MSC Cruises has officially welcomed its first Meraviglia Plus-class vessel to the United States, as MSC Grandiosa arrived at Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship will be based at the port through April 2026, further strengthening Port Canaveral’s position after it once again secured the title of World’s Busiest Cruise Port. With more than 1,000 annual sailings offered by seven cruise lines, the port now has another major addition to its lineup.
Port Canaveral
MSC Grandiosa sailed into Port Canaveral today following a brief visit to PortMiami, becoming the second MSC ship to operate from the Central Florida port. Its arrival marks a significant milestone for the cruise line, representing the first time a Meraviglia Plus-class ship has been deployed in the U.S. market.
The vessel can accommodate up to 6,334 passengers, or 4,842 guests at double occupancy, and joins MSC Seashore, which currently offers a range of 3- and 4-night itineraries as well as select voyages from five to eleven nights.
At 181,541 gross tons, MSC Grandiosa is the larger of the two MSC ships sailing from Port Canaveral. Throughout the winter season, it will feature a series of 7-night itineraries to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, providing travelers with expanded cruising options from this rapidly growing homeport.
Upcoming Itineraries
The addition of MSC Grandiosa significantly expands MSC Cruises’ presence in Florida and enhances the variety of itineraries available to future guests. While MSC Seashore continues to specialize in shorter Bahamas getaways—including regular visits to the line’s private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC Grandiosa will take on a broader mix of cruise options.
Short Bahamas Getaways:
In January, MSC Grandiosa will operate several 3- and 4-night cruises to The Bahamas. These itineraries include stops in Nassau as well as visits to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Longer Caribbean Voyages:
Travelers seeking an extended vacation will find 8-day Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, such as the December 27 sailing. The ship will also offer unique 14-day back-to-back options that combine two distinct week-long cruises, featuring destinations like Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands.
Weeklong Caribbean Sailings:
Most of Grandiosa’s 7-night cruises will alternate between Eastern and Western Caribbean routes. Ports of call may include Ocean Cay, Nassau, San Juan, Puerto Plata, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman, giving guests a diverse selection of experiences across the region.
