MSC Cruises has grown to become one of the most popular cruise brands globally, competing against giants like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival.

The story of MSC began with an Italian family and one ship. Today, that same family plays a critical role in the leadership of the largest privately owned cruise line and transportation group worldwide.

MSC Cruises offers competitive prices, a wide range of itineraries, and a growing fleet that provides cruisers with lots of great options. The announcement last summer that the company is investing $450 million in a new terminal in Miami further highlights their commitment to growth in North America.

Read more: Top 20 MSC Cruises questions answered

For those wanting to cruise on MSC, this guide will provide an overview of important topics, including:

• Overview of the Fleet
• Cabins and Suites
• MSC Yacht Club
• Additional Cabin Options
• MSC Experiences
• Dining 
• Drink Packages
• Activities and Entertainment
• Families and Kids
• Wi-fi and Internet
• Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
• MSC Voyagers Club (Loyalty Program)
• What you need to know about MSC Cruises

Overview of the Fleet

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The MSC fleet consists of 22 ships. Since its launch, MSC has expanded its itineraries worldwide, building bigger and better ships with the use of more environmentally friendly technologies. It has 6 classes of ships.

World Class

Ships: 

MSC World America

• Length: 1,092 Feet
• Width: 155 feet
• Number of passengers: 6,762
• To be launched in 2025

MSC World Europa

• Gross Tonnage: 215,863
• Length:  1,092 Feet
• Width: 154 feet
• Number of passengers: 6,762
• Launched in 2022

MSC World Europa is the first ship in this new World class series, the largest MSC ship to date. It is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

Considered an ultra-modern design both inside and out, the ship utilizes the newest technologies and upgraded amenities to deliver a contemporary cruise experience for MSC guests. The ship has distinct neighborhoods for adults, entertainment, and families, as well as spaces to appeal to all types of cruisers.

Some of the major highlights include a 295-foot long promenade with ocean views and LED sky screen, Venom Drop, the longest dry slide at sea spanning 11 decks, a 10 thousand square foot Balinese style spa with gym, and the largest waterpark in the fleet.

Seaside Class

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Bigger is not the only way forward for MSC. With their newer Seaside Class, MSC has designed ships geared toward sailing in warmer climates like the Caribbean. These ships feature more outdoor venues for eating and relaxing as well as a unique seafront promenade.

The launch of MSC Seashore in 2021, a subclass of Seaside termed EVO, has even more improved environmental technologies along with MSC for Me guest technology. These ships feature expansive open deck spaces and a seafront boardwalk dotted with restaurants, lounges, and bars.

Ships:

MSC Seascape

• Gross Tonnage: 169,400
• Length: 1,060 feet
• Width: 135 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,877
• Launched in 2022

MSC Seashore

• Gross Tonnage: 169,400
• Length: 1,112 feet
• Width: 134 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,632
• Launched in 2021

MSC Seaview

• Gross Tonnage: 153,516
• Length: 1,060 Feet
• Width: 135 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,079
• Launched in 2018

MSC Seaside

• Gross Tonnage: 153,516
• Length: 1,060 feet
• Width: 135 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,079
• Launched in 2017

Meraviglia Class

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MSC's mighty Meraviglia class brought the company into the realm of mega-ships, welcoming over 6,000 passengers.

Termed the ship for all seasons, the inside of the ship provides numerous amenities for guests to enjoy. The hub being a spectacular promenade with LED ceilings, spacious shopping areas, and plenty of food and beverage venues, as well as expanded MSC Yacht Club areas.

Ships:

MSC Euribia 

• Gross Tonnage: 183,500
• Length:  1,086 feet
• Width: 141 feet
• Number of passengers: 6,327
• Launched in 2023

MSC Virtuosa

• Gross Tonnage: 181,541
• Length:  1,087 feet
• Width: 141 feet
• Number of passengers: 6,334
• Launched in 2021

MSC Grandiosa

• Gross Tonnage: 181,541
• Length:  1,094 feet
• Width: 141 feet
• Number of passengers: 6,334
• Launched in 2019

MSC Bellissima

• Gross Tonnage: 171,598
• Length: 1,034 feet
• Width: 141 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,655
• Launched in 2019

MSC Meraviglia

• Gross Tonnage: 171,598
• Length:  1,036 feet
• Width: 141 feet
• Number of passengers: 5,642
• Launched in 2017

Fantasia Class

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Although medium ships by today's standards, the Fantasia Class was a new generation of larger ships for MSC Cruises when launched. Notably, MSC Fantasia was the first ship to have the MSC Yacht Club. Referred to as the ship within ship concept, it provides guests with the ultimate in luxury with a butler, private restaurant, lounge, pool, and unlimited drinks.

