MSC Cruises is charting a bold course in the Southern Caribbean by introducing year-round sailings for the first time in its history. At the center of this expansion is MSC Opera, which will be deployed in the region for Winter 2026/27 and continue through Summer 2027 – a milestone for the cruise line that not only marks its first summer presence in the Southern Caribbean, but also the first winter season with two ships operating simultaneously in the area. This move opens up a wealth of opportunities for travelers seeking sun-drenched escapes, whether in the high season or off-season.
The new itineraries will be centered around 7-night cruises, with the option to extend to 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruises, allowing guests to explore a broad mix of stunning destinations across the region. MSC Opera will be homeported in La Romana, Dominican Republic – a new regular embarkation point for the brand. Starting November 16, 2026, the ship sets sail to ports including Martinique, Guadeloupe, the British Virgin Islands, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, and the Netherlands Antilles. From April 2027, Fort-de-France in Martinique will be introduced as a second embarkation port, offering guests greater flexibility in planning their Caribbean cruise adventure.
Among the itinerary highlights is La Romana, where visitors can relax on pristine beaches, browse local crafts, and discover cultural gems like the Cueva de las Maravillas. Catalina Island, just offshore, offers a postcard-perfect setting for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. Fort-de-France in Martinique brings a mix of colonial charm, local markets, and scenic escapes to rum distilleries and rainforests. Other captivating ports of call include Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, known for the famous Baths and panoramic hiking trails, and St. John’s in Antigua, home to historic forts, colorful architecture, and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.
In total, MSC Opera will visit over a dozen ports, including Oranjestad (Aruba), Bridgetown (Barbados), Kralendijk (Bonaire), Willemstad (Curaçao), Samana Bay (Dominican Republic), Saint George (Grenada), Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Philipsburg (Sint Maarten), Basseterre (Saint Kitts and Nevis), and Road Town (British Virgin Islands). These routes are designed to give guests a well-rounded Caribbean experience -ranging from vibrant island culture to tranquil beach days and thrilling water adventures.
Joining MSC Opera in the region for the Winter 2026/27 season is MSC Seaview, which will offer 7-night cruises from Fort-de-France to additional destinations like Roseau (Dominica), Castries (Saint Lucia), Kingstown (St. Vincent), and Saint George (Grenada). The deployment of both ships underscores MSC Cruises’ growing commitment to the Southern Caribbean, providing guests with two distinct onboard experiences and diverse itineraries to choose from.
MSC Opera, in particular, brings something unique to the region. As part of the Lirica Class, she’s a mid-sized ship designed to access exclusive ports and deliver a more intimate cruise experience. Her smaller size allows for personalized service, ideal for guests looking for refined comfort without sacrificing variety. Onboard, guests can choose from two main restaurants serving a mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine, as well as several bars and lounges offering spaces to relax, socialize, or enjoy live entertainment.
For families, MSC Opera is thoughtfully equipped with dedicated play areas, an exciting spray park, and teen-only spaces that include virtual reality gaming and modern chill-out zones. Meanwhile, wellness and fitness are front and center, with a fully equipped Technogym fitness center, a power walking track, minigolf, and shuffleboard for staying active at sea. The ship’s MSC Aurea Spa offers guests a sanctuary of relaxation, complete with a thermal area, steam room, sauna, and a full menu of treatments and massages tailored to melt stress away.
This combination of boutique charm and big-ship amenities makes MSC Opera the perfect vessel for exploring the hidden corners and famous shores of the Southern Caribbean. As MSC Cruises deepens its footprint in the region, these new itineraries promise more choice, more comfort, and more reasons to set sail, no matter the season.
Contact us for more information and to book your next cruise with MSC Cruises.