JOHANNESBURG, September 2025 – In one of the largest upgrades in its history, MSC Cruises has announced that the beloved MSC Poesia will undergo a sweeping transformation, setting the stage for the cruise line’s first-ever Alaska season in Summer 2026. The upgrades will introduce the award-winning MSC Yacht Club, new speciality dining venues, and enhanced wellness and entertainment spaces — elevating MSC Poesia into a next-generation ship where luxury, comfort, and adventure converge.
Luxury Redefined: MSC Yacht Club Debuts on Poesia
For the first time, guests aboard MSC Poesia will be able to indulge in the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ signature ship-within-a-ship concept that has redefined luxury cruising worldwide.
Highlights include:
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63 new suites, from elegant ocean-view balconies to the ultra-luxurious Royal Suite with a private whirlpool, 78 sqm terrace, and panoramic outdoor shower.
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A private sundeck complete with chic cabanas, two whirlpools, and a Grill & Bar — a serene escape with cocktails under the open sky.
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The exclusive MSC Yacht Club Restaurant, delivering world-class dining with refined menus and dedicated culinary staff.
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The Top Sail Lounge, an elegant foredeck bar and lounge featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, live music, and tranquil ambiance.
Every suite has been designed with thoughtful touches — from marble-finished bathrooms and embroidered towels to Nespresso machines, complimentary minibars, and 24-hour butler and concierge service.
New Dining & Entertainment Venues
The transformation extends far beyond luxury suites:
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Butcher’s Cut – An American-style steakhouse serving premium beef cuts, classic sides, and fine wines.
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Kaito Sushi Bar (Reimagined) – An elegant Asian-inspired venue offering fresh, authentic sushi and contemporary Japanese dishes.
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All-Stars Sports Bar – A lively space with authentic game-day atmosphere, bar snacks, signature games, and big-screen action.
Wellness & Fitness, Elevated
Guests seeking rejuvenation will find an expanded MSC Aurea Spa, featuring an Ocean View Sauna, steam rooms, salt room, Kneipp path, emotional showers, and tranquil tea lounge. Meanwhile, the MSC Gym Powered by Technogym® will deliver world-class fitness with ocean-facing workout zones, a yoga room, jogging track, and courts for tennis and basketball.
Alaska Awaits: MSC Cruises’ First-Ever Season
From May to September 2026, MSC Poesia will sail seven-night itineraries roundtrip from Seattle, offering travellers the chance to witness Alaska’s towering glaciers, pristine fjords, and vibrant wildlife. Destinations include Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, Juneau, and Victoria (Canada) — with excursions ranging from wilderness adventures to cultural deep-dives.
Beyond Alaska: Global Voyages
After her Alaska debut, MSC Poesia will embark on a series of Caribbean & Central America itineraries (Winter 2026/27) with sailings from Miami to Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curaçao, and Belize. Guests can also experience Panama Canal transits on once-in-a-lifetime Grand Voyage sailings between Seattle and Miami.
European Style, American Adventure
Onboard, guests can expect MSC Cruises’ hallmark European style seamlessly blended with American comfort — a perfect pairing for sailing through Alaska’s Inside Passage or the sun-drenched Caribbean.
The message is clear: with MSC Poesia’s transformation, MSC Cruises is not just launching new itineraries — it’s rewriting the definition of modern cruising.