Ships:

MSC Preziosa

• Gross Tonnage: 139,072
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Width: 124 feet
• Number of passengers: 4,345
• Launched in 2013

MSC Divina         

• Gross Tonnage: 139,072
• Length: 1,093 feet
• Width: 124 feet
• Number of passengers: 4,345
• Launched in 2012

MSC Splendida

• Gross Tonnage: 137,936
• Length: 1,093 feet
• Width: 134 feet
• Number of passengers: 4,363
• Launched in 2009

MSC Fantasia

• Gross Tonnage: 137,936
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Width: 124 feet
• Number of passengers: 4,363
• Launched in 2008

Musica Class

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With just over 3,000 passengers, the Musica class ships are still big enough to provide cruisers with desired amenities, such as spas and great outdoor spaces, along with a good selection of food and beverage options. These ships mainly serve the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, in addition to a world cruise in 2023.

Ships:

MSC Magnifica

• Gross Tonnage: 95,128
• Length: 964 feet
• Width: 106 feet
• Number of passengers: 3,013
• Launched in 2010

MSC Poesia

• Gross Tonnage: 92,627
• Length: 964 feet
• Width: 106 feet
• Number of passengers: 3,013
• Launched in 2008

MSC Orchestra

• Gross Tonnage: 92,409 
• Length: 964 feet
• Width: 106 feet
• Number of passengers: 3,013
• Launched in 2007

MSC Musica

• Gross Tonnage: 92,409 
• Length: 964 feet
• Width: 106 feet
• Number of passengers: 3,013
• Launched in 2006

Lirica Class

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These smaller cruise ships combine both European elegance and modern comforts. Serving Mediterranean routes and Grand Voyage itineraries, their size allows them to visit ports inaccessible to larger ships.

Ships:

MSC Lirica  

• Gross Tonnage: 65,591
• Length: 902 feet
• Width: 94 feet
• Number of passengers: 2,548
• Launched in 2003

MSC Opera

• Gross Tonnage: 65,591
• Length: 902 feet
• Width: 94 feet
• Number of passengers: 2,579
• Launched in 2004

MSC Sinfonia

• Gross Tonnage: 65,542
• Length: 902 feet
• Width: 94 feet
• Number of passengers: 2,546
• Launched in 2002

MSC Armonia 

• Gross Tonnage: 65,542
• Length: 902 Feet
• Width: 104 feet
• Number of passengers: 2,520
• Launched in 2001

Cabins and Suites

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As with most cruise lines, MSC Cruises has a wide selection of cabins across its fleet. Whether it be a cozy interior cabin or the ultimate deluxe suite, there is something for every traveler.

Interior Cabins

• The smallest cabin option - interior rooms vary between 129 -301 square feet, depending on the ship. Perfect for cruisers who spend little time in their room and want good value for their money.
• The Seaside class of ships offers deluxe and premium interior cabins of 150 square feet plus and larger interior stateroom options accommodating up to 5 passengers.

Ocean View Cabins

• A good option for those who want a view of the ocean and some natural light. This type of cabin is not as numerous and is often located on lower decks and range in size from 129 to 269 square feet.
• For those passengers wanting more space, there are Junior Ocean View and Deluxe Ocean View cabins that accommodate up to 6 guests.

Balcony Cabins

• Balcony cabins provide guests with extra space and a balcony, a must-have for many cruisers. Basic balcony cabins (often referred to as Deluxe cabins) are the most common type on cruise ships, providing guests with many options, including different price points and locations.
• Aurea Balcony cabins tend to be in the best locations, midship and above. Passengers should be aware that some deluxe balconies have partial obstructions or metal instead of glass balconies. Some ships, like the MSC Bellissima, offer a studio balcony, a bonus for solo cruisers.

