, said: “As we prepare for our inaugural season in Alaska, it was important for us to take a proactive, science-led approach to operating in one of the world’s most environmentally sensitive regions. Partnering with ORCA allows us to combine expert research, enhanced crew training and meaningful guest engagement to better understand how vessels interact with whales and how we can further reduce risk. This collaboration reflects our broader commitment to protecting marine biodiversity while continuing to evolve how our industry operates responsibly.”

Steve Jones, COO at ORCA, said: “As ORCA enters its 25 year, we see more than ever before the opportunity the cruise industry has to play a meaningful part in protecting whales. MSC Cruises is showing that they plan to go above and beyond to embed conservation as a part of the wonderful programme they are offering this summer. We’re proud to be a part of making their debut Alaskan season an experience their guests will never forget.”

The partnership supports MSC Cruises’ inaugural Alaska season in summer 2026, with newly upgraded MSC Poesia sailing seven-night itineraries from Seattle and marking a major milestone in the brand’s global deployment. Building on this momentum, MSC Cruises has also recently opened sales for its second Alaska season in summer 2027, reflecting strong demand for the destination and the company’s long-term commitment to operating responsibly in the region.

The partnership was formally unveiled at CLIA’s Pacific Northwest Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska, where industry and conservation leaders gathered to discuss sustainable cruise operations. The announcement spotlights MSC Cruises’ leadership and calls on others to prioritize science-driven approaches to conservation.

February 8, 2026June 8, 2026

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 Dancing, La La Land, Wonder 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 Games, John Wick, SAW 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.

February 8, 2026June 8, 2026

MSC CRUISES INVITES TRAVELLERS TO DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF THE UNPLANNED MOMENTS

The cruise line has launched a new global campaign which highlights what makes MSC Cruises unique, from authentic culinary experiences, spectacular international entertainment for all ages and an unparalleled choice of destinations and embarkation points to discoverwhile also highlighting that true magic lives in the unplanned moments.

The new campaign, developed in partnership with McCANN – the world’s leading advertising agency network behind some of the most creative and commercially impactful campaigns globally – features a reinterpretation of the iconic Jackson 5 track “ABC.” This new version includes newly written lyrics that highlight the breadth of experiences and services offered on board MSC Cruises. Energetic, joyful, and instantly recognisable, the music reinforces the line’s spirit of discovery, warmth, and hospitality, while reimagining a globally loved hit in a way that aligns seamlessly with the campaign’s spirit.

To see MSC Cruises latest brand campaign visit: HERE

From unexpectedly spotting marine life while sipping coffee on the balcony to meeting new friends over dinner or finding their inner child at the Aquapark, MSC Cruises ensures that guests are well taken care of with warm hospitality, leaving them more time to enjoy the best moments – those that are often never planned.

FOOD & BEVERAGE: UNLIMITED PIZZA, PLANNED…UNLIMITED FRIENDSHIP, UNPLANNED

From elegant main restaurantsquality international dining concepts and speciality restaurants to relaxed buffet experiences, MSC Cruises caters to every taste with unique and authentic gastronomic experiences. MSC Cruises invites guests to explore the world through flavour, with traditional favourites like fresh, homemade pizza to sumptuous flavours found in the likes of Kaito Teppanyaki or Holas! Tacos and Cantina . From expertly crafted cocktails and freshly roasted coffee to a full-scale microbrewery at sea, featuring an exclusive range of signature beers brewed from desalinated seawater, here’s a perfect drink and lounge for every moment on board. Yet the true highlight of dining at sea with MSC Cruises isn’t just the exceptional beverages or culinary experiences, it is the unexpected connections that are made over the dinner table, creating bonds and new friendships among guests that will continue long after the holiday is over.

ENTERTAINMENT: LIVE MUSIC, PLANNED…LIVING THE MUSIC, UNPLANNED

Spectacular international entertainment awaits guests on board with shows and activities for every type of traveller. The carefully crafted worldly entertainment options go beyond the outstanding stage shows each evening with live music and performances, enriching activities, gameshows, pop-up events and more, allowing guests to pack in as much or as little as they like. Once on board, guests will be surprised by how they get swept away by the awe-inspiring performances and upbeat atmosphere.

KIDS & FAMILY: WATERPARK WITH THE KIDS, PLANNED…FINDING YOUR INNER KID, UNPLANNED

As a family-owned company, MSC Cruises knows what it takes to keep the whole family happy on holiday with tailored entertainment and activities for all ages. The award-winning Doremiland kids club, on board waterpark, cinema and around-the-clock activities provide ample experiences for guests to maximize discovery and fun. While parents may expect their children to have the time of their life on board, they may be surprised by how much their inner child expresses itself amidst the abundance of games and activities on board.

MSC YACHT CLUB: EXTRA COMFORT, PLANNED…BEING EXTRA, UNPLANNED

MSC Cruises’ ship-within-a-ship concept, MSC Yacht Club, provides ultimate comfort, privacy and personalised service. Guests who stay in MSC Yacht Club enjoy keycard-only access to private facilities including a lounge, restaurant, sun deck and pool. With priority embarkation and disembarkation, 24-hour butler and concierge services, a premium drink package, on board Wi-Fi and luxurious suites, guests have permission to be a little ‘extra’ as they indulge in what may be their most relaxing and best holiday ever.

DESIGN: DESIGNER STAIRS, PLANNED…THE WAY HE STARES, UNPLANNED

Guests can expect to find MSC Cruises’ signature European style across its fleet of modern ships, with stylish facilities and high-quality amenities finished with real marble, crystal and glass. Signature design features like the picture-perfect Swarovski staircase or the breathtaking Bridge of Sighs take center stage, creating awe-inspiring moments that will take guests’ breath away.

WELLNESS: ESCAPING THE DAILY ROUTINE, PLANNED…ESCAPING THE MIND, UNPLANNED

Unexpected tranquil moments can be found on board with a wealth of wellness options ready to relax and rejuvenate guests. A true escape of the mind can be found in the serene MSC Aurea Spa with a comprehensive range of massages and beauty treatments to restore one’s natural balance, while the thermal areas provide a holistic wellness experience by combining heat, water and relaxation. With fitness facilities and a variety of sports classes on board, guests may expect to feel their best on board but will find that they leave feeling pampered and better than ever before.

DESTINATIONS: MORE THAN 250 DESTINATIONS, PLANNED…ONE MILLION REASONS TO COME BACK, UNPLANNED

MSC Cruises offer itineraries across five continents, sailing to nearly every corner of the world. This unparalleled choice of destinations and embarkation ports holds an abundance of unique adventures waiting to be discovered. MSC Shore Excursions take care of all the details, allowing guests to be fully immersed in the cultures and landscapes of their voyage. From the stunning scenery of Alaska to the hidden gems of the Mediterranean, MSC Cruises’ offerings around the world will leave guests filled with wanderlust and ready to discover their next destination as soon as they disembark.

SHOPPING: LEAVING WITH MEMORIES, PLANNED…LEAVING WITH A NEW MEMENTO, UNPLANNED

Onboard boutiques abound on MSC Cruises’ ships with the latest fashion, jewelry, electronics, cosmetics and watches to remember the voyage of a lifetime. With exclusive luxury retail concepts such as TimeVallee, the multi-brand watch concept and stand-alone Omega stores available on select ships, guests may come away from their cruise with more than just memories.

To find out more about the “The Best Holiday Ever” campaign, visit here.

To book a 2026 holiday with MSC Cruises, visit here.

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About McCANN

McCann builds enduring brands and businesses that drive growth and leave a lasting imprint on culture. Founded over 100 years ago and guided by its enduring brand platform ‘Truth Well Told,’ McCann is the world’s leading advertising agency network, behind some of the most creative and commercially impactful campaigns globally.

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 250 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality.

January 8, 2026June 8, 2026

MSC CRUISES AND MEYER WERFT SIGN LANDMARK AGREEMENT FOR SIX NEXT-GENERATION CRUISE VESSELS

Berlin, Germany, 15 December – Today, MSC Cruises announced a major new order for four next-generation cruise vessels and two additional options from MEYER WERFT in Papenburg marking the launch of its new “New Frontier” platform – a brand-new class of ships. The order will secure full capacity at the shipyard well into the next decade.

The announcement was made today at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche and Energy Minister-President Lower Saxony, Olaf Lies, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and MEYER WERFT’s CEO Dr. Bernd Eikens.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “MEYER WERFT’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding. Together, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering. The New Frontier class will enable us to design new and exclusive itineraries, offer exceptional guest experience and will feature next-generation environmental technologies that will advance our net-zero 2050 commitment.”

Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO of MEYER WERFT said: “This new order marks a significant milestone in the 230-year history of MEYER WERFT. We are delighted to welcome MSC Cruises as a new customer and strategic partner, and we are truly honored by the trust they have placed in us. This long-term partnership with MSC Cruises ensures sustainable growth and job security for many years to come. Today is a truly positive and significant day for everyone at MEYER WERFT—our employees and our partners alike.”

With a maximum passenger capacity of 5,400 and approximately 180,000 gross tons, the “New Frontier” ships will be delivered annually starting in 2030.

This order represents a decisive boost for the regional economy. It secures thousands of jobs in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg, where MEYER WERFT is a cornerstone employer and sustains work for the shipyard’s extensive supplier network. More than 3,200 people are directly employed at MEYER WERFT, with over 20,000 jobs in the wider region linked to its operations.

With delivery schedules stretching into the 2030’s, the agreement reinforces Papenburg’s role as a strategic hub for global cruise shipbuilding and ensures continuity for one of Europe’s most advanced maritime manufacturing ecosystems.

ENDS

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.

About MEYER WERFT

MEYER WERFT, headquartered in Papenburg, Germany, is one of the world’s leading shipyards and renowned for building advanced cruise ships and special-purpose vessels. Founded in 1795, the company with private and state-owned shareholders combines centuries of shipbuilding expertise with technological innovation.

January 8, 2026June 8, 2026

SIX TRAVEL TRENDS INSPIRING GUEST BOOKING BEHAVIOUR IN 2026 AND BEYOND

MSC Cruises today unveiled six travel trends that are shaping guests’ booking patterns and driving itinerary offerings heading into 2026. From travellers planning holidays centred around sporting events, to children influencing family holiday choices, these emerging trends are setting the scene for how guests will travel in the new year.

FAN VOYAGES

2026 is set to be a standout year for sporting events, drawing fans from around the world. Millions of fans will travel across the globe to catch their favorite team competing for victory.

A good portion of these fans will take full advantage of their practical travel and turn it into a fan voyage, by extending their trip into a full holiday and maximise their time in and around the sporting destinations with pre or post experiences [1].

Many of these sporting events will see travellers flocking to destinations near MSC Cruises’ departure ports (LINK), making an MSC Cruises’ sailing an easy addition to their existing plans, and allowing them to see multiple destinations without having to repack their suitcase or hire a car.

Approximately five million fans are expected to attend major football events in cities across U.S. cities in 2026, including Miami and Seattle – both home ports for MSC Cruises. From these cities, travellers can extend their holidays pre- or post-game with a seven-night sailing to Alaska from Seattle on board MSC Poesia (LINK), or a seven-night Caribbean sailing from Miami on board MSC World America (LINK), the line’s newest flagship.

In addition, MSC Cruises will once again serve as the title sponsor of three Formula 1® World Championship Grand Prix races in 2026, the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES GRAN PREMIO DE BARCELONA-CATALUNYA 2026 in Spain, FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX 2026 in Austin and FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES GRANDE PRÊMIO DE SÃO PAULO 2026 in Brazil. With a loyal fanbase worldwide, many will travel to these cities and many others to experience the adrenaline-pumping events. Formula 1® fans can attend the Grand Prix in Austin after a seven-night Caribbean voyage aboard MSC Seascape, sailing from Galveston, Texas (LINK). Fans can also sail on MSC World Europa to Barcelona (LINK) ahead of the Grand Prix™ in Barcelona to see the thrilling racing action.

RISE OF THE ‘ME-KEND’

The rise of the ‘me-kend’ is trending as travellers are embracing indulgent quick trips as a form of self-care [3]. Holidays are no longer saved for birthdays or long stretches of paid time off work – instead, people are looking for a weekend getaway to serve as a quick mood-booster.

MSC Cruises offers three-and four-night sailings with a range of accessible embarkation ports that can be reached by car, meeting the demand for these weekend trips and allowing guests to take a short break without having to plan an extended holiday. Guests can book three or four-night itineraries that visit the sun-soaked Caribbean and Bahamas from Miami with MSC Seaside or Port Canaveral with MSC Seashore with itineraries visiting MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (LINK). Guests can also book short sailings to beautiful destinations in the Mediterranean from Genoa with MSC Magnifica and visit the sights of Northern Europe departing from Southampton with MSC Virtuosa (LINK).

KIDFLUENCING

Another trend driving travel choices in 2026 is the influence of children on a family’s holiday decisions. More than 80 percent of parents say that their kids help choose and plan their trip, with kids bringing ideas that are fueled by curiosity, creativity and online inspiration [3].

MSC Cruises offers award-winning family programming (LINK) on board, driving interest from children with amazing spaces and activities that aim to give guests the freedom to express their creativity, play, socialise and explore. From dedicated kids’ clubs offering more than 100 hours of entertainment for different age groups from 0 to 17 years old to Sportplex, a spacious and dynamic gaming space equipped with everything including basketball, tennis courts, interactive activities and even bumper cars and roller skating on some ships, there’s something to suit the whole family. Families can also enjoy MSC Formula Racer, immersive VR experiences, an interactive XD cinema or an aquapark with thrilling waterslides. In addition, MSC Cruises partners with LEGO®, providing a unique way for children from all around the world to connect. Families will enjoy spending time together with experiences like family game shows and theater performances, and when parents are ready for a date night on their own, children can enjoy entertainment in the kids’ club.

QUIET-CATIONS

In the digital age, more people are looking to find quiet, calm ways to escape, with their digital devices firmly switched OFF. In 2026, travellers will look to swap the noise of daily life and the distractions of an overstimulating world for the soothing stillness of nature [2]. Holidays will be used to restore a sense of calm, with 43 percent of travellers wanting to feel closer to nature and one in four turning to quieter hobbies while on holiday.

MSC Cruises will sail its first Alaska season in 2026, with seven-night itineraries on MSC Poesia from Seattle (LINK) to Ketchikan, Icy Straight Point, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Juneau in Alaska and Victoria in Canada. Guests will enjoy a peaceful getaway, discovering breathtaking wonders both from the ship and during excursions. From viewing picturesque fjords and watching humpback whales to hiking up Mount Roberts and discovering awe-inspiring glaciers, a cruise through Alaska centres guests back in the beauty of nature and provides a serene retreat.

LOW-SEASON TRAVEL

More travellers are recognising the benefits of traveling in the low-season with its milder temperatures, easier attraction access and more affordable pricing. Increasingly, people are looking to take advantage of this time of year to explore popular destinations in a slower and more authentic way.

In 2026, MSC Cruises will offer sailings to highly coveted destinations, allowing guests to explore the Southern Caribbean and Antilles, as well as Greece and Eastern Mediterranean, without the peak season bustle. In the Southern Caribbean and Antilles, guests can sail aboard MSC Virtuosa, MSC Opera or MSC Seaview (LINK) to explore natural wonders and sophisticated cultures, where beautiful bays and beaches meet cosmopolitan flair with mild temperatures and a relaxed rhythm. Meanwhile in Greece and Eastern Mediterranean, guests can sail on board MSC Orchestra, MSC Lirica and MSC Divina (LINK) while travelling to visit renowned historical sights, breathtaking architectural marvels and beautiful landscapes. MSC Lirica will offer 7-night sailings during the shoulder seasons from Venice-Marghera (Italy) to iconic destinations including Kotor (Montenegro) Mykonos and Syros (Greece) and Ancona (Italy). MSC Divina will depart from Civitavecchia for Rome, giving guests the opportunity to discover the stunning sights of Mykonos in Greece, Kusadasi and Marmaris in Turkey and Naples, Italy. MSC Orchestra will offer 7-night sailings from Bari (Italy) to Greece (Piraeus for Athens and Corfù) and Turkey (Izmir/Ephesus and Istanbul) (LINK).

ALL-INCLUSIVE AND PERSONALISED LUXURY EXPERIENCES

The most popular luxury travel experiences in 2026 will be all-inclusive and personalised [4]. Affluent travellers will look for holiday options that provide the privilege of complete relaxation, where the stress of planning is removed and their specific needs are met throughout the entirety of their trip.

MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ ship-within-a-ship concept (LINK), caters to guests with an outstanding all-inclusive experience and premier service where every detail is meticulously attended to. Guests who stay in MSC Yacht Club enjoy priority embarkation and disembarkation, 24-hour butler and concierge services and premier room service delivered at any hour. Personalisation goes above and beyond with every detail attended to from the perfect pillow selection to a fully stocked personalised mini bar and late-night treats delivered by the butler. Guests also receive a premium beverage package, unlimited Wi-Fi, and thermal spa access, making the MSC Yacht Club experience an all-inclusive sanctuary. Now open for sale, MSC Yacht Club is available to book on the MSC 2027 World Cruise – the first time that guests will be able to book MSC Yacht Club for this type of itinerary.