msc cruises quality

Is MSC a Good Cruise Line? (Are MSC Cruises Good?)

MSC Cruises, renowned for their affordability, offers a unique Mediterranean-style cruising experience that caters to a diverse range of travelers. 

However, do they offer a good experience or have they cut too many corners focusing on price alone?

Here we take a look at the pros and cons as well as third party reviews and experiences so you can work out if MSC cruises is a good cruise line for you.

It is for many.

Are MSC Cruises Good?

MSC Cruises are a good choice for travelers seeking an affordable, Mediterranean-style cruise experience.   They offer a unique blend of innovative facilities, diverse accommodation options, and multinational entertainment. 

While they have a higher passenger-to-space ratio and extra fees for certain services, they also provide value with their unique atmosphere, relaxed vibe, and family-friendly policies. 

However, like any travel experience, whether MSC Cruises are the right choice depends on individual preferences and expectations.

Beyond just cost-effectiveness, MSC Cruises stands out for its unique Mediterranean atmosphere, diverse facilities, and multinational entertainment.

Below are the key highlights that define MSC Cruises, providing a balanced view of their offerings. 

Unique Mediterranean Atmosphere

MSC Cruises is a family-owned Italian company that offers a distinctive Mediterranean atmosphere. This provides a unique cruising experience that sets them apart from other cruise lines. The company’s Swiss-based operations allow it to maintain a reasonable high standard of service and quality, while its Italian heritage is reflected in the ship’s design, cuisine, and onboard activities.

Innovative Facilities and Activities

MSC Cruises is known for its innovative facilities. For instance, the MSC Preziosa, one of their ships, features the longest single-rider body waterslide at sea. These unique features provide a variety of entertainment options for passengers of all ages, making the cruise experience more enjoyable and memorable.

Diverse Accommodation Options

With a total capacity for 4,363 passengers, MSC Cruises offers a good choice of accommodation options for everyone from budget-conscious families to couples who want to splurge with a stay in the exclusive Yacht Club. The cabins are designed to cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring that every passenger can find a suitable accommodation option.

Multinational Entertainment

The entertainment on MSC Cruises is geared to appeal to multinational audiences.

This means you will find dancers, bilingual singers, and acrobats instead of comedians and similar acts that require a lot of speaking.

The entertainment options are designed to cater to a diverse audience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the shows regardless of their language or cultural background.

Relaxed Atmosphere

Despite the ship’s surroundings and decor being glitzy and glamorous, MSC Cruises has a relaxed atmosphere. This makes it a great choice for families, younger couples, and the young-at-heart. The relaxed atmosphere allows passengers to enjoy their cruise without feeling pressured to participate in formal activities or dress up for dinner.

Diverse Passenger Base

One of MSC’s slogan is “the Mediterranean way of life,” and this is definitely European-style cruising. In 2012, the line carried passengers from 180 different nationalities, making it a truly international experience onboard.

 This diversity adds to the richness of the onboard experience, as passengers get to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Value for Money

MSC Cruises is ranked 4th  in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money by U.S. News & World Report . 

This ranking is based on an expert evaluation of the line’s level of luxury, as well as an assessment of user reviews and health ratings.

This re-enforces the view that MSC Cruises offers a high-quality cruise experience at a reasonable price, providing excellent value for money.

Children Cruise Free Policy

One of the unique features of MSC Cruises is its “Children Cruise Free” policy. This policy applies to kids younger than 18 as a third or fourth guest, making MSC Cruises a great option for families looking to enjoy a cruise vacation without breaking the bank.

Wide Array of Itineraries

MSC Cruises offers a wide array of European itineraries to choose from. 

Whether you want to explore the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea, or the Caribbean, MSC Cruises has an itinerary that will suit your preferences. 

This wide range of options allows passengers to choose a cruise that fits their interests and travel goals.

Globally Inspired Cuisine

Most MSC restaurants feature globally inspired cuisines, providing passengers with a wide range of dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Asian, or American cuisine, you’ll find a restaurant on board that can satisfy your cravings.

Stunning Ship Decor

MSC Cruises are known for their stunning ship decor.

The ships are designed by renowned architects like De Jorio Design International, who are known for their innovative and elegant designs. The interiors of the ships are beautifully decorated, combining current trends with timeless classics.

The decor is inspired by the Mediterranean heritage of MSC Cruises, with a focus on elegance and comfort.

The public areas are spacious and beautifully designed, with a lot of attention to detail. The ships also feature impressive atriums, which are often the centerpiece of the ship.

These atriums are multi-decked and feature panoramic lifts, a grand staircase, and a piano lounge, providing a spectacular welcome to passengers as they board the ship.

Moreover, the cabins on MSC Cruises are designed with comfort in mind. They are elegantly furnished and offer a cozy retreat after a day of activities. The cabins range from interior staterooms to luxurious suites with private balconies, catering to different budgets and preferences.

MSC Cruises Reviews Ratings

One of the best ways to gauge how good a cruise line is, is to read the reviews.

Cruise Critic

To start with cruises rated MSC Cruises 3.3 out of 5.

A 3.3 out of 5 score suggests that the product, service, or experience is deemed average to slightly above average. This rating indicates that while some customers had a positive experience, there may be room for improvement.

Remember, ratings are subjective and can vary significantly based on individual expectations and experiences. This is a crucial point to consider.

When choosing a cruise, the saying ‘you get what you pay for’ typically holds true. 

Opting for a less expensive MSC cruise instead of a pricier Royal Caribbean cruise will likely result in a different experience. 

This could mean a variety of things, from the quality of food, the number of passengers onboard, to the range of amenities and activities available.

The information provided below will help you determine if MSC Cruises is the right choice for you, by highlighting areas where the experience might differ due to cost considerations. 

Understanding these differences upfront can help manage expectations and enhance your overall enjoyment of the cruise.

As well as using past feedback I also read through hundreds of recent reviews to get a good overall idea of guests current impressions from a range of recent MSC cruises.

As the rating implies, the experiences of passengers on MSC Cruises seem to be mixed. 

You can check the latest Cruise Critic MSC Cruise reviews here .

TrustPilot Reviews

MSC is popular with UK cruisers as well as various other European countries.

One source of reviews and feedback is Trustpilot.

Here the review rating looked much less favorable, especially for the most recent reviews.

However, it must be noted that Trustpilot reviews for cruise lines tend to be much more negative than an all-round balanced view of cruisecritic.  

You can view MSC Cruises Trustpilot reviews here .

Comparison to Competitor Cruise Lines

As a gauge of how MSC cruises scores related to their competitors in terms of passenger experiences  we have ranked the Cruise Critic review ratings below

• Celebrity Cruises 4.1
• Holland America Line 3.9
• Royal Caribbean International 3.9
• Carnival Cruise Line 3.8
• Princess Cruises 3.8
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) 3.7
• MSC Cruises 3.3

MSC Cruises came bottom of the review ratings on CruiseCritic, although not by a long way, but it does indicated, if you pay less for your cruise, you get less.  If you expect the same you’re likely to be disappointed.

Overall 3.3 is not a bad score, it indicates an average to good experience.

On Trustpilot the Review ratings were:

• Holland America Line 2.2
• Celebrity Cruises 2.0
• Carnival Cruise Line 1.8
• MSC Cruises 1.7
• Princess Cruises 1.6
• Royal Caribbean International 1.5
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) 1.4

On Trustpilot, which when it comes to cruise lines seems to more of a platform guests go to complain, MSC Cruises was in the middle of the ratings when compared to its main cruise line competitors.

First Hand Review of MSC Cruises

In this video, Emma from Emma Cruises provides an unbiased, comprehensive review of MSC Cruises, drawing from her extensive cruising experience. Her first-hand insights make this a trustworthy and recommended source for cruise line information.

The video highlights

• Ship Features – MSC’s modern, sparkly ships are a highlight.
• Dress Code – The cruise line has a casual dress code.
• Cuisine – Mediterranean food is a staple on MSC cruises.
• Demographics – MSC attracts a younger demographic with its family-friendly atmosphere and activities.
• Service and Entertainment – These aspects differ from American and British cruise lines, with announcements made in multiple languages.
• Affordability – The reviewer appreciates MSC’s affordability and family-friendly offers.
• Criticism – Despite criticisms about food and service, the reviewer still recommends MSC.
• Conclusion – MSC offers a unique, fun, and affordable cruising experience, especially for families and young people. However, it may not suit those preferring a more traditional cruise

These are all fair and valid points.

As you can see in the video the ships are beautifully laid out.

What Are MSC Cruises Like? (Points of Concern)

MSC Cruises are cheap, thats one major positive. However, its only fair to expect an experience that isn’t on par with its competitors.

I therefore analyzed the results from hundreds of reviews across the two review platforms and found the following areas to be the most common areas of complaints that are worth considering if you weighing up whether going for a cheap MSC Cruise is suited for you .

Its important to note, these do not reflect the overall experience of MSC Cruises and we have covered the good points separately above.

Overcrowding

One of the most significant issues raised by many reviewers on Trustpilot was the problem of overcrowding on MSC Cruises. Passengers reported that the ships were packed to capacity, leading to a number of inconveniences and discomforts.

The high number of passengers resulted in:

• Long queues for food and drinks, with some customers waiting for up to 30 minutes to get a drink.
• Difficulty finding seating in bars and lounges due to the high number of passengers.
• Scarcity of sunbeds, with some passengers resorting to sitting on the floor due to the lack of available seating.

This overcrowding not only led to discomfort but also contributed to a less-than-satisfactory overall experience.

Food Quality

The quality of the food served on MSC Cruises was another common complaint among reviewers on both Trustpilot and Cruise Critic.

Some passengers described the food as being of poor quality, with cheap ingredients used in the preparation. 

The buffet offerings were particularly criticized, with passengers describing the food as inedible and poorly prepared. 

Even the specialty restaurants, which come with an additional cost, were not spared from criticism. 

Passengers found them to be expensive and the food served did not meet their expectations. 

On Cruise Critic, the quality and variety of food received mixed reviews. Some passengers were unsatisfied with the food, describing it as “disgusting” or “poor”, while others seemed to enjoy the dining experience.

Customer Service

Many reviewers on expressed dissatisfaction with the level of customer service on MSC Cruises.

 Complaints ranged from rude staff members to slow service, and a lack of response to complaints or issues. 

Some passengers felt that the staff were indifferent and unresponsive to their needs. 

This lack of quality customer service significantly impacted the overall cruise experience for these passengers.  

However, some passengers praised the staff for their professionalism and friendliness, indicating that experiences may vary.

In part, for some passengers, this could be due to the cruise line being a European Italian cruise line, where the service in general is going to be different to what you might expect on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, where the service staff are trained to be much more engaging and friendly. This isn’t always as typical in Europe.

Cleanliness and Maintenance

Cleanliness and maintenance were also areas of concern for some passengers.

 On Trustpilot, some reported that their cabins were not clean upon arrival, and that communal areas such as toilets were infrequently cleaned and lacking in sanitation equipment. 

This lack of cleanliness not only affected the comfort of passengers but also raised concerns about health and safety. 

On Cruise Critic, the cleanliness of the rooms was praised by some passengers, but others reported issues such as a sewage smell. 

Extra Costs

While MSC Cruises may offer lower initial prices, many reviewers on both Trustpilot and Cruise Critic mentioned that there were many additional costs once on board. These included:

• Charges for getting off the ship
• Expensive drinks packages
• High prices for Wi-Fi service

These extra costs increased the overall cost of the cruise, making it less of a bargain than it initially seemed.

Entertainment

The quality of the entertainment on board was criticized by some reviewers on Trustpilot. 

They described the shows as dull and of low quality.

 This lack of quality entertainment could detract from the overall cruise experience, especially for passengers who value onboard entertainment as a key part of their holiday.

However, its worth bearing in mind that MSC Cruises typically have passengers from a wide range of different language speaking countries, so the entertainment tends to be more on the visual side to please everyone, rather than verbal and many guests not able to understand the language.

No one can deny the Cirque do Solei put on amazing perfomances.

Itinerary Changes

Some passengers on Trustpilot complained about changes to the itinerary, with ports being skipped without clear explanation. 

These unexpected changes disrupted passengers. plans and lead to disappointment, which can happen due to a wide range of reasons, which can happen on any cruise line, for example bad weather.

However, it helps if these reasons are communicated to guests.

Noise Levels

Several reviewers on Trustpilot mentioned high noise levels on the ship, making it difficult to relax or hold a conversation.

This constant noise could significantly detract from enjoying the cruise, particularly for passengers seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

Issues with Children

Some Trustpilot reviewers mentioned issues with children’s behavior on the ship.

They suggested that there was a lack of supervision and that some areas of the ship should be adults-only. 

This could be a significant issue for passengers who are looking for a quiet and relaxing cruise experience, or something to take into consideration when choosing when to travel with MSC Cruises, perhaps avoiding school breaks.

This is to be expected because MSC Cruises allow kids to travel for free when they are with 2 adult guests.

Refund and Cancellation Policies

Some passengers on Trustpilot had issues with MSC’s refund and cancellation policies. 

They described them as unfair or difficult to navigate. 

 This could cause significant stress and inconvenience, particularly for passengers who need to cancel or change their booking for unforeseen reasons.

Overall Experience

The overall experience on MSC Cruises received mixed reviews on both Trustpilot and Cruise Critic. 

Some passengers were not impressed, citing disorganized shore excursions, a lack of amenities, and poor customer service. 

However, others had a good time, especially when traveling with family or friends. 

It seems that while MSC Cruises may offer lower prices, the overall experience can vary greatly depending on individual expectations and experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is msc the worst cruise line.

According to CruiseCritic review ratings, MSC Cruises has the lowest amongst its closest peer cruise lines. 

However on Trustpilot it was rated around the middle of the cruise lines.

While some passengers have reported negative experiences with MSC Cruises, as seen in the reviews from Trustpilot and Cruise Critic, it’s important to note that others have had positive experiences and enjoyed their time on MSC cruises. 

Factors such as food quality, customer service, cleanliness, and overall value for money can significantly impact a passenger’s experience, and these factors can vary from ship to ship and itinerary to itinerary.

Therefore, it wouldn’t be accurate to label MSC or any other cruise line as the “worst” based solely on some negative reviews.

How Bad Are Msc Cruises

MSC Cruises often offers competitive prices, which can make them an attractive option for many travelers. 

However, reviews indicate a mixed experience. 

Some passengers have reported issues such as overcrowding, less-than-ideal food quality, and subpar customer service. 

On the other hand, there are also passengers who have had positive experiences, highlighting the modern ships and diverse itineraries.

The lower cost can sometimes reflect in certain aspects of the cruise experience. 

Embarking on a journey with MSC Cruises offers a unique blend of affordability and Mediterranean charm. 

While they manage to keep their prices lower by accommodating more passengers and charging extra for certain services, they also provide a relaxed atmosphere, diverse accommodation options, and a range of innovative facilities. 

The experiences of past passengers and third-party reviews reveal a mix of pros and cons, indicating that the ‘goodness’ of MSC Cruises largely depends on individual preferences and expectations.   If you choose a budget cruise, expect more of a budget cruise experience.

Overall, MSC Cruises can indeed be a good cruise line for those seeking a cost-effective, European-style cruising experience. 

If you have any experiences of MSC Cruises you are welcome to share views in the comments.

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MSC Euribia

MSC Euribia, named after the Greek goddess of mastery of the sea, launched in June 2023. MSC Euribia stands out with its commitment to sustainability (the ship runs on liquid natural gas, or LNG) and art-filled aesthetic (with original works of art throughout the ship and a "Save the Sea" motif on the hull).

Entertainment options abound, with an immersive gallery, a sports center, a theater, a casino and seven rooms dedicated to kids and teenagers. Five pools and a water park are also available. The Galleria, the main promenade featuring a dazzling LED sky dome, is a hub for shopping and dining.

With MSC Euribia's 10 dining venues, passengers can choose from formal Italian, fast-casual tacos, a sushi bar, a buffet, a crepe shop and more. What's more, the ship offers 21 bars, including a British pub, a wine bar and upscale cocktail lounges, as well as the Carousel Lounge, where passengers can dance to music of varying genres.

MSC Euribia holds up to 6,327 guests and 1,711 crew members. Staterooms range from the 129-square-foot Interior Studio to the 420-square-foot Grand Suite with a whirlpool and terrace. MSC Yacht Club Suites, which offer access to exclusive perks like butler service and a dedicated sun deck, are also available.

Most MSC Euribia itineraries sail through northern Europe, particularly the Norwegian fjords and destinations including Amsterdam ; Paris ; Hamburg, Germany ; Copenhagen, Denmark ; and Bruges, Belgium . Cruises to the Middle East, including ports like Doha, Qatar, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, will also be offered. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re dead set on cruising in the MSC Yacht Club, you’ll want to be selective with the vessel and itinerary you choose. Many older MSC ships do not offer a Yacht Club section, including the Poesia, Armonia, Lirica, Musica and Opera. – Holly Johnson, Contributor

MSC Bellissima

Boasting a 5,100-square-foot LED screen in the ceiling of its promenade and accommodations for more than 5,600 guests, the MSC Bellissima (debuted in 2019) aims to impress. Guests can relax in cabins ranging from cozy Interior Studio staterooms to large suites with balconies and espresso machines. Each room comes equipped with Zoe, a voice-enabled virtual assistant capable of making restaurant reservations, answering questions about the ship and more.

Members of MSC Yacht Club (an exclusive amenities program) who sail on MSC Bellissima can receive benefits such as dedicated priority check-in and check-out, 24-hour butler service and concierge room service, complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, one free cruise change and a discount on prepaid restaurant packages as well as spa packages and treatment. 

Outside of their rooms, travelers can try for a strike at the ship's bowling alley, zip down a waterslide at the Aquapark or play games in the TV Studio & Bar. At night, cruisers can grab a drink at one of the ship's 20 bars and dine at one of 12 restaurants, which offer sushi, tapas and more. After dinner, passengers can catch a live show in the state-of-the-art, 1,700-square-foot Carousel Lounge. Kids of all ages will enjoy their time on the ship as well, as Bellissima boasts separate spaces for infants and toddlers, kids and teens to hang out all day.

MSC Bellissima sails throughout Asia. 

MSC Meraviglia

Launched in June 2017, the 5,642-passenger MSC Meraviglia is one of the largest vessels in the fleet. In fact, it is among the largest cruise ships floating on the seas today.

Some of the ship's most impressive features include a promenade equipped with a 5,200-square-foot LED screen dome, a 108-square-foot main pool, and two Formula 1 virtual reality racing simulators. 

MSC Meraviglia also features nine dining venues, ranging from a buffet open 20 hours a day to a teppanyaki and sushi restaurant to an authentic Italian eatery.

Equally impressive, more than 60% of the ship's staterooms offer balconies. Accommodations range from Interior and Ocean View cabins to Duplex Suites and Yacht Club suites. Those who splurge on Yacht Club category cabins receive additional perks, like 24-hour butler service, access to exclusive venues like the One Pool Deck (a secluded pool and sun deck) and a private restaurant, plus unlimited access to the spa's Thermal Area.

MSC Meraviglia sails through the Bahamas and the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England. It visits MSC's private island, the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, on select cruises. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a ship with an “open feel,” the MSC Meraviglia is worth checking out. This vessel features a large open-air promenade lined with bars and dining venues that leads to a multi-deck central gathering area. – Holly Johnson, Contributor

Introduced in 2012, MSC Divina is among the largest ships in the fleet. It can host up to 4,345 passengers and 1,388 crew members. Some past cruisers noted that the disproportionate staff-to-guest ratio translated to slow service, especially in the dining rooms.

Still, MSC Divina offers plenty of activities to keep guests entertained. Standout facilities include a 4-D theater and four pool areas, including a 22,507-square-foot Aqua Park. Dining is on just as grand a scale: The ship contains eight restaurants, including a sushi eatery. On top of that, there are 12 bars and lounges.

Members of MSC Yacht Club (an exclusive amenities program) who sail on MSC Divina can receive benefits such as dedicated priority check-in and check-out, 24-hour butler service and concierge room service, complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, one free cruise change and a discount on prepaid restaurant packages as well as spa packages and treatment. 

Suites in this exclusive area feature floor-to-ceiling windows. For MSC Yacht Club members, MSC Divina also includes the Sophia Loren Royal Suite on deck 16, which was designed with the help of Loren and includes a replica of her dressing table. More budget-friendly accommodations include Interior and Ocean View staterooms, which come equipped with TVs and minibars. 

MSC Divina offers sailings around the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. 

MSC Grandiosa

Debuted in mid-November 2019, MSC Grandiosa hosts a whopping 6,334 passengers and 1,704 crew members. On board, travelers can take advantage of two different pools, a water park, the Sportplex amusement park and a fitness center. Those seeking a thrilling, albeit less strenuous, entertainment option should check out a live show in the evening.

Grandiosa also boasts an especially large Yacht Club – a private section of the ship that offers exclusive amenities to members, such as a private pool and 24-hour butler service. Meanwhile, entertainment options for kids include seven different rooms (each designated for a different age group), a gaming room for teens and a Lego movie maker studio for children.

Guests can choose from a variety of staterooms, including standard Interior, Ocean View and Balcony rooms, as well as Family Cabins (perfect for up to six guests) and an array of Suite-category options. Each stateroom – regardless of size – comes equipped with Zoe: MSC's voice-activated assistant who can answer any questions cruisers have about their ship.

In addition to the main dining room and the Marketplace Buffet (which is open 20 hours a day), cruisers can choose to dine at several specialty spots, including Butcher's Cut for sumptuous steaks and HOLA! Tapas Bar.

Grandiosa sails through the Mediterranean and South America on upcoming voyages.

MSC Seascape

Sister ship to MSC Seashore , MSC Seascape sailed its maiden voyage from Rome to New York in December 2022. The 5,877-passenger, 1,648-crew-member vessel features the latest technology for energy efficiency. Its design pays tribute to New York City with a replica of the Statue of Liberty and an entertainment space called Times Square. 

Seascape measures a whopping 1,112 feet long and features 139,930 square feet of outdoor space. Enjoy panoramic views from the Infinity Pool, walk over the glass-floored Bridge of Sighs or swim in the Marina Pool, featuring a 360-degree water fountain island and lounge. 

On board, guests can ride the ROBOTRON, a thrill ride providing 360-degree views 175 feet above the sea. Families will love the enlarged MSC Kids Club, which provides 98 hours of live entertainment. Adults can spend time at the theater, casino and disco. The ship has an F1 racing stimulator for all ages to enjoy.   

For accommodations, cruisers can choose between 11 types of staterooms and suites. Fifty suites include an extended balcony and 32 suites include private outdoor whirlpools. The ship features two Owner's Suites within the MSC Yacht Club, measuring 1,055 square feet. 

The ship boasts 11 eateries, including three main dining rooms and five specialty restaurants. Enjoy Mexican cuisine at HOLA! Tacos & Cantina or Asian dishes at Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar. Seascape also boasts 20 bars. 

MSC Seascape sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. The ship also offers MSC Grand Voyages itineraries. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: The MSC Seascape is identical to the MSC Seashore except for one detail. The Seascape is outfitted with a Robotron thrill ride that flips, dangles and turns cruisers through the air on a dedicated platform toward the backend of the ship. – Holly Johnson, Contributor

MSC Virtuosa

The MSC Virtuosa, which set sail in May 2021, holds 6,334 guests and 1,704 crew members. It's one of the largest ships in the MSC fleet (along with its sister vessel, the MSC Grandiosa ). There are 2,421 cabins to choose from, ranging from Interior Studio rooms (around 130 square feet) to MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites (600-plus square feet). Family Cabins offer adjoining rooms, while the MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite offers two levels, a master bedroom and walk-in closets. All accommodations offer Wi-Fi access (which may cost an extra fee) and minibars, while some include additional features like private whirlpools and balconies. 

Five pools and a massive water park (by cruise ship standards) make for fun afternoons at sea, no matter your age. Young passengers may also enjoy the Lego Group kids club areas and various athletic courts. Adults can spend time in the MSC Aurea Spa, the Red Gem Casino, the Attic Club or the theater. Eleven boutiques spanning 12,500 square feet of retail space ensure guests have everything they want at their fingertips. The shops line a long promenade in the center of the ship, which previous cruisers say is fun to stroll through even if you're not a big shopper. 

Once you work up an appetite, enjoy a meal at one of the ship's 11 dining venues, which feature Vietnamese, Mexican and Japanese cuisine, in addition to other global flavors. The ship also stands out for its attention to sustainability: Virtuosa features a safe wastewater disposal system that protects marine life and offers energy-saving equipment when it comes to heat and air conditioning. 

MSC Virtuosa also features 21 bars; 16 indoors and five outdoors. The ship also features Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, which is part of the MSC Starship Club. The MSC Starship Club is an interactive experience featuring over 40 ingredients to create your own recipe, 16 signature cocktails and mocktails, personalized cocktail options, 3-D holographic projects and a souvenir glass.

The MSC Virtuosa sails to an array of popular destinations, including ports in Northern Europe and the United Arab Emirates.  

MSC World Europa

Debuted in December 2022, MSC World Europa holds a maximum of 6,762 passengers and 2,138 crew members. Propelled entirely by liquefied natural gas (LNG), this sustainability-focused cruise ship boasts a futuristic panorama lounge and a kinetic dome ceiling that integrates movement into its design. It also comes equipped with a water park, bumper cars and a record-breaking 11-story-tall slide (the tallest of its kind at sea).

