MSC Poesia to End Passenger Sailings Early in Europe

MSC Poesia will conclude its passenger service sooner than originally scheduled, with its current cruise now set to end in Southampton, England, on February 13, 2026. The ship had previously been due to complete passenger operations in Valletta, Malta, on February 23.

Although MSC Cruises has not provided specific details behind the itinerary change, the adjustment comes ahead of the vessel’s planned dry dock period. Industry sources suggest that MSC Poesia will sail to Malta without guests to undergo maintenance work at the Palumbo Shipyard.

Passengers who were scheduled to embark between February 8 and February 13, 2026, from ports including Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le Havre and Southampton have been informed of the cancellations. According to MSC, affected guests are being offered complimentary cancellations or the option to rebook on alternative sailings.

The early conclusion of passenger operations effectively brings MSC Poesia’s European deployment to an end for the foreseeable future. Following its repositioning, the ship is expected to support MSC Cruises’ continued expansion in North America.

Starting in the spring, MSC Poesia will sail west on a series of repositioning voyages to Seattle, where it will launch the cruise line’s first Alaska season. Over the longer term, the vessel is expected to focus on the U.S. market, offering Alaska itineraries in the summer and Caribbean cruises during the winter.