how many cruise ship msc have

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Cruise Ships

As we continue to grow and improve our fleet, there’s a huge range of unique features for our guests to explore on every MSC cruise ship . Blending classic elegance and cutting-edge innovation, our cruise ships offer the utmost in comfort, dining, innovation, entertainment, and onboard experience. Our newest, best cruise ships are also pushing the boundaries of sustainable tourism, with special technologies that focus on the welfare of the environment and protecting the sea.

Browse, explore, and choose a ship from the MSC Cruises fleet today, and discover a spectacular way to sail the seas.

MSC CRUISES REVIEWS DISCOVER WHAT OUR GUESTS HAVE TO SAY

MSC technology at the service of the art of hospitality

MSC for Me has been designed to meet our guests needs today and in the future and enhances every aspect the MSC holiday experience. Through the most innovative technology solutions MSC for Me interconnects guests, crew and ship so your time on board is literally in your hands. Available for guests travelling on MSC Euribia,   MSC Seascape,  MSC World Europa,  MSC Seashore, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview. The MSC for Me programme is also available on MSC Splendida and on MSC Magnifica, however it has reduced programme features. Coming soon on MSC World America.

An eco-friendly cruise company , with innovative energy-saving and water-recycling systems installed on our ships

We have great respect for the world’s oceans and we while we sail an increasing number of guests across the globe, we continuously aim to reduce our impact on the environment. Through the use of modern technologies and environmentally friendly materials, we are effectively lowering the environmental impact of our cruises. From using the best quality fuel available in ports, to efficiency-enhancing technology, to our advanced onboard recycling systems, we strongly believe that leadership comes with increased responsibility towards the environment.

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MSC Cruises

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Our Cruise Ships

Accommodation

MSC technology at the service of the art of hospitality

MSC for Me has been designed to meet our guests needs today and in the future and enhances every aspect the MSC holiday experience. Through the most innovative technology solutions MSC for Me interconnects guests, crew and ship so your time on board is literally in your hands. Available for guests travelling on MSC Seashore, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview. The MSC for Me programme is also available on MSC Splendida and on MSC Magnifica, however it has reduced programme features. Coming soon on MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia.

An eco-friendly cruise company , with innovative energy-saving and water-recycling systems installed on our ships

We have great respect for the world’s oceans and we while we sail an increasing number of guests across the globe, we continuously aim to reduce our impact on the environment. Through the use of modern technologies and environmentally friendly materials, we are effectively lowering the environmental impact of our cruises. From using the best quality fuel available in ports, to efficiency-enhancing technology, to our advanced onboard recycling systems, we strongly believe that leadership comes with increased responsibility towards the environment.

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

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For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

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MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises Fleet

MSC cruise line ship fleet information. Cruisedeckplans.com shows the different classes of ships in the MSC fleet. On this page you can also compare features and dining options for each MSC ship. You will find daily service charge information, size in tons and number of cabins for each ship. You can CLICK ON any ship to go to the ship page for that ship. Check out our unique stateroom capacity trend chart showing the changes in the size of the MSC cruise line ship fleet over the past few years. Check out our Master Ship List . You can filter and sort by cruise line or ship.

CLICK on a ship below to go to the ship decks and cabins page. MSC Cruises has 23 ships in the fleet. You can filter the MSC fleet by ship class using the box below. Typically MSC Cruises will build or buy several ships sharing similar features. They define the different types of ships as classes. Ships of the same class may be almost identical to each other.

MSC Armonia

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2001 Cabins 975

MSC Bellissima

CLASS: Meraviglia Tons 168k Built 2019 Cabins 2244

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 139k Built 2012 Cabins 1751

MSC Euribia

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 184k Built 2023 Cabins 2419

MSC Fantasia

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 138k Built 2008 Cabins 1637

MSC Grandiosa

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 181k Built 2019 Cabins 2405

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2003 Cabins 988

MSC Magnifica

CLASS: Musica Tons 95k Built 2010 Cabins 1253

MSC Meraviglia

CLASS: Meraviglia Tons 168k Built 2017 Cabins 2244

CLASS: Musica Tons 92k Built 2006 Cabins 1275

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2004 Cabins 1071

MSC Orchestra

CLASS: Musica Tons 92k Built 2007 Cabins 1275

CLASS: Musica Tons 93k Built 2008 Cabins 1275

MSC Preziosa

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 139k Built 2013 Cabins 1751

MSC Seascape

CLASS: Seaside Tons 169k Built 2022 Cabins 2270

MSC Seashore

CLASS: Seaside Tons 169k Built 2021 Cabins 2270

MSC Seaside

CLASS: Seaside Tons 154k Built 2017 Cabins 2067

MSC Seaview

CLASS: Seaside Tons 154k Built 2018 Cabins 2067

MSC Sinfonia

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2002 Cabins 975

MSC Splendida

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 138k Built 2009 Cabins 1637

MSC Virtuosa

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 181k Built 2021 Cabins 2405

MSC World America

CLASS: World Tons 216k Built 2025 Cabins 2631

MSC World Europa

CLASS: World Tons 216k Built 2022 Cabins 2631

About MSC Cruises

MSC Italian Cruises uniquely blends maritime traditions, culture and famous Mediterranean cuisine to deliver the ultimate cruise experience while displaying a real commitment to the finest hospitality afloat. In essence, MSC Italian Cruises has made true Italian service the heart of its business and its key point of differentiation in the cruise industry. MSC Cruises is a privately-owned and family-run company. From a fleet of three classic vessels in 2003, we have grown into a truly global cruise line. The Mediterranean heritage that is MSC Cruises is evident in the construction philosophy and elegant design of each of the ships in our contemporary fleet, reflecting the highest standards of quality. Our meticulously maintained classic vessel is perfect for those fond of the cruise ships of yesteryear, reflecting our Mediterranean heritage in a more intimate setting. Regardless of which MSC Cruise ship you sail, you will experience a level of service and attention that is unparalleled.

SELLING POINTS: MSC is a rapidly growing line that is geared towards families. The ships are well designed and loaded with activities for everyone. MSC offers the Yacht Club experience, with many perks, for those who want to travel in luxury. MSC has adopted a simple cabin classification system that makes it easier to decide what category to book.

Stateroom Capacity Trend Chart

Watch growth and decline rates. Rapid growth may lead to quality and service issues.

The following is a listing of some of the features that MSC Cruises offers.

CRUISEDECKPLANS.COM Use the input buttons above to go to the main page for a Cruise Ship or Cruise Line.

Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm EST Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm EST

MSC Seashore is an evolution of her Seaside-class sister ships, MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview. The ship features 65 percent of her public spaces completely reimagined to enrich the onboard experience and has been extended and enhanced with new entertainment venues, bars and restaurants, and outdoor areas as well as more staterooms and public space.    The first of two enriched Seaside EVO-class ships, MSC Seashore is equipped with the latest advanced environmental technology to increase energy efficiency. In addition, the innovative MSC for Me technology provides an enhanced onboard experience by using digital technology to connect guests, crew, and venues via interactive touchscreens around the ship, interactive stateroom TVs, and the MSC for Me app.

