MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests sailing from La Romana in the Dominican Republic will soon enjoy an enhanced day on Catalina Island, with upgraded facilities and a more seamless beach experience in one of the country’s most picturesque natural settings thanks to a new joint venture announced today.   The enhancements are being delivered through a joint venture between CTL Maritime, part of the MSC Group, and Casa de Campo Resort & Villas. The island will welcome cruise ship guests, including MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, other cruise lines, and private clients including from Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.   A Natural Monument in the Dominican Republic, Catalina Island is already known for its nature reserve experience, pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and surrounding coral reefs, will receive a significant upgrade under the plans.   Guests can look forward to a more comfortable and memorable beach day with elevated food and beverage options, more shaded spaces to unwind, and more ways to enjoy the water – including cabanas and daybeds, a dedicated water sports center, and improved changing, shower and WC amenities – all alongside Catalina Island’s white-sand beaches, clear waters and coral reefs.   MSC Cruises commences year-round operation from La Romana this November, giving guests more options to discover the Southern Caribbean with the convenience of a homeport in the region. MSC Opera will operate weekly departures, with guests able to book a seven-night sailing or extend their holiday with a back-to-back 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruise.   Enhancements on Catalina Island will be carried out responsibly and in line with local environmental regulations to help protect the destination for future visits.   Catalina Island enhancements include:

• Dining facilities– a signature open-air beach pavilion buffet will be the central dining hub of the island, offering international dishes and local specialties. An adjacent shaded dining area offers comfortable al-fresco table seating with panoramic sea views.
• Beverage facilities– A tropical open-air palapa bar will welcome guests with refreshments and act as a shaded social pavilion with ocean views.
• Water sports center – The center point for guests wishing to explore the surrounding clear waters, with equipment available to rent.
• Cabanas– The island will be equipped with comfortable daybeds and cabanas available for rent. These offer the most comfortable way to enjoy a day at Catalina Island, whether for a couple or family.
• Upgraded facilities– Functional facilities across the island will be upgraded, with comfortable, stylish changing, shower and WC services.

 

• Upgrades include the addition of MSC Yacht Club, as well as enhanced dining, wellness, and fitness venues
• The ship will operate 7-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle starting in May 2026, visiting iconic destinations
• MSC Poesia becomes the second of four MSC Musica Class ships to be upgraded as part of the fleet modernisation programme  

  MSC Cruises invites guests to discover the newly enhanced MSC Poesia, which has successfully completed her dry dock refurbishment at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard.   The ship now features a wide range of new additions, including the introduction of the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, alongside enhanced guest experiences, ahead of her highly anticipated debut season in Alaska next month.   MSC Poesia is the second ship from the line’s MSC Musica Class to undergo a major refurbishment at the Maltese shipyard, following sister ship MSC Magnifica, which left the shipyard in December.   The transformation marks a major milestone for MSC Cruises, reflecting a significant ongoing investment in refurbishing and modernising its fleet to continually enhance the guest experience.   MSC Poesia will now feature the MSC Yacht Club, the brand’s exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering 69 elegantly appointed suites, 24-hour butler and concierge service, and access to a private oasis of facilities including a dedicated restaurant, lounge, private sundeck with whirlpools, and grill restaurant and bar.   Guests will also now enjoy two new specialty dining venues - Butcher’s Cut, an authentic American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar – inspired by the Far East where guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.   The enhancement will also include a newly designed MSC Aurea Spa and MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®, complete with a Gentleman’s Barber, various workout studios, and the Top 15 Exclusive Solarium, a spacious outdoor area for Aurea guests.   Earlier this year, MSC Cruises announced the expansion of its renowned MSC Yacht Club to two additional ships, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra. The completion of these latest enhancements means all four vessels in the Musica class will now be fully upgraded to feature MSC Yacht Club – this includes MSC Poesia, MSC Magnifica, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra.   Following her departure from Europe, MSC Poesia will transit the world-famous Panama Canal, before arriving in Seattle for her Alaska season. From May through September 2026, the ship will operate 7-night itineraries to breathtaking destinations including Ketchikan, Juneau, Endicott Arm, and Icy Strait Point.   Following her Alaska season, the ship will reposition to offer roundtrip Caribbean sailings from Miami during Winter 2026–2027, visiting destinations including Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curaçao, and Belize, before returning to Alaska in summer 2027.   MSC Yacht Club suites aboard MSC Poesia are now available to book.

