Both lines had ships docked in the region when war started on 28 February and have now chosen to move capacity away from homeports in the Middle East.
MSC Cruises has decided to boost winter capacity in the Caribbean with the introduction of MSC World Europa in the French Antilles.
The 5,400-passenger ship has originally been scheduled to operate Middle East sailings from November 2026 to April 2027. However, the vessel will now operate seven to 14 nights itineraries with embarkation in Fort‑de‑France, Martinique; Pointe‑a‑Pitre, Guadeloupe; and Bridgetown, Barbados.
MSC World Europa will replace MSC Seaview, which will be redeployed to Brazil and Argentina for the winter 2026/2027 season. MSC Seaview’s itinerary for South America will be available soon.
Travel agents with customers booked on MSC World Europa for winter 2026/27 are being contacted to discuss options, including moving bookings to another sailing or request for a full refund.
MSC Cruises insisted guests booked on MSC Seaview sailings from the French Antilles this coming winter will see "no change to their itinerary, dates and overall cruise experience, with no action required from guests".
MSC World Europa will return to the region for the winter 2027/2028 season calling Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Bahrain and Doha.
'We know this will be disappointing'
Celestyal has confirmed the cancellation of all April 2026 departures as Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey continue to wait to reposition to Athens, Greece.
All guests and non-operational crew have been disembarked, while both vessels remain fully operational, their departure from the region will take place in accordance with safety guidance from the relevant authorities.
Celestial chief commercial officer Lee Haslett said: “Our priority remains the safety and confidence of our guests, crew and partners.
"While we know this will be disappointing, taking this decision now provides greater clarity and flexibility for those affected.
“Our teams are working closely with guests and travel partners to support rebooking options and ensure a smooth transition. We remain focused on returning to service in the Mediterranean as soon as it is safe to do so.”
The line confirmed impacted guests have been offered a full refund or a future cruise credit, adding they will supported by its team who will provide them with rebooking options.
The lines' decisions means that mainstream cruises in the Middle East are unlikely to return until this winter at the earliest.
