MSC Musica and Orchestra to Receive Yacht Club: Refit & New Itineraries 2026/27

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MSC Cruises is investing heavily in fleet modernization: On February 2, 2026, the cruise line announced that MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra will also be equipped with the exclusive "Yacht Club" concept. This means the popular "ship-within-a-ship" area will be available on a total of 19 ships by 2027. The refurbishment begins with MSC Musica in November 2026, just in time for the South American season, followed by MSC Orchestra in March 2027 before its deployment in the Eastern Mediterranean. For fans of the cruise line, this signifies a consistent luxury standard across almost all ship classes.

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Technically, this upgrade is a significant feat. Approximately 63 new suites and the private Top Sail Lounge are being constructed on the forward upper decks at the bow of the ships. However, this requires existing public areas to make way: the Aurea-class sun deck and facilities such as the card room will be removed. To create space for the new suites, the gym and spa area on many units are moving towards the aft (rear), taking the place where the disco was previously located.

To ensure guests outside the Yacht Club also benefit from the modernization, MSC is upgrading its culinary offerings. During the dry dock periods, the ships will receive popular specialty restaurants such as the "Butcher’s Cut" steakhouse and the "Kaito Sushi Bar." These additions are intended to ensure that Musica and Orchestra, despite being around 20 years old, remain competitive and offer modern amenities typically found on new builds.

The itineraries for the newly renovated ships have also been confirmed and promise excitement. MSC Musica will be deployed from Santos (Brazil), sailing to destinations in Uruguay and Argentina—including the highly sought-after New Year's Eve voyages off Copacabana. MSC Orchestra will take over classic routes in the Eastern Mediterranean from Bari, with stops in Katakolon, Istanbul, and Corfu. With this move, MSC is strategically positioning these ships for discerning travelers who wish to combine culture with comfort.