Published on
October 18, 2025
The MSC Preziosa has officially embarked on a remarkable journey from Germany to South America, setting sail on a trans-Atlantic repositioning voyage that will open the region’s vibrant 2025-26 cruise season. Operated by MSC Cruises, the luxury vessel began its voyage earlier this month, charting a course from Hamburg to Santos, Brazil. This grand 21-night itinerary marks the beginning of a new chapter for Brazil’s cruise tourism, offering travelers an exceptional opportunity to experience both European elegance and South American warmth on a single voyage. The ship, which accommodates around 3,500 guests, is visiting several iconic ports across France, England, Spain, and Portugal before crossing the Atlantic. Once it reaches Brazilian shores, the vessel will inaugurate a series of regional itineraries exploring stunning coastal destinations in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. The MSC Preziosa’s voyage symbolizes not just a repositioning route but also the strengthening of maritime links between Europe and South America, highlighting the growing appeal of luxury cruise travel across continents.
Journey Across Continents: From Hamburg to Santos
The journey of the MSC Preziosa began in early October 2025, departing from the historic port city of Hamburg, Germany. This voyage has been carefully designed as a trans-Atlantic crossing, a tradition that connects the cruise seasons of Europe and South America. Over the course of 21 nights, guests aboard the vessel are being treated to a panoramic maritime adventure that showcases the beauty of both continents.
Before arriving in Santos, the largest port in Brazil, the ship will call at several renowned destinations in Western Europe. The ports of Southampton in England and Le Havre in France offer glimpses of historic charm, while La Coruña and Gijón in Spain provide a blend of coastal culture and Mediterranean flair. The itinerary further includes Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands and Funchal in Madeira, Portugal, both celebrated for their sun-soaked landscapes and warm climates.
These stops not only enhance the travel experience but also build anticipation for the ship’s arrival in South America, where the MSC Preziosa will continue its journey through tropical seas and lively cultural ports.
Arrival in South America and Regional Exploration
Upon completion of its Atlantic crossing, the MSC Preziosa will make its first stops in Brazil, visiting Salvador, Ilhéus, Búzios, and Rio de Janeiro. These destinations are renowned for their beaches, vibrant music, and rich cultural heritage, offering travelers an authentic taste of Brazilian life.
The ship’s arrival will also mark the beginning of the 2025-26 cruise season in Brazil, with MSC Preziosa being the first vessel to arrive for regular operations. From October 26, 2025, the ship will commence a series of three- to eight-night itineraries departing from Santos, catering to both local and international passengers eager to explore South America’s coastal treasures.
Diverse Itineraries Across Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay
The itineraries designed for the MSC Preziosa will encompass a variety of destinations along the South American coastline. From the bustling ports of Salvador and Angra dos Reis to the cosmopolitan cities of Buenos Aires in Argentina and Montevideo in Uruguay, passengers will experience a blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Each voyage will offer a unique combination of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and leisurely onboard experiences. Travelers will have opportunities to immerse themselves in the charm of South American traditions, enjoy excursions to local landmarks, and appreciate the serene seascapes along the Atlantic coast.
New Homeport and Regional Expansion
In a notable development for MSC Cruises, the MSC Preziosa will introduce Balneário Camboriú as a new homeport in Brazil. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to broadening its footprint in the South American market and enhancing accessibility for regional travelers.
The inclusion of Balneário Camboriú—a rising tourism hub known for its beaches and modern skyline—signals a strategic move to diversify embarkation points beyond traditional ports like Santos and Rio de Janeiro. This initiative is expected to boost the local tourism economy while offering travelers greater flexibility in their cruise planning.
Fleet Strength and Seasonal Deployment
The MSC Preziosa will be one of several ships deployed by MSC Cruises in South America for the 2025-26 season. The fleet will include other popular vessels such as the MSC Seaview, MSC Fantasia, MSC Sinfonia, and MSC Armonia, each catering to different segments of travelers.
Together, these ships will operate itineraries departing from a wide range of ports across Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, including Maceió, Itajaí, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. The expanded fleet presence underscores MSC Cruises’ growing influence in the region and its focus on making luxury sea travel more accessible to a broader audience.
A Growing Cruise Market in South America
The 2025-26 season will not only see the dominance of MSC Cruises but also increased activity from other global cruise operators. Costa Cruises will maintain a strong presence with the deployment of the Costa Diadema and Costa Favolosa, both serving local and regional markets. Additionally, renowned international lines such as Princess, Oceania, Celebrity, and Silversea are scheduled to operate itineraries in the region, reflecting the expanding appeal of South American cruising.
This surge in activity highlights the region’s rising prominence in the global cruise industry. The combination of diverse ports, cultural richness, and scenic coastlines positions South America as a key player in luxury and leisure tourism.
A Season of Promise for South American Cruising
The repositioning of the MSC Preziosa from Germany to Brazil marks a significant milestone for the upcoming cruise season in South America. As the vessel transitions from European waters to tropical shores, it symbolizes the seamless connection between two continents through the art of ocean travel. With its varied itineraries, new homeport, and commitment to quality experiences, MSC Cruises continues to shape the future of maritime tourism in the southern hemisphere.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, travelers across the world will have the opportunity to discover South America’s coastal wonders aboard world-class ships, reaffirming the region’s status as one of the most captivating cruise destinations in the world.
