MSC Cruises announces a significant expansion of its program in the enchanting Southern Caribbean, redefining the travel experience for cruise enthusiasts. Starting in the 2026/27 winter season, the company will not only maintain a single ship in this tropical region, but will also station two of its modern fleet members: the popular MSC Seaview and, for the first time, the elegant MSC Opera. This strategic decision underscores MSC Cruises' growing commitment to the Caribbean and promises a greater variety of itineraries and departure dates.
The real thrill of this announcement, however, is the first-ever Southern Caribbean cruises during the 2027 summer season. MSC Opera will play a key role here, sailing Caribbean waters year-round. This will provide travelers with unprecedented flexibility in planning their Caribbean dreams, regardless of the season. Bookings for these exciting new itineraries are now open, giving early bookers the opportunity to secure their preferred dates and cabins.
The MSC Opera routes: Pure diversity from La Romana and Martinique
MSC Opera will begin her 16-night cruises from sun-drenched La Romana in the Dominican Republic starting November 2026, 7. This picturesque embarkation port has much to offer, from inviting beaches to the impressive Cueva de las Maravillas cave, which offers a fascinating insight into the region's geological history. For those who prefer a more extended journey, MSC Cruises offers the attractive option of combining the 7-night cruises into diverse 14-night "butterfly itineraries," which vary the islands visited, providing an even more immersive Caribbean experience.
Starting in April 2027, MSC Opera will be adding Fort-de-France on the enchanting island of Martinique as a strategically located embarkation port. Fort-de-France boasts charming Creole architecture, reflecting the island's rich cultural history, and serves as an ideal starting point for exciting excursions into Martinique's lush tropical rainforest. The addition of this second home port expands the logistical options for passengers and opens up new combinations for their Caribbean cruise.
MSC Opera's carefully curated itineraries take in some of the Caribbean's most coveted gems. These include French-influenced Martinique and neighboring Guadeloupe, with their unique blend of French and Caribbean culture; sun-drenched Barbados, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant music scene; and Antigua and Barbuda, with its numerous bays and sailing opportunities. Also on the itinerary are the Dutch Antilles of Aruba and Curaçao, with their colorful architecture and world-class diving spots, as well as the picturesque British Virgin Islands, which entice with their pristine nature and crystal-clear waters.
In addition to the aforementioned La Romana and Fort-de-France, the special highlights of the ports of call include Isla Catalina, a true paradise for snorkelers and sun worshippers with its offshore coral reefs and white sandy beaches, and Virgin Gorda, famous for the bizarre rock formations of "The Baths," which offer a unique natural spectacle. In St. John's, the vibrant center of Antigua, visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports. In addition, the MSC Opera also visits charming ports such as Oranjestad on Aruba, Kralendijk on Bonaire, Philipsburg on St. Maarten, Basseterre on St. Kitts and Nevis, and Road Town on Tortola (British Virgin Islands), thus offering an impressive variety of Caribbean experiences.
The MSC Seaview: A proven favorite remains in the winter program
In parallel with MSC Opera's new summer and winter itineraries, the modern and popular MSC Seaview will continue to offer its established 2026-night Southern Caribbean cruises during the 27/7 winter season. Her homeport will remain charming Fort-de-France in Martinique. MSC Seaview will call at attractive destinations such as Castries on the lush island of St. Lucia, Kingstown on volcanic St. Vincent, Bridgetown on lively Barbados, Saint George on the spice island of Grenada, and historic Basseterre. MSC Seaview has established itself as a favorite with Caribbean cruisers in recent seasons, offering a unique cruising experience with its spacious outdoor decks and modern design.
With the strategic deployment of two ships in the Southern Caribbean during the winter season and the first-ever year-round cruise offering with MSC Opera, MSC Cruises is clearly demonstrating its long-term commitment to this fascinating region. Travelers will benefit from an even wider selection of itineraries, dates, and embarkation ports to realize their individual Caribbean dreams. Bookings now open offer the opportunity to secure the best seats for unforgettable cruises in the sun-drenched Southern Caribbean.
and 