MSC Cruises is marking two milestones on Saturday, Nov.14: the return of the MSC Grandiosa to its Port Canaveral homeport and the one-year countdown to the MSC World Atlantic’s inaugural sailing from the port.
The 4,888-guest MSC Grandiosa will offer seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises during its second Port Canaveral season, following the inaugural season in 2025.
The ship will join the 2021-built MSC Seashore, which will sail three- and four-night getaways to The Bahamas and the cruise line’s private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
“Central Florida is an important market for MSC Cruises, and we’re excited to welcome MSC Grandiosa back to Port Canaveral and officially start the one-year countdown to MSC World Atlantic’s inaugural sailing,” said Lynn Torrent, president, MSC Cruises North America.
“Our continued investment in the region reflects our commitment to growing our presence in North America and providing guests with more ways to experience our signature European style and American comfort.”
The 5,400-passenger MSC World Atlantic is scheduled to sail its maiden journey from Port Canaveral on Nov.13, 2027, after which it will offer seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries visiting destinations such as Grand Turk and Ocean Cay.
The cruise line recently celebrated its float out at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
The company noted that it is set to reach its largest-ever capacity from Port Canaveral in winter 2027-28, with the MSC World Atlantic taking over seven-night Caribbean itineraries while the MSC Grandiosa transitions to shorter three- and four-night Bahamas cruises.
“MSC Cruises is a valued partner and has grown to be one of the most popular cruise lines sailing from Port Canaveral. We’re thrilled to welcome back MSC Grandiosa and excited for the arrival of MSC World Atlantic next year,” added Captain John W. Murray, Port Director & CEO, Port Canaveral.
“We are tremendously proud to have this beautiful World Class vessel in our homeport fleet, and MSC Cruises’ decision to bring her here speaks volumes about their confidence in our port’s ability to deliver a superior experience for their cruise guests.”
MSC also shared that it would present a donation to New Hope for Kids and become the organization’s Official Cruise Line Partner, supporting children and families facing adversity across Central Florida.
