Fleet Movements: Five Ships Complete Safe Passage

According to industry reports, the following vessels have now exited the Arabian Gulf:

• MSC Euribia
• Mein Schiff 4
• Mein Schiff 5
• Celestyal Discovery
• Celestyal Journey

All ships operated with skeleton crews and completed their passages over a two‑day window, supported by maritime authorities and standard navigational procedures.

A sixth vessel, Aroya, remains in the Gulf, with operators monitoring conditions and planning its next movements.

Celestyal Leads the Way

Celestyal Discovery was the first cruise ship to make the transit, paving the way for other vessels to follow. Its sister ship, Celestyal Journey, subsequently completed its own passage, with both ships now repositioning for their next scheduled programs.

TUI Cruises: Dual‑Ship Progress

TUI Cruises confirmed that Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5 have both cleared the region. The company expressed appreciation for the efforts of onboard teams and supporting authorities, noting that routing options for onward deployment are being evaluated based on global operational considerations.

MSC Euribia Continues Toward Europe

MSC Cruises reported that MSC Euribia has safely exited the Gulf and is now sailing toward Northern Europe, where it is scheduled to resume its summer program. The ship had been berthed in Dubai prior to its departure and is now progressing on its planned repositioning itinerary.

Aroya: Next Steps Under Review

Cruise Saudi’s Aroya remains the only vessel still in the Arabian Gulf. The company has not yet announced its next scheduled movement, with operational planning continuing in line with standard procedures.

Positive Outlook for Cruise Operations

The successful transit of five vessels marks a welcome boost for cruise operators active in the region. With ships now advancing toward their seasonal deployments, cruise lines are regaining scheduling flexibility and preparing to resume regular programming across key markets.

As repositioning progresses, the industry is looking ahead to a strong summer season supported by renewed fleet mobility and coordinated operational planning.

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The company describes Sandy Cay as an intimate counterpart to Ocean Cay, created to offer a quieter atmosphere and a deeper sense of connection with the surrounding seascape and the character of The Bahamas.

Sandy Cay takes its name from its bright aragonite sands, which MSC Group notes are among the purest found globally. The island has been envisioned as a serene setting that provides a more personal yet elevated experience, reflecting the same guiding ethos as Ocean Cay—bringing guests closer to the natural beauty of the ocean.

While sharing the same clear Bahamian waters as Ocean Cay, Sandy Cay is intended to introduce a distinct layer of discovery and tranquillity. Guests of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys will have their first opportunity to visit the island when it opens in 2028.

Enhancements Planned for Ocean Cay

MSC Cruises has also announced a series of upgrades for Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. These improvements will introduce new dining options, refreshed beach concepts for both families and adults, expanded areas for relaxation, and additional opportunities for guests to participate in marine‑focused experiences.

According to MSC Group, these enhancements support the company’s ongoing approach to developing private island destinations that evolve with guest expectations while honouring the natural setting of The Bahamas.

Strengthening Onboard‑to‑Shore Experiences

The addition of Sandy Cay is positioned as part of MSC Cruises’ and Explora Journeys’ broader effort to enrich their private destination offerings. Together, Ocean Cay and Sandy Cay represent the next phase in the Cruise Division’s vision to deliver holiday experiences that blend relaxation, exploration and an appreciation for the natural world.

Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 13 April, 2026

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Before heading north, MSC Poesia will arrive in Miami on April 22 and depart the following day on a special Panama Canal voyage to Seattle, offering guests a rare opportunity to sail with the ship as she repositions to her summer homeport. She will reach Seattle on May 11 to begin a series of seven‑night itineraries calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Endicott Arm, Juneau and Victoria, Canada.

New Enhancements Tailored for Alaska Cruising

MSC Poesia’s dry‑dock programme introduced several major upgrades designed to elevate the guest experience, particularly for scenic, nature‑focused itineraries such as Alaska.

Confirmed enhancements include:

• Introduction of the MSC Yacht Club, the line’s signature luxury ship‑within‑a‑ship concept
• New specialty dining venues, including Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar
• A fully redesigned MSC Aurea Spa, featuring new cold‑weather‑appropriate treatments
• An upgraded MSC Gym powered by Technogym®

These additions align MSC Cruises’ Musica‑class vessel with the brand’s latest onboard standards and broaden the range of premium experiences available to guests sailing in Alaska.

