As MSC Cruises prepares to launch its first Alaska sailings in May 2026, the cruise line is highlighting itineraries that guests can look forward to when sailing from Seattle to the Last Frontier.
The 7-night sailings onboard MSC Poesia will visit Ketchikan, Icy Straight Point and Juneau in Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada; offering awe-inspiring views, captivating culture and thrilling activities. MSC Poesia will also sail through Tracy Arm Fjord, where guests can observe the rich beauty of Alaska’s glaciers from their balcony or on deck.
Highlights of MSC Cruises’ Alaska itineraries and available excursions include:
- KETCHIKAN, ALASKA: Full of rich maritime history and vibrant Alaska Native culture, Ketchikan is nestled among towering rainforests and fjords, serving as the gateway to Alaska’s famed Inside Passage. At this destination guests will find unique activities from exploring Totem Bight Historical Park with its restored totem poles and traditional Tlingit clan house to cruising through Misty Fjords—one of Alaska’s natural wonders. Additional excursions include:
- Misty Fjords Flightseeing: Discover the beauty of Misty Fjords National Monument on a flight aboard an authentic Alaska seaplane and experience aerial views that allow guests to fully grasp the grandeur of this ice-rimmed wilderness.
- Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour: Come face-to-face with marine life like crabs, octopuses and prawns, and learn from the Bering Sea crab fishermen as they share their incredible stories of survival.
- Rainforest Sanctuary & Totem Park: Experience the beauty of Herring Cove with an eco-exploration tour set within the forested mountains of the Tongrass National Forest. Guests will be led through the reserve that serves as a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, seals and bird species.
- ICY STRAIGHT POINT, ALASKA: The wild beauty of Alaska is on full display at Icy Straight Point, offering a deep connection to nature. Guests can navigate wooden roads, drive through scenic valleys and enjoy stunning views of the mountains and ocean. Excursions include:
- Whales, Wildlife, and Bear Search: Explore the waters of Point Adolphus, home to marine mammals including whales, sea lions and porpoises. After sailing through the region, head up to the wilderness of Chichagof Island, known to have one of the largest populations of Coastal Brown Bear in the world.
- Mountaintop Forest Excursion: Take in 360-degree views with the only Mountaintop Gondola and Forest experience in Southeast Alaska. From the base of Icy Straight Point, guests will ascend over 1,500 feet to Sky Peak in a gondola with views from all sides. Once at the top, an open-air safari bus will take guests through a journey through the old-growth forest.
- TRACY ARM FJORD, ALASKA: MSC Poesia will sail through the awe-inspiring beauty of Tracy Arm Fjord with its glaciers, waterfalls and unspoiled nature. Either from the ship’s balconies or up on the deck, guests will witness the spectacular sight of Sawyer Glacier and enjoy the pristine beauty and rich wildlife of southeastern Alaska.
- JUNEAU, ALASKA: With secluded charm, this off-the-beaten-path capital city of Alaska is rich in cultural heritage. While in Juneau, guests can discover hidden corners of the Mendenhall Valley, explore the scenic Whale Park and embark on thrilling wildlife cruises. Excursions include:
- Dog Sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter: Encompassing a variety of bucket-list experiences, this tour begins with a helicopter ride to a dog sledding adventure at Mendenhall Glacier. Upon landing at the dog mushing camp, guests will be greeted by professional dog mushers and Alaksa huskies who will whisk them away through the snow.
- Alaska Culinary Experience and Evening Whale Quest: Embark on an evening cruise with Alaska-themed appetizers, while keeping an eye out for majestic whales and diverse wildlife. As the sun sets, an onboard naturalist guides guests through the region’s nature, geography and history.
- VICTORIA, CANADA: Offering sophisticated evenings or explorative excursions, Victoria exudes beauty around every corner. Guests can explore the iconic buildings of Inner Harbour, enjoy the unique blend of heritage and modernity in Market Square or discover the beauty of The Butchart Gardens. Excursions include:
- Evening Buchart Gardens Experience and Sightseeing Tour: As the day’s vibrant colors fade, a serene and mystical atmosphere takes over the gardens, making an evening stroll feel like stepping into a fairytale. After taking in the beauty of the attraction, guests can continue to Victoria’s Inner Harbor to view the iconic Empress Hotel and BC Legislative Buildings.
- Protectours: Discover Victoria by E-Bike: Guests will discover the different areas of Victoria on a 2-hour bike tour. From the inner city’s inner harbor and vibrant Chinatown to blue Johnson Street Bridge and Songhees waterway, guests will soak in coastal views, Victorian architecture and downtown all in one trip.
