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Reviews 1.7.

2,369 total

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Don’t get the drinks package!

Don’t get the drinks package. You spend half your night lining up for drinks and can’t get for anyone else in your party most of the time (sometimes it’s ok). Very few tables about too so you lose your seat if you get up to get a drink… Unless you pay extra, won’t get out anywhere near others in your group. We were opposite ends of ship and different floors. Overcrowded and understaffed.

Date of experience : September 23, 2023

What went wrong

What went wrong? Macia at the shopping event desk! She lacks training in public relations! The general staff is excellent however one bad apple can surely spoil everything! Training for Macia is necessary because being abrupt and discourteous can put a bad reputation on any business! My daughter and I waited in line to ask a question where your untrained worker slammed the information brochure hard on the desk with a cold abrupt “any thing else?” She proceeded to give further explanation after she saw the distaste but by then her attitude was already the elephant in the room! Please help her with courtesy and professionalism if she must deal with the public - this incident happened on 4/16 @ 6:54 approximately.

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

MSC was my worst cruise ever

MSC was my worst cruise ever, the food was very limited, mostly cold cuts and cold hot dogs, and cold burgers. I asked the pizza person to make me a fresh pizza with extra cheese, and I was told NO extra cheese. “ we don’t change the menu” said the pizza chef. Adding extra cheese changes the menu. I complained to customer service but to no avail. I asked lots of fellow cruisers if they liked the cruise and I kept getting the same answer No. everyone was complaining. Trust me. You will regret this cruise line.

Date of experience : April 02, 2024

MSC Orchestra

MSC Orchestra It was my first time and it was the best experience I ever had. First of all, I want to thank all the MSC staff, starting from the cleaning services. Our room was always spotless. The kitchen chefs: For the quality and the mindblowing variety of food available every single day, from breakfast, lunch and dinner. The waiters: For their amazing skill of waitering, friendliness and patience. The Actors, performers, entertainers, tour guides, Director: For all the unforgettable shows, dancing classes, laughter, happiness and comfort. The Captain: For our amazingly steady and safe journey. I have great respect for every MSC staff for the number of hours that they work. The patience they have for the rude clients and their hard work. Thank you so much for making my experience so special and unforgettable. I'm extremely grateful for the experience that I had. Wishing everyone all the best Great big hug

Never again, even if they pay me

As you can see from their non-answers, MSC clearly don't care about their customers. This is clear once you step in one of their old, dirty, overcrowded ships, but also when you wait in line for about 90 minutes check in. Long queue at the buffet and not enough food or places to seat. Mediocre food. Poor entertainment for adults and children. Unable to manage rude and noisy passengers. Unable to help you in any little request. You and your family will feel helpless and trapped. From day 2 I tried, without luck, to find flights and disembark early.

