MSC Cruises is an Italian family-owned cruise line that invites travelers to experience the world at an affordable cost. The uproar of MSC has caused the number of passengers to double in the last few years, with new terminals popping up in different parts of North America.
The top-rated cruise line has also partnered with the NBA’s New York Knicks, becoming their official cruise line partner and gaining significant promotion during games at Madison Square Garden.
MSC Cruises has plunged its way into the rankings as one of the most popular cruise lines in Europe and North America as it focuses on providing more than just a vacation.
If you are interested in coming aboard an MSC Cruise ship, you probably have questions, so keep reading, and we will dive into the answers.
What does MSC Cruises stand for?
MSC stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company. The company was founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte after purchasing a ship and expanding his family's shipping business. The Aponte family’s maritime business dates back to the 1670s.
In 1988, MSC Group joined the cruise market and, in the following years, began to dominate and expand further all over the world.
The Aponte family still owns MSC, and its headquarters are originally in Geneva, Switzerland. However, they also have offices in Downtown Miami, Florida. The Miami location serves as its new North American headquarters. The company has over 200,000 employees worldwide.
What to wear on an MSC cruise ship?
When it comes to packing for your MSC cruise, versatility is essential! But first, checking out your itinerary is a must! For example, if you are packing for a Caribbean cruise, you'll want to focus on breathable clothing suitable for warmer temperatures, while layers are recommended for Northern European sailings to chillier destinations.
MSC's recommended daytime attire is casual, which can include lightweight, breathable clothing, including t-shirts, shorts, bathing suits, or cover-ups!
As for evening attire, you can go for more polished or semi-formal looks. In other words, you should ditch the t-shirts for collared shirts and dresses, especially in the formal dining room. You may also want to grab a light jacket or a sweater since the ship can be chilly.
If you really want to take it up a notch, MSC Cruises hosts a Gala Night, where more formal and elegant attire is recommended. This could consist of cocktail dresses or suits. Gowns or tuxedos are optional, not required.
Read more: Cruise Line Dress Codes: What to Wear on a Cruise
Are MSC Cruises all-inclusive?
When planning and booking for your cruise, knowing what's included can help you budget appropriately! MSC Cruises' fare includes your cabin and its basic amenities inside, like shower gel, hand soap, towels, glasses, a television, a safe, and other essentials.
As for food, all meals in the dining room and buffet are included, providing you with a rich variety of cuisine along with fan favorites like pizza and burgers. Standard beverages like tap water, select juices, tea, and coffee are also available for no extra charge.
Moreover, there are exciting free activities you can enjoy on the ship, like theater shows, game shows, and other unique daily activities. Childcare is also included in your fare, as is transportation to each port of call. However, you are responsible for all costs incurred while traveling to the ship.
How much do drink packages cost on MSC Cruises?
MSC Cruises has 3 drink package options on cruises departing from North America. The Premium Extra Package includes all types of beverages, ranging from premium spirits to wine, cocktails, beer, specialty coffees, smoothies, soft drinks, and more. However, the package isn't unlimited and restricts guests to 15 alcoholic drinks per day.
The Alcohol Free Package includes unlimited non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise — think signature mocktails and non-alcoholic beers, soft and energy drinks, coffee, and tea.
The Minors Package, which is only for guests under the age of 20, has to be purchased with either the Premium Extra Package or the Alcohol Free Package. This package includes non-alcoholic drinks, juices, soft drinks, bottled water, and even soft serve ice cream.
In terms of cost, the price of the Premium Extra Package on a weeklong sailing aboard MSC World America costs around $490 per adult, or $70 per day. However, you can save up to 40% by purchasing your package in advance through MSC's online planning portal.
The Alcohol Free Package is more affordable, coming in at $210 for a 7-night cruise. This breaks down to just $30 per day for unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.
Note that gratuities are included for all packages.
Read more: MSC Cruises makes controversial decision to overhaul its drink packages
What ports does MSC Cruises depart from?
MSC Cruises uses ports all over the world, but in North America, there are three locations the cruise line utilizes.
It is important to note that MSC currently sails from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Brooklyn. Operations in Gavelston and Seattle will begin in November 2025 and May 2026, expanding options to 5 cities in North America.
There are also many more ports in various other countries in Europe, South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, South Africa, and Asia.
Fun fact: MSC’s Terminal AA in Miami, which just opened this year, is the largest cruise port in the world, being 490,000 square feet and able to accommodate three ships while being able to process 36,000 passengers per day.
How many ships does MSC Cruises have?
