MSC Cruises is officially back in the USA.
The cruise line’s ship MSC Meraviglia is getting ready to set sail today from PortMiami, marking MSC’s first cruise from the United States since the industry shutdown last year.
The vessel will embark on a four-night cruise to the Bahamas, which will feature a stop at MSC’s private island Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
MSC Cruises’ first guest cruise in nearly 18 months is another step towards the company’s goal to have over half of its fleet back to sea by the end of summer. It’s U.S. return also kicks off a countdown to brand new itineraries and ships heading to North American waters this fall.
“As of today, we once again have the pleasure of showcasing our word-class experiences to U.S. guests, offering them the cruise experience they know and love with upscale dining, dynamic entertainment and immersive activities, including our new private natural paradise, Ocean Cay,” said Rubén Rodríguez, President of MSC Cruises USA.
“It has been a long road, and we are delighted to see demand continue to increase as cruisers grow eager to get back to sea. We are confident that they will find the rich onboard experience that we’re known for, while feeling reassured that their health and safety is our highest priority.”
Today’s four-night cruise marks the start of a series of three and four-night Bahamas cruises, and on September 18 the ship will switch to sailing seven-night eastern and western Caribbean voyages.
The four-night Bahamas cruises will visit Nassau and Ocean Cay for an overnight stay. Prices currently start at $269 per person for a balcony cabin.
MSC Divina will be MSC’s second ship to resume services from the U.S. with three, four, and seven-night cruises beginning September 16 from Port Canaveral.
In November, MSC’s newest flagship MSC Seashore will arrive to her new homeport of Miami to begin a schedule of seven-night eastern and western Caribbean voyages.
Health and safety measures for these sailings will include COVID-19 testing at embarkation, vaccination and periodic testing of the crew, social distancing, the use of masks, and enhanced sanitation around the ship. There will be no vaccine requirement for guests, but unvaccinated passengers will be subject to additional requirements and restrictions.
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