Date of experience : April 08, 2024

Haven't even left on our cruise yet

Haven't even left on our cruise yet. Added our son onto our booking in February with what the agent told us was the last day to book to take advantage of the Kids Sail Free promotion. She told us since my husband and I had the drinks and wi-fi package he must also have it and there was a fee of $459 for the total cost to include port charges and taxes. At the time the horrible app did not show a cost for minor drinks package or wi-fi so we took her word for it. Now that we are under the 30 day mark we checked in online. It was at this time that the wi-fi did not show up on my son's booking and that the cost of wi-fi and minor drink package were finally showing the costs of both of these services individually on the app. It was then that we also finally received a break-down of what we paid for him. it showed a cabin fare of $319 which wasn't correct since it was Kids sail free promotion and we were only suppose to be paying for a minors drink package and wi-fi that we apparently aren't getting. Well the cost of the drinks package for him is $144 and the wi-fi is apparently $111.93. But because he is under 20 he does not get wi-fi unless I individually pay more for it per the representative that I spoke to today. But per their booking agent I already purchased it for him. I called last week to discuss because of the incorrect amount and they kept telling me that it was not a kids sail free eligible cruise and could not give me a credit/refund. I asked for a supervisor to call me, which they never did. Called again today where the representative told me that I must have miss understood the booking agent. It upset me and I said, I absolutely DID NOT misunderstand her and that she just didn't know how to do her job correctly and misquoted me and that it wasn't my fault, it was MSC's fault and that I am due back the overpayment of $175 for the difference between the drinks package and WIFI package that I'm not receiving. He was adamant with an attitude of that's too bad, so sad, can't help me. Sorry that she did that to you. Not good enough... so I escalated it to a supervisor. He kept saying a supervisor will call me back and I insisted that I don't want a call back because they never returned my call last week! Finally about 20 minutes later I got a supervisor. She basically repeated exactly what he said over and over. I explained that I don't even care if they give me cash back but at least give me an on board credit for the $175. She was completely useless and could not help me at all with the exception of giving me some fruit in my room (that I can get at the buffet), a bottle of champagne (that my fare level already includes), a continental breakfast that is already free to me. She did mention I could get a $25 room credit after going round and round. WOW! $25 for a $175 MSC mistake! I asked her to speak to someone above her and she said there is no one above her that I can talk to about my problem. I explained that basically your agent did a bait and switch on me, overcharged me, had no idea how to do her job and now I was made to pay the price. I find it BS that in a corporation as large as MSC that she is the end all, be all for conflict resolution! I finally said, so if your website shows something costs $20 but when I book it, it charges my credit card $200 then there is nothing you can do to help me and change it??? She said, well each situation is different. I took that to mean, you can help me with this discrepancy but you won't! Complete waste of my day! Can't cancel all together as my cruise is just 10 days away and I already have flights, hotel, rental car, excursions, etc... paid for. I have been on 17 cruises before and this is by far the worst experience I have ever had, the worst customer service I have ever experienced, the worst website and phone app I have ever experienced and I haven't even stepped foot on the cruise yet! This cruise will have to be absolutely the best, most phenomenal cruise I have ever been on in order for me to even consider booking another cruise with them! I already want to run the other direction! If you haven't booked with them, DON'T. If you have and you still have plenty of time before you cruise, CANCEL AND GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!

Date of experience : April 24, 2024

Very poor customer service staff are r…

Very poor customer service staff are rude and arrogant. My whole experience was very bad from start to end it felt like I'm in a jungle not on a cruise ship. over crowded no places to sit people reserving sunloungers from early morning without using them so you can't use the facilities because it was very Crowded horrible food too. Pay a bit more and look elsewhere

Date of experience : March 17, 2024

Really poor service

Really poor service. MSC. Have travelled with you several times before but this will be our last. We get a better service from other cruise companies. Accommodation is awful dripping taps, bed stains etc. paid a lot of money to be on this cruise. Complained and yet nothing has been done. Made formal complaint to head office and basically got told tough…. Fair enough won’t be back then…..

Date of experience : March 12, 2024

My 4th great MSC cruise, amazing value

I have just returned home after my 4th cruise to interesting ports with MSC Cruises. As always, the cabin and ship generally were clean with excellent facilities, the service very good by staff who were always polite and friendly, the wide range of food was very tasty, (I ate plenty of it!), many areas of the ship had a choice of live musicians, and the theatrical entertainment which changed every night (including singers, dancers, jugglers, acrobats and on a previous cruise the whole of the opera Madame Butterfly, all in changes of very attractive costumes with stunning backgrounds) was excellent. The value was amazing, and I have recommended MSC to a number of friends, and very much look forward to the next cruise.

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

Extremely poor customer service

Extremely poor customer Service. It doesn’t feel like anyone there knows what they are doing, I have been told conflicting information by different members of staff and had some of the most useless and unhelpful responses I have had from any company. I would strongly advise you book your cruise with another company. I only wish I had seen some of the reviews here before I booked. Shoddy.

Looking for a retirement cruise, MSC is the place for you!

