MSC Poesia Enters Malta Drydock for Major Refit

MSC Poesia has arrived at Palumbo Shipyard in Malta for an extensive refurbishment program following the conclusion of its winter season in Northern Europe. The MSC Cruises ship reached the yard on February 19, 2026.

The 2008-built vessel is undergoing upgrades as part of a broader modernization plan that will see all ships in the Musica class refurbished. The project will introduce new features and enhanced guest spaces.

One of the most significant additions is the MSC Yacht Club, the brand’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. The upgrade will include 62 newly built suites, along with private amenities such as a dedicated sun deck, restaurant, and lounge for Yacht Club guests.

MSC Poesia will also welcome two new specialty dining venues: the American-style Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse and Kaito Sushi Bar.

Several other areas onboard are being redesigned. The MSC Aurea Spa is set for a full refresh, while the fitness center will be relocated to a new space featuring an updated layout and modern equipment.

After completing its drydock, Poesia will embark on a repositioning journey to North America ahead of MSC Cruises’ inaugural Alaska season. The first segment is a transatlantic crossing from Civitavecchia, Italy, to PortMiami, departing April 6, 2026.

The 90,000-ton ship will then operate an 18-night Panama Canal sailing between Florida and Seattle.

Beginning in early May, MSC Poesia will offer a series of seven-night roundtrip cruises from Seattle to Alaska and Canada. These itineraries will feature scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord and the Inside Passage, with scheduled calls in Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Juneau.

After MSC’s first Alaska season concludes, the vessel is expected to reposition to Miami for extended voyages to the Caribbean and Central America during the 2026-27 winter season.