With 13 dining venues ranging from Mediterranean to Latin to American-style cuisines, guests will have ample options to choose from. Plus, there are several bars, lounges and cafes where travelers can enjoy a cocktail or a cup of coffee.

Studio interior rooms start at 108 square feet and feature comfortable beds, minibars and spacious closets. But if you can swing the steep prices, book your stay in a MSC Yacht Club Suite, which includes luxuries like large balconies, whirlpool baths, floor-to-ceiling windows and walk-in closets.

MSC World Europa sails to destinations throughout the Mediterranean.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to cruise Europe with the most restaurants to choose from, check out the MSC World Europa. This ship has 13 dining venues overall, including specialty dining options like Chef’s Garden Kitchen, a fresh seafood restaurant called Pescaderia, a Latin street food restaurant and more. – Holly Johnson, Contributor

MSC Seaview

The 1,413-crew member, 5,079-passenger MSC Seaview is one of the newer ships in the MSC Cruises fleet. Sailing since June 2018, this ship offers Interior, Ocean View and Balcony staterooms, plus a variety of suites. Standard features include single or queen-sized beds, minibars and interactive TVs. Upgraded MSC Yacht Club suites boast extra privileges and amenities, such as gourmet in-suite chocolates, 24-hour butler service and access to an exclusive lounge, pool deck and restaurant with all-inclusive meals and drinks.

No matter which accommodation you choose, you'll have your pick of 10 dining venues, including a buffet-style eatery, multiple main dining rooms and several specialty restaurants that dish up everything from fresh seafood to French bistro fare to prime cuts of meat. Two Asian-inspired restaurants helmed by award-winning chef Roy Yamaguchi are available as well.

What's more, MSC Seaview offers various ways to pass the time on board. For kids, there are age-appropriate clubs, a two-lane bowling alley and a water park with five different slides, among other facilities. Meanwhile, adults can watch Broadway-style shows, grab a drink in one of 19 bars and lounges and enjoy a treatment at the MSC Aurea Spa.

MSC Seaview sails to destinations in the Mediterranean and South America; it also offers MSC Grand Voyages itineraries. 

MSC Seashore

MSC Seashore – which debuted in the Mediterranean in August 2021 and began sailing out of Miami in November 2021 – can hold 5,632 passengers and 1,648 crew members. It features redesigned bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, shops, staterooms and outdoor areas. Measuring more than 1,100 feet in length, the ship is one of the largest in MSC's fleet. Despite its impressive size, the ship's environmentally friendly design allows it to reduce air emissions, such as sulphur oxide and nitrogen oxide, by 98% and 90%, respectively. Seashore also uses smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation to save energy on board.

Meanwhile, Seashore's variety of onboard offerings are designed to please passengers of all ages. The ship boasts three pools, the Pirates Cove Aquapark and the fleet's largest kids area, which is fitted with age-specific clubs for everyone from babies to teenagers in a whopping 7,500-square feet space. Adults can enjoy the Balinese-inspired Aurea Spa, a disco, a casino, a theater and the expansive ship-within-a-ship concept, the MSC Yacht Club. And if you're a fan of Formula 1 racing, make sure to stop by the ship's unique simulators. 

Accommodations on board include Interior, Ocean View, Family and Balcony categories. There are also nine suite categories available, including the MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suite, which features a balcony large enough to fit a whirlpool and an outdoor living area. 

Outside their cabins, sailors will have 11 dining venues to choose from, including three main restaurants, a buffet, five specialty dining spots and venues associated with the spa and yacht club. There are also a whopping 19 bars. Spend an evening dining alfresco at Butcher's Cut, one of the ship's specialty options, and end the night with cocktails at Sky Bar, which offers views of the ship's Bridge of Sighs, a glass-bottom walkway.

Upcoming itineraries on the MSC Seashore include trips to the Bahamas , the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The ship also has MSC Grand Voyages itineraries. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you like the features on a certain MSC ship but want more flexibility in terms of departure ports or fare costs, keep in mind that some MSC ships are a mirror image of others. For example, the older MSC Seashore and the newer  MSC Seascape are nearly identical ships, and so are the MSC Meraviglia and the MSC Bellissima . – Holly Johnson, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

MSC Cruises may be the biggest cruise line you've never heard of — assuming you're an American.

While the Switzerland-based company is the third-biggest cruise line in the world, it has far less name recognition among Americans than big U.S.-based lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . That's because, until recently, MSC Cruises mostly catered to Europeans. A large percentage of its customers came from countries such as Italy, Germany, France and Spain.

That's all changing now — and in a big way.

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

As it expands its fleet at a rapid pace , MSC Cruises is massively building its footprint in North America in an effort to woo more Americans. As recently as 2017, the line only had a single vessel based in North America. Now it's up to three ships sailing out of U.S. ports, and by the end of 2023, that number will have shot up to five.

All the North America-based ships are marketed heavily to Americans, and the line has tailored some of the features and activities on the vessels to a North American crowd.

Like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises has been building big resortlike vessels that offer every sort of amusement known to humans, from giant water parks to race car simulators. It currently operates eight of the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world — one of which (MSC Meraviglia) now calls North America home with year-round sailings out of New York City.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about MSC Cruises

• Its affordability
• The incredible array of activities on its ships
• The status match it offers with its loyalty program

What we could do without

• Onboard announcements in five languages (on overseas sailings)

The MSC Cruises fleet

MSC Cruises has grown enormously in recent years. As recently as early 2017, the line had just 12 ships in operation. But it's added new ships at a rapid pace over the past six years and now operates 22 vessels, more than any other major line besides Royal Caribbean and Carnival. It also has three more giant new ships on the way in the next few years.

If that sounds like too many ships to get your head around, note that all 22 of the vessels in operation, as well as the three on order, fall into six distinct classes . The ships within each of the classes have similar sizes and onboard attractions. If you know one ship in the class, you know them all.

Related: MSC Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

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

Not including pulldown bunks and pullout sofas, MSC Cruises' 22 ships have 77,832 berths — about 21,000 more than Norwegian's fleet. At its current pace of growth, MSC Cruises could soon pass Carnival to become the world's second-biggest line.

As noted above, the MSC Cruises fleet includes eight of the world's 20 biggest cruise vessels — MSC World Europa , MSC Euribia , MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape . Built in the last six years, these eight ships aren't quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class vessels (the world's biggest cruise ships), but they're right up there when it comes to amenities and passenger capacity.

The grande 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.

The next-biggest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet are its 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. Each can hold 4,842 passengers at double occupancy (or 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, 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. Each has 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, plus four somewhat smaller Fantasia Class vessels that can each hold around 4,400 passengers at maximum occupancy.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

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 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 usually less expensive on a per-day basis, too.

In addition to all 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 few details have been released. MSC Group is also developing a series of small luxury vessels that'll operate under a separate brand called Explora Journeys.

Destinations and itineraries

MSC Cruises sails almost everywhere in the world, but its heaviest presence is in Europe, where it's the biggest cruise operator.

In a typical summer, the line will deploy the vast majority of its ships in the Mediterranean or northern Europe. In recent years, the line has also kept at least a couple of ships in Florida in summer for voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. This year, the line had two ships based in Florida for summer sailings to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, plus one ship sailing out of New York City for the summer.

During winter, MSC Cruises typically will add more ships to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. (For winter 2023-2024, it expects to have six in the region.) It'll also typically send four or five ships to South America in winter and often deploys vessels in winter to South Africa and the Middle East.

For winter 2023-2024, it'll have one ship in South Africa. The line's Middle East deployment this year has been cut back due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Additionally, MSC Cruises often offers an around-the-world cruise in winter on a single ship.

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

In North America, MSC Cruises ships have generally sailed out of Miami , but the line recently added Port Canaveral and New York City as home ports, too. The line also offers cruises from the Caribbean islands of Barbados, Martinique and Guadeloupe, and in a major development, the line opened its first private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , in the Bahamas in 2019. It's a major stop for many MSC Cruises itineraries in the region.

In Europe, major MSC Cruises hubs include Southampton, England; Copenhagen; Kiel and Hamburg in Germany; Ancona, Venice, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, Bari and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) in Italy; Barcelona, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca in Spain; and Marseille, France.

Who sails MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises is increasingly known for having big, bustling megaships that'll appeal to people who like a megaresort experience. In other words, if you're the kind of person who loves staying on property at Disney World or at a giant Las Vegas resort , this could be the line for you.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships offer vacationers a ton of options for dining (some vessels have more than a dozen distinct places to eat dinner or at least grab a quick bite) or entertainment. They're lively and fun.

They also have an inordinate amount of teen- and tween-friendly attractions — everything from some of the largest waterslides at sea to sprawling amusement areas with race car simulators, flight simulators and XD cinemas (more on all this below). That makes them particularly appealing to families, including multigenerational groups. Families are a big part of MSC Cruises' business.

But it's not just families that flock to MSC Cruises.

The line's ships are designed to offer something for everyone, and they thus appeal to a wide demographic, including couples of all ages and even solo travelers (the line has added solo cabins on its newer ships and occasionally runs promotions for solo travelers). They also draw customers from a wide range of the income spectrum.

At one level, MSC Cruises ships have a for-the-masses feel. However, overlaid across many of the line's ships are high-end suites, upscale restaurants and luxury services — most notably the suites and amenities in the exclusive, upscale MSC Yacht Club areas found on some vessels (more on that later). As a result, the line draws a good number of luxury-seeking travelers.

The demographic profile of MSC Cruises ships can be markedly different depending on where the vessels are based. On Caribbean sailings out of Florida, you'll find that a large percentage of passengers are English-speaking North Americans.

MSC Cruises voyages in Europe are often heavily filled with Europeans speaking Italian, German, Spanish and French, as well as some English speakers. In Europe, the line offers onboard programming in all five of these languages (all crew members speak English no matter where the ships are sailing).

Reality check: Due to the diverse origins of passengers on European sailings, the line typically makes announcements in all five of the aforementioned languages. This can result in extraordinarily long announcements at times, which can be a distraction to some cruisers. The good news is that on sailings out of U.S. ports, only safety announcements are made in all five languages. Other announcements are in English only.

Cabins and suites

MSC Cruises offers a wide range of accommodations on its ships. On its newest vessels, you'll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless "interior" cabins that measure as little as 172 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to suites more than five times that size that sprawl across two decks.

Still, MSC Cruises doesn't offer the sort of truly giant suites (more than 1,000 to 2,000 square feet) you'll find on some Norwegian and Royal Caribbean ships.

At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at affluent travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to being on a luxury ship, and they can be quite impressive.

The biggest suites on MSC Grandiosa, which launched in 2019, span two levels and offer around 635 square feet of interior space, plus another 237 square feet of outdoor balcony space.

On more than half of MSC Cruises' ships, many of the top suites are part of an exclusive, keycard-accessed area called the MSC Yacht Club . Billed as an upscale "ship within a ship" and aimed at luxury travelers, the MSC Yacht Club is at the very top of vessels and comes with a private lounge, a pool, sunning areas and even its own restaurant.

Related: Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

MSC Yacht Club accommodations also come with 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge.

Solo cabins (called interior studios) measuring just 127 square feet can be found on the line's seven newest vessels.

Insider tip: Passengers can use the interactive TVs in cabins to browse information, find out about daily events and activities, check bills and book services. On some ships, MSC for Me interactive wristbands can open your cabin door and also allow you to book services or make contactless payments for items on board.

Restaurants and dining

While a few of MSC Cruises' smallest ships have relatively limited dining venues, many of the line's vessels offer a wide range of choices.

On the line's recently unveiled MSC Euribia, for instance, there are nearly a dozen distinct eateries, as well as a number of bars and lounges that serve at least small bites. MSC Seashore has five specialty restaurants that feature waterfront, outdoor seating on the ship's boardwalk.

Every vessel has at least one or more main dining rooms and a casual buffet where meals are included in the fare.

For dinner in a main dining room, you must either have My Choice dining with the Aurea experience (a flexible dining option where you dine whenever you want) or classic dining (where you have a fixed table and time for dinner).

Nearly every ship also has at least one — and sometimes quite a few — extra-charge venues. Among the most common across the fleet is the American-style steakhouse Butcher's Cut, which is found on more than half the line's vessels. There also are sushi bars on more than half the line's ships, with varying names like Kaito Sushi and Galaxy Sushi.

The line's newest ships have teppanyaki restaurants, too, and passengers on MSC Cruises' Seaside Class ships, as well as MSC Meraviglia and MSC Splendida, can dine at a Mediterranean-style seafood restaurant.

Several of the line's newest vessels, including MSC Grandiosa and MSC Bellissima, also have the French cuisine-serving L'Atelier Bistrot.