  MSC Group’s Cruise Division today introduced 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.   Pristine aragonite sands - among the purest and brightest in the world - give Sandy Cay both its name and its character, shaping an island defined by serenity. Sandy Cay has been carefully envisioned as a destination designed to offer a more intimate yet elevated and immersive experience. It remains true to the ethos that defines Ocean Cay, connecting guests to nature and the natural beauty of the ocean.   Located within the same crystal-clear Bahamian waters as Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Sandy Cay will complement the Company’s existing private island destination, offering a new dimension of discovery, serenity and escape.   MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests will have the first opportunity to experience Sandy Cay in 2028.   UPGRADES COMING TO MSC OCEAN CAY MARINE RESERVE   MSC Cruises’ recently announced enhancements to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, which will introduce new facilities and experiences designed to further enhance the guest offering on the island.   Enhancements include additional dining venues, new beach concepts for families and adults, expanded relaxation areas, and new ways for guests to engage with marine conservation through immersive experiences.   Together, these developments reinforce the Company’s vision of creating private island destinations that continue to evolve in line with guest expectations while respecting the natural environment and beauty of The Bahamas.   DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES AT SEA AND ASHORE   With the addition of Sandy Cay, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys continue to elevate their private destination offering, creating seamless connections between life on board and experiences ashore.   Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Sandy Cay together represent the next step in MSC Group’s Cruise Division’s vision to deliver unforgettable holiday experiences combining relaxation, discovery and deep respect for the natural world.

  MSC Cruises has announced a reduced deposit promotion, designed to make it easier for guests to plan and secure their next holiday with greater flexibility.   Valid on all new bookings made between 23 March and 30 April 2026, the initiative applies to all cruises, excluding Yacht Club suites and World Cruises. Guests can confirm their booking with a reduced deposit of just £50 per person for cruise-only bookings and £100 per person for fly-cruise packages.   MSC Cruises offers a choice of 23 ships across a range of itineraries. Guests can choose from the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Alaska, the Caribbean, Northern Europe and beyond, with sailings to suit every traveller. Excitement is building for the upcoming launch of MSC World Asia on 4th December 2026, the brand’s newest ship, which will sail in the Mediterranean.   Alyshia Bartlett, Head of UK Sales at MSC Cruises, said: “We understand that flexibility is more important than ever when planning a holiday. By reducing the deposit, we’re giving our guests greater confidence and ease in securing their next holiday. This summer, MSC Virtuosa will sail from Southampton with 32 departures, offering an incredible choice of itineraries.   She added: “The initiative also helps stimulate early business, including our popular EX UK departures on MSC Meraviglia in Summer 2027 and MSC Preziosa for Winter 2026/27 and 2027/28, giving agents even more opportunities to secure forward business across multiple seasons.”

 

• Refurbishment of MSC Poesia has officially begun with ship entering dry dock in Malta ahead of her Alaska debut
• Upgrades include the addition of MSC Yacht Club, and enhanced dining, wellness, and fitness venues
• The ship refurbishment follows MSC Magnifica, which left dry dock in December and is currently taking guests around the world on the MSC World Cruise 2026 

