The world’s third largest cruise line, MSC Cruises, is to expand its
operations at the world’s second busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral, Fla. A
recent agreement with Canaveral Port Authority includes the deployment of the
fourth 215,000-ton MSC Cruises World Class ship in the 2027-28 cruise season,
the latest brand-new ship to call Central Florida home.
In addition, MSC Grandiosa will
offer year-round seven-night Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral beginning in
Winter 2026-2027, building upon previously announced plans to deploy the ship
at Port Canaveral for an inaugural season during Winter 2025-2026. MSC Seashore
will continue to offer its popular year-round three- and four-night cruises to
The Bahamas and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. “We
are excited to have MSC Cruises expand their presence at Port Canaveral with
the arrival of MSC Grandiosa and the deployment of their
fourth World Class ship to homeport with us,” said Capt. John Murray, Port
Canaveral CEO. “The addition of these exceptional ships to our homeported
fleet will add even more sailing options from Central Florida and reaffirm the
cruise industry’s confidence in our ability to consistently deliver a
world-class guest experience.”
“Our commitment to Port Canaveral is stronger than
ever, thanks to the incredible support from our partners there and the growing
demand from our guests who love the port’s convenient location,” said Lynn Torrent, EVP and CCO at MSC Cruises USA. “Having ships
dedicated to offering both short and seven-night cruises year-round will ensure
we have the right options available no matter when someone wants to sail. We’re especially excited to bring a World
Class ship to Port Canaveral, continuing our long-standing pledge to deploy our
most modern and innovative ships in the Caribbean market.”
The as-yet-unnamed World-Class ship will build upon the platform
launched with MSC World Europa in 2022 and will
feature an array of amenities, including 19 dining venues; 18 bars and lounges; The Harbour, an
all-new outdoor venue for families featuring the Cliffhanger over-water swing
ride, a ropes course, a water park, a playground, and more; the open-air World
Promenade, featuring shopping and dining experiences and one of the longest dry
slides at sea; the three-level World Galleria, bustling with activity and lined
with bars, shops and restaurants; and
the largest MSC Yacht Club in the Caribbean, catering to travelers seeking
luxury and exclusivity.