Entertainment and activities

MSC Cruises offers a broad range of entertainment and activities on its ships. As noted above, the line's biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from Broadway-style theaters to spaces for circus-like performances; all manner of deck-top attractions; large casinos; and full-service spas. Plus, you'll find multiple bars, lounges and nightlife spots.

Theaters and shows

Like other megaship lines, MSC Cruises is known for big, glitzy theater productions performed in onboard theaters that are as state-of-the-art as anything you'll find on Broadway.

On the line's newer ships, such as MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Grandiosa, there are main theaters that hold nearly 1,000 people. They offer as many as six different full-scale theatrical productions during a typical voyage, with multiple showtimes for each production and a range of styles. You'll find original Broadway-style musicals, piano concerts and even operas.

Some MSC Cruises ships have high-tech, multipurpose entertainment spaces that serve as comedy clubs and karaoke bars but can also transform into music venues. Dubbed the TV Studio & Bar on some ships, these spaces also house radio and TV broadcasting equipment, and they can host games, quizzes and talent contests aired live on TV sets in cabins.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of MSC Cruises ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a seemingly endless array of bars, lounges and nightspots.

Every MSC Cruises ship has a casino, and on the line's larger vessels, they are big operations. Le Grand Casino on MSC Grandiosa, for instance, has 164 slot machines, 12 table games (including blackjack, roulette and poker) and its own bar.

The five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels also have soaring interior mall-like spaces called Gallerias with bars, restaurants and retail shops, as does the new MSC World Europa.

Many of the Gallerias, for example, are home to an innovative chocolate bar and boutique created by well-known French patissier and chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury.

The Gallerias on the five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels — MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima — are topped with one of the most stunning features found at sea: a dazzling "digital sky" made with curving LED screens that offer regular light shows during the day and evening. There's something similar on MSC World Europa.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships also have interactive game zones with such attractions as Formula One racing simulators, immersive XD cinemas, arcade games and even full-size bowling alleys.

For something more soothing, all MSC Cruises ships include spas. These can be quite big on the larger vessels, with expansive thermal areas and a wide choice of treatments and services.

Insider tip: Passengers can get information about onboard entertainment and restaurants (and make reservations) on the interactive screens found around MSC Cruises vessels.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of MSC Cruises ships offer pools, hot tubs and plenty of lounge space, plus some spectacular family-focused fun zones — on the line's newest ships, at least.

On the line's Meraviglia and Seaside Class ships, top-deck amenities include sprawling back-of-the-ship water parks with multiple waterslides, ropes courses and watery play areas for the little ones.

Some ships even have zip lines — the longest at sea.

Additionally, the main pool areas on the newest MSC Cruises ships are among the biggest and most stunning at sea. Some of the line's ships also have adults-only pools topped with glass ceilings that can be opened on warm days.

Children's programs

MSC Cruises has some of the most extensive children's programs at sea, with dedicated clubs and activities for children as young as a couple of months old through the age of 17.

On most ships, the line offers programming for five distinct age groups.

For the very youngest cruisers, there's Baby Club, a program for babies and toddlers up to the age of 3. The line partnered with baby care brand Chicco to develop dedicated Baby Club play areas on every ship with toys, games and music and rhythm activities. You can leave your toddlers at the clubs, which have dedicated staff, or stay and play with them.

MSC Cruises ships also have a dedicated Mini Club (ages 3 to 6) and Junior Club (ages 7 to 11) with age-appropriate activities. Designed in partnership with the Lego Group, the Mini Clubs offer games, events and activities such as arts and crafts. Junior Clubs have a Masterchef at Sea Juniors competition, plus acting, dancing and singing activities.

Related: New MSC Cruises ship in New York is bigger than the city's biggest hotel

MSC Cruises ships also have Young Club, a tween program (ages 12 to 14) that includes sports tournaments, high-tech games and other activities.

Then there's Teen Club (ages 15 to 17), which hosts disco parties, karaoke parties and Wii, Xbox and PlayStation 4 tournaments. On MSC Grandiosa, teens even get the chance to pilot a drone through an obstacle course during an activity called the Drone Academy, and the ship holds a teen dance competition designed in partnership with the company behind "The X Factor."

Kids and teens clubs on newer MSC Cruises ships can also access cutting-edge equipment like 3D printing machines, virtual reality devices and 3D product scanning, all of which are used in activities.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need either a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. Passports must be valid for at least six months.

For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. It's important that the name on your reservation is listed exactly as it appears on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

MSC Cruises adds an automatic service charge of $16 per person to final bills on sailings out of U.S. ports. Sailings with pricing in euros have a 12 euro charge ($13.13 at current exchange rates). Children 2 to 11 pay half the adult rate on most cruises. Children under 2 are not charged for service.

Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars for cruisers who do not have a drinks package. If you buy a drinks package, the gratuity charges for drinks is folded into the package price when you book it. A 15% service charge is also added to items in minibars, salons and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise ship: Everything you need to know

MSC Cruises has been rolling out Wi-Fi with speeds so fast that you'll be able to watch Netflix from your room on your mobile device. Unlike some lines, though, MSC Cruises doesn't offer flat-fee pricing for Wi-Fi. Instead, MSC Cruises charges by the number of devices you use and how you want to use the internet (think: browsing, texting, sending emails or video streaming).

Basic packages for browsing start around $72 for one device with unlimited data. A two-device plan with unlimited data for browsing costs about $109. There's also a four-device browsing plan for about $223. If you're looking to stream video along with other internet uses, you'll need a streaming plan. These start around $100 for one device and can be as high as $313 for a four-device plan.

Unlike other cruise lines, MSC Cruises does not let passengers switch their internet plan from one device to another during the cruise, even if they're only using one device at a time. Make sure you sign up for the Wi-Fi plan on the device you intend to use it with. If you'll want access on both your phone and your tablet, you will need a two-device plan.

Passengers can chat with friends and family on board ships even if they don't have an internet package by downloading the MSC for Me app to a smart device. The app also lets you book services on board.

Carry-on drinks policy

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises doesn't allow passengers to bring their own alcohol on board.

Smoking policy

Smoking (including electronic cigarette smoking) is allowed in a limited number of designated areas on ships, with the primary smoking area on ships being an outdoor pool area that varies by ship and is indicated by signage. Smoking is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 fee.

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises does not build self-service launderettes onto its ships. Vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry-cleaning services.

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins.

For cruises in the Caribbean, South America and South Africa, as well as on MSC Grand Voyages going to Europe and to Australia, the onboard currency is the U.S. dollar.

On cruises in other parts of the world, the onboard currency is the euro. All vessels operate on a cashless system with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a Cruise Card (or, on the newer ships, an MSC for Me wristband) that you can use to make purchases.

Drinking age

You must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol on sailings in the U.S. and the Caribbean. The drinking age on sailings everywhere else in the world is 18.

During the day, there's no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination and you're bound for the top deck, that means dressing for the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to put on when you go inside) are just fine.

On most evenings, the line recommends "smart casual" dress, meaning summery dresses for women and a lightweight jacket for men. On select days, the line also holds Gala evenings on its ships where the dress code can be more formal. For Gala evenings, if dining in a main dining room, the line suggests a tuxedo, dinner jacket or dark suit and tie for men and a dressy outfit, formal gown or cocktail dress for women.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

MSC Cruises loyalty program

MSC Cruises has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the MSC Voyagers Club , that has four tiers ranging from Classic (requiring 1 point) to Diamond (10,000 points).

Members earn points based on the length of the cruises they take and which "experience" they book on those sailings. There are four different "experiences" you can book on an MSC Cruises sailing, each with different inclusions and price points. The most basic "Bella" experience will get you fewer points than the top "MSC Yacht Club" experience.

For a sailing of under five nights, for instance, your earnings would range from 200 to 800 points depending on the experience you book. For cruises that are five to nine nights in length, you'd earn from 500 to 1,500 points depending on the experience.

Every person in your stateroom will earn points for the cruise. You can also earn points with onboard spending and any bookings you made before embarkation. You'll earn 100 points for every $150 in prepaid and onboard expenses.

Know, though, that there are a couple of key caveats. Only the Voyagers Club member who makes the final payment for the onboard expenses will receive those points. For prepaid expenses, points will be equally distributed among the cabin occupants.

Say, for example, the total amount of prepaid onboard services that apply to all cabin occupants before the cruise is $600. If there are four cabin occupants, the spending for the points calculation of each member will be $150, which is equal to 100 points.

As is typical for cruise line loyalty programs, the entry-level tier (Classic) doesn't bring all that many truly valuable rewards. By far the most alluring benefit at this level is the 5% discount that members get when booking future sailings (note that this discount is not valid on Tandem and MSC Grand Tours). That's real savings every time you book a cruise.

The real perks begin at Diamond status, which brings a free dinner in an extra-charge restaurant, priority embarkation at the start of a cruise and priority disembarkation at the end of a cruise.

Unlike with most cruise line loyalty programs, you won't automatically keep your status forever with MSC Cruises. Once achieved, your status is good as long as you take a cruise at least once every 36 months. If you don't, not only will your points disappear, but your entire account will be erased, requiring you to re-enroll and start all over again.

That's the downside of the MSC Voyagers Club. However, the program also comes with one very big upside: MSC Cruises will let you status match your way to top-tier Diamond status based on your status level with any of more than two dozen other loyalty programs — not just those run by competing cruise lines but also those operated by Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton. It's very rare in the cruise world.

How much does an MSC Cruises voyage cost?

MSC Cruises is known for some of the most affordable ships at sea. It's not uncommon to find MSC Cruises voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from under $75 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, at the time of publication, four-night sailings from Miami to the Bahamas in September 2024 start at just $249 per person, not including taxes and fees of $100. That works out to just $87.25 per person, per night, with taxes and fees, for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October and parts of November.

The timing of when you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board an MSC Cruises ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet and a few other amenities — unless you've paid up for a more inclusive package.

When pricing cabins, MSC Cruises offers one of four main "experiences," each of which comes with different inclusions and varying price tags. The basic "Bella" experience includes your room, dining in the main restaurants and buffet, and access to all the included features of the ship, such as kids programs and theater shows.

Note that if you book the Bella experience, you cannot select a specific cabin. You can only choose between the broad categories of inside, ocean-view or balcony cabin, and a cabin is later assigned to you.

One step up is the more expensive "Fantastica" experience, which adds room service and breakfast delivered to your cabin, priority choice of dinner sittings, access to additional kids activities and classes, and more. At this level and above, you can pick a specific cabin when booking.

With the even pricier "Aurea" experience, you'll get complimentary access to the spa's thermal area, priority boarding and other perks. The Aurea experience also comes with access to My Choice dining and an exclusive sun deck area that on many ships features an exclusive bar and hot tubs.

Then there's the MSC Yacht Club experience, mentioned above, which is the ultimate in onboard living. Even with its higher price tag, the MSC Yacht Club still provides great value for its wide range of perks, such as unlimited drinks in all MSC Yacht Club areas, including premium spirits and minibar items.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their 1st cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to the MSC Cruises website to book directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise (there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process: trust us) we recommend you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. A good travel agent will quiz you about your interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They also can help if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure MSC Cruises is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who knows all about the line's various cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see them firsthand.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your purchase when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which earns 2 points per dollar spent on travel (and dining).

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Bottom line

Long a major player in Europe, MSC Cruises is growing fast in North America with a lineup of big, new, amenity-filled ships.

If you're a megaresort lover, you'll feel right at home on MSC Cruises' new World, Meraviglia and Seaside Class vessels, which rival the biggest vessels of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian for their array of onboard amusements.

You'll also love their affordability. Among the world's biggest ships, they offer some of the lowest pricing. You'll be sharing your vacation with hordes of other people, of course — as many as 6,000 on some MSC Cruises vessels. However, even the biggest MSC Cruises ships have quiet nooks where you can escape the crowds.

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MSC Cruises: The Complete Guide

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Cruising is a huge industry, so it makes sense that the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) — which started out shipping cargo — got in on the venture in 1988 with the purchase of its first cruise ship. Since then, the company has been steadily growing, adding new ships and destinations to its thriving cruise line.

Although it’s headquartered in Switzerland, you’ll find MSC cruises all over the world, including throughout the United States. Let’s take a look at MSC’s cruises, where they sail and what to expect when you’re aboard.

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About MSC cruises

Here’s a quick overview of some of MSC’s key features.

Package types: There are three levels of experience to choose from on MSC. Bella is the least expensive, while Fantastica allows you to get free in-room breakfast and select your room type. Aurea is MSC’s top-tier package and includes access to exclusive amenities, as well as additional discounts and dining privileges. 

Cabin type s : On MSC ships you’ll find the standard cruise ship cabins, including interior, ocean view, veranda and various types of suites. 

Main U.S. routes: MSC has only a handful of departure ports from within the U.S. Most of its routes depart from Miami to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.   

