MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises, short for Mediterranean Shipping Company, is a global cruise line registered in Switzerland with strong Italian roots. Founded in 1989, MSC has rapidly grown to become the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company and the fourth largest cruise line globally. Known for its European style, international flavor, and commitment to sustainability, MSC offers a unique cruising experience that caters to a diverse, global audience.
Overview
MSC Cruises is part of the MSC Group, a leading global shipping and logistics conglomerate. The cruise line’s Italian heritage is reflected in its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, entertainment, and overall ambiance. MSC has positioned itself as a modern, family-friendly cruise line that also appeals to couples and solo travelers.
Key Features
- Strong focus on sustainability and environmental protection
- Multi-generational appeal with extensive family-friendly facilities
- Diverse itineraries covering Europe, the Caribbean, South America, South Africa, China, and the Middle East
- Innovative ship designs with cutting-edge technology
- MSC Voyagers Club loyalty program
Fleet Overview
As of 2024, MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with several more on order. The fleet is divided into six classes:
- World Class
- Meraviglia Class (including Meraviglia-Plus)
- Seaside Class (including Seaside EVO)
- Fantasia Class
- Musica Class
- Lirica Class
Let’s explore some of the standout ships in the MSC fleet:
MSC World Europa
Class: World Class
Entered Service: 2022
Gross Tonnage: 215,863 GT
Passenger Capacity: 6,762
Key Features:
- First LNG-powered ship in MSC’s fleet
- Y-shaped aft structure with a 341-foot outdoor promenade
- ‘The Spiral’, a record-breaking dry slide spanning 11 decks
- 7 swimming pools and 13 whirlpools
- World’s first onboard microbrewery at sea
- MSC Yacht Club with enhanced features
Notable Spaces:
- Panorama Lounge with wrap-around promenade deck
- Botanica Restaurant, focusing on farm-to-ocean cuisine
- Innovative children’s facilities including a 3,200 square foot kids’ area
MSC Seascape
Class: Seaside EVO
Entered Service: 2022
Gross Tonnage: 169,400 GT
Passenger Capacity: 5,632
Key Features:
- Largest ship ever built in Italy
- 13,000 square meters of outdoor space
- ‘Bridge of Sighs’ glass-floored walkway on deck 16
- Robotron, a thrilling amusement ride
- MSC Yacht Club spanning four decks
Notable Spaces:
- Infinity Pool at the aft
- Sports Bar with interactive games
- Aurea Spa with thermal area
MSC Virtuosa
Class: Meraviglia-Plus Entered Service: 2021 Gross Tonnage: 181,541 GT Passenger Capacity: 6,334
Key Features:
- 112-meter-long Galleria Virtuosa with LED dome
- First humanoid robotic bartender at sea, Rob
- 5D Cinema and Aquapark
- MSC Starship Club, a futuristic bar experience
Notable Spaces:
- Atmosphere Pool, the main pool area
- Horizon Pool, an infinity pool at the aft
- Sportplex, a large indoor sporting arena
MSC Grandiosa
Class: Meraviglia-Plus Entered Service: 2019 Gross Tonnage: 181,541 GT Passenger Capacity: 6,334
Key Features:
- 111-meter-long promenade with LED sky screen
- Fine Art Museum at sea
- Two original new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows
- Advanced environmental technology systems
Notable Spaces:
- L’Atelier Bistrot, a French specialty restaurant
- TV Studio & Bar, a high-tech, multi-purpose space
- Atmosphere Casino, one of the largest at sea
MSC Bellissima
Class: Meraviglia
Entered Service: 2019
Gross Tonnage: 171,598 GT
Passenger Capacity: 5,686
Key Features:
- ZOE, the world’s first virtual personal cruise assistant
- 80-meter LED dome over the central promenade
