MSC Meraviglia to Sail in South America in 2027-28

MSC Cruises is shifting the MSC Meraviglia to South America starting in winter 2027-28, marking a major expansion of the line's capacity in the region. The 4,500-passenger ship will sail from eight homeports across Brazil and Argentina, including Santos, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Buenos Aires, offering cruises to Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

The Meraviglia replaces the MSC Seaview on the Santos-based itineraries that MSC operated in 2026-27, bringing a newer and larger vessel to a port the line considers strategically important. Built in 2017, the Meraviglia is one of MSC's modern flagships and will join four other ships already planned for the region: the MSC Virtuosa, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida, and MSC Musica. This marks the first season MSC will operate two Meraviglia-class ships in South America simultaneously.

The redeployment came after MSC cancelled its planned 2027-28 Middle East season. Rather than idle the Meraviglia, the company redirected it to South America while assigning the newly delivered MSC World Asia to cover the cancelled Middle Eastern routes. MSC Cruises made the announcement through Adrian Ursilli, its Brazil country manager, at the 8th CLIA Brazil Forum in Brasília.

All five ships operating in South America during 2027-28 will offer MSC's Yacht Club suite complex, a luxury tier that grants exclusive amenities and venue access. The line plans to release full itinerary details and open bookings in the coming weeks.

For cruise passengers planning a 2027-28 South American voyage, the Meraviglia's arrival signals more ship options and increased capacity from Brazil and Argentina. The newer vessel typically features updated dining venues, stateroom designs, and entertainment compared to smaller ships in MSC's fleet.

Originally reported by Cruise Maven, Cruise Maven News (September 1, 2026).