MSC Seashore's stunning exterior has been designed specifically for warmer climates, with more outdoor space to bring guests closer to the sea than ever before. Her signature aft style mirros the iconic beach condo design that the Seaside class is known for.

MSC Seashore now sailing from Miami to the Bahamas & Caribbean, including full-day calls to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , our award-winning exclusive private island.

ITINERARIES

Cruises From $199 With Free Balcony Upgrades

MAIN FEATURES

Environmental stewardship.

Energy efficiency

Smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

Wastewater & Protecting Marine Life

Advanced wastewater treatment system with higher purification standards than most wastewater treatment facilities ashore.

Discover more on how the MSC Group is actively contributing to impactful environmental conservation and humanitarian programs at the MSC Foundation Centre on board.

Design Inspiration

MSC Seashore pays tribute to New York City, a destination that represents the spirit of discovery and cultural experiences that is at the heart of the MSC Cruises guest experience. Venue names, public areas, and design features are inspired by the world-famous city, such as a 9.5-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty at the heart of the casino and an expansive retail and entertainment area aptly named Times Square. Here, an impressive 27.5-foot LED wall spans four decks and features a projection of the iconic Manhattan skyline that can change from day to night. 

Outdoor Space

At more than 1,100 feet — the longest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet — MSC Seashore boasts more than three acres of outdoor space including standout design features including: 

Bridge of Sighs Glass-floored walkway located aft on Deck 16 Dedicated outdoor spa area Al fresco dining Outdoor lounges

Family & Kids

Pools, whirlpools, and water features.

With more outdoor space comes more pools, whirlpools, and other water features: Aft Infinity Pool: A favorite spot for serene wake views and featuring two infinity whirlpools. Long Island Pool: Located on deck 18 featuring two different depths, a 360-degree water fountain island and connected to Pirates Cove Aquapark (waterslide, adventure trail & more).  Jungle Pool: Located on deck 16 featuring a large magrodome that can be closed or opened (as needed), a close distance to the buffet and an additional deck for more room to relax. MSC Yacht Club Pool: Exclusive to MSC Yacht Club guests with a spacious solarium, shaded cabanas and whirlpools.

MSC Aurea Spa

At nearly 25,000-aquare-feet, the contemporary MSC Aurea Spa on MSC Seashore offers a wide selection of Balinese massages and other wellness and beauty treatments to revitalize your body and soul with relaxation, well-being, and pampering.

21 treatment rooms

MediSpa center

Exclusive outdoor area

Professional hair and nail salon

Barber shop

Enhanced Thermal Area (featuring a scrub room, steam room, salt room, snow room, Finnish Sauna, Soft Sauna, Blower Pool, Mediterranean bath, and a Vertical Kneipp)

MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®

MSC Yacht Club

If you’re looking for a premium, all-inclusive cruise experience choose the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. Spanning four decks (with an additional deck compared with other Seaside-class ships) and with more than 32,000-square-feet of space, MSC Seashore’s MSC Yacht Club is the largest in the fleet. Located on the coveted foredecks and providing sweeping sea views, the MSC Yacht Club includes:

Private luxury accommodations

Large solarium with whirlpools

Exclusive restaurant & lounge

Private pool

24-hour butler service

Complimentary drinks

Private shore excursions & shopping experiences ($) 

Learn more about the MSC Yacht Club  experience. 

Onboard Activities

From solo travelers to large families and groups, there are a variety of onboard activities for everyone to enjoy:

• Family Deck Party: Features classic fair and carnival games, a jumping castle, gladiator and Zorb-Sumo matches, balloon animals, face painting, prizes, and more.
• International Meet: Offers a casual atmosphere for guests to meet travelers of various nationalities, hosted with drinks and selections from newly refreshed onboard menus.
• Cup Cake Decoration: Kids and parents interact with our culinary team while exploring their creativity and learning about pastry decorating.
• Romantic Couples Under the Stars: An unforgettable moment for couples during their cruise, with romantic live music and drinks on deck.
• Veterans Get Together
• LGBTQIAP+ Get Together
• Solo Travelers Cocktail Party

Danza del Mare

The sublime sculpture Danza del Mare was created for the MSC Foundation in partnership with Venini, one of the world’s most esteemed glassmakers in the world which this year celebrates its 100 Anniversary. The sculpture is located in the MSC Foundation Centre area, rising from deck 5 to deck 8, surrounded by a mirror wall that proliferates the light and colors emanating from it, lit by a spotlight located in its base. MSC Seashore is the perfect location for the sculpture, bringing its message of care for the sea to thousands of voyagers as the ship sails immersed every day in the wonders of the world’s oceans and seas, their rich and infinitely varied splendor.    Watch the video | Discover more

STATEROOMS & suites

MSC Seashore features new staterooms designed to suit all your needs during your cruise vacation. Choose among 11 different types of staterooms and suites with balconies including the coveted aft suits, 50 terraced suites with extended balconies, and 32 different suites with outdoor private whirlpools. And get to know an unparalleled accommodation experience at the two new palatial Owner’s Suites at the largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club. 

• Comfortable king bed that can be converted into two single beds on request
• Luxury suites with premium decor
• Select suites have a balcony with private whirlpool
• Spacious closet
• Bathroom with large shower and/or bathtub
• Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Approx. 226 - 1,055 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 86 - 269 ft 2
• Located on decks 16 - 19 Discover a world of privileges with MSC Yacht Club. The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).

Choose the Suite that best suits you:

• MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suite with Whirlpool (approx. 1,055 ft 2   with a balcony that is approx. 269 ft 2 , deck 19 
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite with Whirlpool (approx. 667 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 667 ft 2 , deck 16) 
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suite (approx. 269 - 463 ft 2 , decks 16 - 19)  
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite (approx. 269 - 366 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 86 ft 2 , decks 16 - 19)
• MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite (approx . 226 ft 2 , decks 16 - 18)

Discover a world of privileges with MSC Yacht Club. The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).

• Sitting area with sofa or separate living area
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area and hairdryer
• Wi-Fi access available ($)
• Accommodates up to 5 guests
• Approx. 183 – 527 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 75 – 409 ft 2
• Located on decks 9 - 15
• Two-Bedroom Grand Suite Aurea (approx. 527 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 183 ft 2 , decks 11 - 14) 
• Grand Suite Aurea (approx. 377 - 527 ft 2 with a large balcony that is approx. 108 - 226 ft 2 , decks 9 - 13) 
• Premium Suite Aurea with Whirlpool (approx.301 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 75 ft 2 , decks 9 - 15)
• Premium Suite Aurea with Terrace (approx.301 ft2 with a balcony that is approx. 409 ft2, deck 9) 
• Premium Suite Aurea (approx. 301 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx.75 ft 2 , deck 9 - 15)
• Deluxe Suite Aurea (approx. 215 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 86 ft 2 , decks 9 - 15) 
• Junior Suite Aurea (approx. 183 ft 2 with a balcony approx. 172 ft 2 , deck 9) 

The image is representative only. Size, layout and furniture may vary that shown (within the same cabin category).