Points currency and loyalty program: The loyalty program of MSC is called the Voyager’s Club. Points are earned for the cruises you take and the money you spend while on board. 

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

MSC cruise destinations

You can find MSC cruises all over the globe, including the Caribbean, Canada, New England, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Northern Europe, South Africa, South America and Asia. There are also worldwide cruises that sail to several regions around the globe.

MSC's worldwide cruises come in as the longest trips, with itineraries lasting as many as 127 nights. Meanwhile, the cruise line's shortest options include weekend trips to the Bahamas sailing for just two nights.

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MSC cruise prices

The reviews of MSC Cruises will likely mention the price of your trip, which is often cheaper than comparable trips on other popular cruise lines. Of course, the total cost will vary based on the trip duration, time of year and what kind of room you select. The least expensive options you’ll find are on short Mediterranean cruises, which can cost as little as $119 per person.

Prices are also affected by the dates that you’re traveling. A three-night cruise to the Bahamas can cost as little as $149 per person, but that same trip can cost up to $349 per person during periods of high demand.

As you’d expect, the most expensive cruises on MSC are the longest. For example, the 127-night World Cruise costs $21,929 per person.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

What is the best MSC ship?

There are a total of 23 ships in MSC’s fleet. According to U.S. News, the best MSC ship is the MSC Bellissima. Launched in 2019, the ship boasts a full-sized bowling alley and multiple pools, along with an array of restaurants, a spa and live entertainment. The ranking was calculated using a mix of user reviews and health ratings.

What is the newest MSC ship?

The MSC World Europa, MSC’s newest ship, officially debuted at the end of 2022 in Qatar. This ship features more than 2,600 cabins, 33 restaurants and six swimming pools.

What’s included in an MSC cruise

MSC’s cruise packages are on par with other mid-tier cruise lines. No matter what package you purchase, all food and entertainment is included, as is access to the main parts of the ship. This includes pools, the buffet restaurant and a nightly seated dinner.

If you purchase a higher-end package, you’ll be able to enjoy more amenities. The Fantastica experience, for example, includes free room service delivery for breakfast. The top-tier Aurea package includes complimentary room service for all meals.

Neither Wi-Fi nor specialty drinks are included as part of the base price, but they can be purchased separately. The drink package has a range of options, including non-alcoholic drinks such as soda and different types of alcohol.

» Learn more: How to plan a cruise in 6 steps

MSC loyalty program: Voyager’s Club

Voyager’s Club is the loyalty program for frequent MSC cruise passengers. There are four levels in the program, and each has its own benefits.

Voyagers Club levels

The Voyager Clubs levels are Classic, Silver, Gold and Diamond.

How to earn: Classic membership is earned by going on at least one MSC cruise or having a confirmed booking on an upcoming cruise. This tier is for members who have between 1 and 2,199 points.

Best benefits: 5% discount on future cruises, discounts on packages.

How to earn: Earn 2,200 to 4,299 points. 

Best benefits: $50 onboard credit per person on cruises booked at least nine months before departure, double points for cruises booked more than 12 months in advance.

How to earn: Earn 4,300 to 9,999 points.

Best benefits: One hour of complimentary thermal area access, priority disembarkation, complimentary photos. 

How to earn: Earn 10,000+ points.

Best benefits: Complimentary tasting dinner, one free dance lesson, complimentary slippers and bathrobe, priority embarkation and disembarkation.

How to earn Voyager Club points

There are two ways to earn Voyager Club points. First, you’ll earn a set amount of points for taking a cruise — the specific amount will depend on the length of the cruise and the experience level you choose. Second, you’ll earn points for the activities you pre-purchase and for any onboard expenses that you incur.

Wi-Fi is not included in MSC’s basic fare. There are different packages available to those who are sailing which can be purchased before you travel or during your cruise. MSC doesn’t publish its Wi-Fi package pricing online, but for example, you can expect to pay around $270 for a two-device upgraded Wi-Fi package on a seven-day cruise with MSC Seascape.

MSC cruises are not entirely inclusive, though they do provide a lot with your base package. This includes your cabin, food, live entertainment, port stops and coffee, tea and water. They don’t include specialty drinks such as soda or alcohol, nor do they include Wi-Fi or any port excursions you’d like to go on.

MSC Cruises reviews will let you know that MSC allows passengers to add on a drink package to their cruise. The price will vary depending on your actual cruise, as well as the type of package that you choose. There are five types of packages available: Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra, Alcohol-free and Minors.

Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $88 per day for any drink packages that you purchase.

Whether or not you’ll need a COVID vaccine or COVID test while sailing on MSC cruise lines will depend on where you’re going. For cruises leaving from the United States, you don’t need either. However, you will need to provide other personal information, such as your name, address and date of birth.

(Top photo courtesy of MSC)

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MSC Cruises Review & Everything You Need To Know

There is a lot of talk about MSC Cruises right now since they are making a huge push into the American cruising market. With so many questions about MSC, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about taking an MSC Cruise!

Take a look at any cruise-related Facebook group or Reddit topic, and you’re bound to find endless questions about MSC. Not only are there questions, but there are also plenty of opinions about the newish cruise line (MSC has been sailing in Europe for a long time). The brand is polarizing.

So what is a cruise really like on MSC?

NOTE: Most people compare MSC with Royal Caribbean or Carnival. That’s the perspective we’ll take when laying out all of this information.

In response to many inquiries about the “real deal” about MSC, I would like to share some insights. As seasoned cruisers, we have traveled on many ships, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line , Carnival, Virgin , Cunard, Holland America , Celebrity, and MSC. Additionally, we’ve cruised with companies that no longer exist like Pullmantur. Every cruise line has hits and misses, so it’s important to keep everything in perspective when evaluating a new cruise experience. Rarely are cruises perfect.

When it comes to the ship’s overall decor and beauty, MSC has a huge advantage, especially when compared to any older or midsize ships for Carnival or RCL. However, comparing MSC’s newer ships to mega ships is an apples-to-oranges comparison. The pool decks and slides on MSC were excellent, and the service was fine, with no noticeable difference.

What to Expect from an MSC Cruise

MSC Cruises, having started in Europe, has carried over many of the European aspects of its brand to the American market. This isn’t necessarily a good thing, but it’s at least consistent.

In Europe, MSC is regarded as a “higher-end” cruise experience when compared to brands like P&O, Costa, and the now-defunct Pullmantur. However, that doesn’t cut it with American cruisers who are used to endless (Free) entertainment, expansive buffets, higher-end premium dining options, and impeccable service.

This is where you start hearing from people complaining about MSC Cruises.

If you’ve been to Europe, and understand that the cruise line has its roots based in Europe, the fact that everything is an up-charge and some services aren’t as friendly or efficient as other cruise lines, you won’t be surprised. But if you are a typical American cruiser who’s used to the big names in cruises, you’ll probably be frustrated to some extent (more on that later). However, if you are a first-time cruiser, and this is your first experience with this type of vacation, you’ll likely be elated and happy with everything, because in reality, there’s not too much to complain about, especially given the value of these vacations.

Pros and cons of MSC Cruises

What we like about msc.

• Beautiful, Clean & Modern Ships
• Reasonable drink prices
• Affordable packages (Drinks & Dining)
• Variety of food options
• The pizza is AMAZING!
• Specialty Coffee & Bottled water included in the most basic drink package
• Value for money, especially for families

What we don’t like about MSC

• The experience feels like nickel and diming, where so many things cost extra.
• Unusual approach to Dining Packages
• Customer service is disinterested and sometimes downright rude
• Food quality is average at best in the main dining rooms + buffet
• Confusing beverage and drinks packages

MSC Cruises vs Royal Caribbean vs Carnival vs Norwegian Cruise Line

To get an accurate comparison, it’s essential to evaluate apples to apples and determine what matters most to you on a cruise. This review pertains to US sailings to the Caribbean and Bermuda, not European sailings – though we have done MSC in Europe, a completely different article will cover that! Let’s be clear from the outset: there’s no comparison between MSC and the higher-end cruise lines such as Cunard or Disney which provide a superior experience at more than twice the cost. So, let’s focus on comparing MSC to Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival, which seem to be the cruise lines that MSC is “going after” with their marketing.

A few major differences usually come down to the following:

Price – when comparing cruise lines, MSC is usually less expensive for nearly identical itineraries. But remember to take into account the paid extras like entertainment and most dining outside of the main dining room and buffet.

In addition to the lower fares, MSC Cruises’ automatic gratuities are usually lower than competing cruise lines.

Continuing with lower costs, the drink packages and dining packages are considerably less expensive than other cruise lines. See the entire MSC drink package pricing . While the drink packages are still quite expensive propositions, MSC often has the basic “Easy” drink package as a promotion, included in the fare making upgrading to a more expensive package reasonable.

It’s more of an international clientele – with MSC being known better in Europe, there will be a significantly higher ratio of international passengers, which can be entertaining and a great way to get exposed to other cultures without leaving the USA. Unfortunately, this means you also have to listen to announcements in many languages.

The cabin stewards are more like what you’d expect in a traditional hotel rather than a cruise ship. They’re efficient and good, but they aren’t chatty and visible at all times. This likely comes down to the fact that on most traditional cruise lines, Americans tip extra, sometimes quite a bit extra to the room stewards and cabin attendants, so they are happy to be known and visible. On the contrary, tipping cabin attendants on an MSC cruise is not as typical (again, with European roots).

Is MSC Cruises a good cruise line?

This question is asked so often in forums and chat groups, it’ mind-boggling! It’s a very subjective question with so many ways to answer.

In general, I think MSC can offer an amazing cruise experience with great value, especially for families. With promotions like kids sail free and some of the most affordable cruise rates on the market, it makes for a good cruise experience and a good cruise line.

For cruisers who are experienced travelers with other major cruise lines, it will be a mixed bag on whether or not MSC is a “good” cruise line.

In general, they are just as good as any other cruise line, depending on what your priorities are. In the end, I always hate to say “it depends… ” but it depends. That’s what this article hopefully addresses for all types of cruisers.

Why are MSC Cruises so cheap?

First, “cheap” is relative and subjective. MSC Cruises feel like an inexpensive option to other cruise lines, but often by the time you add up all of the additional fees, they end up being very close in price to other similar lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean. It’s clear that MSC Cruises is making a push into the USA market and they are discounting heavily on certain routes, but looking closer, there are some itineraries where MSC is definitely more expensive than the competition.

MSC is definitely budget-friendly when it comes to family cruises, as they often have “kids sail free” promotions. With these promotions, a family of 4, for example, can vacation together for half the cost of a traditional beach vacation. So this makes for a relatively cheap family vacation or family cruise for sure!

MSC Cruises includes only the basics, everything else is for a fee

When considering MSC for a vacation, it’s good to know that the price you see may look good, but there are going to be extras, a LOT of extras. While this isn’t all bad, it’s important to understand. I fully believe in being able to craft my own vacation experience by starting with a base price and adding on what I want rather than feeling compelled to take advantage of included items that I’m not really interested in. With MSC, the cruise rates are affordable and sometimes downright cheap but plan for extras. Any food and beverage outside of the included main dining room and buffet are for an additional fee, entertainment is often fee-based, and drinks can add up fast (although there are MSC Drink packages )

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MSC Sells Cruise “Experiences” The Aurea, Bella, and Fantastica Experiences explained and compared

MSC Cruises sells “experiences”. The cabins on the MSC Ships are effectively identical regardless of experience (with the exception of a couple of suites and the Yacht Club). So rather than purchasing a cabin or stateroom TYPE, you purchase an EXPERIENCE that grants access to different facilities and services. This approach is unique and we actually LIKE this method of selling experiences rather than a class of cabin.

The MSC experiences explained

There is the “Bella” Experience – which is the base fare and really is bare bones. It’s a cabin + the included dining onboard (buffet and main dining room) as well as the use of all the public spaces and access to the complimentary entertainment.

For a little extra, you can purchase the “Fantastica” experience , which is the Bella + the added benefit of some flexibility, with one allowed free cruise change. Additionally, you can order room service for breakfast with no delivery fee. So many people enjoy breakfast in their cabins, that this may be worth it for many passengers. Additionally, you can request which dining time (late or early) you’d like in the main dining rooms.

The “Aurea” experience is the top-level experience, which gets you all of the Bella and Fantistica experiences and more. With the Aurea experience (available on balcony rooms only), you receive :

• a premium stateroom location
• access to the Aurea solarium which is for Aurea guests only
• chocolates and prosecco in your cabin on the day of boarding
• anytime dining
• discounts on spa treatments
• priority boarding
• Free 24-hour room service

The Aurea experience is usually quite a bit more than the base fare (Hundreds of dollars per passenger), so you’d have to really ask yourself if access to the Top Exclusive (Aurea) solarium is worth the price, as the other benefits are minimal.