Alaska Itineraries: Scenic Cruising and Iconic Ports

Beginning in May 2026, MSC Poesia will operate offer seven-night sailings from Seattle, visiting a curated selection of Alaska’s most iconic destinations.

The official itinerary includes:

• Ketchikan
• Icy Strait Point
• Juneau
• Victoria, British Columbia
• Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier (scenic cruising)

These itineraries are designed to showcase Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage, while offering guests MSC Cruises’ distinctive international style.

MSC Cruises Strengthens Its North American Footprint

The Alaska debut forms part of MSC Cruises’ broader strategy to expand its year‑round presence in North America. The company has invested in new terminals, expanded its Caribbean and East Coast offerings, and continues to diversify its deployment to meet growing demand from U.S. and international travellers.

Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America, said: “In one month, we will begin a new chapter that reflects our continued investment in North America and our commitment to offering guests enriching experiences in some of the world’s most iconic destinations. The enhancements on board MSC Poesia come at a great time for these new sailings and will give guests additional comfort, choice and flexibility, allowing for more ways to relax, recharge and make the most of their time at sea.”

Looking Ahead

With MSC Poesia’s arrival in Seattle just weeks away, MSC Cruises is poised to make a strong entry into the competitive Alaska market. The combination of scenic itineraries, upgraded onboard experiences, and the introduction of the MSC Yacht Club positions the line to attract both loyal MSC guests and new travellers seeking a globally inspired approach to Alaska cruising.

Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 10 April, 2026

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All cruise lines report that guests and crew remain safe, that full onboard services continue to operate, and that repatriation planning is actively under way in coordination with airlines and port authorities.

MSC Cruises: MSC Euribia Berthed at Port Rashid, Dubai

MSC Cruises cancelled its 1 March 2026 sailing of MSC Euribia, a Meraviglia-class vessel with capacity for more than 6,000 guests, from Doha, with the ship now berthed at Cruise Terminal 3 at Port Rashid in Dubai. In a statement to affected guests, MSC confirmed: “In alignment with the national authorities, it has been decided to remain in the port of Dubai until further notice.” The line added that its focus remains firmly on the safety and security of guests and crew, and that it is in constant contact with local, national and regional authorities.

All onboard services including dining, entertainment and recreational facilities continue to operate. Guests whose sailings have been cancelled are being offered full refunds or future cruise credits.  

TUI Cruises: Mein Schiff 4 in Abu Dhabi, Mein Schiff 5 in Doha

TUI Cruises has cancelled multiple departures across both ships currently deployed in the region. Mein Schiff 4 is docked in Abu Dhabi, UAE, while Mein Schiff 5 is berthed at Doha Port, Qatar, both maintaining full onboard services for guests.

The cruise line has stated that it is monitoring developments very closely and is in close contact with the relevant authorities and security experts, including reference to official travel advisories issued by the German Federal Foreign Office.

With air connections across parts of the region disrupted, TUI has noted that return flight arrangements are subject to evolving airline capacity and airspace access. The line is working on a phased operation to fly guests home and is offering affected passengers refunds and rebooking options.  

Celestyal Cruises: Celestyal Journey in Doha, Celestyal Discovery in Dubai

Celestyal Cruises is operating a dual-ship deployment in the Arabian Gulf for its 2025/26 winter season. Celestyal Journey is confirmed to be alongside in Doha, Qatar, while Celestyal Discovery is docked at Dubai.

Celestyal is working closely with port authorities in Qatar, the UAE and Oman to review upcoming sailings, with options including adjusted turnaround arrangements, extended port stays and potential redeployments. All guests affected by cancelled sailings are being offered a full refund or a future cruise credit. Enhanced onboard enrichment and entertainment programmes have been put in place to support guests during any extended time in port.

AROYA Cruises: Aroya Manara Berthed in Dubai

Saudi Arabia’s AROYA Cruises has confirmed that its flagship vessel Aroya Manara is berthed in Dubai. The ship’s Arabian Gulf season had been offering two- to seven-night itineraries from multiple homeports including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dammam, with calls to destinations including Khasab, Muscat, Sir Bani Yas Island and Bahrain.