Entertainment

MSC Seashore offers all types of entertainment from day through night, from the high-tech Madison Theatre showcasing spectacular evening production shows and expansive casino offering the latest slots, table games, and tournaments to interactive onboard thrills including an F1 racecar simulator, a virtual reality river rafting simulator, and an immersive XD Cinema. In addition, take in MSC Seashore’s extensive art collection, which you’ll find located throughout the ship from landings and corridors to dedicated galleries. 

Pirates Cove Aquapark

RESTAURANTS

Butcher's cut with al fresco dining.

This American-style steak house serves select Linz heritage angus beef, gold standard in high-end angus beef thanks to the best genetics in breed. The highest quality product custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection.

The menu is inspired by the great plains and it is accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails with swagger.

HOLA! Tacos & Cantina

The new fast-casual street food dining concept, offers a selection of Latin American and Mexican-inspired dishes and drinks to be shared and enjoyed in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, open for lunch and dinner. Choose from a tantalising array of dishes from blue corn tacos and nachos, and tasty tamales through to tortilla soup or vegetarian tacos, all to be savoured with our selection of Top 10 Tequilas and Mezcals!

Kaito Teppanyaki 

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish teppanyaki restaurant and sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Kaito Sushi bar

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Marketplace Buffet and Restaurant

A wonderfully comfortable and casual place to eat. It’s the ideal place for enjoying a great informal Mediterranean dining experience with a spectacular sea view. Visible kitchens and a Mozzarella-making area allow guests to watch our chefs preparing the fresh food. The extensive buffet area includes various multifunction corners serving international dishes, ethnic cuisine, healthy options and a multitude of other tastes.

Ocean Cay 

A mouthwatering menu of sophisticated fish dishes and other recipes, made with the freshest ingredients and complemented by a wonderful wine list: these are the magic ingredients of the luxury fish restaurant.

Central Park Restaurant

One of three main restaurants serving fine-dining specialties in stylish surroundings. 

Tribeca Restaurant

 One of three main restaurants serving fine-dining specialties in stylish surroundings.

5th Avenue Restaurant

Manhattan restaurant.

 Reserved exclusively for Aurea guests.

Bars & Lounges

Msc aurea bar.

Outdoor sun deck lounge exclusive for Aurea guests

Le Cabaret Rouge Bar

Two-deck aft lounge with live music 

MSC Signature Casino Bar

Central casino bar

Cocktail Bar

Located in the Chef’s Court 

Horizon Bar

Outdoor panoramic ice cream bar​ 

Long Island Bar

Outdoor main pool bar 

Rooftop bar with live music and stunning views of the Bridge of Sighs 

Uptown Lounge 

Piano bar and lounge

Wine Cave Bar

An intimate wine cellar and tasting room 

Champagne Bar

Champagne and prosecco selections and fine appetizers 

Jungle Beach Bar

Indoor pool bar

Atrium cocktail bar with outdoor seating area​ 

Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar

Chocolate factory and coffee bar with open kitchen​ 

SOUTH AMERICA

Ice cream bar and creperie by Venchi​ 

Use the deck plans to select your ideal stateroom. The plan allows you to pinpoint the locations, while the colors distinguish the stateroom category.

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• 5. Torre de Hercules
• 6. Green Point
• 7. Nugget Point
• 8. Ocean Cay
• 9. Peggys Point
• 11. Santa Marta
• 12. Start point
• 13. Rotes Kliff
• 14. San juan del Salvamento
• 15. Cape Byron
• 16. Boston Light
• 18. Bell Rock
• 19. Lanterna di Genova
• 20. La Jument
• Deluxe Interior
• Premium Interior
• Deluxe Ocean View
• Deluxe Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony Aurea
• Junior Suite Aurea
• Premium Suite Aurea
• Grand Suite Aurea
• Two-Bedroom Grand Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Grand Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suite

BS : Cabin with bathtub and shower |  T : Terrace |  W : Balcony with whirlpool bath • 3rd and 4th beds available in all categories except for Premium Suite Aurea and MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite. • 5th bed available in Premium Interior, Premium Suite Aurea with whirlpool, Grand Suite Aurea, MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite and MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suite. • 6th bed available in Two-Bedroom Grand Suite Aurea (cabins 11001, 12001 and 14001 have two double beds and one double sofa bed).

• Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting cabins based on the ship class. Call our Contact Center to choose the best accommodation for you.

Ship configuration, data and descriptions may be subject to change depending on the season and on the destination and must be verified at the time of booking. 

• Gross tonnage: 169,400
• Number of passengers: 5,632
• Crew members: 1,648
• Number of staterooms: 2,270
• Length / Beam / Height: 1,112 ft. / 134 ft. / 245 ft.
• Maximum speed: 21.8 knots

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

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MSC Cruises

Fly & Cruise

From sky to sea: cruise and flight packages.

Flights, transfers  and  cruise  included  in one unique package.  Designed to provide you with a seamless and stress-free travel experience, Fly Cruises remove the hassle of multiple bookings and planning, offering an effortless, all-in-one solution. From easy booking to perfect flight schedule, transfers included and expert travel assistance, we are committed to ensuring that your cruise holiday starts and ends on the right note.

Combining flights and transfers  with your cruise is extremely smooth. When making your booking, simply select the cruise itinerary that suits you best and choose the Fly&Cruise fare. Additionally, you can pick the airport that is most convenient for you. Before the payment is completed, you will have access to all the flight information, including the option to upgrade your class if it is available. Draw inspiration from the finest destinations that are easily within reach and book your Fly & Cruise holidays in 2024 or 2025!

Please refer to the  FAQ  for additional information.

Why should you choose the Fly & Cruise package?

Fly & cruise guarantees effortless organization and hassle-free travel.

Leave the organization to MSC Cruises! With our Flight and Cruise packages, we handle all the arrangements , guaranteeing a seamless holiday planning for you. Even if you should experience delays or encounter any problems during your journey, MSC Cruises will be there to support you , ensuring you reach the ship without any inconvenience.  Our dedicated telephone helpdesk is available anytime  from three hours before your flight to provide complete assistance .

Fly & Cruise offers personalized flight options tailored to your needs

Maximize your time with our Fly Cruise packages. While booking your cruise, we will help you find the best flight schedule that aligns with your cruise embarkation and disembarkation. Say goodbye to wasted hours searching for flight options and waiting for it at the airport - we have got it covered!

