Summer 2026: New MSC Routes to Syros and Turkey

Bild: von pixabay.com
On December 17, 2025, MSC Cruises announced exciting news for all cruise enthusiasts. The cruise line is significantly expanding its portfolio for the summer of 2026. The strategic focus is on the Eastern Mediterranean. With the MSC Lirica and the MSC Divina, the company is deploying two ships on routes that include both popular classics and genuine hidden gems.

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Anyone planning their holiday for 2026 now has fresh options. MSC is responding to the trend of travelers increasingly seeking destinations that offer both culture and relaxation without being completely overcrowded. Here is an overview of the new itineraries.

Starting April 4, 2026, the MSC Lirica will be based in Venice-Marghera. From there, the ship will embark weekly on a 7-night voyage. Since the Lirica is slightly smaller than the massive new builds, it can call at ports that often remain closed to giant vessels.

A special highlight of the route is the passage through the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Standing at the railing here—whether on the starboard or port side—offers a spectacular view of the fjord-like landscape and historic buildings.

The Route in Detail:

  • Venice-Marghera (Italy): Home port.
  • Kotor (Montenegro): UNESCO World Heritage Site with a breathtaking approach.
  • Mykonos (Greece): The ship stays overnight here. This means guests can enjoy the island's famous nightlife without having to watch the clock.
  • Syros (Greece): A real novelty. Syros is considered a "Hidden Gem" of the Cyclades. It is less crowded than its neighboring islands and offers authentic Greek flair with the city of Ermoupoli.
  • Ancona (Italy): The final stop before returning to Venice, ideal for a relaxed city stroll.

For those who prefer something larger and more glamorous, the MSC Divina might be of interest. Starting April 24, 2026, this Fantasia-class ship will depart from Civitavecchia (the port of Rome). The route leads deep into the Eastern Mediterranean and onto Turkey.

The MSC Divina features the exclusive "MSC Yacht Club." This is particularly attractive for guests who enjoy the buzz of a large ship but want to retreat to a private area in between.

The Itinerary Stops:

  • Civitavecchia & Naples (Italy): Perfect for excursions to Rome or Pompeii.
  • Mykonos (Greece): A stop on this popular island is also included here.
  • Kusadasi (Turkey): The gateway to antiquity. From here, excursions to the famous excavations of Ephesus are possible.
  • Marmaris (Turkey): A new addition to the program. Marmaris is located on the "Turkish Riviera" and is known for beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere—a contrast to the history-rich Kusadasi.

With these adjustments, MSC is picking up on current travel trends. Destinations like Syros cater to the desire for "quiet-cations"—holiday spots that offer relaxation away from mass tourism. At the same time, the return to Turkish ports like Marmaris allows for greater variety in the route network.

The 2026 season starts early in April. This is ideal for anyone wanting to avoid the peak summer heat and preferring moderate temperatures for city sightseeing.