If you've been dreaming of exploring Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, or the stunning Chilean fjords on MSC Cruises this season, I have some disappointing news. MSC has cancelled several South America itineraries for 2026-27, leaving thousands of passengers scrambling for alternatives. After sailing with MSC 8 times and dealing with my own share of cruise disruptions, I'm here to walk you through exactly what your options are and how to make the best of this frustrating situation.
MSC cancelled their entire South America season aboard MSC Splendida, affecting approximately 15 sailings between November 2026 and March 2027. These were primarily 10-14 day cruises departing from Santos, Brazil, visiting ports like Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn, and the Chilean fjords.
The official reason? "Operational challenges and port scheduling conflicts." But having sailed these routes before, I can tell you the real issues: South America's port infrastructure struggles with larger ships, fuel costs are astronomical, and currency fluctuations make these itineraries financially risky for cruise lines.
Here's the timeline that matters for your rebooking:
MSC is offering three compensation packages, and honestly, option two is your best bet if you're flexible:
Option 1: Full Cash Refund
You get back exactly what you paid, including taxes and fees. No compensation for flights, hotels, or the emotional damage of a ruined vacation. Processing takes 6-8 weeks to hit your original payment method.
Option 2: 125% Future Cruise Credit + Perks
This is the sweet spot. You get 125% of what you paid as onboard credit, plus priority booking for 2027 South America sailings (if they happen), plus one free specialty dining experience. The credit works on any MSC sailing through December 2027.
Option 3: Immediate Transfer to Alternative Itinerary
MSC will move you to a comparable cruise at the same price point. The catch? "Comparable" means similar length and ship class, not necessarily the destinations you wanted. I've seen people moved from South America fjords to Caribbean beaches – not exactly the same experience.
After 40+ cruises, including three South America sailings, here are the alternatives that won't leave you feeling cheated:
MSC Mediterranean + Canary Islands (MSC World Europa)
Sailing from Barcelona, this 14-day route hits Palma, Gibraltar, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. You get dramatic volcanic landscapes similar to Patagonia, excellent wine (like Argentina), and MSC's newest ship with the best specialty restaurants.
Celebrity Infinity South America (Still Operating)
Celebrity is still running their South America program. Their 14-day Buenos Aires to Valparaiso cruise covers nearly identical ports to MSC's cancelled route. Expect to pay 30-40% more, but Celebrity's service and food quality are significantly better than MSC.
Holland America Zaandam South America
HAL's 16-day route from Fort Lauderdale includes Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Chilean fjords. The ship is older but impeccably maintained, and HAL's shore excursions in South America are legendary. Book soon – they're filling up fast with MSC refugees.
Here's how to maximize your rebooking success:
If You Want South America in 2026-27:
Book Celebrity or Holland America immediately. Princess still has availability on Crown Princess for their February 2027 South America season, but prices are climbing daily as MSC passengers rebook.
If You're Willing to Wait Until 2027-28:
Take MSC's 125% credit and wait. Historically, MSC returns to cancelled routes within two years, often with better ships. Plus, that extra 25% credit could upgrade you from an interior to a balcony.
If You Want to Stay in MSC's Fleet:
MSC Seascape's Caribbean program offers excellent value, and MSC World Europa in the Mediterranean provides a premium experience with their new ship amenities. Both routes have good availability through fall 2026.
Rebooking isn't just about the cruise fare – here's what else to consider:
Flight Changes: MSC won't cover your flight change fees, but many credit cards offer trip cancellation insurance. Check if you're covered before eating those $200+ change fees.
Hotel Cancellations: Most hotels in Buenos Aires and Santiago offer full refunds if cancelled 48+ hours in advance. But that boutique hotel in Rio? You might be stuck with the bill.
Shore Excursion Transfers: If you booked MSC shore excursions, those credits can transfer to your new cruise – even on a different itinerary. Don't let them expire!
Between you and me, this cancellation signals bigger issues with MSC's South America strategy. The region is expensive to operate in, ports are challenging, and demand hasn't recovered to pre-2020 levels.
My prediction? MSC won't return to regular South America service until 2028 at the earliest. If South America is on your bucket list, book with Celebrity, Holland America, or Princess – they're committed long-term to these routes.
Bottom Line: Take the 125% credit if you're flexible with destinations, or demand the full refund if South America was your dream trip. Either way, book your alternative quickly – the best options are disappearing fast.
Dealing with cruise cancellations is never fun, but with the right strategy, you can still salvage an amazing vacation. Have questions about rebooking or want to share your cancellation experience? Join the conversation in our MSC Cruises forum where fellow cruisers are sharing real-time rebooking tips and alternative suggestions.