Flight Excellence for unbeatable value

Experience exceptional value for your money with our Fly & Cruise Package. Enjoy the convenience and quality of our trusted airline partners , ensuring a comfortable and memorable flight experience. We prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, from takeoff to landing. You can also treat yourself to Premium, Business, or First-Class upgrade. 

Seamless transfers for stress-free travel

Leave the airport navigation to us. All Fly & Cruise Packages includes transfers from the airport directly to the ship, and vice versa. Enjoy peace of mind as MSC Cruises handle all the organization, allowing you to fully embrace and enjoy your cruise holiday.

Luggage peace of mind

With MSC Fly & Cruise your luggage is well cared for. In the rare event of a mishap during air travel, our dedicated team will swiftly recover your belongings . We work closely with airport Lost & Found offices to ensure your luggage is promptly delivered to your cabin , so you can focus on enjoying your holiday and making memories.

FLY & CRUISE FAQ

What is included in the fly and cruise package.

• Direct flights to and from your embarkation port
• Comfortable transfers from the airport to the ship and back again 
• Checked luggage and luggage recovery 
• Assistance at airports
• Airport taxes
• Rearrangement of your travel in case of flight delay

What are Fly Cruises?

How can i book a fly cruise.

You can simply book your Fly&Cruise package directly on MSC Cruises website. During your cruise booking you can add a convenient flight for a safe and guaranteed boarding on the cruise. We will offer a list of best flight schedules that aligns with the cruise embarkation and disembarkation.

What happens to the luggage with Fly & Cruise?

The luggage follows the same flow as on a usual flight. In case of delays or losses, our  dedicated staff will support you to ensure a smooth trip.

What happens if the flight company loses my luggage?

What is the luggage allowance.

It differs according to the destination, flying companies and the type of flight classes selected. 

What if the flight is delayed or the departure time changes?

Will i receive assistance at the airport, where do i find my flight details, where should i do the online flight check-in, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Cruises

Cruise passenger, 23, fell overboard and vanished after complaining he felt seasick

• A tourist, 23, fell overboard from the MSC Euribia cruise ship, say reports.
• The recently-wed student had just texted his wife that he felt seasick. 
• Liam Jones vanished during a seven-day Northern Europe tour cruise

A 23-year-old tourist is presumed dead after falling from the MSC Euribia cruise ship in the North Sea, reports say.

Liam Jones disappeared during a seven-day Northern Europe tour cruise from Southampton to Amsterdam with his family to celebrate his mother's birthday.

The social work student from Scotland was last seen on board by his sister on March 16, shortly after texting his wife, Sophia Mcphee, about feeling seasick, reports said.

Business Insider contacted MSC Cruises for comment outside office hours.

MSC confirmed a passenger went missing during the cruise, prompting an investigation by Hampshire Constabulary upon the ship's return to the UK, per The Telegraph.

Related stories

His wife told the Daily Record," He's just gone. I'm never going to see him again."

"I'm devastated. I have so many questions, and I'm not getting any answers to what's happened," said Mcphee, 20.

McPhee says Jones' sister told her the news. "She said there had been an accident and Liam 'wasn't coming back.' She then said she had seen CCTV and he'd gone overboard."

A spokesperson for MSC Cruises said, "We are deeply saddened by this news, and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time," per The Telegraph.

The chances of you falling overboard off a cruise ship are extremely low .

In 2023, at least 10 people fell off a major cruise line ship, turning dream vacations into disaster situations — and only two survived the fall into the ocean.

The MSC Euribia can accommodate 6,327 passengers and has a wide range of bars and restaurants, five swimming pools, a wellness spa, a theater, a casino, and a very extensive children's club.

The price of the seven-night Nothern Europe tour on the MSC Euribia start at $950 per person, according to MSC's website .

Watch: One of Europe's deadliest shipwrecks leaves hundreds missing

• Main content

The 6 types of MSC Cruises ships, explained

The MSC Cruises fleet has grown enormously in recent years. As recently as early 2017, the line had just 12 ships in operation. But it's been adding new cruise vessels at a blistering pace, and it now operates 22 vessels. Three more are on the way in the next few years.

As a result of the growth, MSC Cruises recently passed Norwegian Cruise Line to become the world's third-biggest cruise brand when measured by passenger capacity. Only Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line are bigger.

Like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Carnival, MSC Cruises operates a wide range of ship styles and designs. The line's newest ships are among the largest ever built by any line. Eight MSC Cruises vessels rank among the world's 20 biggest cruise vessels . But not all MSC Cruises ships are supersized. MSC Cruises also operates quite a few relatively smaller, intimate vessels.

For more cruise guides, reviews and news, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Indeed, four MSC Cruises ships are less than a third the size of its biggest ship (the recently unveiled MSC World Europa ) and rank among the smallest of cruise ships operated by the major mass-market lines. That means you have a lot of choices when it comes to picking the perfect MSC Cruises ship for you.

The good news for those of you trying to get a handle on all the options is that the 22 ships in the MSC Cruises fleet can easily be bunched into just six groups of vessels that have similar amenities. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

These six groups, made up of ships constructed around the same time to the same basic design, are known in cruise industry lingo as "classes," and each has its own look and feel.

An introduction to MSC Cruises ships

As noted above, MSC Cruises is now the world's third largest cruise line, after several years of rapid growth. Not including pulldown bunks and pullout sofas, the line's 22 ships have 77,832 berths — about 24,000 more than Norwegian's fleet. And the growth won't be slowing anytime soon. Three more giant new MSC Cruises vessels are on order for delivery over the next few years that will add another 15,000 berths.

At its current pace of growth, MSC Cruises soon could pass Carnival to become the world's second-biggest line.

The grand dame of the MSC Cruises fleet is its recently unveiled MSC World Europa. At 215,863 tons, it's the biggest MSC Cruises ship ever built and the first of a new series of so-called World Class vessels that are nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships and soon-to-debut Icon Class ships (the world's biggest cruise ships).

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

The next-biggest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet are its also-recently-unveiled Meraviglia Class vessels: MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia. Similar in design, these five ships aren't quite as big as MSC World Europa, but they're right up there when it comes to size, amenities and passenger capacity.

MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia, which debuted in 2019, 2021 and 2023, respectively, are a tad longer than MSC Bellissima and MSC Meraviglia and are considered a subset of the class known as Meraviglia Plus. They each can hold 4,842 passengers at double occupancy — 6,334 passengers if every last pulldown bunk and pullout sofa is filled.

The other two Meraviglia Class ships, which date to 2019 and 2017, respectively, can carry more than 5,600 passengers with every berth filled.

In addition to these five giants, MSC Cruises also operates four large Seaside Class ships that each have a total capacity of 5,336 to 5,632 passengers.

Add those in, and MSC Cruises operates 10 of the world's 35 biggest cruise ships.

