MSC Cruises has opened bookings for its Summer 2028 Alaska programme, with MSC Poesia returning to Seattle for a third consecutive season of sailings to the Last Frontier.
Running from 24 April to 18 September 2028, the programme will offer weekly seven-night itineraries departing from Seattle. The cruises include calls at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Victoria, British Columbia, as well as scenic cruising through Tracy Arm, where guests can admire the Sawyer Glaciers.
Alaska continues to attract growing interest among cruise travellers. “Alaska continues to capture the imagination of our guests in the Benelux more than ever. Its breathtaking landscapes, exceptional wildlife experiences, and the unique opportunity to discover a true once-in-a-lifetime destination make this region particularly appealing,” said Frank Van den Steen, Country Manager Benelux at MSC Cruises.
The cruise line said the 2028 deployment builds on the success of its previous Alaska seasons. “The opening of sales for a third Alaska season confirms the growing interest we have seen since the launch of this destination. With the expansion of our Summer 2028 programme, we are offering our guests even more opportunities to plan their dream holiday well in advance,” Van den Steen added.
Refurbished MSC Poesia returns to Alaska
The 2028 season will also mark the ship’s first full Alaska deployment following a major refurbishment. Among the most significant additions is the MSC Yacht Club, the cruise line’s luxury “ship-within-a-ship” concept, featuring 69 suites, 24-hour butler and concierge service, a private restaurant and lounge, an exclusive sundeck with whirlpools, and a dedicated grill restaurant and bar.
The refurbishment also introduced two new speciality dining venues: Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, serving Japanese-inspired cuisine. Guests will also find an upgraded MSC Aurea Spa, an enhanced Technogym-powered fitness centre, a gentleman’s barber and the Top 15 Exclusive Solarium for Aurea guests.
“Following her recent refurbishment, MSC Poesia will once again deliver the signature MSC Cruises experience, featuring modernised facilities and the addition of the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, a product that is highly appreciated by our Benelux guests,” Van den Steen underlined.
Glaciers, wildlife and coastal communities
The seven-night itineraries have been designed to showcase some of Alaska’s best-known natural attractions and coastal communities. Ketchikan is renowned for its fishing heritage and Alaska Native culture, while Icy Strait Point offers wildlife encounters and Indigenous-owned tourism experiences. Juneau provides access to glaciers and outdoor activities, and Victoria combines historic architecture with waterfront scenery.
Cruise Director Matías Chimicz said Alaska offers guests unforgettable moments both ashore and at sea. “Witnessing Alaska’s glaciers up close, with stunning scenery unfolding around every turn,” is among the experiences that leave the greatest impression on travellers, he said.
He also highlighted the opportunity to spot whales, orcas, bald eagles, bears, deer, otters and harbour seals, noting that guests have even enjoyed whale sightings directly from the ship during the season.
Beyond the destination itself, passengers can enjoy live entertainment, international dining, family facilities and wellness experiences on board, including Dirty Dancing: In Concert, the live-to-film production featuring live singers, dancers and musicians.
Bookings are already available for MSC Cruises’ 2027 Alaska season, which runs from 26 April to 27 September 2027. Between its Alaska deployments, MSC Poesia will also operate MSC Grand Voyage sailings through the Panama Canal between Miami and Seattle.