What Exactly Got Cancelled and Why
MSC cancelled their entire South America season aboard MSC Splendida, affecting approximately 15 sailings between November 2026 and March 2027. These were primarily 10-14 day cruises departing from Santos, Brazil, visiting ports like Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn, and the Chilean fjords.
The official reason? "Operational challenges and port scheduling conflicts." But having sailed these routes before, I can tell you the real issues: South America's port infrastructure struggles with larger ships, fuel costs are astronomical, and currency fluctuations make these itineraries financially risky for cruise lines.
Here's the timeline that matters for your rebooking:
- Cancellation notices went out starting January 15, 2026
- Full refunds must be processed within 90 days (by April 15, 2026)
- Future cruise credits expire December 31, 2027
- Alternative booking priority expires March 1, 2026
Your Compensation Options: What MSC Actually Owes You
MSC is offering three compensation packages, and honestly, option two is your best bet if you're flexible:
Option 1: Full Cash Refund
You get back exactly what you paid, including taxes and fees. No compensation for flights, hotels, or the emotional damage of a ruined vacation. Processing takes 6-8 weeks to hit your original payment method.
Option 2: 125% Future Cruise Credit + Perks
This is the sweet spot. You get 125% of what you paid as onboard credit, plus priority booking for 2027 South America sailings (if they happen), plus one free specialty dining experience. The credit works on any MSC sailing through December 2027.
Option 3: Immediate Transfer to Alternative Itinerary
MSC will move you to a comparable cruise at the same price point. The catch? "Comparable" means similar length and ship class, not necessarily the destinations you wanted. I've seen people moved from South America fjords to Caribbean beaches – not exactly the same experience.
Alternative Routes That Actually Deliver Similar Experiences
After 40+ cruises, including three South America sailings, here are the alternatives that won't leave you feeling cheated:
MSC Mediterranean + Canary Islands (MSC World Europa)
Sailing from Barcelona, this 14-day route hits Palma, Gibraltar, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. You get dramatic volcanic landscapes similar to Patagonia, excellent wine (like Argentina), and MSC's newest ship with the best specialty restaurants.
Celebrity Infinity South America (Still Operating)
Celebrity is still running their South America program. Their 14-day Buenos Aires to Valparaiso cruise covers nearly identical ports to MSC's cancelled route. Expect to pay 30-40% more, but Celebrity's service and food quality are significantly better than MSC.
Holland America Zaandam South America
HAL's 16-day route from Fort Lauderdale includes Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Chilean fjords. The ship is older but impeccably maintained, and HAL's shore excursions in South America are legendary. Book soon – they're filling up fast with MSC refugees.
Rebooking Strategy: Timing Is Everything
Here's how to maximize your rebooking success:
If You Want South America in 2026-27:
Book Celebrity or Holland America immediately. Princess still has availability on Crown Princess for their February 2027 South America season, but prices are climbing daily as MSC passengers rebook.
If You're Willing to Wait Until 2027-28:
Take MSC's 125% credit and wait. Historically, MSC returns to cancelled routes within two years, often with better ships. Plus, that extra 25% credit could upgrade you from an interior to a balcony.
If You Want to Stay in MSC's Fleet:
MSC Seascape's Caribbean program offers excellent value, and MSC World Europa in the Mediterranean provides a premium experience with their new ship amenities. Both routes have good availability through fall 2026.
Hidden Costs and Money-Saving Tips
Rebooking isn't just about the cruise fare – here's what else to consider:
Flight Changes: MSC won't cover your flight change fees, but many credit cards offer trip cancellation insurance. Check if you're covered before eating those $200+ change fees.
Hotel Cancellations: Most hotels in Buenos Aires and Santiago offer full refunds if cancelled 48+ hours in advance. But that boutique hotel in Rio? You might be stuck with the bill.
Shore Excursion Transfers: If you booked MSC shore excursions, those credits can transfer to your new cruise – even on a different itinerary. Don't let them expire!
What This Means for Future MSC South America Cruises
Between you and me, this cancellation signals bigger issues with MSC's South America strategy. The region is expensive to operate in, ports are challenging, and demand hasn't recovered to pre-2020 levels.
My prediction? MSC won't return to regular South America service until 2028 at the earliest. If South America is on your bucket list, book with Celebrity, Holland America, or Princess – they're committed long-term to these routes.
Bottom Line: Take the 125% credit if you're flexible with destinations, or demand the full refund if South America was your dream trip. Either way, book your alternative quickly – the best options are disappearing fast.
Dealing with cruise cancellations is never fun, but with the right strategy, you can still salvage an amazing vacation. Have questions about rebooking or want to share your cancellation experience? Join the conversation in our MSC Cruises forum where fellow cruisers are sharing real-time rebooking tips and alternative suggestions.
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