MSC Cruises News

May 19, 2026 – The MSC Euribia is back in Kiel: With its first departure on May 16, 2026, MSC Cruises officially launched its summer season from the North German cruise port. The focus is on cruises to the Norwegian fjords – featuring spectacular landscapes, renowned fjord destinations such as Hellesylt/Geiranger and Flåm, and a modern ship designed to appeal to families, gourmets, and Norway enthusiasts alike.

Image: MSC Euribia in Flam / MSC Cruises

For German cruise passengers, Kiel will remain one of the most important departure ports for trips to Northern Europe in 2026. The MSC Euribia will be regularly deployed in Kiel during the summer season, taking guests to some of Norway's most impressive landscapes. These include fjords, waterfalls, small coastal towns, and renowned natural scenery, which can be experienced particularly impressively from the ship.

MSC Euribia departs from Kiel: Start of the 2026 Norway season

The first departure of the MSC Euribia from Kiel took place on Saturday, May 16, 2026. With this, MSC Cruises opened its season from Kiel this year. The itineraries head towards Norway and Northern Europe – a classic summer route for guests who want to combine a cruise from Germany with stunning natural scenery.

Among the highlights mentioned are the fjord region around Hellesylt and Geiranger, as well as the village of Flåm. These destinations, in particular, represent what many travelers seek on Norwegian cruises: steep cliffs, deep fjords, waterfalls, mountain landscapes, and small towns right on the water.

Why the route is interesting for Norway fans

A cruise through the Norwegian fjords is particularly suitable for guests who want to experience a lot of scenery without having to change hotels, rental cars, or ferries multiple times. Another advantage of traveling from Kiel is that many guests from Germany can easily reach the port by car or train. This is a strong selling point, especially for families and travelers who prefer not to fly.

The fjord passages themselves are often among the most impressive moments of a Norwegian cruise. As the ship slowly glides through the landscape, views of mountains, waterfalls, and small coastal villages unfold from the outer deck or balcony. Those traveling to Norway for the first time gain a very comprehensive impression of the coastal and fjord scenery on such itineraries.

MSC Euribia: Modern ship with a wide range of onboard amenities

The MSC Euribia is one of the modern ships in the MSC fleet and is designed to appeal to a broad audience. According to MSC Cruises, the ship offers more than ten restaurants, 21 bars and lounges, an extensive entertainment program, wellness facilities, and programs for families, children, and teenagers.

Among the standout areas on board are the Delphi Theatre, the Carousel Lounge, several pool areas, and the Ocean Cay AquaPark. Families will also appreciate the approximately 700-square-meter children's and teens' area. Thus, the MSC Euribia combines classic cruise entertainment with an offering that caters to family vacations and multi-generational holidays.

Who is an MSC Euribia cruise from Kiel suitable for?

MSC Euribia cruises departing from Kiel are particularly appealing to travelers seeking a Norwegian cruise without flying. Kiel is also an easily accessible embarkation port for guests from Northern Germany, North Rhine-Westphalia, and other parts of the country. The combination of fjord scenery, sea days, and onboard amenities makes the route attractive for both couples and families.

This trip is particularly suitable for holidaymakers who want to experience the Norwegian fjords for the first time. Destinations such as Hellesylt/Geiranger and Flåm are emblematic of the classic fjord cruise and offer a good mix of nature experiences, excursions and impressive panoramas directly from the ship.

More MSC ships in Northern Europe in summer 2026

In addition to the MSC Euribia departing from Kiel, MSC Cruises will deploy further ships in Germany and Northern Europe in the summer of 2026. According to the cruise line, the MSC Euribia is one of a total of three MSC ships sailing from Germany. Furthermore, other MSC ships will be operating in Northern Europe.

• MSC Magnifica departing from Warnemünde: Planned are 7- and 11-night cruises to destinations including Norway, Denmark, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Sweden.
• MSC Preziosa departing from Hamburg: The ship offers 7- to 14-night cruises to destinations including the Norwegian fjords, Iceland, and other locations in Northern Europe.
• MSC Virtuosa departing from Southampton: The program includes routes to Iceland, Norway, the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, among others.

