The MSC Orchestra became the first cruise ship to visit the Brazilian port of Salvador in 2025. Offering a New Year’s cruise, the MSC Cruises vessel arrived at the destination in Bahia on January 2.

According to the local port authority, over 2,550 guests were onboard the ship, which stayed docked overnight.

The visit is part of an eight-night itinerary that sailed from Rio de Janeiro in late 2024. In addition to Salvador, the cruise included visits to Búzios and Ilhabela.

Joining five other cruise ships, the MSC Orchestra was also in Copacabana on Dec. 31 for the beach’s firework display.

After starting in late October, the 2024-25 cruise season in Salvador is expected to include a total of 61 calls.

The vessels are projected to bring over 230,000 passengers to the port, which is located in Brazil’s Northeast region.

“This season shows Salvador’s position as a major tourist hub, solidifying its place as the third largest port in Brazil for cruise ships,” said Demétrius Moura, director of business relations at the Bahia Port Authority.

The schedule is highlighted by regular calls of the MSC Grandiosa, which is currently the largest ship serving the Brazilian market.

Since mid-December, the 4,888-guest vessel has been visiting Salvador as part of its weeklong cruises in the region.

In addition to ships from MSC and Costa Cruises, the season also includes visits from vessels of other brands, such as Phoenix Reisen and Cunard.

The British operator visits Salvador with the Queen Victoria in February as part of an itinerary that marks its return to Brazil after a five-year gap.

Other vessels set to visit the port include Silversea’s new Silver Ray, which entered service in June 2024.