MSC Cruises Launches First-Ever Alaska Itineraries

MSC Cruises is set to embark on an exciting new adventure, launching its first-ever Alaska itineraries with seven-night sailings available from May to September 2026. The MSC Poesia will homeport in Seattle and begin her inaugural journey to Alaska on May 11, 2026, offering guests the chance to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Far North. Discover Alaska’s Natural Beauty Guests aboard the MSC Poesia will have the opportunity to experience Alaska’s unrivalled beauty, breathtaking scenery, magnificent wildlife, and rich Alaska Native cultural heritage. The itineraries include visits to some of the region’s most picturesque destinations:

• Icy Strait Point, Alaska: Alaska’s first Indigenous-owned cruise destination, featuring the world’s largest zip line, coastal brown bear viewing platforms, whale watching, fishing, local cultural dances, and more.
• Juneau, Alaska: The state capital, accessible only by air or sea, offering snow-capped mountains, historic landmarks, and the Goldbelt Tram with stunning views.
• Ketchikan, Alaska: Known for its prime fishing opportunities, historic Creek Street, and impressive displays of authentic totem poles.
• Tracy Arm, Alaska: A narrow fjord with towering cliffs, waterfalls, roaming bears, and the breathtaking Sawyer Glaciers.
• Victoria, British Columbia: A city known for its British heritage, colourful gardens, and magnificent architecture, surrounded by the calm waters of the Salish Sea and the rainforests of Vancouver Island.

A Unique Cruise Experience MSC Poesia is a mid-sized ship perfectly designed to navigate the narrow channels of the Inside Passage and get up close to stunning glaciers. The ship will offer a range of shore excursions tailored to every type of traveller, from adventurous ATV expeditions and ziplining to serene whale-watching and cultural experiences. Expanding MSC Cruises’ Global Portfolio Lynn Torrent, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer of MSC Cruises USA highlighted the significance of these new itineraries: “Guests from all over the world tell us they want to see Alaska’s beauty firsthand, which makes these itineraries the perfect addition to MSC Cruises’ global portfolio of bucket-list destinations. Seattle will be our fifth U.S. homeport, bringing our signature mix of European style and American comforts to the West Coast as we continue to expand our offerings in the North American market.” Commitment to Sustainability Stephanie Jones Stebbins, Managing Director, Maritime, Port of Seattle, expressed excitement about the new partnership: “The Port of Seattle looks forward to welcoming MSC Cruises and MSC Poesia to Seattle. We know that MSC guests will enjoy exploring our region before and after their Alaska adventure. We appreciate MSC’s commitment to sustainability and look forward to MSC Poesia connecting to shore power in Seattle.” Transiting the Panama Canal In addition to the Alaska itineraries, the season will feature two highly coveted itineraries transiting the Panama Canal between Seattle and Miami. This offers travellers the unique experience of crossing from the East to the West Coast and vice versa. MSC Cruises’ new Alaska itineraries promise an unforgettable journey through some of North America’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. With a blend of adventure, culture, and luxury, these sailings are set to become a highlight of MSC Cruises’ offerings. Bookings are now open, so don’t miss the chance to explore the wonders of Alaska with MSC Cruises.