  MSC Cruises today announced that MSC Poesia will enter dry dock at Palumbo Malta Shipyard in Malta, marking the next phase of the cruise line’s ongoing investment in enhancing the guest experience across its fleet.   MSC Poesia is the second ship from the line’s MSC Musica Class to undergo a major refurbishment at the Maltese shipyard, following sister ship MSC Magnifica, which left the shipyard in December.   The enhancements will introduce new premium spaces and experiences, combining elevated comfort with lively social venues, ahead of MSC Poesia’s debut season in Alaska in May 2026.   When the refurbishments are complete, MSC Poesia will feature an MSC Yacht Club, the brand’s exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering 69 elegantly appointed suites, private amenities, and 24-hour butler service, along with two new specialty dining venues - Butcher’s Cut, an authentic American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar – inspired by the Far East where guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.   The enhancement will also include a newly designed MSC Aurea Spa and MSC Gym powered by Technogym®, complete with Gentleman’s Barber, various workout studios, and an outdoor Aurea area and Top 15 Exclusive Solarium.   Refurbishment work is expected to be completed in April, in time for MSC Poesia’s Alaska season.   Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, said:   “This major refurbishment of MSC Poesia reflects our continued efforts and commitment to investing in our fleet and delivering exceptional guest experiences. This refurbishment showcases MSC Cruises’ commitment to offering guests the best possible experience and modern amenities. We are proud to bring the addition of the MSC Yacht Club, new dining concepts and more to MSC Poesia and to offer guests more choice and more comfort than ever before, ahead of the ship’s Alaska season.   The refurbishment of MSC Poesia forms part of the most extensive upgrade and refitting programme undertaken by MSC Cruises in the past decade.   The project is fully designed and managed in-house by MSC Cruises’ Technical Department and will be carried out at Palumbo Malta Shipyard, a strategic hub for MSC Cruises’ fleet maintenance and large-scale refurbishment projects in Europe.   Earlier this month, MSC Cruises announced the expansion of its renowned MSC Yacht Club to two additional ships, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra.   Once complete, these latest enhancements will mean all four vessels in the Musica class, MSC Poesia, MSC Magnifica, MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra, will have been upgraded to feature MSC Yacht Club.   From May through September 2026, MSC Poesia will offer 7-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle, sailing to some of the region’s most iconic destinations.   Following her Alaska season, the ship will reposition to offer roundtrip Caribbean sailings from Miami during Winter 2026–2027, visiting destinations including Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curaçao, and Belize, before returning to Alaska in summer 2027 offering guests the opportunity to visit spectacular destinations including Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm, and Juneau (Alaska), along with Victoria (British Columbia, Canada)   MSC Yacht Club suites aboard MSC Poesia are now available to book.

Cruise line MSC Cruises has joined forces with Wynn Las Vegas to offer loyalty perks at sea. The partnership unlocks a host of extra benefits like free staterooms, discounts and shipboard casino incentives for Wynn customers. Wynn Rewards members at all membership tiers will receive various perks in an annual cruise benefit program. It ranges from exclusive pricing for cruise vacations, complimentary staterooms and access to invite-only cruise giveaways throughout the year. Top tier loyalty members get access to MSC Cruises’ premium ‘ship within a ship’ concept The MSC Yacht Club. This offers an all-inclusive experience in luxury suites, with round the clock butler service and premium dining. "As MSC Cruises continues to expand in North America, collaborations like this allow us to connect with discerning travelers in meaningful ways. We’re proud to welcome Wynn Rewards members aboard," said Elisa Mattsson-Shen, SVP global casino at MSC Cruises.  

 

• Live broadcasts of this summer’s football tournament will be available across all of MSC Cruises’ ships.

  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 live while their national teams compete in the 2026 Football Championship.   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.

 

• Partnership launched at CLIA’s Pacific Northwest Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska to encourage industry partners to prioritize environmental stewardship and similar initiatives
• Real-time behavioral research and crew training program signals cruise industry's commitment to science-driven marine conservation

  MSC Cruises today announced 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 25th 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.   Prices from £799 for 7-nights on MSC Poesia departing 17th August 2026 from Seattle, visiting Ketchikan, Icy Strait Hoonah, Tracy Arm, Juneau and Victoria.

MSC Cruises plans to pump nearly half a billion dollars into a new cruise facility on Grand Bahama Island. The Nassau Guardian reports MSC plans to build a new dedicated pier and terminal with commercial amenities, plus a beach club and a visitor center, spending about $450 million. Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis just announced the project in Freeport. Davis called it a ‘serious expansion with real scale.’ The cruise company is also investing about $50 million of the money in Freeport Harbour to facilitate upgrades to the port infrastructure and the retail village. “The project is designed as a multi-user facility, supporting operational flexibility and positioning Grand Bahama to capture greater cruise activity and higher passenger volumes,” PM Davis said. There will be new stores, and food and beverage outlets, plus entertainment along with related infrastructure.

 

• MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica transits the iconic Panama Canal as part of the 2026 World Cruise
• Guests wishing to experience this once in a lifetime sailing can opt to book MSC Poesia’s upcoming Panama Canal transit ahead of her Alaska season, or MSC World Cruise 2027

