MSC Cruises removed Ilhéus from its cruise route on February 12, 2026, following a protest by taxi and rideshare drivers at the Port of Malhado. The decision eliminates the city from the current cruise season, as announced by the shipping company during planning changes within the reporting window from 10:45 AM to 1:45 PM UTC. The protest at the Port of Malhado prompted the route adjustment, according to reports from local sources. MSC Cruises confirmed the removal as part of broader itinerary revisions, leaving Ilhéus without scheduled cruise ship visits for the season. No further details on alternative ports or the exact timing of the announcement were provided in the company's statement. The development occurred over the three-hour period ending at 1:45 PM UTC.