Suites

• MSC offers a range of suite options, separate from MSC Yacht Club, with perks like a larger balcony and a separate living area
• Options include everything from junior suites to premium, grand and ultimate suites that feature two levels. Premium Suite Aurea accommodates up to 6 passengers while Grand Suites and 2 Bedroom Grand Suites provide even more space, with some having their own private hot tubs.

MSC Yacht Club Cabins and Suites

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When booking a cruise, MSC offers guests several options to enhance their cruise experience, and the top level is MSC Yacht Club. It is available for select cabins on many cruise ships across the fleet. Referred to as a ship within a ship concept, this is the ultimate in luxury for MSC cruisers. This all-inclusive style of cruising includes ungraded suites, personalized service, and dedicated venues onboard, such as a private lounge, restaurant, and deck area. 

MSC Yacht Club suites include everything from beautifully appointed interior cabins to larger deluxe and grand suites. For the ultimate in luxury, there is the Owner’s Suites with an expansive floor plan including a separate living and dining area, a balcony with a private hot tub, and lots of room to lounge.

Included with these staterooms are several MSC Yacht Club perks,some of the highlights:

• Priority embarkation/ disembarkation 
• 24-hour butler service, as well as a dedicated concierge
• Premium Extra Drink Package
• Brown internet package for two devices per person 
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Spa
• Dedicated, private area of the ship accessible only to MSC Yacht Club guests
• Panoramic Top Sail Lounge with bar, afternoon tea service, snacks, and live entertainment in the evening
• Private and spacious pool deck, whirlpool baths, sunbathing area, and an outdoor bar
• Gourmet Yacht Club restaurant with a la carte dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Additional Cabin Options

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For those guests wanting accessible cabins, MSC Cruises offers ADA compliant wheelchair accessible cabins throughout the ship; however, they are limited in number.

There are some attractive cabin options for larger families and groups who want to share space:

• Super Family Plus cabins combine 3 connecting rooms (1 Inside and 2 Balcony cabins) for up to 10 guests
• Super Family cabins combine 2 connecting balcony rooms for 6 guests
• Family Balcony accommodations with 2 connecting cabins (1 Inside plus 1 Balcony or 1 Oceanview) for a maximum of 6 people
• Solo travelers often face limited options when selecting cabins without additional costs. MSC’s Meraviglia offers single occupancy cabins, although less than 20 per ship.

MSC Experiences

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When booking an MSC cruise, passengers can select from distinct MSC Experiences beyond MSC Yacht Club. Highlights of the experiences:   

• Bella Experience - Marketed for cruisers who want good value and a pleasant stay, this tier is available with a balcony, ocean view, and interior staterooms. It includes basic cabin amenities, and guests will be assigned their cabin within 4 days before the cruise departure.  
• Fantastica Experience: - Suited to those passengers looking for comfort and flexibility, this tier is available for suites, balcony, ocean view and inside cabins. It includes one free cruise change, the ability to select a cabin in superior locations and discounts on specialty restaurants.
• Aurea Experience - For suites and balcony guests who desire a more all-inclusive vacation, this experience includes cabins in the best locations, a special welcome package (prosecco and chocolates), access to a private solarium, priority boarding and luggage drop-off and a discount on massages. 

Dining

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MSC cruise ships have numerous food venues to satisfy any number of palettes and preferences. Buffets and the main dining rooms provide meals all day long, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, operating 20 hours a day.

They provide diverse food options such as Mediterranean and international cuisine, pasta and meat stations, healthy options, kid's areas, takeout, and desserts.

Although it varies by ship, MSC offers a diverse selection of specialty restaurants that include sushi, seafood, tapas, steakhouse, and a French bistro, to name a few. They also have a partnership with Venchi 1878 Chocolate serving up gelato and crepes.

Specialty dining packages can be purchased pre-cruise for discounts, currently at 35%.

Drink Packages

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MSC also offers lots of choices with many lounges and bars, whether it be poolside or for late-night dancing.