  MSC Cruises today released photos of the moment that the newly refurbished MSC Magnifica transited through the Panama Canal as part of her 2026 World Cruise.   The ship’s passage through one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements serves as a major highlight of the global journey, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience this iconic route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Beyond its engineering significance, the Canal offers breathtaking views of lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife. The journey provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending natural beauty with a pivotal moment in maritime history.   With her extensive refurbishment complete, MSC Magnifica provides an enhanced onboard experience designed to make the World Cruise journey even more memorable for guests seeking cultural discovery, destination diversity and exceptional service at sea. The upgraded ship features a brand-new MSC Yacht Club, the line’s exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept, as well as an upgraded MSC Aurea Spa, cutting-edge gym and specialty restaurants Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar.   The ship has already travelled from the Mediterranean across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and Central America, where it completed its unforgettable Panama Canal transit. Now sailing along the Pacific coast, MSC Magnifica will continue her 131-night global journey through North America before crossing the Pacific to Polynesia, New Zealand and Australia. The voyage will then span key regions of Asia, followed by the Indian Ocean islands and Southern Africa, before returning to Europe to conclude her journey.   For guests wishing to embark on a similar once-in-a-lifetime adventure, MSC Cruises offers upcoming Panama Canal sailings on MSC Poesia in 2026 and 2027, as well as the exceptional 2027 World Cruise aboard MSC Magnifica.   MSC Poesia Grand Voyage (2026 and 2027)   Guests inspired by MSC Magnifica’s journey will soon experience their own Panama Canal adventure aboard MSC Poesia. The ship will reposition from Miami to Seattle on 23 April 2026 on an 18-night sailing featuring a full Panama Canal transit. On board the freshly upgraded ship, guests may now book a suite at the MSC Yacht Club and enjoy its ultimate level of luxury, dine in newly added specialty restaurants Butcher’s Cut and Kaito Sushi Bar, and enjoy relaxing treatments at the refreshed MSC Aurea Spa.   In addition, guests can join MSC Poesia’s Grand Voyage between 8 April and 26 April 2027, offering a memorable journey ahead of her second Alaska season.   MSC Magnifica MSC World Cruise 2027   MSC Cruises’ 2027 World Cruise aboard MSC Magnifica will begin on 5 January 2027, sailing for 121 nights across five continents and 45 destinations in 25 countries, including a bucket list transit of the Panama Canal. MSC Magnifica will offer guests an unforgettable world voyage showcasing iconic cities, remote islands and extraordinary cultural experiences.   Guests can embark from Civitavecchia for Rome, Genoa (Italy), Marseille (France), and Barcelona (Spain) from 4, 5, 6 and 7 January 2027 respectively, visiting some of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

 

• Upgrade of MSC Cruises’ private island in The Bahamas to include new food and beverage facilities, adults-only beach, dedicated family lagoon and more
• Island pier to be extended to accommodate a second ship, giving more guests the opportunity to visit the idyllic holiday destination

  MSC Cruises announced today upgrades to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island in The Bahamas. The island will receive new facilities to enhance the guest experience and an extended pier to allow two ships to call simultaneously – due for completion in late 2027.   Ocean Cay opened in late 2019 and quickly became a must-visit, guest-favourite destination on MSC Cruises’ Caribbean itineraries. Reflecting the company’s longstanding commitment to marine conservation, the cruise line transformed the former industrial site into a beautiful unique private island destination with crystal blue waters and pristine white sand beaches.   With over two miles of pristine beachfront spread across eight world-class beaches, Ocean Cay is designed with comfort in mind., The island features a wide range of facilities and experiences including dedicated areas to relax or swim, seven bars, Seakers Food Court for casual dining and food trucks along with a range of fun-filled water activities, all thoughtfully spread across the island. The island also offers a large range of Shore Excursions, with something for everyone, from snorkeling and watersports, to climbing the iconic lighthouse and seeing local wildlife.   Guests visiting the island from late 2027 can now expect a range of new facilities and experiences including new restaurants and bars, a dedicated adults-only beach, fully-equipped family lagoon and more cabanas available to rent.   Ocean Cay’s new experiences will include:  

• NEW! Dining venues - Four new dining experiences will be added to the island, meaning guests will be able to choose from a total of seven venues. A signature specialty restaurant will be added alongside new buffets and food market options.
• NEW! Seakers Cove Family Beach - Seakers Cove will receive an upgrade with an exciting range of new experiences including a kid’s playground, a splashpad, and ropes course with water elements. The area will also feature ping-pong and foosball for the whole family to enjoy. This dedicated family beach will also offer different activations including activities, fun-filled tournaments and interactive games – creating the ultimate multi-generational experience.
• NEW! Paradise Sands - An exclusive retreat for adults will be added. The new beach experience will allow adults to relax and soak up the sun in tranquillity by day before the space transforms into the perfect place to sip a cocktail at sunset.
• NEW! More Cabanas - The island will introduce a greater variety of cabanas on the island, providing guests even more choice and luxury relaxation.
• NEW! Marine Conservation Experience - The new MSC Foundation “Shifting Perspective” Experience will invite guests to explore marine conservation through immersive, hands-on experiences, from coral restoration and scientific discovery to interactive exploration of ocean ecosystems.

