MSC Poesia

Overview: Stylish Italian Elegance at Sea

MSC Poesia is a sophisticated ship from MSC Cruises, offering a refined blend of Italian style, comfort, and modern cruising experiences. Launched in 2008, the ship features stunning décor, spacious public areas, and a warm, international atmosphere. MSC Poesia is popular with couples, families, and groups seeking a relaxing holiday filled with culture, entertainment, and adventure.

Accommodation & Relaxation

MSC Poesia boasts a wide selection of cabins and suites, from comfortable interior staterooms to luxurious balcony suites with panoramic sea views. All accommodations are designed for comfort, featuring elegant furnishings, modern amenities, and thoughtful layout. Whether relaxing on your private balcony or enjoying room service, guests experience a calm and inviting retreat.

Dining & Culinary Experiences

Dining on MSC Poesia is a global journey. The ship offers beautifully curated menus blending Mediterranean favorites with international cuisine. Guests can enjoy elegant evenings in the main dining rooms, indulge in freshly made sushi at Kaito Sushi Bar, or relax with buffet dining at Villa Pompeiana. With fine wines, rich Italian coffee, and artisanal desserts, every meal is a culinary delight.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Days and nights aboard MSC Poesia are filled with entertainment. The impressive theatre hosts live shows, music performances, and cultural productions, while bars and lounges offer dancing, themed parties, and live piano or jazz music. For a sophisticated evening, the Il Grappolo d’Oro Wine Bar offers premium wine tastings, while families can enjoy games and fun activities together throughout the ship.

Activities & Recreation

There’s no shortage of fun and relaxation aboard MSC Poesia. Guests can unwind at the MSC Aurea Spa, featuring Balinese massage therapies, a thermal area, and beauty treatments. Outdoor pools, whirlpools, and sun decks offer the perfect escape for sunny sea days. Active cruisers can enjoy the sports court, fitness center, mini-golf, and dance or fitness classes. Children and teens have dedicated clubs packed with games, events, and supervised activities.

A Floating Resort for All Ages

With elegant design, immersive entertainment, and exciting port itineraries, MSC Poesia creates memorable holidays for all types of travelers. Whether savoring fine cuisine, relaxing with ocean views, discovering new destinations, or soaking up nightlife onboard, guests discover a cruise experience that blends comfort, culture, and fun in true MSC style.

Discover the Spirit of Hamburg

Hamburg is one of Germany’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, known for its rich maritime heritage, modern architecture, and energetic urban lifestyle. As Europe’s third-largest port, the city blends historic charm with contemporary culture, creating a unique destination for travelers of all ages. From medieval streets to futuristic waterfront districts, Hamburg delivers a fascinating mix of old and new.

Speicherstadt & HafenCity — Where History Meets Innovation

No visit to Hamburg is complete without exploring Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Red-brick buildings, charming canals, and iron bridges make this area a photographer’s dream. Just next door lies HafenCity, a cutting-edge urban development full of modern architecture, fashionable cafés, and cultural spaces. The impressive Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, with its wave-shaped glass design, stands as an icon of the waterfront.

Culture, Cuisine & Nightlife

Hamburg offers an exciting culinary and cultural scene. Traditional German dishes, fresh seafood from the North Sea, and international cuisine can be enjoyed in cozy taverns or stylish restaurants across the city. Hamburg’s nightlife is legendary, especially in the St. Pauli district and the famous Reeperbahn, known for live music, bars, cabarets, and entertainment venues. Whether you're after craft beer, jazz evenings, or dancing until sunrise, Hamburg has it all.

Parks, Lakes & Scenic Walks

Despite its urban buzz, Hamburg is remarkably green. The scenic Alster Lake is perfect for boat rides, waterside walks, and picnics, while Planten un Blomen Park offers tranquil gardens, ponds, playgrounds, and beautiful evening light shows in summer. For cyclists and walkers, the riverside paths along the Elbe provide peaceful views of the port and passing ships.

Shopping & Local Lifestyle

From designer boutiques to thrift shops and lively markets, Hamburg is a shopping paradise. Jungfernstieg and Mönckebergstraße are lined with fashion stores and brand names, while alternative neighborhoods like Schanzenviertel offer vintage clothes, unique crafts, and street cafés. With stylish locals, trendy restaurants, and bustling markets, Hamburg’s lifestyle is engaging and full of character.

World-Class Shows & Theater Productions

Guests aboard MSC Poesia are treated to exciting nightly entertainment in the ship’s grand Carlo Felice Theatre. The venue hosts spectacular productions ranging from musicals and dance performances to acrobatics, live vocalists, and themed theatrical shows. With a fresh program every evening, there’s always something new to enjoy, ensuring memorable nights at sea for guests of all ages.