The line also operates four somewhat smaller Fantasia Class vessels that can each hold around 4,400 passengers at maximum occupancy.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an MSC Cruises ship

Together, the 14 World, Meraviglia, Seaside and Fantasia Class vessels make up MSC Cruises' big-ship fleet. The line's remaining eight vessels, split among two classes, are considerably smaller, with maximum occupancy topping out at around 2,700 to 3,200 passengers.

The eight smaller ships, which in general are the line's older ships, allow MSC Cruises to offer itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of the World Class or Meraviglia Class vessels, although even the biggest MSC Cruises ships are still designed to be able to call at most ports around the world.

The smaller ships also appeal to a subset of MSC Cruises fans who are willing to give up some onboard amenities in exchange for intimacy. They're also usually less expensive on a per-day basis.

In addition to all of the above, MSC Group — the line's parent company — has announced plans for yet another class of big ships to start arriving later this decade, though there have been few details released. MSC Group also is developing a series of small luxury vessels that'll operate under a separate brand to be called Explora Journeys.

World Class

Ships in class: MSC World Europa (2022); MSC World America (coming in 2025); unnamed (coming in 2026); unnamed (coming in 2027).

Size: 215,863 tons.

If you love nothing better than a big, bustling resort with every sort of amusement known to humans, this is the MSC Cruises ship class for you. Currently, only one ship is sailing, but another will debut soon, with two more on the way.

While not quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class and Icon Class vessels (the world's largest floating megaresorts), the World Class ships are not far behind in grandeur and amenities. They are bigger and more amenity-filled than any vessel you'll find at such rival big-ship lines as Norwegian, Carnival and Princess. Only Royal Caribbean has ships of the same scale.

Unveiled in the final days of 2022 (so close to year's end that we considered it a new vessel for 2023 when we listed the year's most exciting new ships ), MSC World Europa can hold up to 6,762 passengers — almost as many as can fit on Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class vessels — and that's a big deal.

This is the first time in the 14-year history of the record-breaking Oasis Class series that a vessel has come close to the Royal Caribbean ships in passenger capacity or size. MSC World Europa offers a major new option for cruisers who love being on the biggest, most amenity-packed vessels.

At 215,863 tons, MSC World Europa is about 4% to 8% smaller than the five Oasis Class ships. But by one measure, it's even bigger. MSC World Europa is 21 decks high — three decks higher than the Oasis Class vessels.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking the right cruise for you

As for its onboard offerings, MSC Cruises took a page from Royal Caribbean's playbook by breaking down the public areas of MSC World Europa into districts. They include an adults-only "Zen district" and a separate "family district" that houses as many as 10 new kids' facilities. There also is a central interior promenade with entertainment, shops and bars.

Additionally, MSC World Europa has six pools and 14 hot tubs, making it one of the most pool-covered ships at sea. The watery offerings include an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that integrate virtual reality technology. There is also a family sun deck.

MSC World Europa has 13 dining venues, including the new-for-the-line Chef's Garden Kitchen (an outlet focused on microgreens) and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. In a twist, the ship has three separate buffet restaurants, each with its own ambiance.

Drinking spots include a two-deck English-style pub dubbed Masters of the Sea Pub, which serves beer made on board. There's also a new gin bar, a first for MSC Cruises.

MSC World Europa is just the first of at least four World Class vessels that MSC Cruises plans to unveil over the next few years. The next ship in the series, MSC World America, is due in 2025 and is scheduled to be deployed in Florida . Two more World Class vessels are scheduled for completion in 2026 and 2027.

Seaside Class

Ships in class: MSC Seaside (2017); MSC Seaview (2018); MSC Seashore (2021); MSC Seascape (2022).

Size: 153,516 to 170,412 tons.

Looking for a megaship specifically designed for cruising in warm-weather locales such as the Caribbean? The ships in this class could be the answer.

The four vessels in MSC Cruises' Seaside Class feature layouts with lots of outdoor spaces for sunning, strolling and bar-hopping.

Each of the Seaside Class ships boasts an unusually broad, uncovered, outdoor promenade on Deck 8 that offers close contact with the ocean and a Miami Beach-like pool area at the back of the same deck that's surrounded by loungers. Another pool and lounge area at the top of each ship is connected to the lower pool area by glass-enclosed elevators.

The latter pool area at the top of each of the ships is, notably, topped by dual zip lines that run from funnel to stern — at 345 feet the longest at sea. A third pool area is located at the top of the ship toward its center (this one with a closeable roof), and there's a fourth pool area in the ship's exclusive suite area, the MSC Yacht Club.

Put it all together, and the Seaside Class vessels have the highest ratio of outdoor space per passenger of any of the MSC Cruises ships, according to the line.

As is typical for the biggest megaships, Seaside vessels also have a wide range of restaurants, bars and lounges. Among nine distinct eateries are two main dining rooms, two buffet eateries, a pan-Asian restaurant, sushi bar, Teppanyaki eatery, American steakhouse and seafood restaurant. There are more than a dozen bars.

Related: Don't miss these loyalty perks when sailing with MSC Cruises

All of the ships also have a water park with waterslides and a hanging bridge feature, a sports court, Formula 1 race car simulators, virtual arcade games and bowling and an XD cinema (featuring 3D movies plus immersive special effects, such as moving seats).

In addition, each of the vessels has a large spa, casino, disco, theater and library with a pool table.

Measuring 153,516 to 170,412 tons, the Seaside Class ships are a tad smaller than the biggest MSC Cruises ships (see the World Class, above, and Meraviglia Class, below).

MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview can carry 4,132 passengers at double occupancy (5,336 passengers with every berth filled).

MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape are slightly bigger versions of the first two ships in the series that are part of a subclass called Seaside EVO (EVO stands for "evolution"). They each can hold 4,540 passengers at double occupancy (5,877 with every berth filled).

Meraviglia Class

Ships in class: MSC Meraviglia (2017); MSC Bellissima (2019); MSC Grandiosa (2019); MSC Virtuosa (2021); MSC Euribia (2023).

Size: 171,598 to 181,541 tons.

Until late 2022, these were the biggest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, and they're still giant by any standard. If you're a fan of big, bustling resorts that are loaded with all sorts of amusements, they should be on your short list among MSC Cruises vessels, along with the World Class ships.

Nineteen decks high and 1,036 feet long, the first two ships in the Meraviglia Class — MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima — are chock full of 30 bars, lounges, eateries and snack outlets (so many there's little chance you'll get to them all on a single sailing).

The next three ships in the series — MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia — offer even more outlets. They are slightly stretched versions of the first two ships, a subclass of the series known as Meraviglia Plus.

All five of the vessels are built around a grand interior promenade that's home to restaurants, bars and shops. The promenade is covered in an innovative "digital sky" made with LED screens.

All of the ships also have a giant pool deck, a water park and a sprawling amusement area with race car simulators, a flight simulator and an XD cinema.