- Specialty restaurants including HOLA! Tapas by Ramón Freixa
Notable Spaces:
- Arizona Aquapark with four twisting slides
- Carousel Lounge, purpose-built for Cirque du Soleil shows
- MSC Gym by Technogym with state-of-the-art equipment
MSC Seaview
Class: Seaside
Entered Service: 2018
Gross Tonnage: 153,516 GT
Passenger Capacity: 5,331
Key Features:
- Unique beach condo design
- Longest zip line at sea (394 feet)
- Waterfront boardwalk, the widest on any ship
Notable Spaces:
- Panorama Pool, one of the biggest on a cruise ship
- Forest Aquaventure Park with 5 water slides
- Ocean Cay restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa
MSC Meraviglia
Class: Meraviglia
Entered Service: 2017
Gross Tonnage: 171,598 GT
Passenger Capacity: 5,655
Key Features:
- 96-meter-long Mediterranean-style promenade
- Atmosphere Pool with retractable roof
- Exclusive partnership with Cirque du Soleil
Notable Spaces:
- Bamboo Pool, an atmospheric pool area inspired by Miami’s South Beach
- Horizon Pool, offering stunning wake views
- TV Studio & Bar hosting live games, quizzes, and talent contests
MSC Seaside
Class: Seaside
Entered Service: 2017
Gross Tonnage: 153,516 GT
Passenger Capacity: 5,179
Key Features:
- Unique ‘beach condo’ architecture
- Glass-floored catwalks on both sides of the ship
- Interactive, multi-story water park
Notable Spaces:
- South Beach Pool, one of the largest on a cruise ship
- Exclusive Forest Aquaventure Park
- MSC Aurea Spa with thermal area and snow room
Popular Itineraries
MSC Cruises offers a wide variety of itineraries across the globe. Here are some of their most popular routes:
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days-The most popular option for Western Mediterranean cruises.
Popular ports: Civitavecchia (Rome), Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Marseille, La Goulette, Valletta, Lisbon
Ships: MSC World Europa, MSC Seaside, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida
7 Nights / 8 Days: A popular option for Eastern Mediterranean cruises.
Popular ports: Piraeus, Santorini, Istanbul, Kusadasi, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Limassol, Haifa
Ships: MSC Musica, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Splendida, MSC Armonia
Duration: 7-14 nights
Typical Ports: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn
Ships: MSC Euribia, MSC Poesia
Duration: 7-14 nights
Typical Ports: Miami, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico, Bahamas
Ships: MSC Seascape, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Divina
Duration: 7 nights
Typical Ports: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha
Ships: MSC World Europa, MSC Opera
Before you book – Carefully consider which “experience” package to choose when booking. MSC offers Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and MSC Yacht Club experiences, each with different perks and price points. Understanding these options can significantly impact your cruise enjoyment and value for money. Second, be prepared for a distinctly European atmosphere onboard. MSC ships cater to an international crowd, so expect announcements in multiple languages and a more diverse cultural mix than on some other cruise lines. Embracing this international flair can greatly enhance your cruising experience with MSC.
Onboard Experience
1
Accommodation
MSC offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets:
- Interior Cabins: Comfortable and economical options.
- Ocean View Cabins: Featuring a window or porthole for natural light.
- Balcony Cabins: Private outdoor space with sea views.
- Suites: Larger spaces with separate living areas and enhanced amenities.
- MSC Yacht Club: A luxury ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept offering exclusive amenities and services.