The MSC Yacht Club Explained

Where most cruise lines separate their experiences by class of cabins such as Norwegian’s HAVEN and Celebrity’s RETREAT, MSC has come up with the “Yacht Club”. The big difference is with the MSC Yacht Club and other cruise lines, is that it’s offered with interior cabins as an option. This is a great option for people who really want an elevated experience but don’t feel the need for a balcony room, which is generally more expensive. Additionally, speaking with passengers who have experienced the Yacht Club on MSC Cruises almost universally adores it! I’ve yet to find anyone who has spoken negatively about the MSC Yacht Club. Unfortunately, it’s not affordable for everyone, so I have an issue with the fact that the service on the rest of the ship is sometimes sub-par, so you shouldn’t have to be in the Yacht Club to have a good service experience throughout the ship.

What do you get with the Yacht Club experience on MSC?

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out as well as priority departure and return on excursion days
• 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge
• Room Service is available 24 hours a day
• Premium Extra Drink Package 
• Premium Internet package (Browse – 2 devices Unlimited Internet Package)
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa
• Relaxation amenities in each suite (including bathrobe, and slippers)
• Pillow menu
• Other personal touches: luggage packing/unpacking service, newspaper directly delivered in a stateroom on request
• 1 free cruise change
• Upgraded and elevated suites offer a more comfortable room size and are located in the foredecks of the ship
• Dedicated, private area of the ship accessible only to MSC Yacht Club guests
• A private and spacious pool deck with whirlpool baths and sunbathing area, an outdoor bar with the very best views
• Panoramic Top Sail Lounge with bar, afternoon tea service, light bites available day and night, and live entertainment in the evening
• Gourmet restaurant with a la carte dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with free choice of dining time
• Tailormade experiences from shopping to excursions
• 20% discount on a prepaid dedicated specialty restaurant package
• 40% discount on a prepaid dedicated spa package
• 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board

The Yacht club is only available on select ships and is not usually available on the older ships sailing in Europe. Ships with Yacht club include: Bellissima, Divina, Fantasia, Grandiosa, Meraviglia , Preziosa, Seascape, Seashore, Seaside, Seaview, Splendida, Virtuosa (and on the upcoming World ships)

Entertainment on MSC Cruises

The comparable evening shows on MSC are on par with those on Royal Caribbean and Carnival, but they come with a fee, whereas other cruise lines rarely charge extra for entertainment. However, the cost for the Cirque shows on MSC are very reasonable and enjoyable. Other entertainment included with the fare are more like variety shows, singing, dancing, etc.

As expected, there are other entertainment options throughout all MSC Ships including bands, solo singers dancing, poolside music, etc. However, nothing compares to some more mainstream cruise lines with “things to do” on a cruise. So if you compare overall activities on MSC versus Carnival or Royal Caribbean, you’ll likely be disappointed.

So, if you’re looking for a ton of activities all day, every day, there appear to be fewer options on MSC, as the entertainment and daily activities are not as robust as you might expect for such modern ships.

For experienced cruisers who expect big production shows included in the fare may be disappointed with what MSC has to offer.

The Buffet, Main Dining Room & Specialty Restaurants on MSC ships

Many people consider food to be a significant factor in their cruise experience. In this regard, I find the buffets on all the ships I’ve been on to be acceptable. While MSC didn’t have as many included options like Guys Burger and the Blue Iguana, it wasn’t a deal-breaker for us. We always found something enjoyable, and the variety at breakfast, with more meats, cheeses, and bread, was a nice departure from the US cruise lines.

Regarding the included sit-down meals (main dining room), I would rate MSC last when comparing all major cruise lines, although they were not inedible by any means. I am content with the included main dining room meals because, for me, if I’m not cooking, I’m happy.

The buffets on the ships are usually expansive but not much changes on a 5 or 7 day cruise. The food is fine, but the pizza is amazing. So if we found ourselves in the buffet, it was usually for a pizza and salad.

There are a number of for-a-fee restaurants on MSC ships (basically all restaurants cost extra). For foodies and people who find the food experience on a cruise to be a priority, they may find what MSC calls “specialty” or “premium” dining lacks quite a bit. While it’s not BAD, it just doesn’t live up to the other major cruise lines when it comes to premium dining.

To get the most out of the specialty dining on MSC, consider buying a dining package. More details on the MSC dining packages here .

Specialty Dining on MSC Cruises

Butcher’s Cut – The staple steak restaurant found on most MSC ships can actually cook a great steak. our only complaint is the presentation and the odd choice of sides (as well as their presentation).

Kaito Sushi – A lovely sit-down sushi bar where most of the menu is done quite well, with a few exceptions (like salmon hand rolls)

The Teppanyaki restaurant onboard is usually attached to the sushi bar. A great family event with good food and in a show cooking style.

Hola Tacos – Think food truck / street tacos meet sit-down restaurant. The selection is great and this was by far our favorite restaurant on the ship. Not because it’s fancy or particularly high-end, but because it delivers consistent, good food every time (and they’re usually open for lunch!)

Ocean Cay Restaurant – The seafood concept found on many MSC ships was hit or miss with the prep of the food and overall food quality.

Specialty restaurants vary per ship.

MSC Cruises’ demographic and typical passenger

MSC’s overall demographic isn’t on the extreme side of young or old; it’s a nice mix. If you’re looking for a party cruise and a lot of drinking, you may want to explore other options. Not that there is a lack of a “good time” to be had, but there are usually a lot of families, meaning fewer late nights and all-night parties.

Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises Private Island

MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay , is fantastic if you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful sea and sand. The food trucks spread around were a nice alternative. However, it’s not comparable to RCL’s island, with its many slides, pools, and other activities. But we liked that. We loved the feeling of an island retreat more than a built-up water park. I think it was a great choice for MSC to make it a retreat rather than a playground.

One thing to note is that MSC’s website is the least user-friendly of all the cruise lines I’ve used. The pre-cruise registration process is quite wonky compared to other websites.

• Read : MSC Ocean Cay Excursions with Prices

MSC Voyagers Clubs Program

As with most cruise lines, MSC has a customer loyalty program they call the Voyagers Club. Unfortunately, until you get to the highest levels of the program like the Diamond live, there are not a lot of perks. However, the best benefit of being a member is a 5% discount on all bookings (and even greater discounts when booking early). What makes this program unique across the cruise industry is the fact that MSC Cruises’ status matches with other loyalty programs . Even more unique is it’s not limited to just other cruise lines, they also status match to hotel programs.

Our final thoughts on MSC Cruises

The popularity of MSC Cruises has led to a plethora of debates and opinions about the cruise line in online communities such as Facebook and Reddit. Despite MSC’s long history in European waters. The brand continues to polarize opinions, with some cruisers loving the newish cruise line and others feeling less enthusiastic. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a newcomer to the world of cruising, the debate surrounding MSC Cruises is sure to captivate your attention.

Ultimately, your personal priorities will determine which cruise line is right for you. If price is a significant factor, MSC provides great value for money. If you’re looking to relax, sit by the pool, enjoy cruise ports, and aren’t hyper-focused on food, MSC is a great option. We have booked a 6-night Bermuda cruise in September for a total of $1200 +/- for a balcony cabin. In contrast, for the same dates and destination, Carnival’s prices ranged from $1950 to $2300 for a 5-night outside cabin, and RCL charged $2000. Disney, on the other hand, charged an eyewatering $3100.

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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As an American, I found your article pretty fair. I realize it seems strange using that opening line, but I did do it to make a point. To me, it seems those who are complaining about MSC the loudest are Americans. We did a 7 day in Northern Europe in November with MSC. There is a long story behind this, but we did half of the cruise in a two room suite with a hottub on the balcony and then the other half in a duplex suite in Yacht Club.

What I noticed about the complaints, it was Americans, and it was food related. MSC does not know what a double gulp is. Perhaps they didn’t realize that they could just order more.

Your comment about service with the stewards was interesting. What we observed was that the staff seemed to be trained to be invisible to the passengers, but available when needed. If we needed our steward (pre YC), all we had to do was make a call and the steward was there within minutes. If we needed our butler in YC, it was just a quick phone call. What we learned is that all we needed to do was put forth a little effort and ask for service and it was never an issue. If not, the staff was going to leave us alone. We were happy that our steward and butler knew our names before we introduced ourselves.

YC is a whole other world. One thing that you didn’t mention that I thought was very well thought out by MSC was putting the interior rooms in YC. Imagine this scenario . . . the matriarch and patriarch of a family want to have a nice cruise with their offspring. They need a room for themselves and then 3 other rooms for their kids. They can get a nice suite in YC and the kids can have interior rooms. Because YC is not really crowded, finding a spot for 10 people by the pool, hottubs, etc, it is simple. You could go to the concierge desk and ask for a table to be put together for dinner for the 10 of you.

I commend you for being honest that there is a value prop at play. MSC, to us, offers value for what we receive. We never feel that we are ripped off and overcharged. We have friends who are trying to get us into the Retreat on a cruise in September. They got a room, it was 22k for 7 days. A comparable room in YC is the Duplex Suite (it’s a little bigger and has a hottub.) That room is 8k. To us, there can’t be 14k more in value.

Thanks for the article, again, it was fair, especially mentioning how wonky MSC’s website is 🙂

Hi David – Thanks for your great comment and feedback. I didn’t mention the YC mostly because …. (very personal opinion) I hate how all of the brands have made an option (Yacht Club for MSC) which is not available to the masses due to price and it really divides the experience. I understand why it exists, but usually when I do a review, I try to put it in perspective of what MOST people will experience on the ship. I hate that you know hove to pay extra for a class of service that used to be standard in the industry years ago. 🙂 – In the end, though, MSC, regardless if you choose their standard cabins or YC experience, it really does provide a great value if you can overcome the quirks.

Thank you! We are normally loyal to Royal and are now expanding our experiences with MSC Meraviglia out of New York… We received an offer we couldn’t refuse through our local casino! I find that people complain on all forums…I listen but do not take it to heart, because everyone is different! Your article is great and I will continue to read your reviews!

Hi Lorraine, Thanks for the positive feedback on the article!

It’s definitely worth giving MSC a try, as you said everyone is different and so many things are subjective. That’s why we try to make our reviews as objective as possible and tell it how it is while keeping polarizing opinions to a minimum 🙂 Enjoy your trip and don’t let the complaints in all the forums take away from a good time. As with everything, it is going to be what YOU make of it! MSC is unusual, but as long as you know what to expect going in, you’ll enjoy it.

Great article and very helpful. We’ve been on close to 20 cruises, all with RCL and were disappointed in the last one so we are going to give MSC a try next spring on the Seascape.

Thanks for reading the Article, Nick! I hope you enjoy the cruise. Keep in mind it’s totally different than RCL! So try not to directly compare the experiences when you cruise 🙂

Also ! Don’t forget to status match! If you’re any status with RCL, MSC will give you status which might make it even better. See the MSC status match info here .

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The best ships of MSC Cruises – which one suits you?

MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, and the brand new MSC Euribia are among the best ships of MSC Cruises and amongst some of the largest cruise ships at sea. They all belong to the Meraviglia Plus class ships.

Italian-born and built MSC Cruises launched these ships in 2019, 2021, and 2023 respectively. MSC Euribia is hailed as one of the most environmentally friendly cruise ships at sea. It boasts advanced admissions technology and modern wastewater treatments.

If you are looking for a value-for-money cruise vacation, we recommend that you take a close look at the best ships of MSC Cruises.

Quick navigation

Traditionally elegant cruise ships for all ages

MSC Cruises is a big seller in the travel industry. From loyal MSC customers who choose them time and again for a cruise vacation to families completely new to the cruise experience, MSC delivers. And very often for well under the price that other cruise lines charge. Especially attractive if you are cruising on a budget.

Many MSC guests we have spoken to have commented about the classy feel of the MSC Ships. And we tend to agree.

From layout to design and decor, the cruise ships are elegant with a touch of glamour. This is especially true for the newest ships with fantastic architectural details.

The larger the ship, the younger the crowd

This is a trend for most cruise lines. The reason is that larger cruise ships have more activities and entertainment venues. And this attracts a younger crowd looking for an action-packed experience on board.

So, in addition to guests in the 60+ age group, traditionally the largest segment of cruise customers, you will find couples, families, and honeymooners on board, especially on the largest ships sailing the oceans.

How do MSC Cruises compare with Royal Caribbean Group?

The two cruise lines, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group offer worldwide cruises on some of the most giant cruise ships at sea. But in many ways, they offer very different experiences.

MSC entertainment – hit or miss?

Royal Caribbean has a reputation for having great entertainment on board in the form of Broadway-style shows. And to put it plainly, MSC does not.

It does have its acclaimed Cirque du Soleil show on MSC Grandiosa, Bellissima, and Meraviglia. If you enjoy comedians, magicians, and sing-and-dance routines, then MSC will suit you as long as you are content with the same type of show each night.

