A fresh contender is entering the Alaska cruise scene.

MSC Cruises has announced it will offer cruises to Alaska for the first time in 2026. The voyages will set sail from Seattle, Washington, on the MSC Poesia ship.

“We often hear from travelers that they are eager to experience the stunning landscapes of Alaska, making these new itineraries a fantastic addition to MSC Cruises’ diverse list of travel destinations,” said Lynn Torrent, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer at MSC Cruises USA, in a press release. “Seattle will become our fifth homeport in the U.S., allowing us to blend our unique European style with American hospitality on the West Coast while we continue to grow in the North American market.”

This announcement highlights MSC’s increasing presence in the U.S. Earlier in the year, the line revealed plans to operate from a new homeport in Galveston, Texas, starting in 2025.

MSC’s Alaska Cruise Schedule

The inaugural Alaska cruise is scheduled to depart on May 11, 2026, and will continue until September. The MSC Poesia has a capacity of 2,550 guests based on double occupancy.

Destinations on MSC’s Cruises

Cruise passengers can explore several destinations, including Vancouver, Canada; Juneau; Ketchikan; and Icy Strait Point, among others, during their seven-night trips that feature spectacular mountain scenery and opportunities to see wildlife, such as bald eagles. A variety of shore excursions will also be available, including whale watching, ziplining, and ATV adventures.

Cost of MSC’s Alaska Cruises

Pricing for these itineraries begins at $799 per person, and travelers can make reservations through the MSC website.

This article was updated with additional details.