MSC Cruises has 23 cruise ships in its fleet. Its newest ship is MSC World America, which debuted in April 2025. The new ship leaves from Miami, Florida, and offers 7 and 14-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
MSC World America is the second ship in the World Class series, joining MSC World Europa, and is the largest in the fleet. The ship is able to accommodate 6,764 passengers. It's also the only ship that features an overwater swing at sea and the only Eataly at Sea.
Other popular ships that port from the U.S. are MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Divina, MSC Grandiosa, and MSC Poesia.
As for upcoming ships, there are two more expected to join the World Class series. These include MSC World Asia, entering the cruise world in 2026. The other ship is MSC World Atlantic, expected to set sail in 2027 and will sail to the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Recently, MSC shared that they are ordering two additional World Class ships to join the fleet. These two new ships that have yet to be named are referred to as World Class 5 and 6, which will be delivered in 2029 and 2030, respectively.
Read more: MSC Cruises ships by age — from newest to oldest (2025)
Are MSC Cruises kid-friendly?
MSC Cruises is for all ages but is highly rated for families sailing with younger kids! The cruise line offers childcare for children from 0 to 17, with a wide array of activities split up into five age groups.
For the baby club, which is for children 3 and under, there are certain free hours when you can leave your baby with the youth staff. They are available in two-hour time blocks depending on the ship! It is important to know that your child must be at least 6 months old to be left alone.
Outside of the youth clubs, some of the family-friendly activities and amenities include waterparks, arcades, contests, pools, and VR experiences.
A major deal with MSC Cruises is their frequent discounts on children’s cruise fares! They often promote a “Kids Sail Free” discount, meaning that children 17 and under to cruise at no additional cost when staying in the same cabin as the third or fourth guest with two adults.
This promotion is available for select cruises and is subject to availability. Also, although the child’s cruise fare is waived, payment of fees, other taxes, and gratuities is expected.
What does MSC Cruises have for kids?
There are five complimentary kids' clubs available on MSC cruises that accommodate children from 0 to 17! There is the Baby Club, which is for ages 0 to 3, the Mini Club for ages 3-6, the Junior Club for ages 7 to 11, the Young Club for ages 12 to 14, and the Teen Club for ages 15 to 17.
All clubs provide their own unique experiences, like a dedicated play area for the baby club partnered with baby care brand Chicco, offering a variety of toys!
There are also other activities where the Junior Club can act, dance, or sing in front of a green screen! For the older kids in the Young Club, there are opportunities to participate in high-tech games and sports tournaments. Finally, the Teen Club has silent disco parties, video game competitions, and sports tournaments.
MSC also has an exclusive partnership with LEGO to provide the youth with extraordinary adventures and stimulating toys. Children under 5 have the opportunity to build with DUPLO bricks!
What are the different experiences on MSC Cruises?
MSC Cruises offers three different tiers, each offering different perks based on how much you want to spend: Bella, Fantastica, and Aurea.
The Bella Experience is the most affordable and means you can't choose your specific stateroom assignment. Instead, MSC Cruises will assign your cabin before sailing.
That said, you'll still get to experience basic cruise amenities, including the MSC for Me app (where available), onboard entertainment, MSC Voyager Club points, a well-equipped gym, multilingual personnel, meals in the buffet and dining room, and more.
The Fantastica Experience is available with balcony, ocean view, and interior staterooms and has the same perks, except with booking flexibility. You have the opportunity for one free cruise change and discounted package offers.
Finally, the Aurea Experience has many more perks, such as "My Choice Dining" in the main dining room. There is also a welcome package awaiting with prosecco and chocolates, a bathrobe, and slippers for relaxation.
Aurea Experience guests also have access to the Top Solarium pool, along with priority boarding and luggage drop off.
Is room service free on MSC Cruises?
Room service is available on MSC Cruises, but the service fees are determined by the cabin experience booked. For example, the Bella Experience offers a free continental breakfast including items like yogurt, cereal, pastries, coffee, and more, but delivery is an extra $4.99.
Outside of breakfast food, room service offers other items like salads, burgers, and custom pizzas, which will cost extra as they are priced items, with the delivery fee.
For the Fantastica and Aurea Experience, 24-hour room service is available with free delivery, including the same continental breakfast menu. Food items after breakfast are priced. Room service for those in MSC's Yacht Club includes free delivery and waived menu item fees.
What is the Yacht Club on MSC Cruises?
If you are interested in elevating your MSC Cruise experience, consider splurging on MSC Yacht Club, which offers a “ship within a ship” concept. This provides separate features from other cruise goers.
