MSC Musica Expands South America Cruises for Winter 2026–27

MSC Musica will sail from three additional homeports during its 2026–27 winter season in South America, marking a significant change in deployment plans by MSC Cruises. The cruise line has confirmed that the ship will offer departures from Paranaguá, Itajaí, and Rio de Janeiro between January and February 2027, expanding options for travelers looking to explore Brazil’s popular coastal destinations.

This change comes as part of broader adjustments to the cruise line’s regional schedule after the planned South American season for MSC Lirica was canceled earlier this year. As a result, MSC reassigned several itineraries to MSC Musica to maintain cruise offerings in the region.

Seven-Night Brazilian Coastal Cruises

Departing from the newly added homeports, MSC Musica will operate seven-night cruises along Brazil’s scenic coastline. These itineraries will feature stops at some of the country’s most popular cruise destinations, including:

• Búzios
• Ilha Grande
• Ilhabela

These locations are known for their clear waters, tropical landscapes, and vibrant beach culture, making them favorites among cruise passengers visiting Brazil.

Originally, these voyages were expected to be operated by MSC Lirica. However, with the cancellation of that ship’s deployment in South America, MSC Musica will now handle the program. The ship is scheduled to offer six sailings from the additional homeports during the January–February timeframe.

First MSC Yacht Club Sailings From Paranaguá

One of the highlights of this deployment will be the first availability of the MSC Yacht Club from Paranaguá. MSC Musica is set to undergo a refurbishment later this year, which will include the addition of this luxury “ship-within-a-ship” concept.

The MSC Yacht Club offers exclusive suites, private lounges, dedicated restaurants, and personalized butler service, giving guests a premium cruise experience while still enjoying the ship’s larger amenities.

The refurbishment will also include:

• New dining venues
• Refreshed public spaces
• Upgraded onboard facilities

These upgrades are part of a broader modernization initiative similar to those recently completed on ships like MSC Magnifica and MSC Poesia.

Larger MSC Fleet Deployment in South America

MSC Cruises is planning a strong presence in South America for the upcoming winter season with four ships operating in the region.

Among them is MSC Virtuosa, which will make its regional debut with sailings from multiple Brazilian ports, including:

• Santos
• Maceió
• Salvador

Meanwhile, MSC Divina will return to South America after more than a decade, offering cruises from Santos, Balneário Camboriú, and Buenos Aires.

Another ship, MSC Splendida, was initially scheduled to sail only from Buenos Aires but will now also offer departures from Rio de Janeiro, further expanding MSC’s itinerary options in the region.

About MSC Musica

MSC Musica first entered service in 2006 after being built at the renowned Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. The vessel was the first ship in the Musica-class series, which later included three additional sister ships.

With a capacity of approximately 2,550 guests, MSC Musica combines classic cruise design with modern amenities. The upcoming refurbishment and expanded South American deployment aim to keep the ship competitive while giving passengers more departure choices and upgraded onboard experiences.