MSC Cruises reveals summer itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean for 2026
If you enjoy the format of seeing several countries in one trip without wasting time on daily transfers between hotels, you should take a look at MSC Cruises' new summer program. For 2026, the company has planned two seven-day cruise itineraries aboard MSC Lirica and MSC Divina.
What will be on the itineraries
MSC Lirica is set to depart from Venice-Margera weekly, starting April 4, 2026. The itinerary includes Kotor in Montenegro, the Greek island of Mykonos with an overnight stay in port, the island of Syros, which will be a new stop for the season, as well as Ancona on the eastern coast of Italy.
This route is suitable for those who want to combine the atmosphere of the Adriatic with the Greek islands. The overnight stay in Mykonos looks particularly attractive: it allows more time not just for a quick excursion but to experience the island more leisurely in the evening.
The second option - from central Italy
MSC Divina is set to start its seven-day voyages on April 24, 2026, from Civitavecchia - the port serving Rome. The announced program features ports in Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, and Italy, making this option convenient for travelers who want to add a few days in Rome to their cruise.
Both offerings are designed for round trips: the ship returns to the departure port after seven nights. This reduces logistical hassles - there is no need to separately plan transfers between different cities or return to the starting point by other means of transport.
Is it worth going
Yes, if you value diverse stops, a maritime vacation format, and the opportunity to see several destinations in one trip. The itineraries combine historical ports, islands, and major cities, so it’s unlikely that you will be bored on board or during excursions.
At the same time, this is more of an option for those who enjoy a packed schedule rather than a long stay on one beach. In seven nights, there will be plenty of experiences, but time in each port may only be enough for a brief acquaintance with the place.
Which do you prefer: the route from Venice with an overnight in Mykonos or the cruise from the Rome area?