MSC Yacht Club is available on the majority of MSC's cruise ships, but not all. Some of these ships include MSC Seascape, Seashore, Seaview, Splendida, Virtuosa, Divina, Fantasia, Preziosa, Bellissima, World Europa, and the newest ship, MSC World America.
MSC Yacht Club guests also have access to exclusive, luxurious suites, depending on the ship you choose, including the Owner’s Suites, Royal Suites, Deluxe Grand Suites, Executive and Family Suites, Duplex Suites, and even Interior Suites!
Before boarding, Yacht Club members get a separate concierge team to assist with booking their reservations, personal requests, and excursions. From the moment you arrive to embark on your cruise, you benefit from priority check-in. You'll also receive an enhanced disembarkation process on the last day.
These guests have top-notch, personalized amenities, including access to 24/7 butler service and a private deck. Another luxurious perk? All-inclusive access to drinks, a private restaurant, internet, and MSC Aurea spa access!
MSC Yacht Club amenities and privileges even expand onto Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve at the private Ocean House Beach! This space provides beachfront cabanas, ocean views, and other complimentary amenities to take your vacation to the next level. There is also a private dining room at the Ocean House with specialty dishes and refreshing drinks!
Read more: I tried the cheapest MSC Cruises Yacht Club suite. Here's what to know if it's worth it
Does MSC Cruises have vegan, vegetarian, or allergy-friendly meal options?
For those with dietary restrictions, there is no need to worry! There are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available in the main dining room and buffet.
In the dining room, you can request a vegan menu to find specific meals to appeal to your diet, with options like lentil stew and saffron rice or grilled vegetables, mixed beans, and even sweet treats like mixed berry crumble.
As for the buffet, there are vegan pastas and vegetarian and gluten-free options.
If a guest has any specific allergies or dietary needs, they can inform MSC through their special needs form. MSC Cruises requests that guests fill it out no later than 30 days before sailing.
Read more: MSC food review
What time does embarkation start on MSC Cruises?
When embarking on your MSC Cruise, it is important to begin checking in at your dedicated time slot. The easiest boarding time is usually around 10:30am or 11:00am; however, the exact times depend on the specific sailing.
It is also crucial to know that check-in and boarding close 2 hours before the ship departs. It is recommended to check in via the MSC web check-in or the MSC for Me app.
It is also important to note that cruises in Europe are often interport sailings, meaning there are multiple embarkation ports to choose from. For example, a World Europa 7-night cruise to the Mediterranean can start in Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France; or Genoa, Italy.
How much are gratuities on MSC Cruises?
MSC Cruises' gratuities are called Hotel Service Charges; these costs vary per cruise. On North American cruises, they average at $16 per night for adults, 12 years old and up, then $8 per night for children between 2 and 11 years old.
For South Africa cruises, gratuities are $10 per night for adults 12 years old and over, and for children between the ages of 2 and 11, it is $5 per night.
Gratuities for European cruises are €12 per night for adults 12 years and older and €6 per night for children between 2 and 11 years old.
Read more: 11 do's and don'ts of cruise ship tipping
Are MSC Cruises good?
MSC Cruises offers a compelling blend of luxury and great value! The competitive pricing offers endless entertainment opportunities, including games within the casino, original production shows, and virtual reality simulators.
The architectural design and details are also striking, like the signature Swarovski crystal staircase, LED sky ceilings, and even the chic European design of cafes and shops!
MSC’s vast, unique itineraries are also a selling point — from sunny Caribbean islands and historic Mediterranean cities, to vibrant parts of the Middle East and Asia, and South Africa. While ashore, there are plenty of excursions and opportunities to explore the culture of these places, like wine tasting, city tours, and more.
Note that some of these places sail from outside of North America.
Are MSC Cruises different compared to American lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival?
Considering MSC is a European-based cruise line, there are quite a few differences compared to other popular cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For example, announcements are made in multiple languages.
MSC also commonly offers interport sailings. An example of this is MSC Seaside seasonally interporting in the Southern Caribbean, allowing guests to embark in different ports like Barbados, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten, or Martinique. Comparatively, Carnival’s South Caribbean cruises depart from a single port, such as Miami, Florida.
Moving on, MSC is an international cruise line with strong European roots. Their crew members come from all over the world and speak various languages, including English, Italian, French, German, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese.
The language that guests will hear most depends on the cruise’s itinerary and the nationalities of the guests. Their Daily Program, which lists passenger information and important events for the day, is also available in different languages.
The various languages spoken by different passengers also influence the entertainment. As such, these activities are typically less extravagant since MSC caters to a large variety of people of different cultures.
Does MSC Cruises have an app?
