The US Coast Guard detained MSC Cruises’ ship MSC Poesia at the Port of Miami on November 1, 2026, after identifying deficiencies with systems onboard during a pre-departure inspection. The detention occurred with passengers still on board, preventing the vessel from sailing as scheduled.
Cancelation of Scheduled 11-Night Caribbean Cruise
MSC Poesia was set to embark on an 11-night Caribbean cruise departing November 1, 2026. The itinerary included port calls in Jamaica, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Belize. Following the detention, the cruise was cancelled after a two-day delay.
Statements from US Coast Guard and MSC Cruises
Captain Frank Florio, commander of US Coast Guard Sector Miami, said the Coast Guard had “identified
deficiencies with systems on board the vessel” and was working with MSC Cruises to address these issues. He confirmed the ship would remain detained until cleared for departure. MSC Cruises acknowledged a regulatory matter that surfaced prior to departure, stating, “Despite our efforts to address the matter, we were unable to resolve it in time for the sailing to proceed.” The cruise line apologized for the disruption to guests and confirmed the cancellation decision was difficult.
Passenger Impact and Support Measures
Over 2,550 passengers booked on MSC Poesia’s November 1 sailing were affected by the cancellation. MSC Cruises is providing full refunds and 100% cruise
credits to these passengers. The line is also offering assistance to help passengers return home after the cancelled itinerary.
MSC Poesia will remain docked at Miami until the Coast Guard confirms the identified deficiencies have been corrected. MSC Cruises is cooperating with authorities throughout the ongoing examination process.
The ship, with a capacity exceeding 2,550 passengers, is currently scheduled to depart from Miami on a 10-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on November 12, 2026.
