MSC POESIA DEPARTS FROM SEATTLE ON MSC CRUISES’ FIRST ALASKA SEASON

• MSC Cruises celebrates its inaugural Alaska sailing, with the newly upgraded MSC Poesia departing Seattle yesterday
• MSC Poesia will sail seven-night Alaska itineraries until September, visiting breathtaking destinations including Ketchikan, Juneau, Endicott Arm, and Icy Strait Point
• Guests can experience the ship’s new and enhanced venues, including the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, enhanced dining, wellness, and fitness venues

Geneva, Switzerland - May 12, 2026 – MSC Cruises marked a new milestone yesterday (Monday May 11) as MSC Poesia departed Seattle, United States, on her first sailing to Alaska – MSC Cruises’ first time in this region, offering guests the chance to experience the region’s breathtaking scenery through to September.

The newly upgraded MSC Poesia, which now features a brand-new MSC Yacht Club, the cruise line’s luxury “ship-within-a-ship” concept, along with new dining venues and enhanced wellness and fitness facilities, departed Seattle yesterday, officially launching her inaugural summer season and marking a new chapter for MSC Cruises.

MSC Poesia departs weekly from her homeport in Seattle and offers seven-night itineraries calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau in Alaska (US) along with Victoria (Canada). Sailings also include scenic cruising through stunning Endicott Arm fjord, for views of Dawes Glacier.

MSC Poesia will return to Alaska for next year’s summer season in April 2027, with itineraries already available to book.

As part of its commitment to responsible operations in Alaska, MSC Cruises is partnering with ORCA to support marine research, with an expert onboard MSC Poesia during peak whale season to lead crew training, guest education and insights into Alaska’s marine wildlife.

More about MSC Poesia’s upgraded facilities and experiences:

In addition to the MSC Yacht Club, the ship’s enhancements include an upgraded MSC Aurea Spa, cutting-edge MSC Gym powered by Technogym®, a Gentleman’s Barber, and new workout studios.

Guests sailing to Alaska can also dine in two new speciality dining venues - Butcher’s Cut, an authentic American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar – where guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes. 

Guests will also get to enjoy an enhanced culinary programme inspired by the region, with tailored dining and beverage offerings created specifically for MSC Cruises’ sailings in Alaska - from hearty regional cuisine, expanded seafood selections, warming beverages and regional-inspired cocktails throughout the voyage.

MSC Poesia will also feature enhanced entertainment throughout the Alaska season, highlighted by “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” a live-to-film production featuring singers, dancers and a live band performing alongside the iconic movie. Guests will also enjoy live music, themed parties, comedy performances, family activities as well as expert talks, narrated scenic experiences and interactive workshops inspired by the region’s wildlife, geography and culture.

After September, MSC Poesia will reposition to offer round trip sailings in the Caribbean for Winter 2026/2027 before returning to Alaska for her 2027 summer season. Between the seasons the ship offers MSC Grand Voyage sailings through iconic Panama Canal between Miami and Seattle.

Last available cabins for the 2026 season and the 2027 season are now available to book HERE

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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.

For more information visit MSC Cruises.