The official mobile app for MSC Cruises is “MSC for Me,” which is available for both Apple and Android devices. Features in the app consist of checking in, adding card information, communicating with friends and family, daily schedules, on-board navigation, expense tracking, and more!
It is important to note that the MSC for Me app is not available on all MSC ships, considering some are much older. These ships include MSC Lirica, Sinfonia, Orchestra, Armonia, and Opera.
If you are not big on apps, you will automatically have a paper version of the daily schedule delivered to your room.
What is MSC Cruises' cancellation process?
If you have to cancel your cruise, you should contact MSC Cruises or your travel agent and review the cancellation policy. There may be a penalty depending on how far in advance the cancellation is made.
The cancellation penalties for MSC sailings depend on the length of the cruise and days before departure. For example, if the cancellation for a cruise of 5 to 14 nights is made between 60 and 46 days before departure, the penalty would be 50%.
MSC Yacht club members have slightly different penalty amounts. It is unlikely for a guest to receive a refund close to their cruise date. Some guests may use travel insurance in this case when booking.
Is food included on MSC Cruises?
Since MSC isn't an all-inclusive line, you should be prepared for the extras you have yet to spend. This includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, certain activities like bowling, spa treatments, and alcoholic and some nonalcoholic beverages.
One of the most popular add-ons is specialty dining. MSC Cruises is determined to make sure its guests get a taste of the world, literally! The cruise line offers a steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut, seafood restaurants like La Pescaderia, and Asian cuisine at Kaito.
Prices for food range based on what you order. For example, at the Kaito Sushi Bar, sushi can range from $5 and $14, and other dishes range from $4 to $21.
However, MSC recently made some changes for those interested in adding specialty dining restaurants when booking in the U.S. Instead of having items a la carte, cruisers can now order one starter, one main, and one dessert at a flat rate. This update allows those with dining packages more customization as well.
For example, Butcher’s Cut dining experience costs $59 and includes one appetizer like a Classic Caesar, one entree like a New York Sirloin, and a dessert like Lava Cake.
What drinks are free on MSC Cruises?
If you aren’t interested in paying extra for the beverage packages or bottled water, you will be pleased to know that there are a few complimentary drinks available, like tap water.
As for the buffet, you’ll find basic coffee, teas, juices, and iced tea. You can also find some of these drinks in the main dining room.
Does MSC provide shampoo and conditioner?
MSC provides basic toiletries in their cabins, like shampoo and shower gel, which can be found in the bathroom. Conditioner, however, is typically not provided. As for other cabin amenities, MSC provides a hairdryer, air conditioning, a minibar, a television, a safe, and a sitting area with a chair or sofa.
Yacht Club amenities are a little different with a more spacious living area, walk-in closets, a large balcony, 24-hour butler service, good night chocolates, a complimentary minibar, and many other features.
What's MSC Cruises' loyalty program?
MSC Cruises offers a loyalty program called the MSC Voyagers Club. With this membership, you will receive exclusive benefits for your next cruise. All members get a 15% MSC Voyagers Selection discount along with other perks such as an online private area, a luggage tag, and more!
There are six membership tiers available, each with different benefits! These include the Welcome Membership (0 points). The Classic Membership (1-2,199 points) includes a 5% discount on bookings, 10% discount at the MSC Logo Shop, 20% off photos, 5% off Wi-Fi packages, and even 50% off F1 simulator rides.
The Silver Membership (2,200-4,299 points) includes all previously mentioned perks in addition to a $50 on-board credit, 10% off laundry packages, 10% off minibar, and 10% off digital photography accessories. The Gold Membership (4,300-9,999 points) includes a 20% discount on all spa, salon, and fitness services in addition to the other perks mentioned.
The Diamond Membership (10,000-24,999 points) includes priority for free stateroom upgrades, priority line at check in, and assistance at the contact center, as well as priority drop off luggage amongst other mentioned features.
The Blue Diamond Membership (25,000+ points) is the highest tier within the loyalty program and includes Yacht Club drop-off luggage, access to Yacht Club check-in, late stateroom checkout, one free F1 simulator ride, courtesy bathrobe and slippers, as well as other benefits.
Does MSC match loyalty statuses with other programs?
MSC Cruises wants to grow its loyalty program by offering status matching for those who have loyalty status with other travel operators, like hotels, cruise lines, or airlines.
MSC matches loyalty with over 70 brands. To apply, you must complete the status match form and upload proof of your loyalty status.
This application may be processed within 72 hours. You can only apply for a status match once, so you should use the highest status when applying. This way, you can enjoy comparable or maybe even enhanced advantages!
Can I bring wine on MSC Cruises?