What you won't find on the Meraviglia Class ships is intimacy. These are vessels that can carry as many as 6,334 passengers when every berth is filled. They each operate with up to 1,704 crew members. That means you could be sharing your vacation with more than 8,000 people.

Fantasia Class

Ships in class: MSC Fantasia (2008); MSC Splendida (2009); MSC Divina (2012); MSC Preziosa (2013).

Size: 137,936 to 139,400 tons.

Back in 2008, when the ships in this series began debuting, they were among the biggest cruise vessels in the world, and they still are relatively large by cruise ship standards — if not quite as big as the latest MSC Cruises ships.

While no longer on the list of the top 20 biggest cruise vessels — indeed, they barely crack the top 60 these days, thanks to a flood of bigger ships in recent years — they offer a classic big-ship experience with lots of restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top attractions.

On each of the Fantasia Class ships, you'll find five separate pools (including one with a retractable roof that is perfect for rainy days), 12 whirlpools, a waterslide, XD cinema, sports court, squash court, Formula 1 race car simulator and extensive children's program areas.

In addition, each of the vessels has a large spa, casino, disco, outdoor cinema and multiple showrooms, lounges and bars.

One notable difference between the Fantasia Class ships and the new Meraviglia Class and Seaside Class ships is that they have fewer dining options. You'll find two main restaurants on each of these vessels, a main buffet, a separate self-service food area with pizza and an American-style steakhouse.

At 137,936 to 139,400 tons, the Fantasia Class ships are about 36% smaller than the line's new MSC World Europa and its coming World Class sisters, a significant step down in size. They're about 23% smaller than the Meraviglia Class ships.

They also carry significantly fewer passengers than the World Class and Meraviglia Class ships. MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida carry 3,274 passengers at double occupancy (4,363 with every berth filled). The slightly bigger MSC Divina and MSC Preziosa carry 3,502 passengers at double occupancy.

Musica Class

Ships in class: MSC Musica (2006); MSC Orchestra (2007); MSC Poesia (2008); MSC Magnifica (2010).

Size: 92,409 to 95,128 tons.

Not sure that you want to sail on a megaship with 6,000 people but still want a vessel with a good amount of features and activities? The Musica Class ships may be the perfect solution.

At 92,409 to 95,128 tons, the four vessels in the series are barely half the size of MSC Cruises' massive Meraviglia Class ships but still big enough that they have a lot to offer.

Each of the vessels has at least four places to eat including two main restaurants, a casual buffet and a sushi bar.

You'll also find two pool areas on each of the ships, whirlpools, a miniature golf course and a sports court. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

What you won't find on the ships, because of their smaller size, are the truly over-the-top family attractions that you'll find on bigger MSC Cruises ships such as giant waterparks with multiple slides and sprawling amusement areas with race car and flight simulators. If you can't live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, the Musica Class probably isn't for you.

You'll also find a far less diverse array of restaurants.

Each of the Musica Class ships holds a bit over 2,500 passengers at double occupancy (around 3,200 with every berth filled). That's less than half the number of passengers you'll find on the biggest MSC Cruises ships.

That makes them perfect for cruisers who want to get away from the sort of crowds that are on the biggest megaships without giving up too many of the amenities that big ships have to offer.

Lirica Class

Ships in class: MSC Armonia (2001); MSC Sinfonia (2002); MSC Lirica (2003); MSC Opera (2004).

Size: 65,542 to 65,591 tons.

Dating to the early 2000s, the Lirica Class ships are the smallest at MSC Cruises, and they offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line's vessels.In general, they appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship than what you'll find on the big MSC Cruises ships. They also draw cruisers who care more about the destinations they visit on a cruise than onboard attractions.

Along those lines, MSC Cruises often sends some of its Lirica Class ships to South America, South Africa and the Middle East to operate destination-intensive itineraries with abundant port calls. The vessels also often sail voyages in the Mediterranean that are longer than the seven-night trips that are the norm at MSC Cruises. In both cases, the allure of the cruises has more to do with the ports the ships visit than the onboard experience.

The Lirica Class ships don't have the big water parks that are common on newer MSC Cruises ships. For the most part, their top decks are lined with pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the early 2000s. All of them have at least two pools and two whirlpools.

Related: Is cruising right for you? Start by asking yourself these 7 questions

In addition to a main dining room and a casual buffet, each of the ships has an outdoor grill and pizza stand near its main pool area, as well as a sushi bar.

Each of the Lirica Class ships holds about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy (around 2,700 with every berth filled). That's less than a third of the passengers you'll find on the biggest MSC Cruises ships.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
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• What to pack for your first cruise

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Jail Cells? Morgues? Your Cruise Ship Has Some Surprises for You.

Here are five unexpected features on ships, some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Cruise ships have hidden features that many passengers, particularly first-timers, don’t know about. Some ships are as big as small cities, and while it’s relatively easy to familiarize yourself with a seemingly endless number of amenities — water parks, tattoo parlors, multiple restaurants — there is also an entire ecosystem, often below passenger decks, that is shrouded in mystery.

Here are five things that cruisers may not know about cruise ships:

There’s a morgue …

Cruise ships carry millions of passengers each year, and it is not uncommon for deaths to occur on board. Most vessels are required to have a morgue and additional body bags in the event of an emergency.

The morgue, usually a small stainless steel refrigerated room on the ship’s lowest deck, accommodates between two to 10 bodies, depending on the size of the vessel. When a passenger or crew member dies, officials on the ship will notify the authorities on shore and a medical team will assess the body and move it to the morgue, where it is kept until arrangements are made for repatriation. In most cases, the body will be removed at the next port of call, but sometimes will remain on board until the end of the voyage.

…and a jail

There are no police officers on cruise ships, but most vessels have small jails known as the brig, and unruly passengers could find themselves locked up if the ship’s security team determines that they have violated the cruise line’s code of conduct.

The brig, usually a bare-bones room with a bed and bathroom facilities, does not have iron bars like a traditional jail cell. It is used to detain guests who commit serious crimes like assault or possession of illegal substances. Drunk and disorderly passengers may be put under “cabin arrest,” meaning they cannot leave their cabin without a security escort.

Depending on the circumstances, most passengers put in the brig will stay there until they can be handed over to law enforcement officials.

Many ships don’t have a Deck 13

Many cruise ships do not have a Deck 13 because of the widespread superstition in Western culture that the number is unlucky. Ships with a Deck 13 typically use it for public areas, not cabins.

Some ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class vessels, have a Deck 13 because the vessels are used mainly for the company’s market in Asia, where the number is not considered unlucky. MSC ships also have a Deck 13, but not a Deck 17, because the cruise line’s founder is Italian and 17 is considered unlucky in Italy.

