MSC Cruises UK and Ireland has opened its 2026 itineraries sooner than ever.
The ex-UK itineraries will be available to book from this week (March 14).
The schedules cover MSC Virtuosa sailings out of Southampton and cover popular existing itineraries and brand new ones.
Summer 2026 itineraries range from 2 to 14 nights in length and visit a range of destinations that offer everything from sun, culture, shopping and nature – spanning the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean and the Norwegian Fjords.
Guests can also choose a 9-night Mediterranean cruise calling at Lisbon, Gibraltar, Malaga and Cadiz on 20th August for anyone seeking destinations perfect for sun, culture, shopping and great food.
Holidaymakers looking to book a short getaway can join a two-three night mini cruise from Southampton stopping at Cherbourg, Bruges, or Cobh.
Families can take advantage of itineraries that take place during the school Summer holidays for example one of the 14-night sailings around the Mediterranean calling at La Coruna, Cadiz, Malaga, Alicante, Palma, Barcelona, Valencia and Lisbon departing in July.
Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales for MSC Group’s Cruise Division and Managing Director for the UK & Ireland said: “I’m really excited about our Summer 2026 itineraries as we really do have something for everyone. The itineraries are extremely varied and we are visiting destinations all over Europe, some for the very first time.
“I am pleased that we are offering our lovely customers the opportunity to start booking their holidays two (plus) years in advance, especially as we will be the first contemporary cruise line to open 2026 sales. For the first time ever, we will have three summer seasons open at the same time. As we are on track to have a record-breaking year in 2024, our travel agents will play a crucial role to sell our 2026 itineraries to our UK and Irish customers.
“Booking a cruise early is one of the best ways to take advantage of new itineraries when they are released. There are two compelling reasons why you should book in advance. First, some cabin categories are usually in high demand when new cruises are released, so it is important that customers book early to avoid disappointment. And secondly, fares are determined by supply and demand, therefore new itineraries tend to have the best and most affordable prices.”
