Popular Cruise Line to Sail From Tampa in 2020

MSC Cruises has announced that starting in November 2020, MSC Armonia will be sailing from Tampa — a new homeport for the cruise line.

The ship will operate Caribbean, Mexico, and Bahamas voyages from the western Florida port year-round, with a full winter season (November 2020 to April 2021) of 4 and 5-night short cruises, followed by a summer season (May 2021 to November 2021) of week-long sailings.

“As MSC Cruises expands its presence in the US, the introduction of Tampa as a homeport plays an important role in our long-term deployment strategy for this region,” said Ken Muskat, EVP and Chief Operating Officer of MSC Cruises USA. “We’ve seen increased demand for cruise options from Tampa as vacationers from around the world look to explore the city and surrounding areas pre- and post-cruise. We’re looking forward to bringing MSC Armonia, one of our more classic and charming ships, to Tampa and to introducing even more travelers to the MSC Cruises experience, inspired by our European heritage.” 

Itineraries

For the winter season, Armonia will offer 4 and 5-night voyages to destinations including Key West, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Progreso, and MSC’s new Bahamian private island destination — Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. With the option to book back-to-back sailings, cruisers can extend the length of their vacation with 9 or 10-night options. Those looking to get away during the holiday season will be able to book one of several 7-night cruises in December 2020, including those over Christmas and New Year’s. 

Destinations

The highlight of MSC Armonia’s itineraries from Tampa will be Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, a new private island opening in November 2019. It offers over two miles of white-sand beachfront across eight beaches, eco-friendly spa treatments, shopping areas with crafts by local artisans, and activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The ship will dock there from early morning until late evening, allowing guests to also experience unique nighttime events such as traditional Junkanoo parades, lighthouse light shows, and beachside stargazing.

New to MSC on Armonia’s Tampa itineraries will be a call in Progreso, Mexico, allowing visitors the chance to explore nearby Chichén-Itza or Uxmal, both Mayan archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or visit the pink salt flats while flamingo spotting.

MSC Armonia’s new voyages will continue to feature MSC’s partnership with Martha Stewart, including culinary and discovery experiences both on the ship and ashore. Brand new Martha Stewart & MSC Cruises Excursions are currently being curated in Key West, Progreso, and Ocean Cay to complement the existing ones for these itineraries in Cozumel and Costa Maya.

MSC Cruises’ signature European style is evident throughout Armonia. She will arrive in Tampa having recently undergone dry dock in November 2019, following an extensive renovation that occurred in late 2014.