Cruise lines entertain other superstitions, like appointing godmothers to bless new vessels and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. They also hold naming ceremonies in which a bottle of champagne is smashed against the hull of a new ship for good luck. If the bottle fails to break, the vessel will, according to superstition, have bad luck. These days, cruise lines use mechanical devices to ensure that does not happen.

Hidden pools and facilities for the crew

There are typically more than 1,000 crew members on board large cruise ships, and while they spend most of their time serving passengers, there are several areas on the lower decks designated for them to unwind.

The facilities vary from ship to ship, but there are usually small pools in the ship’s bow exclusively for crew members, as well as restaurants, bars and recreational areas like game rooms and gyms. The designated bar, a central social hub for employees after they have finished their shifts, often hosts live music and events in the evening.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, has an entire “neighborhood” dedicated to its 2,300 crew members, with a clubhouse that has massage chairs and virtual balconies — large screens that show real-time views from outside — as well as a restaurant with portholes looking out to the ocean.

Most ships host A.A. meetings

With all-inclusive beverage packages and countless bars, cruise ships can be a tough environment for guests in recovery. Many cruise lines offer daily Alcoholics Anonymous meetings that are usually scheduled as “Friends of Bill W.,” a reference to William Wilson, who co-founded the A.A. program in 1935.

The meetings are usually held in a quiet place like the library, where guests can feel comfortable and maintain their anonymity. They are also open to other support group members, like Women for Sobriety and Narcotics Anonymous.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

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Cruise Ship Passenger Who Fell Overboard Texted Wife About Feeling Seasick Before Going Missing

Liam Jones, 23, was last seen on March 16 as his cruise ship headed for Germany, and Hampshire police are now investigating

Charlotte Phillipp is a Weekend Writer-Reporter at PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since 2024, and was previously an entertainment reporter at The Messenger.

A British man who has gone missing from a cruise ship in Europe texted his wife just moments before falling overboard, she said.

Liam Jones, 23, of Scotland, was on a weeklong Northern European cruise with his family aboard the MSC Euribia when he fell overboard on March 16, MSC Cruises told Metro .

According to Jones' wife, 20-year-old Sophia Mcphee, the social work student had just texted her that he was feeling seasick prior to his disappearance.

"He's just gone. I'm never going to see him again," Mcphee told the Daily Record . "I'm devastated. I have so many questions, and I'm not getting any answers to what's happened."

Mcphee said that Jones' sister — who called her to break the news of her husband's disappearance — told her that security camera footage showed Jones falling overboard, However, McPhee said she hadn't been updated on the investigation since.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

"[Jones' sister] said there had been an accident, and Liam 'wasn't coming back,' " Mcphee told the Daily Record . "She then said she had seen CCTV and he'd gone overboard."

Mcphee had last seen her husband on March 14, when he departed their Dundee, Scotland, home to meet his family in Glasgow before they boarded the cruise in Southampton the following day, she said. The family was taking the cruise to celebrate Jones' mother's birthday.

"I've been trying to get in contact with the MSC since Monday, but it's been a headache," Mcphee told the Daily Record . "They're not getting back to me."

The MSC Euribia was set to travel from Southampton to Amsterdam over the course of several days, with stops in Denmark, Norway and Germany, according to the ship's itinerary. The international cruise line said the ship was headed to Germany at the time Jones fell overboard.

"A passenger on board MSC Euribia went overboard on March 16 as the ship was sailing to Hamburg. This was reported to the authorities," a spokesperson from MSC Cruises told The Telegraph .

"The police in Southampton boarded the vessel today and investigated on behalf of the coroner," the statement continued, per the outlet. "We are deeply saddened by this news and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will refrain from disclosing any additional information."

The incident prompted a response from the Hampshire Constabulary, the outlet reported, and a spokesperson confirmed that investigators have begun looking into Jones' case.

"Officers boarded the vessel today following a report that a man had gone overboard," a Constabulary spokesperson told The Telegraph. "The man’s family are aware, and police are investigating this on behalf of the coroner."

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The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

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Call it the Battle of the Waterslides.

In the last few years, the big boys of the cruise industry — Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — have been locked in a game of one-upmanship when it comes to waterslides and watery fun zones on vessels.

In addition to such over-the-top, new attractions as go-kart tracks and roller coasters , the brands behind the biggest megaresorts at sea have been packing the top decks of their vessels with even more over-the-top watery allures.

For more cruise guides, news and reviews, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Royal Caribbean, for instance, added an 800-foot-long “water coaster” to the back of its 3,386-passenger Navigator of the Seas just a few years ago. It’s one of more than two dozen giant waterslides the line has added to more than half a dozen ships in the last seven years.

Royal Caribbean also plans a record six waterslides on its next new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is scheduled to debut in January 2024.

But as recently as early 2016, Royal Caribbean didn’t have a single waterslide on any of its vessels.

MSC Cruises also has gone big with giant water parks in the past seven years, with as many as four waterslides on more than half a dozen of its newest vessels. Norwegian has loaded up its most recent ships with giant water parks, too — some have as many as five waterslides!

Not to be outdone, Carnival, an early adopter of waterslides on ships, has added sprawling water park areas with multiple waterslides to almost every vessel in its fleet.

A brief history of water attractions at sea

In the beginning, there was the pool. As watery cruise ship attractions go, it has long been the staple — something found on nearly every cruise vessel going back to the 1970s.

But as early as 1978, at least one line was spicing up its Lido decks with a little waterslide fun — little being the operative word. That’s the year Carnival added a single slide into the pool on its 728-passenger Festivale — a slide so small it’s now hilarious to think it was touted as an attraction.

Often cited as the first waterslide ever on a cruise vessel, the Festivale slide was of a sort that was found at backyard pools at the time. The cruise industry was still in its infancy, of course, and ships were orders of magnitude smaller than they are today. Festivale measured just 32,697 tons, about one-seventh the size of today’s biggest cruise vessels.

Carnival, the so-called Fun Ship line, would go on to become the early leader in waterslides at sea. The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which debuted in 1990, was the first cruise ship with a significant waterslide. It measured 115 feet in length.

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Just six years later, in 1996, Carnival would make news with the unveiling of a 214-foot-long corkscrew waterslide on what then was called Destiny. (The ship currently sails as the Carnival Sunshine after being rebuilt in 2013.) At the time, Destiny was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

In more recent years, Carnival has gone into waterslide-building overdrive. The line has added full-blown water park areas with waterslides, watery play zones and other features to all but four of its 25 ships. All but one of Carnival’s ships (Carnival Luminosa) now have at least one waterslide.

One of the Carnival water parks, on the line’s 5-year-old Carnival Horizon, even has Disney-style theming revolving around Dr. Seuss characters.

Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean only began going big with waterslides on ships in the past decade or so. Many of the newest vessels from the brands have massive water park areas. Some of the brands are retrofitting big waterslides onto older ships, too.

Additionally, family-focused Disney Cruise Line now has major water attractions on all its vessels.

