AUTUMN CRUISES

Embrace the vibrant hues of autumn

A canvas of golden yellows, fiery reds, and warm oranges. Autumn is a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry and also a perfect time to explore: enjoy comfortable temperatures in many locations, fewer crowds at popular destinations, and gorgeous autumnal colours. Plus, enjoy the festive spirit of Halloween on board with themed events and spooky celebrations that add extra magic to your journey.

Choose between a variety of autumn cruises and feel this season’s unique vibes sailing through the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Canary Islands and Madeira, Northern Europe, Emirates and the Far East. MSC Cruises routes can cater for every autumn break schedule, from mini-cruises lasting 2, 3, or 4 nights, ideal for a short holiday, to standard 7-night itineraries. If you are planning an extended autumn holiday, don’t miss MSC Cruises’ from 9 to 14 nights, or our selection of transatlantic and repositioning cruises ranging from 16 to 24 nights.

Bask in the Mediterranean’s wealth, and enjoy the best destinations in Italy, Spain, Croatia, and Greece. Lengthier autumn cruises will even take you to Portugal and the Canary Islands, or Turkey. Experience the nuances of the autumnal colours on a cruise in Northern Europe, discovering Norway, Germany, Belgium, and the UK.

Looking for the ultimate fall foliage cruises? Marvel at the awe-inspiring spectacle of autumn foliage with a Far East holiday in Japan, China and Republic of Korea. The autumn months are also fantastic for visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. This season brings a welcome drop in temperatures, making the climate far more pleasant and ideal for exploring these futuristic and captivating cities.

Experience tropical thrills with a Caribbean cruise and dive into the turquoise seas of the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and Mexico. Would you like to go even further south for your autumn holidays? Enjoy the vibrancy of Brazil, or South Africa coasts. MSC Cruises’ itineraries will leave you breathless!

And if you’re already looking for your autumn 2026 cruise, a world of options awaits you! In addition to tropical Caribbean cruises, itineraries exploring the Norwegian Fjords and Baltic countries, MSC Cruises also offers voyages through the Panama Canal, allowing you to explore its engineering marvel, and also takes you to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska.

Best Autumn cruise destinations

Are you seeking inspiration for your autumn break? Choose from the best autumn cruise deals and enjoy the stunning beauty of the season, exploring the best destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, North America, the Caribbean, South America, and much more!

Mediterranean

An autumn of wonders awaits you on a Mediterranean cruise. From magical Venetian canals to the Parthenon in Athens, an Eastern Mediterranean cruise will give you unique experiences. With a Western Mediterranean itinerary, discover the Balearic Islands, the wonderful Sardinia, and explore gorgeous cities such as Barcelona, Valencia and Marseille. Take a Mediterranean cruise and make sure you’re indulging in an autumn of wonders!

Northern Europe

For your autumn holidays, set off to discover some of the most beautiful cities in Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and northern France with an MSC cruise! Stroll through the romantic canals of Amsterdam, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Hamburg, or marvel at the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Be inspired by Bruges‘ medieval beauty and London‘s iconic landmarks. For a Northern European cruise filled with adventure, stunning natural beauty, and captivating vistas, MSC’s cruises to the Norwegian Fjords are precisely what you’re looking for.

Canary Islands and Madeira

Your Canary Islands and Madeira cruise offers just the right mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage volcanic landscape of Lanzarote, charming Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife, the lush forests of La Palma, and the golden beaches of Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Then head for Madeira, the ‘pearl island,’ and be immersed in the vibrancy of Funchal, marvel at the dizzying views from the cliffs of Cabo Girco, and savor a glass of Madeira Wine.

Caribbean

Searching for tropical vibes? Set sail for a world of sea adventures with MSC Cruises’ Caribbean itineraries! Experience an incredible variety of routes departing from Miami, Orlando, and Galveston and indulge in the tropics, basking in the privacy of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our private island in the Bahamas. Discover Mexico‘s stunning Costa Maya and the snorkeler’s paradise of Cozumel, along with a variety of equally striking countries to explore, such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Costa Rica. Each itinerary in the Caribbean includes an incredible array of marvels to discover, spanning from historic landmarks to marine treasures!

OTHER AUTUMN DESTINATIONS TO DISCOVER

South America

From October, MSC Cruises is taking you to Brazil! Sail along the Brazilian coast onboard MSC Preziosa and MSC Grandiosa and discover Santos, Ilha Grande, Salvador de Bahia, and Buzios. Take in the stunning natural beauty of Ilha Grande, a pristine island with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore the vibrant culture and history of Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and relax on the beaches of Buzios, known as the ‘St. Tropez of Brazil’.