An MSC drink package is a popular add- on for cruisers who want to save money or are worried about an unexpectedly large bill at the end of their cruise. Unlike a lot of cruise lines, guests can't bring any alcohol onboard an MSC cruise.

MSC Cruises offers its customers five different drink packages to suit various preferences and needs. Whether you want a few beers and a glass of wine, or a more extensive package that provides top-shelf spirits, champagne, and specialty coffees, there is a package for everyone.  

Here is what you need to know about MSC’s drink packages.

• Easy Package - The most basic drink package with select alcoholic beverages, the Easy Package includes draught beer, house wines by the glass, some cocktails, soft drinks and juice by the glass, bottled mineral water, and specialty coffees.
• The Easy Plus Package offers a broader selection of drinks that can be used at specialty restaurants. Beyond the Easy Package, it includes spirits, liqueurs, and mineral water.
• Premium Extra Package - This package offers the largest selection of drinks and beverages, a great idea for those who want a worry-free cruise. It encompasses everything from champagne to craft beers and can be used at specialty restaurants.
• Alcohol-Free Package - A good option for those cruisers who want a broad selection of non-alcoholic drinks. It includes a selection of alcohol-free cocktails/ mocktails, energy drinks, water, juice, and coffee.
• Minors Package - This package is for minors from 3-20 years of age on itineraries in North America and the Caribbean. For sailings in Europe, it applies to guests 3-17 years of age. It includes popular items such as pop/ soda, water, juice, specialty coffees, tea, and hot chocolate.

Read more: What is the MSC Daily Program?

Activities and Entertainment

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MSC ships offer plenty of activities onboard, with a variety of entertainment acts.

For fun, cruisers can enjoy pools, waterparks, sports activities, F1 simulators, MSC RoboCoaster, MSC Sports Plex with bumper cars and rollerblade arena, bowling, and 5D theatres.

For evening shows, some of major highlights include the world-renowned Cirque de Soleil, which uniquely designed productions for MSC Cruises. Beyond this, there are Broadway shows and lots of live entertainment. Adults can enjoy Central Promenade, which has spacious shopping areas, restaurants and bars, spas, and other adult-only zones.

Families and Kids

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Kids clubs are included in the MSC cruise fare and are a great way to entertain kids and give parents a break. This is a perfect opportunity for them to have fun on their own and meet new friends in a dedicated, supervised environment for cruisers ages 3-17. There is a baby club for 3 and under that is currently not being offered.

Read more: Why MSC Cruises are good for families

MSC Cruises has a partnership with the famous Danish company LEGO, providing kids with a one of a kind experience. While onboard, passengers enjoy LEGO Day, an entire day dedicated to fun LEGO activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Beyond kids clubs and family-friendly activities, MSC Cruises makes cruising easier with frequent promotions for kids under 18. 

Wi-fi and Internet

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MSC Cruises provides two main options for cruisers wanting to have access to the internet while onboard:

• Browse Internet Cruise Package – the basic package, it includes unlimited data with 24 hour a day access. It is best suited for browsing, sending/receiving emails and images, as well as chatting on messenger apps like WhatsApp.
• MSC does not recommend this package for watching videos, streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Music, YouTube, or video chats.
• Browse & Stream Cruise Package- this provides a better quality/ speed of internet. It includes unlimited data with 24 hour a day access. It is best suited for browsing the web, sending and receiving emails and images, and chatting on messenger apps such as WhatsApp, and video chat. It is also better suited to streaming music and videos and posting to social media.

Another bonus is the MSC for Me app has free messaging. The app is available on Android or Apple devices and is perfect for families who want to let their kids have some independence but can still check in once in awhile. Some of the older ships do not support this technology, though. 

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (Private Island)

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Port excursions can add a lot of cost to a cruise vacation, but a visit to MSC's private island lets guests enjoy a complimentary day in the sun, including food. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (Ocean Cay) is located in the western Bahamas, 20 miles south of Bimini.

Once an industrial site, MSC has redeveloped the island into a serene paradise for its cruise guests. The newly transformed retreat offers cruisers the opportunity to get an authentic island experience with 8 beaches and water activities that feature the restored marine life of the area.