On the whole, the theater experience on board Royal Caribbean is, hands down, of a better variety.

But all this may change as the MSC ships become bigger, newer, and more advanced. They need to get the shows up to the same Broadway-style quality that Royal Caribbean does so brilliantly.

The cruise cuisine

Cuisine onboard Royal Caribbean is often of slightly higher quality and variety than MSC Cruises. It’s not that we don’t love Italian style food, there is always a very good range of dishes and cuisine available. And some of our meals were outstanding when we tested three different MSC cruise ships.

But overall, there is a difference, and Royal Caribbean has a better reputation for its cuisine. If you are a first-time cruise guest choosing MSC Cruises, you will find the food range and variety more than plenty. And we recommend you try out the specialty restaurants on board, which are very good.

An international guest list

Royal Caribbean attracts more American and Canadian customers compared to MSC Cruises, which has a more significant number of international guests. And this makes sense being a European cruise company.

And with this, all announcements are repeated in many languages, whereas Royal Caribbean tends to stick to English. Regardless of where you come from, you can be sure to meet new friends from all corners of the world.

How to choose the best cruise ship for you

When choosing your MSC cruise ship, look closely at the onboard facilities.

The older and smaller the cruise ship, the less variety of facilities on board. The newer and bigger the cruise ship, the more bells and whistles you will find.

Cruise to get you where you want to go

Both MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group have fantastic itineraries. Both offer the “core” stops that most other cruise lines include. For example, in the Caribbean, there are the Bahamas, Cozumel, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman Islands.

In Europe, there is Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and Athens . And then many other stops can be unique to that particular cruise line.

MSC Cruises also offers its unique island experience in the Bahamas (as Royal Caribbean does at CocoCay). MSC has Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, where you’ll find beaches, cafes, bars, and shopping.

MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is part of the Bimini chain of islands in the Bahamas, just 100km east of Miami.

So check the itineraries, research the ports of call, and draw up your bucket list of dream destinations you want to visit.

Then start looking at itineraries that tick most places. Is there a great ship that can get you there? Look at the ship and facilities on board. Narrow your list until you find the right one for you and your family.

What is MSC Yacht Club, and is it worth the extra price tag?

MSC Cruises offers different types of cruising “experiences” in the price categories of inside, window, balcony, and suite cabins.

The three main categories are Bella, Fantastica, and Aurea . You can find detailed information about what’s included in each “experience” here .

And then there is the most expensive price category, MSC Yacht Club .

MSC Yacht Club is an all-suite price category with 24-hour butler service, a dedicated concierge, and access to a private lounge, restaurant, and pool deck exclusively for Yacht Club guests.

A complimentary mini-bar and a wide-screen TV in your cabin are also included. You have free access to the thermal suite in the Spa area, but actual treatments are charged extra.

If you choose this category and book a suite, be sure to know if you are booking a balcony or if your suite has panoramic windows. MSC Cruises boast their Yacht Club category as a “ship within a ship” concept. And it is excellent. Certainly comparable to the Royal Caribbeans Aqua class, and many guests say they get more value with Yacht Club than the Aqua class.

The latest MSC concept – Explore Journeys

Earlier in 2021, MSC Cruises announced that they are taking this concept of Yacht Club one step further and building a luxury brand.

This whole new class of suite-only ships will be named Explore Journeys . Look out for more information on these new ships.

MSC Cruises’ fleet of ships

Seaside and seaside evo class ships of msc cruises.

MSC’s “Seaside” class first started sailing in 2017. There are currently three ships sailing and one planned for launch in 2022:

• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seaview
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seascape

They are visually stunning ships with a guest capacity of over 5000. As sister ships, MSC Seaview and MSC Seaside sail the Mediterranean in the summer before heading to the Caribbean and the private island paradise of MSC Ocean Cay for winter.

MSC Seashore and its sister ship, Seascape, are slightly more extensive than the Seaside class ships above. And therefore, these ships have been classed as MSC Seaside EVO (meaning “evolution”).

They are more environmentally friendly and have a slightly larger capacity (around 5400 guests) than MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview.

However, they are smaller than the 6300 guest capacity ships in the Meraviglia Plus class .

What we love about MSC Seashore class ships is their waterfront concept with huge outdoor promenades, bringing you closer to the ocean.

There are some fantastic architectural moments on board, for example, the glass-floored bridge – The Bridge of Sighs, and the Swarovski Staircase. So you will undoubtedly feel you are floating in a luxurious hotel when on board.

MSC Seashore will sail in the Caribbean, including MSC’s private island Ocean Cay and The Antilles, in summer and winter.

Meraviglia class ships of MSC Cruises

• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Bellissima

In 2017 when MSC Cruises launched its latest advanced ship onto the cruise market, Meraviglia, it became one of the largest ships at sea. Also on board are MSC’s first solo cabins for guests traveling alone. In total, these ships can accommodate 4500 guests on board.

Quickly followed two years later by its beautiful sister ship, MSC Bellissima, both are glamorous and packed full of fun activities that work perfectly for families.

Meraviglia Plus class ships of MSC Cruises

• MSC Grandiosa
• MSC Virtuosa
• MSC World Europa
• MSC Euribia
• MSC World America

MSC Grandiosa was the first of this Plus class, launched in 2019, and is sailing in the Mediterranean in the summer.

MSC Virtuosa is their newest ship at sea. She will sail in the United Arab Emirates and the Mediterranean.

MSC World Europa has three more planned sisters in the same “World” class in 2024, 2025, and 2027 and will be among the largest cruise ships at sea, accommodating 6,850 guests.

The first is MSC World America, which will cruise from Miami to the Caribbean in Spring 2025.

MSC World Europa will be MSCs first LNG ( liquefied natural gas ) powered ship .

Brand new to and rounding off the Meriviglia Plus class ships is the beautiful MSC Euribia , launched from the port in Copenhagen in June 2023 and sailing in Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords for its first season at sea.

MSC Fantasia class ships of MSC Cruises

• MSC Fantasia
• MSC Splendida
• MSC Preziosa

Built in 2008 and 2009, respectively, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida are elegant ships with onboard facilities such as a theater, pools and spa, mini golf, and basketball courts. They attract slighter older guests, there are fewer families with small children, and therefore offer a more relaxed type of cruise.

We have cruised Fantasia around the Mediterranean and Splendida to the Norwegian Fjords, both excellent itineraries. There are, however, limited activities on board for families. MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia are in the Mediterranean for the summer of 2022.

MSC Divina and MSC Preziosa are similar ships but are larger, accommodating more guests with more activities on board. MSC Divina cruises in the Caribbean, including the private island of MSC Ocean Cay , and MSC Preziosa offers cruises in Northern Europe, the Baltics, and the spectacular Norwegian Fjords.

MSC Musica class ship of MSC Cruises

• MSC Orchestra
• MSC Magnifica

MSC Musica, the first ship built in this class in 2006, accommodates around 2500 guests. MSC Orchestra is a little larger, with 3200 guests.

The smaller size ships with fewer passengers mean calmer sailing. Choose these ships if you love the itinerary and not if you are looking for a wide range of action-packed activities.

MSC Musica has cruises in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles in the summer. MSC Orchestra, Poesia, and Magnifica sail in Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords .

MSC Lirica class ship of MSC Cruises

• MSC Armonia
• MSC Sinfonia

The Lirica class of MSC Cruises’ fleet of ships are the oldest and smallest cruise ships of MSC Cruises. The lead ship in this class, MSC Lirica, was built in 2002.

All the ships have been refurbished since then and have a capacity of around 1560.

This smaller capacity means a more intimate sailing experience and the possibility of reaching smaller ports. Facilities include pools, spas, a casino, shopping, and a theater. So a quieter cruise with fewer activities. It’s very much an adult cruising experience.

In 2022, MSC Lirica is sailing from Athens to Jeruselum via Greece. MSC Sinfonia is sailing the Greek Isles from Venice. MSC Opera is sailing the Mediterranean and includes Tunisia as one of the stops. And MSC Armonia is sailing the Mediterranean.

Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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2 thoughts on “The best ships of MSC Cruises – which one suits you?”

Such an informative article.

Hi Simon, Thank you for your kind words! //Sarah

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I spent a night on a new $560 million luxury cruise ship and now I think Explora could dominate the upscale cruise market

• I spent a night on Explora Journeys ' first cruise ship, the $560 million Explora 1.
• Explora is MSC Group's newest cruise line, joining its eponymous MSC Cruises. 
• If it keeps growing, I'm convinced Explora could dominate the growing luxury cruise market.

I spent a night on the new luxury cruise brand Explora Journeys' first vessel. And if its five upcoming ships look anything like this Explora I, I have no doubt the brand could become a dominant player in the growing premium cruise market.

If you've never heard of Explora, you may recognize its owner. This luxury brand isn't backed by cruise giants like Royal Caribbean Group or Carnival Corp. Instead, it has an unconventional parent company: Europe-based MSC Group, one of the world's largest shipping companies.

This name should ring a bell. MSC Group also owns its eponymous cruise line, MSC Cruises , which calls itself the "fastest-growing" cruise line today.

But in terms of their products, this is where the similarities between MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys end.

Some of the cheapest cruises sailing from now through April 2026 are with MSC Cruises, including several $37 per day itineraries, according to data from budget cruise tracker Cruise Sheet.

But don’t call Explora “cheap” — 2024 sailings on this Explora I start at $3,000 per person for a six-night January cruise from Miami to Cartagena, Colombia.

A cool $500 per day does not compare to MSC's $37 per day pricing. But this higher price point does buy you an incomparably more luxurious cruising experience.

Explora really wants you to know that unlike most cruise giants, they are family owned and European.

"Born and raised in Geneva, Switzerland, so to speak," Michael Ungerer, the CEO of Explora Journeys, told Insider.

But from the perspective of a consumer walking around (me), the ship doesn't exude European-ness or family-owned-ness.

In the simplest of terms, I just think it’s a really nice ship.

And as someone who recently went aboard the MSC Meraviglia , it's clear the new Explora Journeys and its vessel blows MSC Cruises out of the water in terms of design, quality, and luxuriousness.

Maybe my bar is low — until now, I had only been on one premium cruise ship.

In September, I had an overnight on the new Oceania Cruises' Vista ship, which quickly topped my list of best cruise staterooms I've ever stayed in.

But after spending one night on the Explora I, I can confidently say this new vessel tops my list as the most luxurious cruise ship I’ve ever been on.

On October 12, I spent one night in the Explora I as it was docked in New York City for its naming ceremony.

Ungerer calls this vessel a “boutique-style resort on the water.”

On that note, there are already many luxury resort brands entering the cruise market: the Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons , and Aman .

Explora's CEO isn't worried about this — "We come from the maritime side."

But I do agree with Ungerer when he says there are elements of luxury hotels speckled throughout this ship.

From the modern, elegant, and unstuffy design to the deluxe food, I have a feeling we're not in MSC Cruises territory anymore. This is where crystal-infused water in the spa meets a whiskey bar and cigar lounge.

Unfortunately for families that love traveling with big cruise brands, the Explora I doesn’t have waterslides, arcades, or any colorfully kitschy interior designs that have become popular on mega ships.

Instead, it was subtly luxurious, appearing more like a premium hotel than a cruise ship . Think " quiet luxury " instead of something glamorously ostentatious.

While I like the fun and flashy amenities on ships like the Norwegian Prima and Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas (shown below), I didn’t miss them on the Explora 1.

Explora Journeys is targeting a different demographic after all.

The new vessel has 461 suites from 377 square-feet to 3,014 square-feet.

I was put in the smallest cabin segment. Yet my suite was the largest I've ever stayed in. Before this, all of my staterooms had been under 300 square-feet .

Inside, I was welcomed with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot, an espresso machine, a Dyson hairdryer stored in its own drawer, and a semi-separated living room.

Through the sliding doors, my room had a balcony with a table, chairs, and a daybed.

Instead of Veuve Clicquot, guests in the higher-end suites receive a bottle of Dom Perignon Vintage 2013. No, I'm not bitter .

My cabin looked more like a sizable and efficiently designed hotel room than a cruise ship stateroom.

I've never had a walk-in closet with a vanity inside my cruise ship cabin. It was bigger than my New York City bathroom.

And this feeling of spaciousness was reflected throughout the 813-foot-long Explora I.

Amenities and people didn't feel crammed together, although that could be because I wasn't on a full revenue sailing.

If all of the rooms are filled at double occupancy, the ship can sail with 922 guests.

This is significantly less than mega ships like the Icon of the Seas that will sail with thousands of people.

To feed these passengers, the Explora I has six dining and 12 bar venues. All but one are included in the price.

Because the brand is all-inclusive, the ship's five restaurants, access to parts of the spa, WiFi, alcohol, sodas, and coffee are included in the cost to travel.

The only dining venue that’s not is Anthology.

