MSC Poesia will end passenger operations earlier than planned, concluding its current itinerary in Southampton, England, on February 13, 2026, instead of Valletta, Malta, where it was originally scheduled to finish passenger operations on February 23.

While the cruise line has not disclosed the exact reason behind the sudden change, the cancellation comes ahead of the vessel’s planned dry dock. Sources indicate that MSC Poesia is now expected to sail to Malta without guests for maintenance work at the Palumbo Shipyard.

Passengers booked to embark between February 8 and February 13, 2026, in ports including Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le Havre, and Southampton, have been notified of the cancellation. Affected guests are being offered free cancellations or alternative rebooking options, according to MSC.

This early shutdown effectively marks MSC Poesia’s final European season for the foreseeable future. After completing its repositioning, the ship is set to play a key role in MSC Cruises’ expansion in North America.

Beginning in spring, MSC Poesia will head west on a series of repositioning voyages to Seattle, launching the company’s first-ever Alaska cruise season. Longer term, the ship is expected to remain focused on the U.S. market, sailing Alaska itineraries in summer and Caribbean cruises during winter months.