So here’s the things about MSC Orchestra experience. The staff is friendly just like every other ship, the rooms are nice and comfy, and the place is clean. As for everything else such as food, experiences, entertainment etc is a total ZERO! The main restaurants are only open for a very short time and with hours that change and don’t fit for people on vacation. But there’s a Buffett you say…. Well, let’s talk about that and wish I could upload pictures. The dry flavorless, tasteless pizza that’s out as their main staple is worse than eating cold Taco Bell. The breakfast they serve nothing sis warm everything is cold and dry, bacon undercooked, eggs as rubbery as a bouncy ball, and the pasty’s are as hard as a brick. They have cut every corner when it comes to meals that the only way I would take any MSC cruise from this experience would be if I needed a diet plan to lose 30lbs. This is also no cruise for night life. By 11:30/12am it’s a total ghost ship. My first night I thought the reckoning had happened because I was the only one walking around except for the one staff member manning the desk. So if you are looking for a diet cruise and are over the age of 75 MSC is the place for you! Welcome to the shady pines retirement home of the sea with no flavored food, Geriatric entertainment that can be done from a seat or your walker and early to bed for be up for you breakfast because they close at 9am. What a mistake coming on this cruise, NEVER WILL BE BACK!

Date of experience : April 18, 2024

Currently on MSC Poesia world cruise

Currently on MSC Poesia world cruise. MSC Customer service has been appalling…. No response to written correspondence prior to embarkation (due to multiple itinerary route changes - some of which were due to the Red Sea conflict, others due to yellow fever, others due to, well who knows!!). Complaints made to the CS manager whilst on the ship also gone ignored. Replacement ports poor, food below standard, entertainment terrible. Currently 900 passengers have signed a petition as a result of their dissatisfaction to the sailing = 40% of the ships passengers which shows how bad it is. Threats are now being made by the ships staff (including Captain) to retract complaints, AVOID, AVOID, AVOID!!!! One saving grace is the fabulous hospitality staff on board who MSC are unbelievably lucky to have.

Date of experience : March 19, 2024

Terrible. Any other line is better. Cattle barge. Canceled our port to Ocean Cay, their private island to let another unscheduled MSC ship take our spot on the dock. Spend a little more and book a real cruise line. Big mistake trusting MSC.

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

Overcrowded, overpriced excursions, travel to and from cities on the shuttle bus extortionately priced when p&o was free. Food average but very busy around the buffet area. Euribia only used EU plug sockets but didn't clearly make this aware to us before hand. Also charged us an authorised payment and when challenged they said it was for their charity?? Yet thisnwas not discussed or agreed with us, and was not clear if this was written down anywhere before being taken out. Really long queues for the shows which extended uncomfortably close to people sitting in restaurants nearby which felt tacky and poor for a luxury establishment. Similar complaints looking at the previously review. I'll stick to P&O in future.

Date of experience : February 23, 2024

Euribia 9-16 Feb 2024

NEVER NEVER NEVER again will i cruise with MSC over crowded, under staff, repetitive food, poor quality food, unhappy staff , ridiculous excursion costs Basically a floating holiday camp third time with MSC , previous 2 where satisfactory this one with Grand children, they loved it , kids club people where excellent . constantly running out of this running out of that in the restaurants , MSC in not interested in calls on my feedback , im just making potential customers aware , think twice next year ,back on P&O or Royal Carribean

Date of experience : February 09, 2024

Don't make a mistake and book with MSC Cruises

For last experience with MSC cruise Bellissima (Japan & South Korea), as usual we paid all excursions in advance. First day scheduled excursion (SAKURAJIMA Sightseeing -KAGOSHIMA) was cancelled due weather condition. They promised to refund the amount within 60 days. After 6 months and many follow ups from us with them, they rejected to refund the amount. Besides, MSC cruise is wasting of money and time. Zero quality in everything.

Date of experience : August 16, 2023

We won’t cruise with them again!

We were supposed to leave for our cruise in 16 days but a family member has just been diagnosed with cancer and we are unable to go now. When we called to cancel or they kept $900 out of the $1200 we paid, including our drinking package. We will never cruise with MSC again and I will make sure I tell everyone I can about this, every chance I get.

