WHAT IS IT ABOUT SAILING the Caribbean that holds a place in our collective travel hearts? Crystal turquoise waters, stretches of sandy beaches, quaint villages and vibrant ports of call, but that’s not all. We think it’s the diverse and welcoming culture – that unique, historic mix of European, West African and Indigenous heritage that influences every aspect of the food, the drink, the architecture and even the way they play. From celebrations to festivals to national holidays, these islands are always exciting to visit – especially when MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise line, can take you there.
MSC Virtuosa
Allow us to introduce you to your cruising vessel, MSC Virtuosa, what the cruise line is calling a “Masterpiece at Sea.” Joining the Meraviglia Plus Class group of ships in 2021, (alongside MSC Grandiosa and the newer MSC Euribia, launched in 2023) MSC Virtuosa features the stunning Galleria Virtuosa, one of the longest promenades at sea, 112 metres of stunning LED dome ceiling that is a natural gathering place and social hub of the ship.
Cruising the Caribbean with MSC Cruises is, well, truly a breeze. Like its sister ships, MSC Virtuosa also offers its guests the opportunity to upgrade to MSC Yacht Club, the company’s “ship-within-a-ship” concept. An exclusive area of the ship that is private, this floating boutique hotel, complete with concierge services and private dining is what MSC Yacht Club is all about. This ship-within-a-ship concept is perfect for those who are seeking a retreat, but still want the excitement and energy of big-ship cruising. All the bars and restaurants are easily reserved by MSC Yacht Club’s dedicated concierge; have a dinner reservation and your butler will come to your door just in time to escort you to whatever restaurant you choose on the ship and make sure all is perfect.
MSC Yacht Club Top Sail Lounge.
In the fall of 2025 and into winter of 2026, MSC Virtuosa will spend her days showing her guests the best of the Southern Caribbean. Made up of groups of islands, such as the French Antilles (Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Martin/Sint Maarten and St Barth’s, ooh la la!), and the Lesser Antilles, with the British-influenced Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia and its distinctive natural wonder, the Pitons.
Due northeast, MSC Virtuosa also makes stops at the gorgeous twin islands of Antigua & Barbuda and St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as the British Virgin Islands. Guests have the option of booking back-to-back journeys, where they can visit more than 10 jewels of the Caribbean.
Photo: MSC Cruises
And there’s never a dull moment on board MSC Virtuosa. With five swimming pools, the 19-deck ship has everything a water enthusiast would need – dip a toe, swim a few laps, join in one of the laugh-out-loud trivia games run by on-board hosts around the pool, just chill – or try the hydrotherapy circuit at Aurea, the onboard spa. Book a table at one of the 10 restaurants, try a new cocktail or simply sip Champagne at one of the 21 bars and lounges – don’t forget to stop by the brand-new MSC Starship Club, only on MSC Virtuosa, where you’ll be served by the world’s first futuristic humanoid robotic bartender, affectionately known as Rob. We say cheers to that.
WHAT TO BOOK
Antilles: A Top Choice for Canadians with MSC Cruises
Photo: MSC Cruises
The French Antilles are a favourite for Canadians, note the cruise itinerary experts at MSC Cruises. Explore a diverse destination with rich history, world-class beaches and culinary delights inspired by French, British and Caribbean traditions, all just a short flight from home. This winter, MSC Cruises invites guests to sail the jewels of the Southern Caribbean with 7- or 14-night itineraries onboard MSC Virtuosa, departing from Fort-de-France (Martinique), Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe), or Bridgetown (Barbados).
Why Canadians love it: Direct flights and easy connections from major Canadian cities to Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre and Bridgetown. And these itineraries are perfect for families, couples or friend getaways, with MSC Virtuosa offering European-style service, gourmet dining and award-winning entertainment. Plus, two, one week-long itineraries can be combined for a 14-night immersive experience.
Courtesy of MSC
Eastern Caribbean Favourites (7 nights): embark in Fort-de-France or Pointe-à-Pitre, then onward to ports of call including Tortola, BVI, Philipsburg, St. Maarten, St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, Basseterre and St Kitts & Nevis.
Southern Caribbean Treasures (7 nights): embark in either Fort-de-France in Martinique, Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe or Bridgetown, Barbados, and make stops including Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Saint Lucia and Grenada.
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MSC Cruises’ MSC Yacht Club gives fans of cruising a next-level travel experience
