MSC Splendida Returns to Service After Drydock Refresh

The MSC Splendida is back on the water and ready to welcome guests. The ship just finished a scheduled maintenance period at a shipyard in Malta.

The MSC Cruises vessel arrived at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard in Valletta on January 10, 2026. The ship needed routine upkeep and required inspections.

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What Happened During the Drydock

The shipyard workers completed several important tasks during the 27-day visit. They performed technical work and standard maintenance checks. The crew also refreshed public spaces and guest cabins.

Workers replaced old carpets and worn upholstery throughout the ship. They completed general upkeep work to keep everything looking fresh. The 2009-built ship got the care it needed to stay in top shape.

Back to Sailing in the Mediterranean

The MSC Splendida picked up passengers again in Barcelona on February 7, 2026. The 3,300-passenger ship started a seven-night cruise right away. The itinerary visited ports in Spain, France, Italy, and Tunisia.

Guests enjoyed stops in Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, and La Goulette. The cruise also included one relaxing day at sea. The ship returned to its regular schedule in the Western Mediterranean.

Summer Itinerary Changes Coming

The ship will switch to a different route in late April. The new summer schedule focuses on Mediterranean islands. The seven-night cruises will visit Spain, Italy, France, and Malta.

The itinerary starts in Barcelona and continues to Marseille and Livorno. Then the ship heads to three beautiful islands. Guests can explore Valletta in Malta, Palermo in Sicily, and Cagliari in Sardinia.

South America Season on the Horizon

The MSC Splendida will move to South America later in 2026. The ship will sail from Buenos Aires, Argentina for the winter season. This gives guests a completely different cruise experience.

The South American itineraries last eight to nine nights. The ship will visit destinations in Brazil and Uruguay. Ports include Punta del Este, Balneário Camboriú, Ilhabela, Rio de Janeiro, and Ilha Grande.

Next Ship in Line for Maintenance

The Palumbo Shipyard will soon welcome another MSC ship. The MSC Poesia arrives in Valletta in mid-February. This visit will be much more extensive than the Splendida’s routine work.

The 2008-built ship will get major upgrades during its drydock. The shipyard will add new specialty restaurants and install the MSC Yacht Club. This ship-within-a-ship concept offers exclusive areas for suite guests.