Date of experience : March 05, 2024

This company comes across as homophobic,and i would not recommend anybody to book a cruise with this company

Date of experience : April 07, 2024

MSC Seaside is beautiful ship and I…

MSC Seaside is beautiful ship and I enjoyed the facilities, destinations and entertainment. I did not enjoy the restaurant evening meals as the food was bland and unappetising. Some of the pasta dishes for an Italian ship was inedible and the same bland vegetables were served every evening. The buffet however was excellent but a bit crowded at times.

The worst cruise ever!

The worst cruise ever! It’s like a zoo- so crowed and not enough room and the food my dog wouldn’t even eat. The shoes and entertainment are disgraceful!!! Never any seats, and when you do get one, people stand in front of you. Everyone heated and upset. Claustrophobic and sad- and stressed. This is no holiday It’s making me and my boyfriend feel so poorly that our days are ruined! Staff treated terribly Do not travel with MSC!!! Pay more and go elsewhere whatever you do!!!! The staff are so overworked it’s disgusting to see. All so lovely but so disorganised. The Drinks are also disgusting I am So poorly from the pina colada!

Date of experience : March 28, 2024

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MSC Cruises Review

Sunday, April 28th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• MSC Cruises
• Best for budget-friendly, Mediterranean-themed, large-ship cruising in the Caribbean, Europe, and Mediterranean
• 23 ships in the fleet
• Private island in the Bahamas on some itineraries

MSC Cruises is a family-oriented cruise line that was founded in 1960 in Naples, Italy. The company is now one of the largest cruise lines in the world, with a fleet of 23 ships that sail to destinations around the globe. MSC Cruises offers a wide range of itineraries, from short Caribbean cruises to transatlantic voyages and longer world cruises.

Spring break in the Caribbean is a go

Caribbean sailings are MSC's bread and butter, and so we weren't surprised at all to find 35 itineraries in March of the next calendar year. These sailed from Miami, NYC, and Port Canaveral (Orlando), giving travelers plenty of options for their spring break vacay or winter escape. MSC's base fares on those itineraries were extremely budget-friendly: not counting taxes, fees, and port expenses, you could take a three-night cruise to the Bahamas starting at just $139 per person. Even the most expensive itinerary in that timeframe, an 18-night cruise to the Western Caribbean sailing in and out of Miami, still came in at just $1,389 per person for the lowest-priced stateroom. And, most Caribbean sailings include a stop at MSC's private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

Tips are mandatory but removable

But, you'll need to factor in not just the taxes, fees, and port expenses (which are displayed in small print on each cruise listing), but also many other costs you might not be anticipating. For example, gratuities (described as a "Hotel Service Charge" ) are mandatory on MSC, usually $14.50 per person per night for guests 12 and over and half that for children ages 2-11. You can ask to have them removed at Guest Services onboard if you aren't happy with the service. (Also worth noting: unlike most cruise lines we're familiar with, MSC does not recommend tipping individual members of staff beyond the automatic gratuity.)

It gets spendy to drink anything besides water

Drinks and dining are another area where MSC guests often get taken by surprise, especially if they've sailed with another cruise line that is a little more all-inclusive. You'll get water, coffee, tea and iced tea with meals, plus juice at breakfast. Otherwise, you'll need to purchase a drink package, even if all you want are soft drinks, if you don't want to rack up massive a la carte beverage charges. Be aware that the packages are for the duration of the cruise, they can't be shared between guests, and all guests in a stateroom have to buy a package to get unlimited drinks (obviously this won't apply if one cruiser is an adult and the other is a minor; there are non-alcoholic and minor drink packages available too). Expect fees starting around $25 per person per day for the non-alcoholic options and around $70pp per day for the top tier wine, beer, cocktails and soft drinks package.

Pay extra for services that most rivals include at no cost

Finally, MSC has "Experience" packages you can apply to your reservation.

• Every sailing comes with the " Bella Experience " by default - which essentially just gets you on the ship and gives you the bare-bones services like main restaurant dining, use of the facilities, and so on.
• Upgrade to " Fantastica " to be able to request which dining seating time you prefer and get free delivery of breakfast to your stateroom.
• The top-tier package is the " Aurea " : complimentary access to the Top Exclusive Solarium, a welcome package with Prosecco and Chocolate, anytime dining, 10% discount on spa treatments, priority boarding, and free delivery of 24-hour room service.