This concept is helmed by rotating guest chefs, including some who have led kitchens with several Michelin stars. Expect to pay $190 for the tasting menu or $265 with the wine pairing.

But that doesn’t mean the other dining venues aren’t upscale as well.

Don't worry, you can still get some premium wagyu beef at the ship's pan-Asian Sakura restaurant.

Even the buffet was swanky from the sushi station to grilled lobster tails and crab legs.

Unlike most cruise buffets, there are no self-serving tongs. Instead, the kitchen crew fills your plate for you.

Besides this all-you-can-eat epicenter, there were several spaces on the Explora I that made it stand out from the typical cruise ship.

In place of the typical cruise atrium, the "Lobby Bar" looks more like an actual hotel bar.

This classy watering hole is flanked by tunes from the overhead Steinway and Sons piano and onboard shopping, which includes a Cartier outpost and the first Rolex store at sea.

Yes, they have limited inventory for travelers to purchase.

And in place of one giant pool deck that grounds the ship, the vessel has four smaller pools.

This includes an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and one under a retractable glass roof. The latter looks like a cruise solarium .

For the fitness enthusiasts, there’s even a small outdoor gym on the top deck.

A sports court and a bar, of course, are right next to this little open aired gym.

Throughout the ship, there are 64 private cabanas to make outdoor lounging feel more exclusive.

From the coffee "store" to the many lounges with live entertainment, it's not hard to find pockets of space for yourself.

Or you could just sit in your suite's balcony with the pair of binoculars that come in every cabin.

The Explora I seems more like a place to unwind than a jam-packed destination with exhilarating amenities to explore.

And while I typically prefer these more amusement park-at-sea type cruise ships, I can't deny that Explora's newest vessel is the most luxurious and beautifully designed I've been on so far.

It seems I’m not the only one whose affinity for luxury has made me a fan of Explora.

Since this ship's launch two months ago, Ungerer says the brand has been seeing an uptick in bookings week after week.

Right now, about 60% of its customers are from the US and Canada, primarily because the ship is in the US now.

Typically, Ungerer says this demographic is split between the Americas and the rest of the world. And about half of these travelers are first time cruisers, the CEO of the new brand said.

And like the less luxurious MSC Cruises, Explora is growing.

The brand plans to have six ships in its fleet by 2028.

This first Explora I only just set sail in August 2023. Explora II will hit the seas in the summer of 2024.

If the next five ships are just as ritzy as the Explora I, I have no doubt this new brand will go on to become a strong competitor in the growing luxury cruise market.

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Reviewed: MSC Cruise Wi-Fi Service (Speed, Reliability, Cost, & More)

Heading on an MSC cruise and wondering about internet access while at sea? You’re not alone.

It wasn’t that long ago that having the internet on a cruise was a luxury. These days, it’s practically a necessity to be online. Whether it’s simply checking in at work, staying in touch with people back home, or watching a favorite show on Netflix, there’s no shortage of reasons to be online… even while on vacation.

So if you’re about to take a cruise aboard MSC, here’s what you’ll want to know about wi-fi, internet, and being online during the trip.

What Wi-Fi Packages Are Offered on MSC?

When it comes to accessing the internet, you have two different options for levels of service on MSC. The cruise line offers a basic “Browse” service and a “Browse & Stream” service.

MSC doesn’t specify any speed difference between the two and both say that they allow for “text on messenger services, browse the web and send emails using your devices.”

The difference is that the “Browse & Stream” service allows for things like streaming Netflix and other services and video chat. In general, we suggest always getting the top-tier service when on any cruise as it offers the highest speeds and the most access that people are used to back home.

With both options you can choose to buy a package for the entire cruise or a 24-hour pass if you want only to access for the day.

How Much Does Wi-Fi Internet Cost on MSC?

What you pay for internet access depends on a few factors.

First, there is a 20% discount for booking a wi-fi package ahead of your cruise. Onboard prices are higher. Second, you’ll pay more for the higher-end service that allows streaming versus the more basic service.

Finally, what you’ll pay also depends on how many devices you want to connect. The lowest priced offering offers a connection for just one device. If you need more than that, you’ll pay extra. Below are the prices seen on a recent cruise:

How Fast Is the Wi-Fi Service?

During a recent cruise we put the wi-fi through the paces with the “Browse & Stream” package. Over the course of the trip, we tested the internet speed multiple times and consistently returned speeds in the 4-5 Mbps range.

Now that’s considerably slower than what you’ll experience at home. Compared to other cruise lines, however, it’s right on par. We’ve been on cruises with other lines where the service has been as slow as <1 Mbps (frankly, unusable) to ships where we’ve seen 9-12 Mbps. But on average, 4-5 Mbps is a decent speed.

That said, we were actually impressed of the feel of the speed. Normally that sort of speed feels sluggish when browsing the web and watching video can be grainy.

Our impression was the speed — while still slow by standards at home — was faster than the speed tests suggest. Websites loaded relatively quickly and streaming video started grainy, but quickly presented in HD.

Do I Have to Buy Access for Every Device? Can I Share Access?

On most cruise lines, if you purchase access for one device that means you can only use one device at a time. So if you connect with your phone, you can logout and then access via your laptop if you want.

MSC is different. In this case, whichever device you connect with first is the one you are locked into for the entire cruise. So if you want to have internet on your phone but then login with your laptop to check in on work, you’ll have to purchase access for two devices.

As well, if you are traveling as a couple and two people want to share access during the day (few people need to be connected 24 hours a day), then you have to purchase access for multiple devices.

Can I Stream Music or Movies on the Wi-Fi?

Sometimes one of our favorite thing to do is to binge a show while on a cruise as we have more time to relax than usual. Or sometimes there is a game that you don’t want to miss so you want to stream it while on vacation.

In this case, if you have the “Browse & Stream” service, then you can stream programming with the service. For instance, during our recent cruise we streamed auto racing. It took about 20-30 seconds for the picture to clear up, but then it was sharp while we watched.

While we didn’t personally stream music, given the lower bandwidth requirements, it should be no issue.

Can I Make FaceTime Calls on the Ship’s Wi-Fi?

Want to stay in touch back home? One of the best options is to use a program like FaceTime for Apple users or video chats on WhatsApp. And if you opt for the “Browse & Stream” package, then these chats are available to use.

MSC specifically lists “video chat” as one of the features available with the higher-end package. However, it is not listed on the less expensive “Browse” offer.

Can I Text Message Over the Wi-Fi Service?

Texting is how many of us communicate these days, and it’s helpful for checking in back home, talking to others on the ship, and sending quick notes.

One thing to know is that you can text through the MSC app to others on the ship for no charge. But if you connect to the wi-fi, then texting is also available like normal. We used the wi-fi to message both iPhone and Android users.

One thing to note is that another member of our party was somehow able to send/receive messages sporadically while on Ocean Cay (MSC’s private island) despite not being connected to any wi-fi service at all and having the phone on airplane mode.

Does the Wi-Fi Internet Extend to Ocean Cay?

If you’re sailing on MSC from the United States, then it’s likely your cruise will include a port of call at the cruise line’s private island, Ocean Cay. In fact, some trips include overnight stays here.

In that case, it is nice to know that if you have an internet package, then yes, you can use it while on Ocean Cay. You will have to switch networks from the one provided on the ship to the one provided on the island, but you’ll have full access just like you were onboard.

Do I Have to Buy Internet Access to Use MSC’s App?

Like other cruise lines, MSC offers a cruise line app that has things like the daily schedule, guides to restaurants, bars, and things to do on the ship, spend tracking, and much more.

The app is completely free to download and requires you to connect to the ship’s wi-fi to use. However, you don’t have to pay for internet access. You are able to connect the app to the wi-fi and use it for free without buying a package.

Does MSC’s Wi-Fi Allow You to Use a VPN?

While MSC doesn’t specifically mention anything about using a virtual private network when accessing the internet, we tried it out during a recent cruise. The results were hit and miss.

Using ExpressVPN, we were able to connect and then surf the internet as normal. We noticed no reduction in speed or other hiccups that can be associated at times with using one of these services.

That said, not everything was perfect. We noticed that when connected through the VPN that the MSC app did not work correctly. When we disconnected, the app began working again normally.

Can I Work or Do Schoolwork With the Wi-Fi?

These days, many people want to cruise but still keep up with things back home such as work or school. So would you be able to do that?

In general, we found speeds to be 4-5 Mbps throughout the cruise. While that’s on the slower end of connections, using the web still seemed fairly fast, albeit slower than you would be used to on land.

But perhaps just as importantly, we didn’t notice a “roller coaster” when it came to the connection. Often on cruises the connection seems to cut in and out or slow down. On this trip (albeit close to land most of the time and with good weather), the connection was stable.

In that case, we’d think that doing work that requires light online access should be just fine. For instance, a video chat with multiple other people would likely be difficult. However, if you needed to talk to one person via video, it would likely be fine. As well, if you need to watch a recorded video for school, that should be no issue.

Lighter work like email, submitting assignments, or accessing websites for research should be easy, although maybe slightly slower than you’re used to.

Is MSC’s Wi-Fi Worth It?

In the case of our test, we paid $14.39 per day before the cruise (and evidently before a recent price hike) for the “Browse & Stream” package. Today, the price is significantly higher.

During our tests, we consistently saw speeds in the 4-5 Mbps range, which is decent for a cruise across any line. What impressed us was that the connection was relatively stable. It’s common on many trips for it to seem to go in and out, but we experienced little of that sort of issue. When streaming video, it turned to HD quality within less than a minute and then stayed there. Browsing the web was quick (for a cruise ship), albeit slower than on land. We also like that service extends to Ocean Cay, providing more value.

In that case, we were pleased with the service and while we think internet prices on any cruise are expensive, if you need it, then it’s worth the cost.

The one issue we have is that we paid for one device access. Normally that means you can switch between devices, but only have one connected at a time. Therefore, multiple people traveling together can share one connection.

However, MSC doesn’t allow this. The first device you connect is your one device, and that’s it. So if you have to connect multiple devices during the cruise, then expect to pay significantly more.

More on Sailing MSC:

11 Important Differences Between MSC Cruises and Other Major Lines

• Ocean Cay (MSC’s Private Island): Complete Guide, Tips, & Things to Know

Worth It? Complete Guide to MSC Cruises Drink Packages

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Im confused as to the prices for the wifi package , it seems more expensive per person for 2 or more devices to connect to the internet For one device pp it’s £56 but for 2 it’s £105 per person . Surely it should be £105 for 2 devices not per person ? Any idea . Thanks

I’m thinking you’re looking at the price per person for one device and then the price per person for two devices (so four devices overall).

Likely the satellite positioning for people in Europe and NA, few in the middle of the Atlantic, I had very bad internet on cruise from Dubai to Rome and from NA to Hawaii once I got away from land. As long as I can download podcasts Im happy.. although have 4 devices I use, ipad, laptop, phone and Itouch so likely use my laptop only, I wont pay for 4 devices..

i wish you tested the browse package as well.

Good article.

I’ve just returned from an 18-day transatlantic cruise on the MSC Divina, so I’ll let you know my experience with MSC’s WiFi.

Before the cruise, I purchased the two-device browse and stream. I hoped to use this with my travel router, but that didn’t work (it did on Celebrity a few months earlier).

Because of this, I purchased an additional device, which brought the total for three devices up to over $600.

Everything worked as you described while we were in the Caribbean. However, when we turned left at Barbados and headed out across the Atlantic, that’s where things rapidly fell apart.

From then on, the WiFi was basically unusable. The most popular place on the ship was the Internet “helpdesk”. Honestly, I even heard some passengers discussing banding together to complain because the service was so poor.

Once we got to mainland Europe, the WiFi was back to speed, but with the annoying factor that everything would load the Norwegian version of its website. So, you were constantly trying to work out how to change the language and currency to US (or also the UK in my case).

I did complain and was refunded around $60, which considering the WiFi was basically unusable for about half the trip, is disgusting.

Otherwise, the cruise was absolutely excellent and I couldn’t fault it. It’s a shame MSC lets itself down with their horrible technology and outdated policies.

You didn’t comment on speed in the middle of sea. I was on a MSC cruise from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Ocean Cay. I found certain time connection was slower doing office work and other times fine. Did you have any issue like that?

Our cruise went from Port Canaveral to Ocean Cay, with an overnight stop. There wasn’t much time spent at sea. But even when there was, I noticed no drop off in speed.

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Get ready to experience Cliffhanger, where thrill seekers meet the only over-water swing ride at sea, exclusive to MSC World America. Sailing from Miami, April 2025.

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MSC Yacht Club

Step into the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive private sanctuary available to you on MSC Cruises. Here, you can discover elegance with luxury suites offering a 24/7 butler service. Enjoy curated menus in a private restaurant and unwind on the secluded pool deck. An elevated experience awaits you on a vacation that’s a step above.  Learn More.  

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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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