MSC Cruises offers a perfect blend of European flair for both families and multigenerational cruisers.
Known for its deep-seated Italian maritime heritage, this family-owned, Swiss-based cruise line is the fourth largest cruise company in the world and crafts well-thought-out itineraries to over 200 destinations.
With its 22-vessel fleet categorised into seven classes, MSC Cruises ships are marvels in themselves featuring stunning atriums, elegant lounges, and state-of-the-art facilities that rival any luxury hotel. These innovative vessels even highlight several luxurious details such as Swarovski crystal staircases, European marble finishes, and Mediterranean-style promenades.
For cruise enthusiasts and first-time travellers, this ultimate guide dives deeper into the things you need to know about cruising with MSC Cruises. From the fleet’s modern ships to the different destinations they visit, from the mouthwatering dining options to the dazzling entertainment, all these and more are being covered.
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The MSC Cruises Fleet
The moment guests step on board any of MSC ships, they are greeted by a cosmopolitan ambiance that feels like they’ve been transported to an Italian floating resort. The 22-vessel fleet known for its cutting-edge innovation and elegance is consistent in providing guests unparalleled comfort, dining, entertainment, and onboard experience. Categorised into seven classes namely: World Class, Meraviglia Class, Seaside Class, Fantasia Class, Musica Class, Lirica Class, and Seashore Class. Among these classes, the World Class is considered the crown jewel of the fleet and the game-changer in cruise ship design.
Where do MSC Line ships sail?
MSC’s 22-vessel fleet offers well-crafted itineraries to over 200 destinations across the globe catering to every type of guest and traveller, from sun-seekers to culture enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
The line offers year-round voyages to the Mediterranean exploring the cultures and the rich culinary heritage of Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Croatia. Though the heart of MSC’s operations is in the Mediterranean, its reach also extends to beyond the sunny shores of Europe. The line also allows guests to marvel at the fjords of Norway, bask in the stunning and breathtaking beaches of the Caribbean, and explore the rich and vibrant cultures of Brazil, Argentina, and Chile in South America. Additionally, MSC Cruises also crafts and offers exciting exotic sailings for the Middle East and Asia. As for Australia, the line schedules visits to Aussie ports like Hobart, Sydney, Eden, and Melbourne as part of a 116-night Mediterranean Cruise in January 2025.
| SHIP | CLASS | TONNAGE | YEAR BUILT | NO. OF CABINS |
| MSC Armonia | Armonia | 66, 000 | 2001 | 975 |
| MSC Bellissima | Meraviglia | 168, 000 | 2019 | 2244 |
| MSC Divina | Fantasia | 139, 000 | 2012 | 1751 |
| MSC Euribia | Meraviglia-Plus | 184, 000 | 2023 | 2419 |
| MSC Fantasia | Fantasia | 138, 000 | 2008 | 1637 |
| MSC Grandiosa | Meraviglia | 181, 000 | 2019 | 2405 |
| MSC Lirica | Armonia | 66, 000 | 2003 | 988 |
| MSC Magnifica | Musica | 95, 000 | 2010 | 1253 |
| MSC Meraviglia | Meraviglia | 168, 000 | 2017 | 2244 |
| MSC Musica | Musica | 92, 000 | 2006 | 1275 |
| MSC Opera | Armonia | 66, 000 | 2004 | 1071 |
| MSC Orchestra | Musica | 92, 000 | 2007 | 1275 |
| MSC Poesia | Musica | 93, 000 | 2008 | 1275 |
| MSC Preziosa | Fantasia | 139, 000 | 2013 | 1751 |
| MSC Seascape | Seaside | 169, 000 | 2022 | 2270 |
| MSC Seashore | Seaside | 169, 000 | 2021 | 2270 |
| MSC Seaside | Seaside | 154, 000 | 2017 | 2067 |
| MSC Seaview | Seaside | 154, 000 | 2018 | 2067 |
| MSC Sinfonia | Armonia | 66, 000 | 2002 | 975 |
| MSC Splendida | Fantasia | 138, 000 | 2009 | 1637 |
| MSC Virtuosa | Meraviglia | 181, 000 | 2021 | 2405 |
| MSC World Europa | World | 216, 000 | 2022 | 2631 |
MSC Cruises Dining
MSC Cruises dining options are a culinary journey in itself. While offering a taste of Italy, it also highlights international flavours to cater to different tastes and preferences. From casual classic pizzas by the pool to multi-course dishes, guests always have something to grab and satisfy their cravings whatever the occasion may be. Regardless of the number of cruise days, guests always find something fresh to try.
Main Dining Rooms
All MSC Cruises vessels feature main Dining Rooms usually named after Italian artists. Guests are assigned a table in one of the main dining rooms with precise timings depending on the itinerary. Additionally, the line changes its three-course menus on a daily basis but it also serves its ‘always available’ menus like pasta and grilled chicken breast. Some standout dishes that are popular among guests are Risotto and seafoods.
Buffet
The Marketplace Buffet is a casual dining hub that offers a wide variety of dining options. It has stations for pizza, pasta, desserts, and even international cuisines.
Specialty Restaurants
When it comes to the dining experience, MSC shines brightly in its range of specialty restaurants.
Butcher’s Cut
An American-style steakhouse that could rival some of the best steakhouses on land. This dining venue is popular for its meat quality.
Hola! Tacos & Cantina
This dining hub features a casual street food dining concept which serves Mexican-inspired menus.
Teppanyaki
This Japanese dining venue features four cooking stations for guests to choose from. Chefs cooking on an open grill is one of the highlights of this dining experience.
L’Atelier Bistrot
A French bistro offering classics like onion soup and escargots. The ambiance here is charming and reminiscent of a Parisian café.
Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant
This seafood restaurant is popular among guests because of its enjoyable and pleasant vibe. The menu features a variety of fresh fish and shellfish prepared in Mediterranean styles.
Is MSC Cruises all-inclusive?
MSC cruises are not initially all-inclusive. All of its itineraries include accommodation, dining in Buffets and Main Restaurants, live entertainment, sports and gym activities. But for guests to have an all-inclusive luxury experience, they may opt to avail of the unparalleled comfort and convenience of the MSC Yacht Club.
What entertainment and activities can be found onboard MSC Line?
MSC Cruises offers a wide array of activities and entertainment onboard that cater to various interests and age groups. The line features more than six different shows and performances per week including Broadway-inspired productions. Onboard, guests also get to immerse in 4D Cinema, and savour the thrill and excitement of MSC Formula Racer, bowling, fitness activities, and a lot more outdoor activities.
With the MSC Fun Pass, guests could enjoy the entire amusement area. The line also highlights activities and amenities for kids such as Kid Clubs, pools, aqua parks and waterslides.
Does MSC Line have gratuities?
MSC’s gratuity rates depend on the cruise itinerary being booked. Generally, for adults (guests over 12 years old) gratuity rate falls between 12 to 16 euros per guest, per night while for children aged two onwards, the gratuity rate is between 3 to 13 euros. On the other hand, for children who are below two years old, gratuities do not apply.