Context: Kiel remains an important cruise port for MSC Cruises

The start of the MSC Euribia season underscores Kiel's importance as a cruise port for voyages to Northern Europe. For MSC Cruises, the port is a key location in the German market. For travelers, the combination of easy access, modern ships, and attractive fjord itineraries is particularly appealing.

Especially in summer, Norwegian cruises offer an alternative to classic Mediterranean voyages. Instead of heat, beaches, and southern port cities, the focus here is on nature, clear air, long days, and impressive landscapes. The MSC Euribia offers a wide range of onboard activities designed to make even longer sea days varied and enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions about the MSC Euribia departing from Kiel

When did the MSC Euribia start its 2026 summer season from Kiel?

The first departure of the MSC Euribia from Kiel took place on Saturday, May 16, 2026. With this, MSC Cruises officially opened its summer season from Kiel.

Which destinations does the MSC Euribia sail to from Kiel?

The routes lead to the Norwegian fjords and Northern Europe. Among the highlights mentioned are Hellesylt/Geiranger and Flåm.

Is the MSC Euribia suitable for families?

Yes, the MSC Euribia is also geared towards families. On board, there are children's and youth areas, family programs, several pools, and the Ocean Cay AquaPark.

Why is Kiel an interesting departure port?

Kiel is easily accessible for many German visitors by car or train. Those looking for a cruise to Norway without flying will find Kiel a convenient starting point.

What makes a Norway cruise with the MSC Euribia special?

The trip combines a convenient departure from Germany with impressive fjord landscapes, waterfalls, small coastal towns and a wide range of onboard amenities on a modern cruise ship.

May 19, 2026 – MSC Cruises expands the culinary offerings on the MSC Seashore: Our preview of The Chicken Man and Red Cactus BBQ & Ribs There are now two new grab-and-go restaurants on board, included in the cruise price. These new concepts are aimed primarily at guests who want to eat easily, with fresh food, and without lengthy restaurant planning during their cruise from Port Canaveral.

MSC Cruises has revealed new details about the family-friendly experiences on board the MSC World Asia. The cruise line's new flagship aims to appeal to families, children, and teenagers with its diverse entertainment areas. Highlights include MSC Luna Park, The Clubhouse, The Harbour, and Doremiland.

The MSC World Asia According to MSC Cruises, the ship will be deployed on 7-night Mediterranean itineraries. Planned ports of call include attractive destinations such as Barcelona, ​​Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia (replacing Rome), Naples, and Valletta in Malta. This allows the ship to combine classic Mediterranean cruise destinations with a significantly expanded range of onboard amenities for families.

March 31, 2026 - The MSC World Europe will in winter 2026/2027 in the Caribbean Deployed. Instead of sailing in the Gulf region as originally planned, the ship will now undertake cruises from Martinique, Guadeloupe and BarbadosThis opens up a new range of options for cruise passengers. French Antilles – with islands like St. Lucia, Grenada, four days in Antigua, Dominica or St. Maarten on the timetable.

March 26, 2026 MSC Cruises has released new details about MSC World Asia published Aqua Deck District and the further developed outdoor area The HarborThis is particularly exciting for cruise passengers in Europe because the MSC World Asia in the Mediterranean from December 2026 is to be deployed – with initial attempts in Barcelona, Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia near Rome, Naples and Valletta.

MSC expands its luxury product Yacht club on two other ships of the fleet: MSC Musica and MSC OrchestraThe retrofit is to be carried out in two stages – End 2026 on the MSC Musica and in the first quarter of 2027 on the MSC Orchestra. This would mean that the entire Musica class would offer the "ship-within-a-ship" concept in the future.

Cruising used to be the epitome of "gazing at the sea, sipping cocktails, and slowly arriving somewhere." MSC Cruises has now taken it a step further: the ship itself has become an attraction – with rides, water slides, glass skywalks, high-tech entertainment, and yes, even a robot that mixes drinks. Anyone who doesn't automatically think of "reading in a chair" when they hear "sea day," but rather "What can I actually do here?", will find exactly that on many MSC ships.

MSC Cruises plans to further develop its private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, in the Bahamas. Plans include additional guest experiences, new dining options, and an extended pier to allow two ships to dock simultaneously. Completion is scheduled for the end of 2027.