What is typical on other cruises is forbidden on MSC: you can't bring a bottle of wine with you on embarkation day! No wine, regardless of the percentage, is allowed on the ship. MSC enforces this rule to ensure safety and to comply with the laws regarding underage drinking.
Furthermore, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages on board. This means no cases of water, soda cans, or any juices are allowed. Additionally, food, partially eaten or home-cooked meals, are not allowed either. But dry, commercially packaged foods are permitted, like crackers.
What is not allowed on MSC Cruises?
Outside of all beverages and food, there are a couple of other items you should avoid trying to bring on MSC Cruises. This includes hazardous items like clothing irons, kettles, hot plates, electric blankets, and steamers.
In terms of luggage, you can bring two suitcases that are 50.7 lbs per bag and two pieces of hand luggage per person.
How is the food on MSC Cruises?
MSC has a plethora of diverse and flavorful food options for its guests. They offer many specialty dining options at an extra cost, but their buffets have a wide selection of global cuisines for no extra fee!
Each night, the dining room features a new menu to keep things fresh and exciting for guests. From Mediterranean classics to international favorites, the rotating menu ensures there’s something new to try every evening.
What electrical outlets are on MSC ships?
MSC cruise ships are equipped with European (220V) and American (110V) outlets in the cabins. This way, the rooms accommodate international travelers. The ships also offer USB outlets, making it more convenient as well.
As for electrical appliances, they are limited to hairdryers, battery chargers, electric shavers, computers, phones, and curling/straightening irons. However, high-powered appliances like clothing irons, kettles, or electric blankets are forbidden.
Read more: Can I Bring A Steamer On A Cruise?
Can you smoke on MSC Cruises?
Smoking is permitted on MSC Cruises, but only in the designated areas! You can find these areas on the ship when you see signs and ashtrays. You will only find these areas outside on certain decks.
You will not find any indoor smoking areas with the sole exception of the casinos during opening hours for guests who are actively playing and seated. But smoking in other indoor areas, even in your cabin, is prohibited — even if it is an e-cigarette.
If passengers do smoke in a restricted area, MSC may charge an extra fee or force that person to disembark if the issue continues. It is also important to remember that throwing cigarette butts overboard is also prohibited.
Read more: How To Get Away With Smoking On A Cruise Ship
What is Ocean Cay?
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises’ exclusive private island in the western Bahamas, 65 miles off the coast of Miami. Once an industrial excavation site, it was transformed into a peaceful escape featuring eight pristine beaches.
Access to the island is included in your cruise with no extra cost for the complimentary food, lounging chairs, and umbrellas. However, activities like paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking tours, safari snorkeling, and spa services are at an extra cost.
For MSC Yacht Club members, guests have exclusive access to the Ocean House Beach and Restaurant.
MSC Cruises also offers late-night and overnight stays at Ocean Cay! This means there are evening entertainment options like the lighthouse light show or beach parties.
How much is Wi-Fi on MSC Cruises?
MSC offers internet packages to keep you connected to those at home or so you can share your special moments on social media during your trip.
There are two packages available. The Browse Cruise Package offers unlimited data and 24-hour access to the web and is the more affordable option. One device costs around $125 for a 7-night cruise.
The Browse and Stream Cruise Package has all the perks are the same except you can also video chat and stream music and videos on your favorite services like Netflix or Hulu. Expect to pay around $140 for a weeklong cruise, or $20 per day.
Read more: What you need to know about MSC Cruises Wi-Fi
Can you wash and iron clothes on MSC ships?
Looking to wash and iron your clothing on the ship because you don’t want to pack dirty clothes into your luggage?
You should know that MSC does not offer self-serve laundry options but does provide professional laundry, pressing, and dry-cleaning services for an extra cost.
Why are MSC cruises so cheap?
MSC Cruises has some of the lowest fares in the cruise market! It's not because the product is necessarily bad, though.
MSC stretches its passenger-to-crew ratio. In other words, the number of passengers divided by the number of crew members is higher.
Along with that, MSC maximizes their passenger capacity, focusing more so on how many people book rather than cabins filled. The cruise line has also ensured passenger capacity by reducing cabin sizes to fit more people and to save money.
Read more: Why are MSC Cruises so cheap?
Can phone calls be made from your MSC cabin?
A useful amenity you will find in your cabin is a telephone! With this phone, you can call your family and friends in other cabins. You can also contact the ship facilities at no charge to ask any questions or address any issues from the cabin telephone.
As for external calls, a fee will be charged, considering high per-minute charges based on location, considering they are routed via satellite. These costs for calls made from the ship may range from $7 to $8 per minute.
