MSC Cruises Expands Southern Caribbean Offering to Year-round

To make planning seamless, travellers can book through MSC Cruises’ Fly & Cruise program, which includes non-stop flights from major Canadian airports, with connector fares from across Canada. This convenient package combines flights and cruises into one reservation, offering a smooth, stress-free vacation experience from start to finish.

Whether escaping the cold winter months or enjoying a tropical retreat in summer, Canadians will enjoy MSC Cruises’ access to sun-soaked islands, crystal-clear waters, and a new adventure every day. Not only do these itineraries visit unforgettable destinations, but the entire cruise experience is designed for comfort and convenience — with meals, entertainment, and accommodation included, plus the option to add flights, shore excursions, drink packages, Wi-Fi, and more for a fully personalized, worry-free getaway.

MSC Opera will offer a range of different seven-night itineraries and the option for guests to extend their cruise to a 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruise to a multitude of stunning Southern Caribbean destinations including the Dominican Republic, Martinique, Guadeloupe, the British Virgin Islands, Barbados, Antiqua and Barbuda, Netherlands Antilles and more.

The ship will homeport in La Romana, Dominican Republic, a new regular destination for MSC Cruises, offering seven-night or 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruises, with the first cruise departing on November 16, 2026. From April 2027, the ship will also offer a second embarkation port, Fort de France. For full itinerary information, visit MSC Cruises’ website here.

Some of MSC Opera’s new itinerary highlights include:

• La Romana, Dominican Republic: La Romana offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, rich culture and natural beauty featuring pristine beaches, local craft shops, delicious seafood and easy access to renowned sites such as the enchanting Cueva de las Maravillas.
• Catalina Island, Dominican Republic:Catalina Island is the ideal tropical paradise for a memorable holiday for both relaxation and adventure. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and white sandy beaches, along with a variety of activities to enjoy such as snorkeling, diving and sunbathing.
• Fort-de-France, Martinique: Martinique delights visitors from around the world with its renowned natural wonders, historical charm and beautiful bays and beaches. In the vibrant capital of Fort-de-France, guests can explore colourful architecture, lively markets and local shops, or venture further off to discover the island’s famous rum distilleries, lush rainforest and idyllic beaches.
• Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands: Virgin Gorda is one of the British Virgin Islands’ most picturesque and serene destinations, offering an unforgettable Caribbean escape. Visitors can explore its world-famous Baths, relax on pristine beaches, or enjoy scenic hiking trails such as Gorda Peak National Park for stunning island views.
• St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda: Saint John’s is the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda renowned for vibrant, colourful houses, captivating historical landmarks such as Fort James fortress, and the gateway to some of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches – perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying water activities.

MSC Opera itineraries will offer 10 other captivating destinations including Oranjestad (Aruba), Bridgetown (Barbados), Kralendijk (Bonaire, Saint Eustatius), Willemstad (Curacao), Samana Bay (Dominican Republic), Saint George (Grenada), Pointe-a-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Philipsburg (Netherlands Antilles), Basseterre (Saint Kitts and Nevis), and Road Town (British Virgin Islands).

MSC Opera joins MSC Seaview in the region for Winter 26/27, offering seven-night sailings from her homeport in Fort-de-France to destinations including Pointe-a-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Philipsburg (Sint Maarten), St. John’s (Antigua and Barbuda), Basseterre (Saint Kitts and Nevis), Roseau (Dominica), Bridgetown (Barbados), Kingstown (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), Saint George (Grenada), and Castries (Saint Lucia).