If you've ever cruised elsewhere, you can see that MSC charges for services that many cruise lines just give you automatically, like letting you request a particular dining time or free room service whenever you wish. Plus, those "Experience" packages don't come cheap: our research indicates that you could pay an extra $50-$100 per person per day for the mid-tier upgrade and $100-$200pp per day for the highest upgrade.

Good option for families

On the positive side, MSC cruises are very family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep cruisers of all ages entertained. Some travelers enjoy having a more international experience aboard as well, since many passengers are European (and specifically Italian, go figure ).

Worth doing some comparing before booking a cruise here

MSC definitely has its fans, especially among those who want to get away from the typical American cruise line environment and try something different. And, if you understand what you will and won't get with MSC, you could get a really low-priced cruise that reaches some top destinations. However, too many cruisers get drawn in by the low initial fare, only to find that by the time they've covered their taxes, fees, gratuities, drinks, and "experiences" , it's not so much of a bargain anymore. We encourage you to look at some of MSC's higher-ranked rivals (outside of the luxury categories, of course) before booking with this cruise line: you might be able to take advantage of a travel deal that would get you more for your money elsewhere.

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The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of MSC Cruises |

Find a Cruise on MSC Meraviglia

with a cruise advisor

Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 988 guests have reviewed MSC Meraviglia , giving it a rating of 4 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type, most recent reviews.

Great cruise

Apr 23rd, 2024

Over all we had a great time. The Hola restaurant it's not that great, slow and not authentic. The skybar was great. We meet lots of people and enjoyed most post.

Traveler Type

Great cruise on a spectacular ship

Beautiful ship with multiple venues and activities and yet quite areas could also be easily found. If you didn't have a great time it was your own fault.

Singles/Friends

Great time and great experience Caribbean cruise

Apr 21st, 2024

100% recommended, beautiful ship ???? ???? amazing crew

Family (young children)

2-3 cruises

Great, fun cruise

Apr 18th, 2024

The Meraviglia is a beautiful ship with so much to do. Progressive trivia was a lot of fun.

Wonderful cruise line!

Apr 12th, 2024

The staff went out of their way to make sure everything was great for us!

First time Cruising

Apr 6th, 2024

My husband and I loved the shows. They were all great.

1 cruise (first)

Wonderful MSC Maraviglia

Apr 3rd, 2024

Ten stars for the crew. Wonderful experience overall!!

Large Group

Different But Not Terrible

Mar 31st, 2024

Overall not a bad cruise for the less than $1K we spent for it but the extra onboard costs can make it frustrating. Good for those on a budget.

4-6 cruises

Great get away, beautiful wheather

Mar 29th, 2024

The cruise was alot of fun. We had a group of about 12 people and had a great time. The last two days were a little rough with storms and waves but still made the best of it.

Ok, but nickeled and dimed

Mar 28th, 2024

Overall, just OK. Great private island but felt nickeled and dimed the whole time.

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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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.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

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.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

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   Reviews

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What an experience it was

Whenever I take a ride to my memory lane and go back the the experience I had with MSC Euribia and the tour around the northern seas, immediately I feel better and makes me want to repeat that kind of vacation. Maybe next time I will go for a longer cruise. I checked their website they have some nice deals such as the Caribbean one. Anyway, I recommend the Northern Europe cruise. The scenery over there is amazing and I think the best way to explore that part of the world is by ship. As for the ship, Euribia was fantastic. Modern and huge 😀 The staff was pleasant and friendly 👍

Date of experience : 24 January 2024

Just got back from a 5 night cruise

Just got back from a 5 night cruise. The ship was packed to the gunnels with an extra 2000 children of the 4300 capacity. They se e Ed to enjoy themselves and naturally confined themselves voluntarily to the children’s zone. All the parents I met said their kids loved it in there. Yes stuff was busy but the crew were always friendly and there was always somewhere else to be if a place was too busy. Passengers I encountered were all friendly and happy. I enjoyed the food (& the drinks) and being looked after for s few days. Overall unbeatable value and really enjoyable. (I’m sure the weather contributed too)

