MSC Meraviglia Ends NY Sailings for Winter 2026-2027

MSC Cruises has announced significant changes to its U.S. operations, with its ship MSC Meraviglia set to end its New York-based sailings and relocate to PortMiami for the Winter 2026–2027 season. The 5,700-passenger vessel, known for its European flair and extensive onboard offerings, will transition from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, where it has operated since April 2023, to offer six- and eight-night Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from Miami. This strategic move is part of MSC's broader effort to consolidate resources and expand its presence in the North American market, particularly in Florida.

MSC Meraviglia's New Deployment

The MSC Meraviglia will conclude its New York itineraries in the spring of 2026, spend the summer operating weeklong Mediterranean cruises in Europe, and begin its Miami-based winter program in November 2026. The ship’s new itineraries from PortMiami will include stops at popular Caribbean destinations such as Grand Turk, Puerto Plata, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, San Juan, Charlotte Amalie, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Bookings for these Miami sailings are scheduled to open on August 6, 2025.

Canceled New York Sailings and Guest Options

The redeployment of MSC Meraviglia means the cancellation of all New York sailings originally scheduled between November 8, 2026, and March 7, 2027. Guests affected by these cancellations have been notified via email and provided several options to adjust their travel plans:

• Transfer to a six-night MSC Meraviglia cruise from Miami with onboard credit incentives of $100 per person.
• Transfer to an eight-night MSC Meraviglia cruise from Miami with onboard credit incentives of $50 per person.
• Switch to any seven-night MSC cruise departing from Miami, Port Canaveral, or Galveston with no onboard credit but no change fees.
• Opt for a Future Cruise Credit for the full amount paid.
• Request a full refund if none of the above options are preferred.

Passengers who do not make a selection by the September 30, 2025, deadline will automatically receive a refund. MSC has acknowledged the inconvenience this change may cause for travelers, particularly in adjusting pre- and post-cruise plans.

Expanded Miami Operations

This move marks the first time MSC will operate four ships out of Miami for a winter season, solidifying the port as the centerpiece of the company’s U.S. growth strategy. In addition to MSC Meraviglia, other ships homeporting in Miami for Winter 2026–2027 include the newly launched MSC World America, MSC Poesia, and MSC Seaside. Each ship will offer distinct itineraries:

• MSC World America: Seven-night alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.
• MSC Poesia: Extended voyages, including Panama Canal transits and 10- and 11-night Caribbean cruises.
• MSC Seaside: Short three- and four-night Bahamas getaways.

The expanded Miami deployment will utilize the state-of-the-art MSC Cruise Terminal at PortMiami. MSC also plans additional operations from Port Canaveral and Galveston, Texas, as part of a broader strategy to enhance its U.S. market presence.

Impact on New York Operations

Despite MSC's emphasis on Miami, the company maintains that New York remains an important market. Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America, stated, "We continuously evaluate deployment strategies based on guest demand and operational priorities." However, as of now, no replacement ship has been announced for New York during the Winter 2026–2027 season. The absence of an MSC vessel in New York is a notable shift, as Meraviglia's year-round service in Brooklyn had been a key part of the company’s U.S. expansion strategy since 2023.

U.S. Growth and Competitive Market Position

With the redeployment of MSC Meraviglia, MSC aims to strengthen its foothold in the competitive North American cruise market. The South Florida region, particularly Miami, offers greater proximity to high-demand Caribbean destinations and better aligns with traveler preferences. By basing a record number of ships in the U.S. and introducing new itineraries, MSC is positioning itself as a significant player alongside established competitors.

"These new options will create exciting opportunities for travelers," added Lynn Torrent. "As we deploy new and larger ships and cater to increasing demand, our approach combines European cruising style with the comfort North American travelers expect."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is the MSC Meraviglia relocating to Miami?

MSC Cruises stated that the decision to shift the vessel to Miami was driven by operational priorities and rising demand for Caribbean cruises. Miami serves as a more strategic homeport for North American travelers seeking itineraries to the Caribbean and The Bahamas.

What options are available for passengers impacted by the New York cancellations?

Affected passengers can choose from several options, including rebooking on Miami sailings with onboard credit incentives, switching to other MSC itineraries, opting for a Future Cruise Credit, or requesting a full refund. Specific details and deadlines have been provided in booking notices.

Are there plans to replace MSC Meraviglia in New York?

As of now, MSC has not announced a replacement for Meraviglia in New York. The company continues to evaluate its operations in the market based on demand and strategic considerations.

When do bookings for MSC Meraviglia’s Miami itineraries open?

Bookings for the newly announced Miami sailings will open on August 6, 2025. Travelers are encouraged to review their options early, as demand for winter Caribbean cruises can be high.

Which ports will MSC Meraviglia visit from Miami?

The ship’s new itineraries include stops at Grand Turk, Puerto Plata, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, San Juan, Charlotte Amalie, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, among other destinations. Port lineups may vary based on itinerary length and departure date.