Asia

Did you know that Japan is a perfect destination for a fall foliage cruise? From September, discover the land of the rising sun, Republic of Korea and Taiwan (China), with breathtaking itineraries on board MSC Bellissima. Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture and history as you visit Yokohama, Beppu, Shimonoseki, Yatsushiro, and Kagoshima. Your discovery of the Republic of Korea will take you to Busan where you can visit the Buddhist temple of Beomeosa, Taejongdae Park and Gamcheon village.

South Africa

For your November holidays, explore South Africa and Mozambique with MSC Splendida. Sail from Durban and reach Pomene in Mozambique and savor the beauty of its unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters. Enjoy the unique sea fishing experience of this coast, renowned for its incredible marine life and warm currents or snorkel in the coral reefs of Portuguese Island in Inhaca Archipelago. Bask in a marvelous Indian Ocean experience with MSC Cruises!

AUTUMN CRUISES FAQS

When it comes to autumn cruises, the ideal destination truly depends on what inspires you most and aligns with your travel aspirations. MSC Cruises offers an array of choices to suit every desire.
If you’re seeking a holiday that blends cultural immersion, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant cities, a Mediterranean cruise is likely all you need. Should a sun-drenched escape be more to your liking, the Caribbean remains a fantastic option. Even though the autumn months fall within the rainy season, you can still expect an abundance of sunshine and warmth from September through November, making it perfect for those seeking sea and sand. Alternatively, the Canary Islands and Madeira present another excellent choice for warmth, with their stunning volcanic landscapes and consistently mild temperatures.
The autumn months are perfect for exploring the allure of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. The scorching summer heat gives way to wonderfully pleasant weather, ideal for city exploration or relaxing on pristine beaches. For those drawn to breathtaking natural beauty and cooler climes, a Northern European cruise during autumn, including the Norwegian Fjords, is a captivating experience. While temperatures naturally begin to cool, you’ll be treated to the magical, awe-inspiring colours of autumn, offering a wonderful opportunity to witness these enchanting landscapes with far fewer tourists than in peak season.

Autumn brings a delightful change, offering milder, more comfortable weather across many sought-after destinations, from the Mediterranean to the UAE. As the intense summer heat fades, you’ll find exploring historic cities and enjoying outdoor pursuits far more pleasant. Crucially, there’s also a noticeable reduction in crowds compared to the bustling summer months.
Should your interests lie further north, autumn unveils spectacular landscapes across Northern Europe, including the Norwegian Fjords, adorned with rich, warm foliage.

Packing for an autumn cruise truly calls for layering, as the weather can be varied depending on your chosen destination. For holidays to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and Madeira, focus on versatile pieces: think jeans, comfortable trousers or skirts, and a mix of long and short-sleeved tops. Do include a few lightweight jumpers or cardigans for those cooler moments.
If you’re heading to Northern Europe, a waterproof jacket, warmer jumpers, and heavier clothing are essential to stay comfortable in cooler climes. For those cruising the Caribbean, don’t forget sun cream, and all your beach essentials. Meanwhile, the consistently mild climate of the United Arab Emirates and Qatar means you can comfortably pack your summer attire.
Regardless of your destination, comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring ashore, alongside smart-casual options for evenings. You might also want to include a few elegant outfits for stylish nights on board.

MSC Cruises offers an extensive range of autumn cruises to suit your holiday schedule. Whether you’re seeking a brief escape, our mini cruises spanning 2 to 4 nights are an ideal choice. For a more traditional break, we have a selection of standard 7-night itineraries. Should you be planning a more extended autumn getaway, consider our MSC Grand Voyages ranging from 15 to 24 nights.

Autumn cruise prices vary based on the length of the desired itinerary, your chosen cabin and experience, and the destination you’d like to visit. MSC Cruises also offers a variety of deals and discounts throughout the year, designed to help you find an option that aligns with your budget.

The autumn period in the Caribbean, from September to November, falls within its rainy season. Typically, however, rainfall is brief, swiftly giving way to sunshine. Temperatures remain consistently warm: in popular spots such as the Bahamas, Caribbean Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, daily highs generally sit between 29°C and 32°C. The climate is warm and humid, though the evening sea breezes often provide a welcome freshness.
Even with the chance of rain, you can still anticipate an abundance of sunny days. The sea remains beautifully warm, which makes water activities especially appealing.

For an autumn Caribbean cruise, your luggage should primarily consist of light, adaptable items. Essential swimwear is a given, alongside breathable, light clothing such as cotton or linen dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. For evenings, a selection of smart-casual outfits will serve you well. Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and sandals are fundamental. Lastly, do pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or a compact poncho for those sudden tropical downpours.

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