In early November, MSC Cruises celebrated the launch of MSC Seascape from Galveston, Texas.
We spoke with Erin Douglas, senior vice president of U.S. trade sales for the line, about why the expansion is strategically beneficial to regional travel agents and their clients. We also asked about MSC’s upcoming deployment in Alaska, as well as potential destinations to come.
Why is now the right time for MSC Cruises to offer voyages from Texas?
We’ve seen tremendous momentum in North America, so expanding to Texas is a natural next step. Galveston is one of the fastest-growing cruise ports in the country and provides easy access as a drive market for regional guests, making it even easier to embark on a cruise vacation for a large portion of the Southwest.
As we continue to grow our U.S. offerings, sailing from Galveston allows more travelers to experience MSC Cruises’ signature blend of European style and American comfort. We are proud to have Galveston serve as our fourth U.S. homeport, and we are excited to bring MSC Seascape’s award-winning and family-friendly offerings to more guests than ever before.
The line's first sailings to Alaska will be onboard MSC Poesia.
Credit: 2025 MSC CruisesHow does this new deployment fit into the line’s overall growth strategy in the U.S., extending next to Alaska?
Both our expansion to Galveston and our upcoming deployment to Alaska underscore MSC Cruises’ long-term commitment to North America. We’re thoughtfully broadening our presence to serve guests coast to coast, while highlighting the diversity of our fleet and itineraries. The new MSC World America in Miami, MSC Seascape in Galveston and our first sailings to Alaska onboard MSC Poesia in 2026 all work together to strengthen our brand presence and provide new opportunities for our advisor partners nationwide.
Are there any other routes on the horizon, such as coastal California or Mexican Riviera cruises?
We’re always evaluating opportunities that align with our strategic vision for North America. For now, our focus is on ensuring a successful launch in Galveston and delivering an exceptional experience in Alaska.
As we introduce new ships and continue investing in port infrastructure, we’ll explore additional markets where MSC Cruises can bring its distinctive blend of European style and American comfort to new audiences.
In the meantime, what can clients expect from MSC in Texas that will set the brand apart from regional competitors?
Guests sailing from Galveston can expect an experience that blends the warmth of Texas hospitality with the sophistication and global flair of MSC Cruises. We have added a touch of Texas to MSC Seascape, so clients will not only see the seamless blend of European style and American comfort but also feel at home with expanded menu items (including familiar local flavors), local sports teams on the television, country music bands, local beers, award-winning entertainment and more.
For those seeking an elevated escape, MSC Yacht Club delivers personalized service and exclusivity paired with big-ship amenities. We’ve customized this ship for the Texas market while keeping the international ambience that defines our brand. The best way to put it is, 'Let’s holiday, but make it Texas.'
We’ve customized this ship for the Texas market while keeping the international ambience that defines our brand. The best way to put it is, 'Let’s holiday, but make it Texas.'
Why else should agents book clients on an MSC sailing?
Travel advisors are essential partners in our growth, and this is an exciting time to sell MSC Cruises. With MSC Seascape launching from Galveston, advisors can offer clients an award-winning, family-friendly ship that combines value with elevated experiences, competitive pricing, diverse dining, high-tech entertainment and the exclusive MSC Yacht Club.
We’ve also made it even easier to introduce new clients through our Status Match Program and expanded trade support tools. As we grow our U.S. presence, from Florida and New York to Galveston and soon Alaska, there are more opportunities than ever for advisors to grow with MSC Cruises.
