MSC launches first-ever Alaska season out of new homeport

MSC Poesia has arrived in Seattle, launching the cruise line’s first-ever Alaska season and establishing Seattle as its newest North American homeport.

The ship will 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.

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.

“The arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle marks an exciting milestone for MSC Cruises as we bring our distinctive blend of European style and North American comfort to the Pacific Northwest for the first time,” said Lynn Torrent, president, MSC Cruises North America.

“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, 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.

An ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will also 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.

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