MSC CRUISES CELEBRATES ARRIVAL OF MSC POESIA IN SEATTLE, MARKING START OF FIRST ALASKA SEASON

• MSC Poesia makes first-ever call to Seattle, the cruise line’s newest U.S. homeport
• Plaque exchange ceremony marks milestone partnership with Seattle and local port leaders
• Arrival launches MSC Cruises’ inaugural Alaska season aboard the newly enhanced ship

SEATTLE – May 11, 2026 – MSC Cruises today marked a major milestone in its North American expansion with the arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle, launching the cruise line’s first-ever Alaska season and establishing Seattle as its newest U.S. homeport.

MSC Poesiawill sail seven-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle through September 2026, calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau in Alaska, along with Victoria, British Columbia. Sailings also include scenic cruising through Endicott Arm, featuring views of Dawes Glacier and Alaska’s fjord scenery.

The arrival establishes Seattle as MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. homeport and reflects the company’s continued investment in North America as the cruise line expands its itinerary offerings to include some of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Guests will enjoy MSC Cruises’ unique blend of European style and American comfort while sailing through the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of Alaska.

To commemorate the milestone, MSC Cruises hosted a traditional maritime plaque exchange ceremony alongside elected officials, local stakeholders and Port of Seattle representatives to celebrate and share in this pivotal moment for the Pacific Northwest.

Lynn Torrent, President, MSC Cruises North America, said: “The arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle marks an exciting milestone for MSC Cruises as we bring our distinctive blend of European style and American comfort to the Pacific Northwest for the first time. Launching in Seattle reflects our continued commitment to expanding our presence across North America and offering guests new ways to experience some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. We are thankful for the strong collaboration and warm welcome from the Port of Seattle, elected officials and community leaders as we establish our presence in this incredible region.”

Guests sailing aboard MSC Poesia this season will enjoy a refreshed onboard experience following the ship’s recent enhancements. The ship now features MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering private amenities, elevated service and 24-hour butler service. Guests will also find new specialty dining venues including Butcher’s Cut – an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, along with an updated MSC Aurea Spa and enhanced MSC Gym powered by Technogym®

The Alaska season will feature an enhanced culinary program inspired by the Pacific Northwest, with new Alaska-themed dining and beverage offerings created specifically for MSC Cruises’ sailings in the region. Guests will enjoy hearty regional cuisine, expanded seafood selections, warming beverages and Alaska-inspired cocktails throughout the voyage. As part of the experience, MSC Cruises will source local provisions from the Pacific Northwest, including regional seafood featured throughout the season.

MSC Poesia will also feature enhanced entertainment and enrichment programming 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 and Alaska-focused enrichment including expert talks, narrated scenic experiences and interactive workshops inspired by the region’s wildlife, geography and culture.

As part of MSC Cruises’ commitment to responsible operations in the region, the cruise line is partnering with marine conservation organization ORCA. An ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will sail aboard MSC Poesia during peak whale season to support crew training, guest education and research focused on whale behavior and vessel interaction in Alaskan waters. Guests will also have opportunities to learn more about Alaska’s marine wildlife and environment through onboard educational programming.

For more information about MSC Cruises’ Alaska sailings, visit MSC Cruises.

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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 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality.

For more information visit MSC Cruises.