MSC Preziosa Ushers In 2025–26 South America Cruise Season at Santos

The MSC Preziosa has inaugurated the South American 2025–26 cruise season, following a 21-night repositioning voyage from Hamburg, Germany, to Santos, Brazil. Departing on October 5, 2025, the vessel made stops at key European and Atlantic ports, including Southampton, Le Havre, La Coruña, Gijón, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Funchal, before calling at Salvador, Ilhéus, Búzios, and Rio de Janeiro en route to its final destination in Santos. The ship's arrival on October 26 marked the start of Brazil’s cruise season, positioning the MSC Preziosa as the first transatlantic voyage arrival and the focal point of a celebratory event co-hosted by Santos City Hall and MSC Cruises.

Celebratory Launch in Santos

In collaboration with Santos City Hall, the MSC Preziosa’s arrival was commemorated with a public event at the Ponta da Praia neighborhood. The celebration featured live music, a procession of local boats escorting the vessel, and special light displays to mark the occasion. The festivity underscored the collaborative efforts between the government and the cruise line in promoting Santos as a vibrant and welcoming tourist hub. “We wanted to offer a unique experience, combining entertainment and culture, highlighting Santos as a welcoming and vibrant destination for tourists and residents,” shared Santos Secretary of Tourism Thiago Papa.

Itinerary Details and Expanded Offerings

After its arrival, MSC Preziosa embarked on a short three-night cruise to Búzios before returning to Santos. Throughout the season, the ship will offer various itineraries, ranging from short three- to eight-night coastal cruises in Brazil to longer weeklong trips to Argentina and Uruguay. Highlights include visits to Angra dos Reis, Ilha Grande, Balneário Camboriú, Buenos Aires, Punta del Este, Montevideo, and Salvador. The introduction of Balneário Camboriú as a new homeport adds to MSC Cruises’ strategic expansion in the region, further diversifying travel options for both domestic and international cruisers.

Robust Growth for South American Cruise Season

The MSC Preziosa is one of five MSC Cruises ships stationed in South America for the 2025–26 season, joining MSC Seaview, MSC Fantasia, MSC Sinfonia, and MSC Armonia. Together, these vessels will operate from major ports, including Santos, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador in Brazil, as well as Buenos Aires in Argentina, and Montevideo and Punta del Este in Uruguay. The addition of Balneário Camboriú as a homeport alongside existing embarkation points like Itajaí and Maceió reflects a broader effort to expand cruise accessibility in the region.

Costa Cruises is also taking part in the vibrant cruise season, with Costa Diadema and Costa Favolosa catering to local markets. Meanwhile, premium and luxury brands such as Princess Cruises, Oceania, Silversea, Azamara, Regent Seven Seas, and Celebrity Cruises offer regional itineraries. Among the standout highlights is AIDA Cruises’ return to Santos with the AIDAmar after a decade, and Peace Boat’s Pacific World, visiting Santos for the first time.

Economic and Tourism Benefits for Santos

The Port of Santos is gearing up for a high-traffic season through late April 2026. The Concais Cruise Terminal is slated to welcome over 130 cruise calls during this period, involving 14 ships from various cruise lines. This influx of activity is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, creating opportunities for local businesses and strengthening tourism infrastructure. Collaborative efforts between cruise operators and local authorities aim to enhance Santos’ appeal as both a destination and embarkation hub while ensuring the smooth management of increased visitor volume.

Sustainability remains a priority amid the season’s expansion, with cruise operators implementing measures such as cleaner fuel options and improved shore power technologies to minimize environmental impact. Furthermore, local officials are emphasizing cultural preservation and sustainable tourism practices to manage the potential challenges of a growing cruise presence effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the significance of the MSC Preziosa’s repositioning cruise?

The MSC Preziosa’s repositioning cruise marked the start of the 2025–26 South American cruise season for MSC Cruises, introducing an expanded array of itineraries and homeport options, including a new base at Balneário Camboriú.

Which ports will MSC Cruises serve in South America this season?

MSC Cruises will serve numerous ports, including Santos, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Itajaí, Maceió, Balneário Camboriú, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. These ports will feature prominently on the itineraries of five MSC vessels deployed for the region’s cruise season.

Which other cruise lines are participating in the 2025–26 South American cruise season?

In addition to MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises will deploy Costa Diadema and Costa Favolosa. Premium and luxury lines such as Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Celebrity, and others will also operate in the region. Notable highlights include the return of AIDA Cruises with AIDAmar and the debut visit of Peace Boat’s Pacific World to Santos.

What economic impact is expected in Santos during the cruise season?

Santos is preparing for over 130 cruise calls at the Concais Cruise Terminal between October 2025 and April 2026. This surge in tourism is projected to increase revenue for local businesses and improve the city’s overall infrastructure.

What measures are being taken to address environmental concerns during the cruise season?

Cruise operators have implemented sustainability technologies, including cleaner fuel usage and advancements in shore power solutions. Local governments are also collaborating to mitigate the environmental impact while supporting tourism growth in a sustainable manner.