AI Robot Dogs, “Dirty Dancing,” and More: MSC Reveals Big 2026 Entertainment Plans
MSC Cruises has been steadily reworking its entertainment offerings, especially on ships sailing from the United States. Now, the cruise line has revealed what’s coming in 2026, with updates ranging from high-tech robots to expanded game shows and refreshed production entertainment.
Here’s what cruisers can expect.
Robot Dogs and Humanoid Dancers
Every company seems to be talking about AI right now, and MSC is no exception.
The cruise line is piloting AI-powered robotic dogs accompanied by humanoid robots, developed by Unitree Robotics. The photo shows the Unitree Go2 robot dog and the Unitree G1 humanoid agent AI avatar. According to Unitree, both models use AI to better understand the world and make decisions. Both use 3D LIDAR to create a real-time map of their environment, allowing them to interact with their surroundings.
The robots are already being tested on MSC Bellissima in Asia and will also appear on MSC Magnifica during a segment of the 2026 World Cruise.
Guests will be able to attend meet-and-greets with the robots, enjoy a robot-themed parade, and participate in interactive robotics workshops for children ages 7 and older. The workshops are designed to introduce kids to robotics and future technologies through hands-on activities.
While this is being promoted as a cruise industry first, robotic dogs have already made appearances in theme parks around the world. For example, Universal’s Epic Universe uses robotic dogs developed by Boston Dynamics in its Isle of Berk land, where they are dressed as dragons.
Popular Shows Expanding to More Ships
MSC is also bringing some of its most popular entertainment from newer ships to more of the fleet.
First, MSC will debut a fully refreshed ‘70s Party fleetwide. Expect new music, upgrades costumes, and new interactive experiences.
MSC Poesia will debut “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” which first launched on MSC World America. The ship will also introduce 20 new Big Band performances.
MSC Seascape will add Dueling Pianos, a high-energy concept that has proven popular on MSC World America. The ship will also introduce a new American Country Band experience, a move that aligns well with its Galveston, Texas homeport.
Meanwhile, MSC Seaview and MSC Grandiosa will receive a full refresh of their main production shows. MSC Meraviglia will welcome back “Paz,” its Flamenco-inspired show.
MSC is also rolling out a fully reimagined ’70s Party fleetwide, featuring updated music, costumes, and interactive elements.
Game Shows Go Fleetwide
MSC is doubling down on interactive entertainment.
Two new original MSC game shows will debut across the fleet:
• “Chart Toppers,” a music-based competition featuring hits from the 1970s through today
• “Quiz O’Clock,” a revamped competitive trivia-style game show
More LEGO Entertainment
The cruise line is also expanding its LEGO Parade from seven ships to 14 ships in 2026. Ships gaining the parade include MSC Grandiosa, MSC Poesia, MSC Divina, MSC Seaside, and MSC Seaview.
Additionally, the LEGO Family Game Show will launch fleetwide after a successful pilot on MSC World America. The refreshed format is designed to be more digital and immersive for families.
Expanded Educational Programming
On MSC Poesia, which sails Alaska itineraries, the Naturalist Program will be expanded. Guests can expect wildlife and geology presentations, including two enrichment talks on sea days and a dedicated children’s session.
MSC will also introduce a new program, Ocean Day, by the MSC Foundation across the fleet. This educational initiative is designed to inspire younger guests through interactive learning and play focused on ocean conservation.
My Take: A Broader Shift in MSC’s Entertainment Strategy
MSC Cruises has been steadily investing in entertainment enhancements, particularly as it expands in the United States market. The 2026 additions lean heavily into interactive programming, family-focused experiences, and technology-driven concepts.
While robot dogs may grab the headlines, the larger story is MSC’s continued effort to refresh production shows, expand popular concepts to more ships, and offer more activities designed to appeal to multigenerational travelers. As some other lines are cutting back on entertainment, it’s nice to see MSC stepping up their game.
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