The cruise line has been undertaking a precautionary review of its sailings and has issued a statement reassuring guests: “The safety of our guests is our absolute priority. We will keep you informed of any further updates or changes.” AROYA is closely tracking official guidance and working with port and government partners across the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia as it assesses the path forward for its upcoming programme

A Coordinated Response Across the Sector

Across all four operators, a number of common measures are in place. Dedicated security teams are monitoring official advisories and liaising continuously with regional port authorities, maritime security experts and government bodies. Flexible booking policies are in effect for all cancelled departures. Full onboard services are being maintained across all six vessels, with additional activities and enrichment programming introduced to support guest comfort during extended port stays. Where airspace access allows, coordinated flight arrangements are being pursued to support the repatriation of guests, in collaboration with airline partners.

The situation underscores both the logistical complexity of the Gulf’s cruise season and the sector’s established protocols for managing guest welfare during rapidly evolving circumstances.

Looking Ahead

For the Arabian Gulf cruise market, the current pause comes at a moment of considerable momentum. The 2024/25 winter season delivered record passenger arrivals across Gulf ports, and the region’s growing importance as a short-haul winter sun cruise destination for European and GCC travellers has been reflected in significant fleet investments from multiple operators this season.

Cruise companies and port authorities are continuing to review all available operational options, with the shared aim of ensuring the safe and orderly resumption of itineraries and the long-term development of the Arabian Gulf as a premier cruise hub. Guests with upcoming sailings are strongly advised to monitor official communications from their cruise line, including apps, email updates and official websites, for the latest information on individual departures.

Updated: 4 March 2026. This article will be updated as new information becomes available from official cruise line sources.

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The announcement was made in the presence of the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, underscoring the strategic importance of the new deployment for the region’s tourism sector. MSC Cruises confirmed that MSC Opera will operate the new programme, offering weekly departures from a dedicated homeport in La Romana.

A Strategic Commitment to the Dominican Republic

MSC Cruises has been calling at Dominican ports since 2014, but this development elevates La Romana from a seasonal stopover to a core regional hub. By basing a ship in the port year-round, the line aims to smooth out the seasonality of Caribbean cruising and deliver sustained economic benefits to the local community.

Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, commented: “MSC Cruises first started calling in the Dominican Republic in 2014, so after more than ten years it is a proud moment for me to speak about our new homeporting offering in La Romana. With year-round operations we extend the traditional season, bringing positive economic impact to the local community and bringing 120,000 additional international visitors to La Romana each year. MSC Cruises is committed to the Dominican Republic and this new programme for the long-term.”

New Itineraries and “Butterfly” Cruises

Starting 16 November 2026, MSC Opera will sail seven-night itineraries that can be combined into longer 14-night “butterfly” cruises, allowing guests to explore different islands in consecutive weeks without repeating ports.

While full itinerary details are available for booking now, a highlighted feature of the new schedule is a call at Catalina Island. Located just off the coast of La Romana, this protected nature reserve offers pristine beaches and coral reefs, reinforcing the destination’s appeal to nature lovers. The deployment is expected to generate significant airlift, with an estimated 240,000 inbound and outbound flight passengers passing through the region annually to join the ship.

Economic and Operational Impact

The partnership with the Port of La Romana ensures operational stability for the cruise line while placing the port among a select group of destinations globally that host year-round cruise operations. Andrés Pichardo, President of Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, noted that the agreement guarantees weekly cruise calls throughout the year, facilitating long-term planning and sustained economic growth for the country.

This new chapter for MSC Cruises in the Caribbean complements its existing strongholds in Miami, Port Canaveral, and New York, offering travellers a distinct Southern Caribbean alternative deep in the region.

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Geneva – MSC Cruises has unveiled strategic enhancements to its summer 2026 deployment in the Eastern Mediterranean, introducing new calls at Marmaris, Turkey, and the Greek island of Syros aboard MSC Lirica and MSC Divina. The updated 7-night itineraries, announced in mid-December 2025, are designed to offer a fresh mix of emerging destinations and extended port stays, catering to high demand for immersive cultural experiences.​

Starting April 4, 2026, MSC Lirica will operate weekly from Venice-Marghera, featuring a revised route that includes Kotor (Montenegro), an inaugural call at Syros (Cyclades), and Ancona (Italy). A standout feature is the overnight stay in Mykonos, allowing guests to experience the island’s celebrated nightlife and sunset ambiance—a direct response to guest feedback seeking more time ashore.​