Key Features:
- Modern décor with an Italian flair
- Interactive TV systems
- Mini-bar (in most cabin types)
- 24-hour room service
2
Dining
MSC is known for its diverse culinary offerings, blending Mediterranean traditions with international flavors:
Main Dining Rooms
- Offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner with rotating menus
- Flexible MyTime Dining or traditional set dining times
Buffet Restaurants
- Casual dining option open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Stations offering international cuisines, including Mediterranean specialties
Specialty Restaurants (vary by ship but may include):
- Butcher’s Cut (American-style steakhouse)
- Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar
- Hola! Tacos & Cantina
- L’Atelier Bistrot (French cuisine)
- Ocean Cay (seafood restaurant)
Exclusive Dining
- MSC Yacht Club restaurant for suite guests
Key Features:
- Diverse international cuisines
- Flexible dining times
- Special dietary needs accommodated (with advance notice)
- Partnerships with celebrity chefs for some specialty venues
3
Entertainment
MSC offers a wide array of entertainment options:
Live Shows
- Broadway-style theater productions
- Cirque du Soleil at Sea (on Meraviglia-class ships)
- Live music performances
Nightlife
- Multiple bars and lounges with themed nights
- Nightclubs for late-night dancing
- Casino with slots and table games
Family Entertainment
- Kids’ clubs divided by age groups
- Teen clubs with gaming areas
- Family-friendly shows and activities
Key Features:
- Cutting-edge technology in theaters
- Diverse entertainment suitable for all ages
- Multilingual entertainment staff
4
Activities and Recreation
MSC ships offer numerous activities to keep guests engaged:
Pool Areas
- Multiple swimming pools (including indoor options on some ships)
- Whirlpools and sun decks
- Exclusive pool areas for MSC Yacht Club guests
Sports and Fitness
- State-of-the-art fitness centers
- Sports courts (basketball, tennis, etc.)
- Jogging tracks
Spa and Wellness
- MSC Aurea Spa offering a range of treatments
- Thermal suite with saunas and steam rooms
- Beauty salon services
Unique Attractions (vary by ship)
- Water parks with slides
- F1 simulators
- Bowling alleys
- 4D cinemas
- Virtual reality experiences
Key Features:
- Activities catering to all age groups
- Blend of relaxation and adventure options
- Some attractions may require additional fees
5
Technology and Innovation
MSC has invested heavily in onboard technology to enhance the guest experience:
MSC for Me
- Digital cruise assistant available via app, in-cabin TV, and interactive screens
- Features include booking services, wayfinding, and schedules
ZOE
- AI-powered virtual cruise assistant in cabins (on select ships)
Wearable Technology
- MSC Cruises wristbands for contactless payments and cabin access
Key Features:
- Enhanced connectivity options
- Digital wayfinding throughout the ship
- Virtual queuing for guest services
6
Children and Family Services
MSC is known for its family-friendly approach:
Kids’ Clubs
- Baby Club (0-2 years)
- Mini Club (3-6 years)
- Junior Club (7-11 years)
- Young Club (12-14 years)
- Teen Club (15-17 years)
Family Activities
- Family disco nights
- Sports tournaments
- Cooking classes for kids
Family-Friendly Amenities
- Dedicated family cabins
- Kids-eat-free programs (conditions apply)
- Baby care services (additional charge)
Key Features:
- Age-appropriate activities and facilities
- Multilingual youth staff
- Extended hours for kids’ clubs
7
MSC Yacht Club
For guests seeking a more luxurious experience, the MSC Yacht Club offers:
- Private restaurant, lounge, and pool area
- 24-hour butler service
- Priority embarkation and disembarkation
- Complimentary beverages in all Yacht Club areas
- Dedicated concierge service
Key Features:
- Exclusive areas inaccessible to other passengers
- Enhanced, personalized service
- Luxury accommodation options
8
Sustainability Initiatives
MSC is committed to sustainable cruising, which is reflected in onboard practices:
- Use of advanced wastewater treatment systems
- Energy-efficient lighting and air conditioning systems
- Reduction of single-use plastics
- Educational programs about marine conservation
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly practices integrated into the guest experience
- Opportunities for guests to participate in sustainability efforts
Essential Tips for First-Time MSC Cruises Bookers
1
Consider the Experience Package
MSC offers different ``experiences`` (Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and MSC Yacht Club) which come with varying perks. Research these to find the one that best suits your preferences and budget.
2
Book Early for Best Cabin Selection
MSC ships can accommodate thousands of passengers. Booking early gives you a better chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location.
3
Check for Promotions
MSC often runs promotions, especially for first-time cruisers. These can include cabin upgrades, onboard credit, or beverage packages.
4
Understand the Onboard Currency
MSC uses a cashless system onboard. Your cruise card is linked to your account for all purchases. The onboard currency is typically euros, even for cruises departing from the U.S.
5
Pre-book Speciality Restaurants and Excursions
Popular restaurants and shore excursions can fill up quickly. Pre-booking ensures you don't miss out and often comes with discounts.
