MSC Magnifica Returns to Service After Major Fleet Refurbishment
MSC Magnifica has returned to service following a significant refurbishment programme, marking a new chapter for the ship as it resumes operations for MSC Cruises. After spending nearly two months in dry dock at Palumbo Malta Shipyard, the refreshed vessel has re-entered service and has begun its winter sailings in the Mediterranean.
The refurbishment represents one of the most extensive upgrades undertaken on the ship since it entered service in 2010. Designed to align MSC Magnifica more closely with the cruise line’s newer tonnage, the enhancements focus on premium experiences, wellness facilities, and dining, while preparing the vessel for a series of long-duration itineraries.
A key highlight of the upgrade is the introduction of the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ signature “ship-within-a-ship” luxury concept. While the new Yacht Club spaces have been added during the refit, they will officially debut in summer 2026. Once operational, the Yacht Club will offer guests a private lounge, dedicated dining, personalised butler service and exclusive outdoor areas, significantly elevating the ship’s premium offering.
Culinary options have also been expanded with the addition of two new specialty restaurants: Butcher’s Cut, MSC’s popular American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, which brings Japanese cuisine and live sushi preparation onboard. These venues are designed to broaden the dining appeal of MSC Magnifica and align the ship’s food and beverage portfolio with newer vessels across the fleet.
The wellness experience onboard has been comprehensively refreshed. The MSC Aurea Spa has been redesigned to create a more modern and immersive relaxation environment, while the upgraded Technogym Fitness Centre introduces new workout studios, enhanced equipment and a Gentleman’s Barber. An expanded outdoor Aurea area further supports MSC Cruises’ focus on holistic wellbeing and open-air relaxation.
Following its return to service, MSC Magnifica will continue sailing in the Mediterranean through the winter season. In January, the ship will embark on a 132-day world cruise, one of the longest itineraries offered by the brand and a flagship product within MSC Cruises’ global deployment strategy.
Looking ahead to summer 2026, MSC Magnifica is scheduled to operate from Warnemünde, Germany, offering Northern Europe itineraries before repositioning back to the Mediterranean later in the year. The vessel is also slated to operate additional world cruises in 2027 and 2028, reinforcing its role as a long-haul and destination-focused platform within the fleet.
Meanwhile, MSC Cruises has confirmed that sister ship MSC Poesia will undergo similar refurbishment work in February 2026, ahead of her deployment in Alaska in May 2026, as the line continues to modernise its mid-sized ships to meet evolving guest expectations.
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