MSC Divina joins the region on April 24, 2026, sailing roundtrip from Civitavecchia (Rome). Her itinerary targets Turkey’s Turquoise Coast with a new call at Marmaris, alongside Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Mykonos, and Naples. The inclusion of Marmaris adds a scenic, beach-focused destination to complement the historical weight of Ephesus and Rome.​

“These updates reflect our commitment to evolving our portfolio,” said an MSC spokesperson. “By introducing Syros and Marmaris, we offer fresher, less crowded alternatives while maintaining access to iconic sites.” The deployment reinforces MSC’s dominance in the Mediterranean, where it will deploy 12 ships for the 2026 season.​

For travel advisors, particularly in the GCC, these changes provide compelling upsell opportunities. The overnight in Mykonos and new Turkish ports appeal to repeat cruisers looking for novel itineraries. The connectivity from Dubai (DXB) to Rome or Venice facilitates seamless fly-cruise packages for regional clients.​

The summer announcement follows MSC’s decision earlier in 2025 to reroute MSC Magnifica’s 2026 World Cruise. The 118-night voyage, departing January 2026, will bypass the Middle East and Red Sea due to regional instability, opting instead for a route via Cape Town to reach Asia. This adjustment ensures itinerary certainty while maintaining the voyage’s global scope.​

MSC’s proactive scheduling highlights its agility in a complex operating environment, balancing guest safety with destination variety.

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The report identifies a diverse range of motivations, from the excitement of global sporting events to the serenity of nature-focused retreats. These insights are already influencing the line’s itinerary planning and onboard offerings for the upcoming season.

1. The Rise of “Fan Voyages”

With 2026 set to be a monumental year for international sport, particularly with major football tournaments taking place across North America, MSC Cruises has observed a surge in “Fan Voyages”. Travellers are increasingly extending their trips around sporting fixtures, turning match attendance into full-scale holidays.

The line notes that millions of fans are expected to travel to US host cities, including Miami and Seattle—both key homeports for MSC Cruises. “From these cities, travellers can extend their holidays pre- or post-game with a seven-night sailing to Alaska from Seattle… or a seven-night Caribbean sailing from Miami,” the report states.​

2. “Quiet-cations”: The Call of the Wild

In an era of constant connectivity, the “quiet-cation” is emerging as a dominant trend. Travellers are seeking to switch off their devices and immerse themselves in the stillness of nature. This desire for calm is driving interest in the line’s inaugural Alaska season, launching in May 2026

Operating round-trip from Seattle, the new itineraries offer guests the chance to explore the unspoiled wilderness of Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Tracy Arm Fjord. “From viewing picturesque fjords and watching humpback whales… a cruise through Alaska centres guests back in the beauty of nature and provides a serene retreat,” the cruise line noted.​

3. The “Me-kend”: Short Breaks with Purpose

The trend of the “Me-kend”—short, restorative getaways—is gaining momentum. Rather than saving up for one long annual holiday, guests are booking frequent, shorter cruises of three or four nights to reset. These “spontaneous getaways” require minimal planning and are proving popular for Caribbean sailings from Florida and Mediterranean mini-cruises, appealing particularly to those with busy urban lifestyles.

4. “Kidfluencers”: The New Decision Makers

Family holidays are becoming more collaborative, with children—dubbed “kidfluencers”—playing a pivotal role in destination choices. MSC Cruises has responded by enhancing its family proposition, ensuring that itineraries cater to younger guests’ interests as much as their parents’.

The 2026 season will feature expanded facilities for children, including the Doremiland kids’ clubs, aquaparks, and LEGO® partnerships, ensuring that “family vacations are becoming a shared project.”

5. Seeking the Shoulder Season

To avoid peak-season crowds, savvy travellers are increasingly booking “shoulder season” sailings. MSC Cruises reports growing demand for destinations like the Southern Caribbean, Antilles, and the Greek Islands outside of traditional holiday windows.

Ships such as MSC Virtuosa, MSC Opera, and MSC Seaview will be deployed to these regions, allowing guests to explore “without the peak season bustle” while still enjoying mild temperatures and a more relaxed pace.

6. Personalised Luxury and the MSC Yacht Club

The final trend highlights a continued appetite for all-inclusive, personalised luxury. Affluent travellers are prioritising seamless experiences where every detail is managed for them. This has driven record demand for the MSC Yacht Club, the line’s “ship-within-a-ship” concept.

