MSC Cruises delays European season for MSC Euribia despite US-Iran ceasefire

MSC Cruises has cancelled the first sailing of MSC Euribia’s European summer programme, following a delay in the vessel’s repositioning from the Arabian Gulf.

The ship had been scheduled to depart from Kiel on May 2nd, 2026, for a seven-night Norwegian Fjords itinerary.

However, having remained in Dubai since late February, the vessel has not yet been able to reposition to Northern Europe due to ongoing uncertainty regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

In a communication to booked guests, the cruise line confirmed that the adjustment is linked to recent operational conditions in the region, which have affected vessel movements and scheduling across multiple operators.

These conditions have begun to stabilise following the recent ceasefire between the US and Iran, though some knock-on effects continue to impact deployment timelines.

“The MSC Euribia was unable to leave the region as planned; consequently, its repositioning towards Northern Europe has suffered a delay,” MSC said in a letter to guests. “Therefore, the ship will not be in a condition to operate the first cruise of the season, and we regret having to cancel your departure.”

The cancelled itinerary was due to operate from both Kiel and Copenhagen, with planned calls in Norwegian ports including Flåm, Hellesylt and Ålesund.

MSC indicated that the decision followed a review of available options, with the delay in the ship’s arrival making it impractical to proceed with the scheduled departure.

“We understand how disappointing this news can be, especially considering the time and enthusiasm dedicated to planning a vacation,” MSC added. “Please believe that this cancellation is a direct consequence of the ship’s delay and not a discretionary decision, taken only after evaluating every possible alternative.”

Guests affected by the cancellation have been offered a range of rebooking options.

These include transferring to an alternative sailing departing before November 30th, 2026, without modification fees, with fare protection applied for equivalent accommodation and duration.

Passengers opting for a later departure after December 1st, 2026, may also transfer their booking without change fees, with any payments already made applied to the new reservation. A full refund option is also available for those who prefer to cancel.

In addition, guests who rebook will receive onboard credit of up to €200 per person.