Where you’ll find the biggest waterslides at sea

If your idea of the perfect cruise ship is one loaded to the gills with waterslides and watery fun zones (plus all sorts of other over-the-top attractions), you’ll want to stick to the biggest floating megaresorts operated by Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

At Royal Caribbean, that means the giant Oasis-class vessels , which include Wonder of the Seas — the world’s largest cruise ship. At Norwegian, you’ll find the biggest waterslides and water parks on the line’s relatively recently built Breakaway Plus-, Breakaway- and Epic-class ships. At MSC Cruises, the new Seaside-, Meraviglia-, Meraviglia Plus- and World-class vessels have the line’s big water parks.

Big lines that have steered clear of the water-park-at-sea trend include Princess Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises. Geared more toward couples than families and typically drawing an older demographic, all three of these lines have stuck to a more subdued feel for the outdoor areas of their ships. The top decks of vessels operated by Princess, Holland America and Celebrity still mostly revolve around traditional swimming areas with pools, hot tubs and lounge chairs.

Ready for a splashy, top-deck thrill? These are the most spectacular watery attractions at sea.

The Perfect Storm

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

This isn’t just one giant waterslide; it’s a whole complex of waterslides, each one among the most exciting you’ll find anywhere on the world’s oceans.

The Perfect Storm is found on four of Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis-class vessels — Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — as well as the smaller Liberty of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas. The complex includes two four-deck-high racer slides called Cyclone and Typhoon, where you can do side-by-side speed tests with your travel partner.

On the four Oasis-class ships, there’s also a third, Champagne bowl-style slide called Supercell. It’ll swirl you around a big basin before plummeting you “down the drain” into a plunge pool. On Liberty of the Seas, a third slide called The Tidal Wave sends you screaming down a steep hill on an inner tube to a nearly vertical incline. Zooming upward, topping out and dropping back, you’ll get a blissful moment of complete weightlessness.

Note that Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also has a waterslide area called Perfect Storm — but it’s completely different. More on that in a moment.

The Blaster

Where you’ll find it: Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas.

The Blaster is the Big Daddy of waterslides at sea. At 800 feet, it’s the longest ever built on a cruise ship. Added to Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas in 2019, it’s a seemingly endless stretch of yellow and orange tubing that winds around the back deck of the vessel like a snake.

A true sight to behold, The Blaster is so long because it’s what’s known as a water coaster. It features water jets that propel you up, down and forward — extending the ride — as you careen around the ship’s basketball court and surfing simulator in an inner tube. At times, you go flying over the side of the ship, over open water (not that you have much time to take in the view).

Royal Caribbean has named the area on Navigator of the Seas where The Blaster is located the Perfect Storm — the same name used for waterslide areas on six other ships — but the area is completely different than what you’ll find on the other vessels. In addition to The Blaster, the Perfect Storm area on Navigator of the Seas includes a headfirst mat racer slide called Riptide — the first of its kind at sea.

Where you’ll find it: Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Leave it to family-focused Disney Cruise Line to come up with the coolest watery family attraction at sea. AquaDuck is a water coaster, like The Blaster on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and is found on Disney’s two Dream-class ships. But don’t expect anything too white-knuckle. The ride is relatively gentle by water park standards, mainly because it’s designed for kids of all ages (and their parents, who can ride along on inner tubes for two).

While AquaDuck is slightly shorter than The Blaster at 765 feet in length, it has a bigger presence, thanks to its prime location encircling the main pool area. If you’re lounging up top, it’s hard to miss the massive, clear acrylic tubing of the ride, which is held up by 46 giant white stilts.

In addition to AquaDuck, the two Disney ships with the attraction (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream ) have a relatively small, kid-friendly waterslide next to the centrally located Mickey’s Pool. Dubbed Mickey’s Slide, it’s held up by a giant Mickey hand, which is delightful. Both ships also have a watery play zone for toddlers called Nemo’s Reef. Plus, Disney Fantasy has a watery fun zone with water jets, geysers and bubblers called AquaLab.

Note that Disney’s newest ship — Disney Wish — has a water coaster attraction similar to the AquaDuck called the AquaMouse. The big difference: Riders will see animated shorts while riding up the ramp at the start of the ride.

Carnival WaterWorks

Where you’ll find it: Nearly all Carnival ships.

When it comes to waterslides on ships, cruise giant Carnival is still the undisputed king. The Fun Ship line began adding them to vessels way back in 1978, and there’s now at least one waterslide on every ship in the Carnival fleet — something no other line can say.

Indeed, on all Carnival ships, there’s now not just a single waterslide but a whole water park area. Called WaterWorks, these areas vary in size and features from vessel to vessel, but they typically have one or two big waterslides, a watery play zone with interactive water features and a large continuously filling dump bucket that periodically soaks everybody within range.

You’ll typically find the biggest Carnival water park complexes on the newest Carnival ships, such as Mardi Gras , Celebration and Carnival Venezia . All three have three waterslides — one more than most Carnival ships.

Aqua Park (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Where you’ll find it: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore.

Norwegian Cruise Line began going big with waterslides in 2010 when it debuted Norwegian Epic. And boy, did it go big! Norwegian Epic offers three monster waterslides, including the thrilling Epic Plunge — a 200-foot-long tube ride that ends in a swirling bowl. Epic Plunge is part of Norwegian Epic’s Aqua Park, the first water park on a Norwegian ship. Norwegian has since added Aqua Parks to six more new vessels, including its biggest ship, the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s Aqua Parks vary in size and attractions from ship to ship, but some of them, such as the one on Norwegian Breakaway, have as many as five separate multistory waterslides. Yes, you read that right: Five waterslides on a single cruise ship!

On Norwegian Breakaway, the lineup includes twin free-fall slides that drop passengers nearly straight down several stories; two side-by-side twisting racer slides; and a family-friendly slide with a more modest drop. For sheer variety, the complex is hard to beat.

Aqua Park (MSC Cruises)

Where you’ll find it: MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia, MSC World Europa.

Fast-growing MSC Cruises has joined the waterslide wars in the last few years — and in a massive way. Each of the 10 ships the line has unveiled since 2017 offers a full-blown water park on its top deck that’s packed with waterslides and other watery fun.

On North America-based MSC Seaside, the Aqua Park has four waterslides and a children’s play area with interactive water features. The waterslides include two massive, 525-foot-long dueling slides that extend over the sides of the ship. The top of the Aqua Park on MSC Seaside is also home to the liftoff point for a zip line that soars 344 feet across the top of the vessel.

Other MSC Cruises water parks at sea include the winter-themed Polar Aqua Park on MSC Meraviglia, which offers a suspended-in-the-sky ropes course in addition to four waterslides. There’s also the Aquaplay area for the little ones.

A handful of ships even have virtual reality waterslides that involve riders wearing virtual reality headsets as part of the experience.

In all, 14 of MSC Cruises’ 22 vessels now have at least one waterslide on their top decks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.