World premiere: robot dogs at sea!

MSC Cruises is betting on robot dogs with artificial intelligence on cruises in 2026!

MSC is preparing to usher in a new era of technological onboard entertainment, announcing plans to introduce AI-powered robot dogs and humanoid robots on select ships from 2026. The company is stepping up its focus on reinventing cruise entertainment.

The company confirmed it is testing AI-powered robot dogs, created in partnership with Chinese company Unitree Robotics, putting it at the forefront of cruise industry innovation ahead of the 2026 season.



The dog robots, along with humanoid robots, are already being tested on select itineraries. In the future, they are planned to be used more widely on ships operating in Asia, as well as on selected segments of the 2026 world cruise. These robots are designed primarily as entertainment “hosts” rather than service devices. They will greet guests in public areas, move along the ship's promenades, and interact with families.

While MSC has experimented with artificial intelligence before — through voice assistants in cabins and robotic rides, for example — this is the company's first step toward mobile, interactive robots that will become part of the social experience onboard. MSC executives say the initiative is aimed at younger, more tech-savvy travelers, as well as multi-generational families who expect modern digital entertainment on premium vacations. The companion robots are designed to create an atmosphere the company describes as “futuristic yet friendly.”

How passengers will interact with robots?
According to the first details of the 2026 entertainment program, passengers will meet robots in specially organized activities.
Meet-and-greet sessions are planned, during which guests will be able to:
- take photos with the robots,
- watch their choreographed movements,
- learn more about the technology behind the robot dogs and humanoids.

There are also interactive workshops for children aged 7 and up, where they can learn the basics of robotics and programming through demonstrations and hands-on activities under the supervision of experts. These classes are integrated into the program of children's clubs and activities during sea days.

In addition, the robots will participate in:
- themed parades,
- short performances in key areas of the liner - atriums and open decks.

MSC notes that AI systems will operate under strict security, privacy, and movement protocols so that robots can operate safely in crowded environments and remain under full human control.

   
Consultation on any issues

Continuing the course on high-tech entertainment
The launch of robot dogs and humanoid guides continues MSC Cruises' strategy of investing in technology.
The company has already implemented such solutions on its ships as:
- ZOE - a voice-activated virtual assistant in cabins
- ROBOTRON - a robotic manipulator attraction that combines movement, sound and light, creating the effect of an amusement park attraction at sea.

In 2026, the work will be part of a larger update to the fleet's entertainment program, which will also include:
- new television game shows,
- expanded live music programs,
- new family activities.

Technology is positioned not as a separate “chip”, but as an element of a multi-level entertainment system that combines classic performances, retro parties and digital formats of family games. Industry analysts note that cruise companies are actively competing for the uniqueness of their product, as new ships enter the market, and travelers are looking for bright and “Instagrammable” moments. Using modern robotics, MSC expects to stand out in this market.

Where and when can you see robots?
MSC has not yet released a full list of ships, but confirmed that the robot dogs are already being tested on ships in Asia ahead of a full launch in 2026. The pilot program is also set to appear on one of MSC's 2026 world cruise segments, allowing passengers to be the first to see the new technology.

According to travel agents, the robots are most likely to appear first on the largest and newest liners, which have modern digital infrastructure and large entertainment spaces.
These ships usually operate on MSC's key routes in:
- Mediterranean
- Caribbean
- Asia
It is in these regions that the company is actively expanding its presence.

The rollout of robot programs will be gradual — MSC plans to analyze guest feedback, technical reliability, and safety before expanding the program to other ships.

Whether guests want to attend a robotics workshop, take a selfie with a robot dog, or simply watch from the sidelines, MSC's new initiative reiterates just how technologically and future-oriented modern cruise vacations are becoming.

   
Consultation on any issues

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