One great benefit to visiting Ocean Cay is its late-night activities. Evening events include unique options such as stargazing, glow in the dark paddle boarding, and nighttime cruises. A great way to experience the island from a different perspective. (Although some activities are currently on hold due to pandemic restrictions)

Read more: How to have a great time at MSC’s Ocean Cay without spending any money

Gratuities

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Understanding MSC Cruises' cruise ship tipping is not as straightforward as other mainstream cruise lines, as the rate is not only determined by the stateroom category, but also by region. For 2024, hotel service charges (MSC's term for gratuities) vary among the 5 major regions it sails to. 

For cruises to the Caribbean, USA and Canada, you can expect to pay $16 per person, per night for passengers 12 and older. For those between the ages of 2 and 11, the cost decreases to $8 per person, per night. Note that anyone under two-years-old does not have to pay.

Cruises that sail to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Emirates, Oman and Dubai are 12 euros per night for adults and 6 euros per night for those 2-11 years of age. Again, no cruise tips will be billed to guests under 2.

MSC Voyagers Club

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MSC offers cruisers a loyalty program with perks based on points accumulated. One great feature of this program is Status Matching. For guests who have accumulated loyalty program status with another cruise line, hotel or travel operator, they can apply to MSC for a status match with MSC Voyagers Club.

There is no fee to do this, but it can only be done once, so guests should carefully consider which program is the most valuable. Ideally, this should be completed 7-10 prior to sailing to ensure the status is recognized. The application can be found on the MSC Cruises website. 

MSC guests accumulate points by cruising, with cumulative benefits as they proceed through the tiers:

• Welcome Membership pre-cruise: 0 points
• Classic Membership: 1 to 2,199 points; some of the best perks include a 5% discount on cruise fares, discounts on Wi-fi, F1 simulator, spa, and fitness activities.
• Silver membership: 2,200 to 4,299 points includes double points on laundry, pictures, and digital accessories, as well as 50 €/$ onboard credit
• Gold Membership: 4,300 to 9,999 points offers members priority disembarkation in ports with tender and discounts on Wi-fi, laundry, and onboard pictures.
• Diamond Membership:10,000 and up; the highest level provides dinner at a specialty restaurant,  priority boarding, in-cabin perks, and more discounts on onboard purchases and laundry.

Points are awarded for cruises sailed, with more points being given for higher level experiences and the length of the cruise.

Bella Experience

• 200 points for a cruise under 6 days
• 500 points for a cruise between 6-10 days
• 700 points for a cruise of 10+ days

Fantastica Experience

• 400 points for a cruise under 6 days
• 700 points for a cruise between 6-10 days
• 1,000 points for a cruise of 10+ days

Aurea Experience

• 600 points for a cruise under 6 days
• 1,000 points for a cruise between 6-10 days
• 1,500 points for a cruise of 10+ days

MSC Yacht Club Experience  

• 800 points for a cruise under 6 days
• 1,500 points for a cruise between 6-10 days
• 2,0000 points for a cruise of 10+ days

Pre-cruise purchases: guests earn 100 points for every 150 €/$ of purchases such as dining and drink packages are popular pre-cruise expenditures.

Onboard spending: guests earn 100 points for every 150 €/$ spent on board, excluding the casino.

What you need to know about MSC Cruises

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Before sailing on MSC, here are some important points to highlight:

• Value - MSC Cruises offers competitive pricing and discounts, with numerous itineraries and types of ships worldwide. The Kids Sail Free program and other age based discounts for under 30 and guests over 65, make cruising even more affordable.
• Choice - Their diverse fleet caters to every type of cruiser, whether you want a smaller, more intimate ship or one with all of the bells and whistles modern cruises expect with mega-ships.
• Add-on costs - There are extra costs not included in the cruise fare, such as gratuities, some food and beverages, specialty restaurants, internet packages, and spa treatments, to name a few. Although most shows are included, Cirque de Soleil is not.
• Some of the fun family activities can also have an extra cost. The cruise fare does not include popular activities such as the F1 Simulator, bowling, VR Maze, and video games. Parents and guests can purchase Fun Pass Package to cover most of these.

Read more: MSC Cruises Tips & Tricks