Live Music, Bars & Nightlife

Music lovers will find plenty to explore on MSC Poesia. The ship features a variety of lounges and bars offering everything from smooth jazz and piano classics to upbeat Latin rhythms and pop hits. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails at the Il Grappolo d’Oro Wine Bar, dance the night away at the S32 Disco, or relax with live performances in intimate settings throughout the ship. Whether you're looking for high-energy nightlife or a laid-back evening drink, there’s a venue to suit every mood.

Casinos, Games & Interactive Fun

Entertainment on MSC Poesia goes beyond shows and music — the ship offers plenty of exciting activities throughout the day and night. The Casino Royal invites guests to try their luck at slot machines and classic table games, while the onboard entertainment team hosts trivia contests, dance lessons, karaoke nights, talent shows, and themed parties. From family-friendly events to adults-only evenings, the fun never stops.

Family Entertainment & Youth Programs

MSC Poesia is packed with entertainment options for younger cruisers too. Dedicated kids and teens clubs offer supervised activities, video games, tournaments, movie nights, and creative workshops. With mascot characters, poolside games, sports competitions, and evening entertainment designed just for families, children and parents alike enjoy unforgettable shared moments on board.

Entertainment for Every Style of Traveller

Whether you’re drawn to glamorous theater productions, lively dance parties, relaxed live music, or playful family activities, MSC Poesia delivers a rich variety of entertainment day and night. Every moment onboard is designed to inspire joy, bring people together, and create lasting memories across generations.

Modern Rotterdam: A City of Architecture & Innovation

Rotterdam is one of Europe’s most modern and dynamic cities, famous for its futuristic skyline and cutting-edge design. Rebuilt after World War II, the city has become an architectural hotspot showcasing bold and imaginative structures. From the iconic Cube Houses to the soaring Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam blends creativity and innovation in every neighborhood, making it a paradise for architecture and photography lovers.

Maritime Heritage & Waterfront Attractions

As Europe's largest port, Rotterdam has a fascinating maritime history. The Maritime Museum and historical ships of the Leuvehaven offer deep insights into the city’s seafaring past. Along the waterfront, cafés and restaurants line the riverbanks, offering spectacular views of passing boats and cruise ships. A harbor cruise is a popular way to see the port up close and appreciate the scale of Rotterdam’s international trade.

Food, Shopping & Urban Lifestyle

Rotterdam offers a vibrant cultural scene with global cuisine, trendy shopping districts, and lively nightlife. Markthal Rotterdam, a massive horseshoe-shaped food hall, is a must-visit with its dozens of street-food stalls and international eateries. For shopping, visitors can explore Lijnbaan and Beurstraverse, while the Witte de Withstraat district is the place to experience Rotterdam’s boutique stores, art galleries, and stylish cocktail bars.

Parks, Nature & Public Spaces

Despite its urban energy, Rotterdam features many peaceful green spaces perfect for walking and relaxing. Het Park near the Euromast tower offers beautiful landscaped gardens and picnicking areas with views of the skyline. The riverside paths and bike routes around the city invite locals and visitors to enjoy Rotterdam’s fresh air, outdoor cafés, and scenic waterfronts.

Art, Culture & Museums

Rotterdam’s cultural scene is rich and diverse. The Kunsthal and Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (when reopened) highlight world-class exhibitions ranging from classic masterpieces to contemporary art. Street art and public sculptures are also scattered throughout the city, giving every visit an artistic flair. Live music venues and theatres ensure that evening entertainment is always vibrant and engaging.

Step Into Medieval Bruges

Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North,” is one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities. With cobbled streets, ancient bridges, and Gothic architecture, the city feels like a living fairy tale. Every corner reveals historic charm and timeless elegance, making Bruges a dream destination for romantic getaways, history lovers, and culture seekers.

Canals & Scenic City Views

The enchanting canals of Bruges are its most iconic feature. A peaceful boat tour offers breathtaking views of charming townhouses, stone bridges, and hidden gardens. Whether exploring the city by water or wandering along the canal paths on foot, the scenery delivers stunning postcard-perfect moments at every turn. Evening strolls are especially magical as the city lights reflect on the water.

Historic Squares & Cultural Treasures

Bruges’ central square, Markt, is the beating heart of the city. Dominated by the impressive Belfry Tower, it is surrounded by colorful guild houses and lively cafés. Climb the Belfry’s 366 steps for panoramic views across the city’s rooftops. Nearby, the Burg Square features the stunning Town Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, highlighting Bruges’ deep religious and architectural heritage.

Chocolate, Beer & Culinary Delights

Food lovers will instantly feel at home in Bruges. The city is famous for its artisanal Belgian chocolate shops, breweries, and cozy cafés serving traditional dishes like Flemish stew and mussels with fries. Beer enthusiasts can tour renowned breweries such as De Halve Maan, while chocolate tastings offer a sweet introduction to Belgium’s finest craftsmanship. Whether enjoying waffles on the go or dining by candlelight, Bruges provides an unforgettable culinary experience.

Art, Museums & Creative Culture

Bruges is a cultural treasure trove, home to world-class museums and artistic heritage. The Groeninge Museum showcases masterpieces by Flemish painters, while the Historium brings medieval life to reality through immersive exhibits. Beyond museums, boutique shops, lace stores, and artisan markets highlight the city’s craftsmanship. Festivals and music events throughout the year add to Bruges’ vibrant cultural scene.

Gateway to Northern France

Le Havre is a coastal gem in Normandy, offering a refreshing mix of modern architecture, maritime heritage, and seaside relaxation. As an important port city, Le Havre welcomes visitors with wide boulevards, open squares, and picturesque waterfront views. Whether exploring the harbour, strolling along the promenade, or watching ships depart, the city’s maritime atmosphere is always present.

Modern Architecture & UNESCO Heritage

Le Havre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique post-war reconstruction led by architect Auguste Perret. The city’s concrete architectural style is both striking and artistic. The Saint Joseph’s Church, with its dramatic 107-metre tower and colourful stained-glass panels, is the most iconic landmark and offers a breathtaking interior filled with filtered light. A walk through the city centre reveals urban beauty in its purest form.

Museums, Art & Culture

Art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Le Havre. The MuMa – André Malraux Museum of Modern Art houses one of France’s most impressive impressionist collections, featuring works by Monet, Renoir, Boudin, and more. Throughout the city, cultural venues host concerts, exhibitions, and festivals celebrating Normandy’s rich artistic spirit. From street sculptures to theatre performances, Le Havre delivers a culturally immersive experience.

Beaches & Scenic Coastal Walks

Le Havre’s seafront is a highlight of any visit. The long pebble beach and promenade are perfect for sunsets, seaside dining, or relaxing with ocean views. Active travellers can cycle or walk along the coastal paths, while families enjoy playgrounds, cafés, and summertime activities. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby cliffs of Étretat — with their dramatic sea arches — make an unforgettable day trip.

Dining, Shopping & Local Lifestyle

Le Havre offers a mix of authentic French dining and modern urban style. Fresh seafood restaurants and brasseries serve Normandy specialities, including oysters, mussels, and creamy regional cheeses. The city centre features a range of shops and boutiques, while the Les Halles market is perfect for tasting local produce. Warm cafés and vibrant nightlife venues provide a welcoming finish to a day of exploring.

Disembarking MSC Poesia in Southampton marks the end of a memorable cruise journey, and the port’s smooth and efficient operations ensure a comfortable conclusion to the trip. Passengers are guided through a clear and well-organised process, with announcements and signage directing everyone to the correct areas for passport control, luggage collection, and onward travel connections. Friendly port staff and MSC crew members are available to answer questions and offer support, making the transition from ship to shore relaxed and stress-free.

Luggage Collection & Customs

After leaving the ship at the scheduled time, guests proceed to the modern terminal where luggage awaits, arranged by colour-coded tags matching the assigned disembarkation group. The system keeps queues minimal and helps travellers locate bags easily. Customs formalities are straightforward, and for passengers travelling with mobility needs or assistance requests, support services are readily available.

Transport & Travel Connections

Southampton is one of the UK’s most convenient cruise ports for onward travel. Taxis and private transfers are located just outside the terminal, while shuttle and coach services connect travellers to London and other major cities. Southampton Central Station, only a short drive away, offers direct trains to London, Birmingham, Manchester, and beyond. For those flying home, London Heathrow and Gatwick airports are accessible via direct coach or private transport.

Extend Your Journey in Southampton

Many travellers choose to spend additional time in Southampton before heading home. From the SeaCity Museum and the Titanic Trail to waterfront dining and shopping at Westquay, the city offers enjoyable experiences for a day trip or overnight stay. For visitors with more time, nearby destinations such as the New Forest National Park, Winchester, and the Isle of Wight make excellent extensions to a cruise holiday.

A Memorable End to a Seafaring Adventure

Disembarking from MSC Poesia at Southampton offers a seamless and well-organised finale to a rewarding journey at sea. Whether guests continue travelling or head home with unforgettable memories, the friendly service and efficient port operations ensure the cruise experience ends on a positive and comfortable note.