The MSC Grandiosa has made her maiden call in Nassau, which the company called a significant milestone in its long-term commitment to the Bahamas.

The traditional maritime crest exchange of plaques to commemorate a ship’s first visit at a port was undertaken by Captain Danile Cho, the MSC Grandiosa’s captain, and Bahamian officials.

The ship’s first call to Nassau was followed the following day by an inaugural arrival at MSC Cruises’ private island at Ocean Cay that reflects the company’s ongoing investment in growing the number of guest arrivals in the Bahamas.

The two maiden calls start MSC Grandiosa’s winter Caribbean Sea programme from Port Canaveral in Florida.

Rick Sasso, chairman, MSC Cruises USA, said, “The arrival of MSC Grandiosa at Nassau and Ocean Cay speak directly to our long-term vision for the Bahamas.  Each maiden call represents more than a ceremonial moment; it signals our dedication to creating meaningful, sustainable growth alongside our Bahamian partners.”

MSC Cruises will have four ships regularly calling Nassau and Ocean Cay during the winter 2025/26 season. The visits are expected to generate economic benefits for the Bahamas through increased guest expenditure ashore and expanded partnerships with local businesses and tourism stakeholders. Combined, they support local job creation, destination development, and community programmes.

Michael Maura Jr., CEO of Nassau Cruise Port, added, “We are delighted to welcome MSC Grandiosa on her inaugural call to Nassau. Each new Nassau deployment by MSC Cruises reinforces its long-term commitment to the Bahamas and strengthens the collaboration we have built over the years. We look forward to ending the year with 178 calls and to expanding the ways we work together to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests.