MSC Grandiosa Just Arrived in Port Canaveral for New Caribbean Cruises
Port Canaveral welcomed a major new arrival today as MSC Grandiosa officially began homeport operations, launching a full season of week-long sailings to the Caribbean and The Bahamas. The 181,000-ton ship is now the largest MSC Cruises vessel ever based at the Central Florida port — and its arrival marks a significant expansion of MSC’s presence in what is now the world’s busiest cruise port, as we reported earlier this week.
The debut gives travelers two MSC ships to choose from at Port Canaveral for the first time. MSC Seashore is shifting to three- and four-day itineraries, while MSC Grandiosa takes on the seven-day schedule, offering guests a wider range of Caribbean options from a port that draws more drive-to passengers than any other in the United States.
Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray called the deployment a milestone for both the port and MSC. “MSC is a valued partner, and we’re thrilled to have this beautiful new ship call Port Canaveral her home,” he said. “The addition of MSC Grandiosa doubles their sailing options from our Port and speaks volumes to the confidence in our ability to consistently deliver a world-class guest experience.”
For MSC Cruises North America President Lynn Torrent, the move signals the brand’s continued investment in the U.S. market. “MSC Grandiosa’s arrival marks a major milestone for us,” she said. “This is the first time we’ve had two ships sailing from Port Canaveral and the first time a Meraviglia-plus Class ship has come to the U.S.”
A traditional maritime plaque exchange took place on board to commemorate the Grandiosa’s first day in port, with Port Canaveral representatives joining Captain Danilo Cha to welcome the vessel to its new home.
A New Flagship for Port Canaveral
MSC Grandiosa’s arrival brings one of MSC’s most modern ships to Central Florida. With capacity for more than 6,300 guests and a crew of over 1,700, the ship features 2,421 staterooms and suites, a sweeping promenade, multiple entertainment venues, and expansive open-air decks anchored by the ship’s water park. The ship’s MSC Yacht Club continues to appeal to travelers looking for a private-club experience onboard, complete with dedicated butler service.
Two Distinct Seven-Day Itineraries
Travelers will find two different week-long options:
Eastern Caribbean/Bahamas:
Nassau, MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Puerto Plata, San Juan.
Western Caribbean/Bahamas:
Cozumel, Costa Maya, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay or Falmouth, and Nassau.
Guests can also combine both for a 14-day round-trip voyage from Port Canaveral.
A Growing Homeport
Port Canaveral continues to strengthen its position as a top drive-to cruise market, with approximately 75 percent of passengers arriving by car. Modern terminals, streamlined access and ample parking remain key advantages for cruise travelers seeking convenience before setting sail.
With MSC Grandiosa now in place, MSC Cruises enters 2026 with its most robust Central Florida deployment yet — and with two ships sailing year-round, Port Canaveral’s Caribbean footprint continues to grow.
Caitlin Sullivan began her career with Caribbean Journal as Arts and Culture editor before shifting to travel full time. She writes frequently on the Caribbean cruise industry, flight networks and broader travel news. Her most frequent Caribbean destination? Nassau.