December 04, 2025 – The MSC World Asia is the third ship in MSC Cruises' World Class and will enter service in December 2026. It will be powered by LNG and, starting in early December, will offer 7-night itineraries in the Western Mediterranean, calling at ports such as Barcelona, ​​Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (replacing Rome), Messina, and Valletta; Naples will be added in summer 2027.

November 13, 2025 – MSC Cruises is continuing to expand its World Class fleet. The cruise line has ordered two more newbuilds from the French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique. These will be the seventh and eighth ships in the series, scheduled to enter service in 2030 and 2031, respectively. The contracts were signed at a ceremony at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

June 17, 2025 – The anticipation is growing: With the MSC World Asia MSC Cruises' newest flagship will set sail for the most beautiful ports of the Western Mediterranean for the first time in December 2026. As the third ship in the groundbreaking World-Class series, MSC World Asia combines proven MSC quality with a wealth of innovations – from the longest dry slide at sea to a brand-new pan-Asian specialty restaurant.

May 27, 2025 – Experience 365 days of Caribbean sun: In 2027, MSC Cruises will be stationing the MSC Opera For the first time, a ship will sail year-round in the Southern Caribbean. From November 2026 until summer 2027, the Opera will sail either in La Romana (Dominican Republic) or – from April 2027 – additionally in Fort-de-France (Martinique).

December 16, 2024 – The travel year 2025 will be all about new ideas, growing sources of inspiration and a noticeable change in vacation planning. MSC Cruises has identified five trends that will fundamentally change the way we choose and experience our travels.

November 20, 2024 - Experience an unforgettable cruise with the MSC Poesia from Hamburg and discover the fascinating metropolises of Northern Europe! From October 12, 2025 to February 2, 2026, the elegant cruise ship will set off every Sunday for 7-night cruises that will take you to the highlights of the North Sea and the English Channel.

October 1, 2024 – Up to €300 onboard credit per cabin for special moments on board and on land

August 29, 2024 – Extend the summer feeling with MSC Cruises and discover the sunniest destinations in the Mediterranean, even in the cooler months.

August 14, 2024 – MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys have commissioned their sister company, MSC, the world leader in container shipping, to optimize the supply chains for their cruise ships through the use of smart containers. This innovative technology ensures that only the freshest and highest quality products make it on board the ships.

April 18, 2024 - MSC Cruises is pleased to introduce its new "Stay & Cruise" program for summer 2024. This add-on package allows guests to extend their cruise with two or three additional nights in some of the world's most fascinating cities, combined with a half-day city excursion covering the top attractions.

April 12, 2024 - MSC Cruises announced the launch of a spectacular new attraction: Cliffhanger, the first and only overwater swing at sea, to be experienced exclusively on MSC World America. This groundbreaking attraction will float 50 meters above sea level and offer guests an unparalleled experience.

March 18, 2024 - MSC Cruises, the world's third largest cruise line, is pleased to announce the christening of its newest flagship, MSC World America, on April 9, 2025.

February 28, 2024 -MSC Cruises is equipping its entire fleet with SpaceX's Starlink Internet by May 2024 to provide fast Internet speeds, improved Wi-Fi in cabins and public areas, and lower operating costs, with two-thirds of ships already equipped and dedicated Internet packages for are offered to guests.

February 21, 2024 - MSC Opera offers impressive 24-night cruises to the Canary Islands and Madeira in the 25/7 winter season, packed with cultural and scenic discoveries, a diverse on-board program and flexible embarkation options.

February 14, 2024 – Experience a culinary journey in a class of its own on the second leg of the MSC World Cruise 2024 on board the MSC Poesia! Three renowned chefs will enchant passengers with their unique creations as the ship sails to 52 destinations in 31 countries.

January 22, 2024 – The European Football Championship will take place in Germany in the summer of 2024. Fans can watch the games live while traveling to different countries. MSC Cruises offers special cruises for this purpose.

January 17, 2024 – Due to the security situation in the Red Sea, MSC Cruises cancels three cruises planned for April. Passengers on the MSC Splendida, MSC Opera and MSC Virtuosa are affected.

January 15, 2024 - Discover MSC Cruises' breathtaking itineraries in the Mediterranean for summer 2024.

December 8, 2023 – MSC Cruises today announced updates to its summer 2024 itineraries, including a new itinerary for MSC Musica in the Western Mediterranean and an expanded itinerary to the Greek Islands for MSC Opera.

