MSC Cruises to Offer New Year-Round Itinerary from La Romana, DR

Starting in November, MSC Cruises will launch a new, year-round operation from La Romana, Dominican Republic. The route will mark the first time MSC Cruises has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean.

MSC Opera will operate a brand-new itinerary with weekly departures, and guests can opt to book a seven-night sailing or extend to a back-to-back, 14-night ‘butterfly’ cruise.

Sailings are already available to book, with the first cruise departing on November 16. For full itinerary information, visit MSC Cruises’ website here. 

MSC says one of the highlights of this new itinerary is a call to Catalina Island, close to the shores of the Dominican Republic, offering guests an exclusive nature reserve experience. Pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters will allow guests to relax and unwind, while the more adventurous can snorkel the surrounding coral reefs to view their diverse ecosystems.

With multiple international airports, The Dominican Republic offers convenient connections from all over the world. MSC says Opera’s program will bring 120,000 international visitors to La Romana each year, meaning 240,000 in-bound and out-bound flight passengers, and a boost to hotels, restaurants, bars and businesses in the surrounding areas.

“MSC Cruises first started calling in the Dominican Republic in 2014, so after more than ten years it is a proud moment for me to speak about our new homeporting offering in La Romana,” said Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO. 

“With year-round operations we extend the traditional season, bringing positive economic impact to the local community and bringing 120,000 additional international visitors to La Romana each year. MSC Cruises is committed to the Dominican Republic and this new program for the long-term.”

MSC says La Romana’s year-round deployment is particularly relevant for Canadian travellers, as their demand for warm-weather escapes remains consistently strong. With direct and one-stop flight options from major Canadian gateways, the new itinerary offers travellers convenient access to the Southern Caribbean and an appealing alternative to traditional winter travel routes.

Fly & Cruise – MSC Cruises’ Fly&Cruise program offers Canadians a seamless way to reach their sailing, with flights and cruise combined into one streamlined booking. Guests benefit from 24/7 dedicated travel support, assured arrival at port, flexible flight arrangements – including the option to book flights up to three days before or after their cruise for extended stays – and the convenience of an included checked bag. 

With departures available from Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, Québec City, Halifax, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and St. John’s, Canadians can easily enjoy a year‑round Caribbean escape. 

Here are some of MSC Opera’s new itinerary highlights:

La Romana, Dominican Republic: A perfect blend of relaxation, rich culture and natural beauty featuring pristine beaches, local craft shops and delicious seafood.

Catalina Island, Dominican Republic:  The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and white sandy beaches perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing. 

Fort-de-France, Martinique: Martinique delights visitors from around the world with its renowned natural wonders, historical charm and beautiful bays and beaches. 

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands: One of the British Virgin Islands’ most picturesque and serene destinations. Visitors can explore its world-famous Baths, relax on pristine beaches, or enjoy scenic hiking trails such as Gorda Peak National Park for stunning island views. 

St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda: The capital city of Antigua and Barbuda is renowned for colourful houses, captivating historical landmarks and some of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches.