MSC Poesia to Sail Winter Cruises in Northern Europe from Southampton 2025-26
MSC Cruises announced that the MSC Poesia will operate seven-night cruises in Northern Europe during the 2025-26 winter season. The ship will replace the current itineraries of the MSC Preziosa. It will depart from Southampton and visit Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France.
Antonio Paradiso, the vice president of international sales for MSC Cruises in the UK and Ireland, expressed excitement about welcoming the MSC Poesia. He highlighted that winter is a great time for city breaks. Passengers can visit multiple city destinations in one easy trip from Southampton. They can also enjoy various shore excursions to explore each port.
The MSC Poesia will sail weekly from Southampton, with stops in Hamburg, Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, and Le Havre. Passengers can begin their cruise from most of these ports.
How does MSC Cruises plan to enhance the guest experience during city stops in Northern Europe?
Interview with Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales for MSC Cruises in the UK and Ireland
News Directory 3: Thank you, antonio, for joining us today to discuss the exciting news about the MSC Poesia’s new itineraries for the 2025-26 winter season. Can you tell us what inspired the decision to have the MSC Poesia operate cruises in Northern Europe?
Antonio Paradiso: Thank you for having me.The decision to bring the MSC poesia to Northern Europe for the winter season was driven by our commitment to providing diverse travel experiences for our guests. Winter is a fantastic time for city breaks, and we wanted to offer our passengers the possibility to explore multiple iconic cities conveniently from Southampton.
News directory 3: What destinations can travelers expect to visit during these seven-night cruises?
Antonio Paradiso: The MSC Poesia will embark on an exciting itinerary, including stops in hamburg, Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, and Le Havre.Each of these cities has its own unique charm and attractions, allowing our guests to delve into different cultures and experiences with every port of call.
News Directory 3: That sounds wonderful! How will the guests be able to explore these cities once they arrive?
Antonio Paradiso: Guests will have a variety of shore excursions to choose from, tailored to cater to different interests, whether they prefer sightseeing, cultural experiences, or culinary adventures. We aim to ensure that every guest gets the most out of their time in each port.
News directory 3: Can you share more about the logistics of starting the cruise from Southampton?
Antonio Paradiso: Absolutely! Southampton is a strategic departure point for us, being easily accessible for many travelers in the UK. The MSC Poesia will set sail weekly from there, allowing adaptability for passengers who can embark from several other ports as well. This makes it incredibly convenient for those looking to plan a winter getaway.
News Directory 3: After the winter season, the MSC Poesia is set to participate in MSC Cruises’ inaugural summer program in alaska in 2026. What are your expectations for that program?
Antonio paradiso: We are thrilled to introduce the MSC Poesia to the breathtaking beauty of alaska. Starting on May 11, 2026, the ship will take guests on an unforgettable journey from Seattle, visiting stunning destinations like Ketchikan, Icy Strait Hoonah, Tracy Arm, juneau, and Victoria. We anticipate a great response, as Alaska offers an unbelievable summer experience with unique wildlife, majestic landscapes, and rich history.
News Directory 3: Lastly, how does this new schedule fit into the broader scope of MSC Cruises’ offerings for 2026?
Antonio Paradiso: The addition of the MSC Poesia to our Northern European itineraries and its subsequent transition to Alaska represents our growth and adaptability in meeting passenger demand. Besides the Poesia, our fleet, including the MSC Seaview, will continue offering vacationers diverse choices from places like Salvador and Buenos Aires, ensuring vibrant and enriching cruise experiences across the globe.
News Directory 3: Thank you so much, Antonio. We appreciate your insights and the exciting developments for MSC Cruises.
Antonio Paradiso: Thank you. It’s always a pleasure to share our updates, and we look forward to welcoming passengers onboard for unforgettable journeys!
After the winter season, the MSC Poesia will take part in MSC Cruises’ inaugural summer program in Alaska in 2026. Starting May 11, 2026, it will offer seven-night cruises from Seattle to Ketchikan, Icy Strait Hoonah, Tracy Arm, Juneau, and Victoria.
Other MSC ships, including the MSC Seaview, will also provide seven-night cruises from Salvador, Maceió, and Santos. The MSC Preziosa, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, and MSC Fantasia will continue to sail in the region, offering additional itineraries from ports like Rio de Janeiro, Itajaí, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo.