If Alaska is on your travel bucket list, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! MSC Cruises has just announced exciting new seven-night Alaska itineraries available between May and September 2026 aboard the MSC Poesia, marking the company’s inaugural season into this breathtaking destination.
In May of 2024, GYB interviewed MSC representative who mentioned MSC’s plan to expand their reach in US market. This makes MSC’s fifth US homeport. You can watch that video here.
Sailing from Seattle to Alaska’s Most Scenic Destinations
Starting May 11, 2026, MSC Poesia will depart weekly from its new homeport in Seattle. Guests can expect to immerse themselves in Alaska’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and incredible wildlife, with stops in Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Ketchikan, Tracy Arm, and Victoria in British Columbia.
These itineraries promise guests the chance to experience glaciers up close, explore picturesque towns, and enjoy both adventurous and relaxing shore excursions. From ziplining over lush forests to spotting coastal brown bears and whales, the possibilities are endless.
Key Ports of Call in Alaska
- Icy Strait Point, Alaska: The only Indigenous-owned cruise destination in Alaska offers immersive cultural experiences and adventure activities like whale watching and riding the world’s largest zip line. Explore historic shops set in a restored salmon cannery and savor local seafood at waterfront restaurants.
- Juneau, Alaska: Accessible only by sea or air, this capital city is a blend of gold rush history and natural beauty. Ride the Goldbelt Tram to the top of Mount Roberts for panoramic views or try your hand at panning for gold.
- Ketchikan, Alaska: Known for fishing and its historic charm, Ketchikan offers travelers the chance to admire totem poles, catch wild salmon, and browse eclectic shops along Creek Street.
- Tracy Arm, Alaska: Sail through this narrow fjord and marvel at towering cliffs, waterfalls, and the majestic Sawyer Glaciers—an awe-inspiring destination that feels like stepping into another world.
- Victoria, British Columbia: This elegant city on Vancouver Island features stunning gardens, British-inspired architecture, and a thriving culinary scene. It’s also a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see seals, whales, and porpoises before entering the harbor.
MSC Poesia’s size makes it perfectly suited to navigate Alaska’s Inside Passage and narrow waterways, ensuring guests get up-close views of the region’s majestic landscapes and wildlife.
Adventure Awaits: Shore Excursions for Every Type of Traveler
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture enthusiast, the available shore excursions offer something for everyone. Enjoy ATV expeditions, scenic kayak tours, or glide through the ocean on a whale-watching cruise. Food lovers can indulge in local seafood, and history buffs can immerse themselves in Alaska’s native culture through storytelling and dance performances.
Panama Canal Adventures: Seasonal Repositioning Cruises
In addition to its Alaska offerings, MSC Poesia will sail two extraordinary itineraries through the Panama Canal during the 2026 season. These repositioning cruises will run between Seattle and Miami, giving travelers a rare chance to experience this iconic engineering marvel.
- April 23, 2026: Depart from Miami and sail to Seattle, with stops in sunny California and Latin American treasures like Cartagena and Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
- September 28, 2026: Depart from Seattle for a scenic journey back to Miami, stopping at must-see destinations along the way.
These itineraries provide the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with stops in up to ten exciting ports, including San Diego, Los Angeles, and Cabo San Lucas.
Transatlantic Voyage from the Mediterranean
Before arriving in North America, MSC Poesia will make a Grand Voyage across the Atlantic in spring 2026. Departing from Civitavecchia (Rome) on April 6, 2026, the ship will stop in Marseille, Barcelona, Madeira, and St Maarten, arriving in Miami on April 22, 2026.
Book Your Alaska or Panama Canal Cruise Now!
With these new itineraries, MSC Cruises adds another gem to its growing North American offerings, blending European sophistication with American comforts. Guests from around the world will be able to experience the beauty of Alaska for the first time on MSC Poesia or embark on the adventure of a lifetime through the Panama Canal.
RELATED VIDEO: Understanding MSC Expereinces and How to Save Money on Your Next Cruise
To learn more and book your cruise, contact me for more information!