Summary: MSC Poesia has completed a significant refurbishment at Palumbo Shipyard in Malta, adding the MSC Yacht Club with 62 suites, two specialty restaurants, and upgraded spa and gym facilities before repositioning to North America for Alaska and Caribbean seasons.

The MSC Poesia refurbishment in Malta has modernized the 2008-built Musica-class ship ahead of a series of North American and Alaskan sailings, with upgrades intended to elevate guest comfort and onboard experiences.

Major modernization at Palumbo Shipyard

MSC Poesia underwent drydock works at the Palumbo Shipyard in Malta following its winter season in Northern Europe. The refurbishment is part of MSC Cruises’ broader programme to refresh its Musica-class vessels and bring their onboard offerings in line with contemporary guest expectations.

New MSC Yacht Club and suite accommodation

A key addition is the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ premium ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept. The refurbishment introduces 62 Yacht Club suites, giving guests access to a private sun deck, exclusive restaurant and lounge and enhanced personalised service for a more secluded sailing experience.

Expanded dining options

The ship’s culinary lineup has been broadened with two new specialty venues designed to cater to diverse tastes and premium dining preferences.

  • Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse — an American-style steakhouse concept
  • Kaito Sushi Bar — a new spot for Japanese cuisine and sushi

Wellness and fitness upgrades

MSC Poesia’s Aurea Spa has been redesigned to offer a more luxurious and calming environment. The ship’s gym has also been moved to a new location and refitted with modern equipment, reflecting growing demand for wellness-focused travel options.

Scheduled repositioning and itineraries

After the drydock, MSC Poesia will reposition to North America. The ship is scheduled to depart Civitavecchia, Italy, on April 6, 2026, for a trans-Atlantic crossing to PortMiami, allowing early passengers to experience the refit on a repositioning voyage.

Following the crossing, MSC Poesia will undertake an 18-night Panama Canal cruise between Florida and Seattle. From early May, it will operate week-long roundtrip cruises from Seattle to Alaska and Canada, featuring scenic transits and calls at key ports.

  • Trans-Atlantic departure: Civitavecchia to PortMiami on April 6, 2026
  • 18-night Panama Canal voyage: Florida to Seattle
  • Alaska/Canada season: seven-night roundtrip sailings from Seattle
  • Notable Alaskan highlights: Tracy Arm Fjord scenic cruising and the Inside Passage; port calls include Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau
MSC Poesia in drydock at Palumbo Shipyard during refurbishment, showing workers and scaffolding
MSC Poesia at Palumbo Shipyard in Malta during the drydock works ahead of its North American and Alaskan seasons

Seasonal repositioning and Caribbean plans

After completing the Alaska season, MSC Poesia will reposition back to Miami for the 2026–27 winter programme and will operate longer sailings across the Caribbean and Central America, expanding MSC Cruises’ presence in those markets.

Impact for destinations and the cruise industry

The refit strengthens MSC Cruises’ offering in the premium cruise segment and is likely to attract travellers seeking upgraded accommodation, specialty dining and wellness amenities. Ports visited on these itineraries can expect increased passenger flows that support local tourism economies and related services.

For MSC, the refurbishment signals continued investment in existing tonnage to remain competitive, while for destinations such as ports in Alaska, Canada, Panama and Miami the ship’s visits will bolster visitor numbers during the upcoming seasons.

What this means for travellers

Travellers booking on MSC Poesia can expect enhanced suite options via the MSC Yacht Club, new specialty restaurants and improved wellness facilities. Those planning Alaska or Panama Canal voyages with MSC should see refreshed onboard experiences on departures from April and into the summer season.

So what? The refurbishment means passengers will board a significantly updated ship for North American and Alaskan itineraries, while ports along the routes should prepare for the economic benefits of added visitor capacity.