MADRID — MSC Cruises will introduce a new year-round Southern Caribbean itinerary from La Romana, Dominican Republic, beginning in November 2026, marking the cruise line’s first permanent deployment in the region.

The announcement was made at Fitur, the International Tourism Trade Fair in Madrid, where MSC Cruises confirmed its long-term commitment to homeporting in La Romana. The move represents the first time the cruise line has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean and adds a new warm-weather option for Canadian travellers.

MSC Opera will operate the new itinerary with weekly departures. Guests will be able to choose between seven-night sailings or combine two voyages into a 14-night back-to-back ‘butterfly’ cruise. Sales are already open, with the inaugural sailing scheduled to depart Nov. 16, 2026.

“MSC Cruises first started calling in the Dominican Republic in 2014, so after more than 10 years it is a proud moment for me to speak about our new homeporting offering in La Romana,” said Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO. “With year-round operations we extend the traditional season, bringing positive economic impact to the local community and bringing 120,000 additional international visitors to La Romana each year. MSC Cruises is committed to the Dominican Republic and this new program for the long-term.”

Ports of call on the new itinerary include La Romana, Catalina Island, Fort-de-France in Martinique, Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands and St. John’s in Antigua and Barbuda. Highlights range from cultural attractions and historic landmarks to beaches, national parks and snorkelling opportunities across the Southern Caribbean.

MSC Opera, one of four ships in the Lirica class, will operate the program. The smaller ship class allows access to a wider range of destinations while offering a more personalized onboard experience. Amenities include multiple dining venues featuring Mediterranean and international cuisine, a variety of bars and lounges, family and teen spaces, a spray park, virtual reality gaming, fitness facilities, sports areas and the MSC Aurea Spa with thermal facilities.

The Dominican Republic’s extensive air connectivity is expected to support the new operation. MSC Cruises estimates the deployment of MSC Opera will bring approximately 120,000 international visitors to La Romana annually, translating to roughly 240,000 inbound and outbound flight passengers and increased activity for hotels, restaurants, bars and local businesses. Direct and one-stop flight options are available from major Canadian gateways.

MSC Cruises’ Fly&Cruise program will be available for Canadian guests sailing from La Romana, combining flights and cruise into a single booking. The program includes 24/7 dedicated travel support, assured arrival at the ship, flexible flight options that allow travellers to arrive up to three days before or depart up to three days after their cruise, and an included checked bag. Departures will be offered from multiple Canadian cities including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, Québec City, Halifax, Edmonton, Winnipeg and St. John’s. Flights can be booked directly through MSC Cruises or through travel advisors.

For more details, go to www.msccruises.ca.