  Construction work has also begun on extending the pier to accommodate two ships. Vessels dock directly at Ocean Cay, meaning guests can walk ashore with ease. Due for completion in late 2027, the pier extension will allow for two ships to dock simultaneously.   Work also continues on the development of a second private island destination adjacent to Ocean Cay. This as-yet-unnamed island, known internally as Little Cay, will stay true to the ethos of Ocean Cay, offering an experience that connects guests to nature, pristine beaches, and the beauty of the ocean plus luxury facilities and water features.

  Today at Fitur, the International Tourism Trade Fair taking place in Madrid, Spain, MSC Cruises spoke of their new year-round operation from La Romana, Dominican Republic starting November 2026.   In the presence of the Dominican Republic Minister of Tourism, David Collado, the cruise line committed its year-round operation from a brand-new homeport in La Romana, in the south of the Dominican Republic for the long-term. This is the first time MSC Cruises has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean.   MSC Opera will operate a brand-new itinerary, operating weekly departures, and guests can opt to book a seven-night sailing or extend their cruise to a back-to-back 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruise.   Sailings are already available to book, with the first cruise departing on 16 November 2026. For full itinerary information, visit MSC Cruises’ website here.   One of the highlights of this new itinerary is the call to Catalina Island, close to the shores of the Dominican Republic, offering guests an exclusive nature reserve experience. Pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters allow guests to relax and unwind, or the more adventurous can snorkel the surrounding coral reefs to view their diverse ecosystems.   With multiple international airports, The Dominican Republic offers convenient connections from all over the world. MSC Opera’s programme will bring 120,000 international visitors to La Romana each year, meaning 240,000 in-bound and out-bound flight passengers, and a boost to hotels, restaurants, bars and businesses in the surrounding areas.   Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO commented – “MSC Cruises first started calling in the Dominican Republic in 2014, so after more than ten years it is a proud a 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.”   Fly&Cruise – MSC Cruises will offer range a of convenient Fly&Cruise packages to the Dominican Republic, with packages including cruise, air travel and transfers. These packages offer true peace of mind, with everything booked through MSC Cruises and dedicated assistance for any travel questions guests may have.   Some of MSC Opera’s new itinerary highlights include:

• La Romana, Dominican Republic: La Romana offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, rich culture and natural beauty featuring pristine beaches, local craft shops, delicious seafood and easy access to renowned sites such as the enchanting Cueva de las Maravillas 16th-century Mediterranean inspired village Altos de Chavón.
• Catalina Island, Dominican Republic: Catalina Island is the ideal tropical paradise for a memorable holiday for both relaxation and adventure. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and white sandy beaches perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing. Alternatively, book a scenic boat trip excursion to Saona Island, located in the Cotubanamá National Park and known for its mangroves and coral reefs.
• Fort-de-France, Martinique: Martinique delights visitors from around the world with its renowned natural wonders, historical charm and beautiful bays and beaches. In the vibrant capital of Fort-de-France, guests can explore colourful architecture, lively markets and local shops, or venture further off to discover the island’s famous rum distilleries, lush rainforest and unique beaches.
• Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands: Virgin Gorda is one of the British Virgin Islands’ most picturesque and serene destinations, offering an unforgettable Caribbean escape. Visitors can explore its world-famous Baths, relax on pristine beaches, or enjoy scenic hiking trails such as Gorda Peak National Park for stunning island views.
• St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda: Saint John’s is the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda renowned for vibrant, colorful houses, captivating historical landmarks such as Fort James fortress, and the gateway to some of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches – perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying water activities.

  Guests can fly from London Heathrow to Bridgetown, Barbados, and enjoy a 14-night cruise aboard MSC Opera from just £2,959 per person, departing 3 December 2026. Sailing from Bridgetown, the itinerary includes Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre, Road Town, La Romana, Virgin Gorda, Basseterre, Philipsburg, and Catalina Island.   Alternatively, guests can opt for a 7-night cruise-only sailing aboard MSC Opera, departing La Romana on 7 December 2026, visiting Virgin Gorda, Philipsburg, Basseterre, Road Town, and Catalina Island, from just £509 per person.