6
Consider a Drink Package
If you plan to enjoy multiple beverages daily, a drink package can offer good value. Calculate potential costs to see if it's worth it for you.
7
Pack for Your Itinerary
MSC cruises various regions with different climates. Pack appropriate clothing for your destinations and remember formal nights if you plan to participate.
8
Download the MSC for Me App
This app can help you navigate the ship, book services, and stay updated on daily activities.
9
Be Prepared for a European Atmosphere
MSC has a distinct European flair. Expect announcements in multiple languages and a more international crowd than on some other cruise lines.
10
Check Visa Requirements
Depending on your itinerary and nationality, you may need visas for some ports. Check well in advance to avoid issues.
11
Arrive a day earlier
If possible, arrive at your departure port a day early. This eliminates stress from potential travel delays and gives you time to start your vacation relaxed.
11
Familiarize Yourself with Additional Costs
Understand what's included in your fare and what's not. Things like spa treatments, speciality dining, and some activities may incur extra charges.
Typical Costs
The base fare is the starting point for your MSC cruise cost. Here’s a detailed look at what it typically includes and factors that influence it:
What’s Included in the Base Fare
- Accommodation: Your chosen cabin for the duration of the cruise.
- Main Dining: Meals in the main dining rooms and buffet restaurants.
- Basic Beverages: Usually includes water, tea, and coffee in dining areas during meal times.
- Entertainment: Access to theater shows, live music, and most onboard entertainment.
- Use of Facilities: Access to pools, hot tubs, fitness center, and other public areas.
- Kids’ Clubs: Access to age-appropriate kids’ and teens’ clubs.
What’s Not Typically Included
- Specialty dining restaurants
- Most alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages outside of meals
- Shore excursions
- Spa treatments and thermal suite access
- Gratuities
- Wi-Fi
- Specialty onboard activities (e.g., cooking classes, wine tastings)
Factors Influencing Base Fare
- Cabin Type: Interior cabins are typically the least expensive, while suites and MSC Yacht Club accommodations are the most expensive.
- Deck Location: Higher decks and mid-ship cabins often cost more than lower decks or forward/aft cabins.
- Itinerary: Longer cruises and those visiting popular or exotic destinations typically have higher base fares.
- Sailing Date: Peak season sailings (e.g., summer in the Mediterranean, holiday periods) are usually more expensive.
- Ship: Newer ships or those with more amenities often have higher base fares.
- Experience Package: The base fare varies depending on whether you choose Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, or MSC Yacht Club experiences.
- Promotions: MSC often runs promotions that can affect the base fare or include additional perks.
- Booking Time: Generally, booking well in advance or very close to the sailing date can result in lower base fares, while booking during peak demand periods can be more expensive.
Tips for Getting the Best Base Fare
- Be flexible with your dates if possible.
- Consider shoulder season travel for popular destinations.
- Book early, especially for new ships or popular itineraries.
- Keep an eye out for promotions and sales.
- Compare different cabin types and experience packages to find the best value for your needs.
MSC offers different “experiences” (Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and MSC Yacht Club) which come with varying perks and price points. Higher-tier experiences include more amenities but at a higher cost.
These are usually not included in the base fare and are added to your onboard account daily. The amount varies by region but is typically around €10-14 per adult per day.
While some basic beverages are included, many passengers opt for beverage packages for unlimited drinks. These can range from about €29 to €62 per person per day, depending on the package.
While main dining room meals are included, specialty restaurants usually incur an additional fee, typically ranging from €20 to €50 per person.
These are not included in the base fare and can vary widely in price, from about €30 for a simple city tour to over €200 for more elaborate experiences.
Internet packages are available for purchase, with prices varying based on data allowance and speed.
These are usually added to your fare at booking and can add several hundred euros to your total cost, depending on the itinerary.
It’s worth noting that MSC often runs promotions that can include perks like drink packages or onboard credit, which can help offset some of these additional costs. Always check what’s included in your specific fare and consider pre-booking packages or excursions, as they’re often discounted when purchased in advance.
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July 24, 2024
