It’s always a treat to see a ship receive a glow-up, and experiencing the recently refreshed MSC Poesia firsthand while docked in PortMiami offered a clear look at MSC Cruises’ latest enhancements.
Originally built in 2008, the 3,223-passenger ship has undergone a series of updates designed to elevate both design and guest experience ahead of its upcoming voyage to Alaska in May.
Expanded MSC Yacht Club Elevates the Experience
The most anticipated addition is the new MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ “ship-within-a-ship” concept. The updated enclave features 69 suites, 24-hour butler and concierge service, and access to a private restaurant, lounge, sundeck with whirlpools and a dedicated grill restaurant and bar.
Having experienced the MSC Yacht Club aboard the MSC World America, the vibe and design feel familiar—delivering a refined sense of space and exclusivity that yacht club guests are likely to appreciate.
New Dining Venues and Wellness Spaces
The ship also introduces two new specialty dining venues: Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar; the space was formerly a cigar lounge. During our visit, we dined at Butcher’s Cut. The Smoked Tomato Soup and Chilean Sea Bass hit the spot. The space is open with large windows facing the ship’s aft—the Miami skyline was in full view while we dined.
Additional enhancements include a newly designed MSC Aurea Spa and expanded MSC Gym, complete with a Gentleman’s Barber and yoga studio.
From May through September, the ship will operate 7-night itineraries to Alaska, calling at destinations including Ketchikan, Juneau, Endicott Arm and Icy Strait Point.
In true Alaska-inspired fashion, we were treated to food and cocktails exclusive to the MSC Poesia as she makes her way north. Standouts included a smoked salmon martini and a sparkling drink called “Fjord the Love of Bubbly,” made with prosecco and gin. Additional tastings included crunchy crab cakes, lobster rolls and pork bites with polenta.
Seasonal Deployment Strategy Expands North America Presence
Suzanne Salas, Executive VP of Marketing, eCommerce & Sales, said, “We’re continuing to grow in North America in a thoughtful, intentional way. While Alaska is a very popular cruise market, there’s a demand for it. Our idea is to deliver an immersive guest experience.”
Following her Alaska season, the ship will reposition for round-trip Caribbean cruises from Miami during winter 2026–2027, visiting destinations including Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Aruba, Curacao and Belize, before returning to Alaska in summer 2027.
“We have a partnership with an organization called Orca, on the conservation side, which is really important for the whales and the environment. We’ll have a whale expert on board, helping to educate guests. We’re happy to be able to go into the market that way, because that’s really important for us as well, and I think it’s starting to become more important for guests,” said Salas.
For more information, visit msccruisesusa.com.