December 6, 2023 – Bookings for the MSC World Cruise 2026 with the MSC Magnifica can now be made. The unforgettable journey departs between January 5th and 7th, 2026 in three European ports: Genoa (Italy), Marseille (France) and Barcelona (Spain).

June 9, 2023 - The MSC Euribia was christened yesterday in front of a distinguished audience in Copenhagen. Godmother for the 19th time was the Italian actress Sophia Loren. The 88-year-old film icon holds the world record for ship christenings. The Swiss cruise line's second LNG-powered cruise ship was christened at Copenhagen's Oceankaj.

April 21, 2023 | MSC Meraviglia – the first ship in MSC Cruises' Meraviglia class – has arrived at its new homeport in New York City.

January 30, 2023 | With 21 ships and countless destinations, MSC Cruises guests have a wide range of romantic options to choose from on board: from exquisite specialty restaurants to a night on the dance floor - there is something for everyone!

September 17, 2022 | MSC Cruises today officially took delivery of its new flagship, MSC Seascape. It is the largest cruise ship ever built in Italy.

September 16, 2022 | MSC Cruises, the third largest cruise brand in the world, yesterday christened its newest flagship at the brand new Grand Cruise Terminal in Doha MSC World Europe.

September 16, 2022 | MSC Cruises' first World Class ship offers guests of all ages a wide range of entertainment options. Guests will experience five new themed parties, two new interactive game shows and many state-of-the-art attractions in high-tech locations throughout the ship

September 07, 2022 | MSC Cruises' most environmentally friendly ship heralds the future of MSC Cruises with her christening on November 13, 2022.

September 01, 2022 | From December 2022, the MSC Seascape will offer “Robotron”, the first high-tech entertainment experience of its kind with innovative robot technology for the ultimate adrenaline rush

August 24, 2022 | MSC Seascape, the second ship in the Seaside EVO class, is entering the final phase of preparation ahead of her inaugural season in the Caribbean in four months
The innovative ship brings guests closer to the sea and offers elegant restaurants and numerous entertainment options.

July 13, 2022 | MSC Cruises today announced new details on the family offering on MSC Seascape. The ship will delight guests of all ages with 98 hours of live entertainment per cruise, a 700 square meter children's area and state-of-the-art entertainment. MSC Sescape will enter service in December 2022 and will offer 7-night Caribbean cruises in her inaugural season.

June 20, 2022 | MSC Group's cruise division and Chantiers de l'Atlantique celebrated two important milestones over the weekend for MSC Cruises' first two LNG ships, both of which will be built at the French shipyard in Saint-Nazaire.

June 10, 2022 | The MSC Bellissima complements the current summer program of MSC Cruises in the Mediterranean

May 24, 2022 - The LNG-powered MSC World Europa will be the first modern cruise ship with fuel cell technology capable of significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

November 29, 2021 | MSC Bellissima completes its Red Sea season on schedule, replacing MSC Virtuosa for cruises to destinations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha from April 2nd. The additional twelve cruises will soon be bookable

January 11, 2022 - In the 30th year of the existence of the Brand nicko cruises, the company improves its brand image and invents the term “time to discover”. The term stands for the slow cruising practiced by nicko cruises. At the same time, the company logo was modernized.

January 03, 2022 | Yesterday, Sunday, the MSC Magnifica set sail for her first departure of the new winter program

December 02, 2021 | 14 ships are used in the Mediterranean - more than half of the fleet - and with over 40 routes offer the shipping company the largest range of services in this region to date

November 29, 2021 | MSC Cruises celebrated the christening of the MSC Virtuosa in Dubai

November 25, 2021 | Cruises with MSC Cruises are now only possible for vaccinated guests on all ships

November 22, 2021 | MSC Cruises and Fincantieri are celebrating the next flagship of the fleet with the float of MSC Seascape

August 8, 2020 - Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, thanked the MSC congregation for their "unbroken support" with warm, unctuous words. At the same time, he announced the resumption of cruises. What does the MSC cruise concept look like in relation to the corona pandemic?

November 9, 2020 - MSC Cruises has selected the Port of Hamburg for today's christening of MSC Grandiosa. From 6pm., thousands of onlookers will experience the ship's christening up close on two large screens. The godmother is - how could it be otherwise at MSC - Sophia Loren.