By the Caribbean Journal staff

Fast-expanding MSC Cruises is adding Tampa as its newest homeport, the company said in a statement.

Beginning in Nov. 2020, MSC will be sailing from Tampa to the Caribbean, Mexico and The Bahamas year-round.

That will include a full winter season through April and a summer season from May through November 2021.

“As MSC Cruises expands its presence in the U.S., the introduction of Tampa as a homeport plays an important role in our long-term deployment strategy for this region,” said Ken Muskat, EVP and Chief Operating Officer of MSC Cruises USA. “We’ve seen increased demand for cruise options from Tampa as vacationers from around the world look to explore the city and surrounding areas pre- and post-cruise.”

MSC will be sailing its Tampa-Caribbean cruises on its MSC Armonia cruise ship.

“With a range of itineraries, including short cruise options, MSC Armonia’s itineraries from Tampa are ideal for groups, including family reunions, meetings, incentives and corporate events, as well as charters,” Muskat said. “In addition, the four- and five-night options are a great opportunity for someone who has never cruised before to try cruising as a vacation option or if they are new to MSC Cruises to check out one of our ships for the first time.”

The winter 2020-21 season will include stops in Caribbean ports like Cozumel and the Costa Maya, along with calls in The Bahamas, Key West and Mexico’s Progreso port.

“We are thrilled that MSC Cruises will be offering year-round cruises from Port Tampa Bay next year,” said Paul Anderson, President and CEO of Port Tampa Bay. “MSC Cruises offers an enriching and immersive cruise experience, bringing together people from around the world. Tampa is also known for the unique experiences the city offers its residents and visitors, appealing to a diverse mix of nationalities and cultures. We couldn’t be more excited for MSC Armonia’s new home to be Port Tampa Bay.”