In a significant development for 2026, MSC Cruises confirmed that MSC Magnifica will introduce a brand-new MSC Yacht Club following a refurbishment, launching in the summer. Furthermore, the concept will debut on the World Cruise for the first time in 2027, offering the highest level of comfort for long-term voyagers.

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Sailing roundtrip from Dubai, Euribia will call at regional hotspots including Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, and Bahrain. With more than 20 voyages scheduled, the deployment reaffirms both MSC’s and Dubai’s central roles in positioning the Arabian Gulf as a winter cruise powerhouse. Guests will enjoy access to landmark attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, wildlife reserves, and cultural icons like Doha’s Souq Waqif. The 2025/26 programme brings added flexibility for guests, with three- and four-night short sailings alongside the standard week-long routes—catering to the region’s growing appetite for short breaks and experiential holidays. MSC also brings its exclusive Yacht Club product to Dubai, offering suite-level luxury with private lounges, butler service, and dedicated dining, all set within the larger ship environment.

“The Gulf’s modern infrastructure and year-round appeal make this a milestone season,” commented an MSC Cruises spokesperson. “Dubai is a top embarkation point, and our enhanced offering will help to further boost international passenger arrivals across the region.” MSC has seen strong forward sales out of the UAE, with a healthy mix of inbound international travellers and regional cruise fans driving early demand.

The Euribia deployment comes as part of a broader push to grow Dubai’s cruise industry, complementing recent investments in port upgrades and easy access to city experiences. Industry experts expect these new options will appeal to families, luxury travellers, and first-timers alike—ensuring wider appeal and longer-term market growth.

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In a monumental signal of confidence for the global cruise industry, MSC Cruises has confirmed a major expansion of its fleet, placing orders for two additional World Class vessels with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique. The agreement, valued at €3.5 billion, was announced today during a dual ceremony that also celebrated significant construction milestones for MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic.

The two newly ordered vessels—currently designated as World Class 7 and 8—are scheduled for delivery in 2030 and 2031. This latest agreement brings MSC Cruises’ total investment in France for the year to nearly €7 billion, with the company’s total committed direct investment in the country now standing at an impressive €10.5 billion.

A Historic Day at Chantiers de l’Atlantique

The announcement coincided with a double celebration at the Saint-Nazaire shipyard, marking key phases in the construction of the line’s upcoming vessels. The day saw the float out of MSC World Asia, marking the first time the vessel touched water, alongside the traditional steel-cutting and coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, highlighted the significance of the extended partnership:

“We mark a proud moment today for MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique as we celebrate important milestones for our future – the float out of MSC World Asia, the coin ceremony of MSC World Atlantic and the order of two new ships. The World Class platform is a symbol of our vision to set new standards for the future of cruising. These are some of the most energy efficient ships in the world and we continue our commitment to LNG, ensuring we are ready for future renewable fuels. We look forward to continuing with our innovative and successful collaboration with Chantiers de L’Atlantique – our long-term partner for more than 20 years.”

Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, expressed his gratitude for the continued collaboration:

“We are deeply grateful to MSC Cruises for their renewed confidence. What our shipyard is achieving today is truly exceptional — four new ships ordered in 2025! The World Class series, now totalling eight vessels, is a testament to our teams’ expertise and to MSC’s vision. It exemplifies our shared commitment to elevating the passenger experience while advancing environmental performance.”

Fleet Expansion and Deployment Updates

With these new orders, the World Class fleet is set to grow to eight vessels by 2031, following the launches of MSC World Europa (2022) and MSC World America (2025).

The event also provided fresh details on the deployment of the ships currently under construction:

• MSC World Asia: Following its float out today, the ship moves into the final phase of construction. It is scheduled for delivery in November 2026. Starting in December 2026, it will sail the Western Mediterranean, offering seven-night itineraries to marquee ports including Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (Rome), Messina, and Valletta.
• MSC World Atlantic: Today’s coin ceremony featured godmothers Lynn Torrent (President, MSC Cruises North America) and Agnès Sahores (Smart Yard Improvement Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique) placing commemorative coins within the keel for good fortune. The ship is slated to enter service in 2027, with a winter 2027-28 deployment scheduled for the Caribbean, sailing out of Port Canaveral, U.S.

Construction on the newly ordered World Class 7 and 8 is expected to commence in 2029. These future vessels promise to continue the line’s evolution of “visionary design and boundless imagination,” featuring distinct districts and advanced energy efficiency technologies.

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