Date of experience : 29 May 2023

VIRTUOSA TO CANARIES

I and 2 friends (all in 70's) took MSC Virtuosa to Lisbon. Maderia.Las Palmas. Tenerife.Lanzarote 13 - 25 August 2022. Aurea Class at a reduced fare to include a drinks & tips package.Single cabins + balcony. SUPER service by friendly, helpful, professional staff. EXCELLENT fine dining lots of choice food. Only complaint, no events, talks classes etc for "mature" customers. Although in fairness it was advertised as a "Family/Fun" ship. Although pre-voyage Covid tests extensive, I came off the ship with COVID. May be from one of the free 1,600 kids (not tested) on board. SHIP facilities & cleanliness marvelous. I would recommend this ship/trip to a family or under 60's.

Date of experience : 29 August 2022

We booked a cruise in July so high…

We booked a cruise in July so high season, overall good experience, very busy but well that was expected. The offer for little kids was not as good as pools were mainly for adults and older kids and the kids club was not engaging the littles ones, hence the 4 stars. The rest of team on board was great though.

Date of experience : 15 July 2023

First cruise on the Euribia

It was my first cruise on the Euribia to Norway. It was fantastic! We had a balcony hut with a lovely host - Manda. He took care of our hut and was always in for a chat or a joke. The ship was amazing. It was a bit busy on sea days but overall it was a great experience. The only thing that could be better is the volume of the music in the lounges. That was very loud sometimes. We loved the cruise, the ship and especially the employees on the Euribia. Respect for these hard working people who are always happy. We will meet again!

Date of experience : 16 September 2023

Just spent 7 nights on MSC Euriba to…

Just spent 7 nights on MSC Euriba to Northern Europe which was good value. However, criticisms included… Food quality in main restaurant was poor at best. We were in a party of 8 and did not enjoy any meals served up. The ship was very noisy, difficult to find a quiet area to relax. Not sufficient seating in the bars & venues for the number of guests on board. Photographers bothering you every few steps. The best entertainment in the evenings was in the Carousel bar but it repeated every 3 days. New arrivals boarded at every stop (r stops on our 7 night cruise) and staff from all areas of the ship attend the safety program to guide passengers to their safety exits. During this time most bars were unable to serve customers. Normally cruise with Cunard, more expensive but a vast difference in quality.

Date of experience : 26 January 2024

You simply the best👍

My wife and I will always have happy memories of our first cruise in 2017. We booked on the MSC Sinfonia from Cape Town to Venice May 5 2017. I only haven praise for the staff and crew and the entire entertainment crew. They were simply the best. The food was a delight and so were the guests at our table. We booked another cruise later this year or early next year. Thank MSC you made our trip memorable.

Date of experience : 21 June 2021

Give it a chance.

Good value cruise on MSC Virtuosa. Southampton, La Rochelle, Bilbao, La Coruna, Le Harve, back to Southampton. End June/early July 2022. The restaurant food was always delicious. The roasts (when offered) were very generous portions. The buffet food isn't great quality. Stick to the (inclusive) restaurant. Be advised though that the choices are limited. It's a set menu every lunch and dinner. If (like me) you can't eat fish/seafood; choices are limited. I'm not vegan or vegetarian but it seems like they'd struggle. Shows are short. Only 30 - 45 minutes. No West End shows. During the day the pools and hot tubs get busy. Lounges/bars get crowded in the evening and nowhere to sit. But.... The cocktails are very nice. (I went for the drinks package). Although limited choices; the set lunches and dinners were delicious. Nice lounges and sea views. IF you can find a seat. I highly recommend "Adjeerez" (am I spelling that right?). This is a £15 show and you get a free drink. (note some shows are free, others you pay for). Adjeerez has a plot but tbh I feel it's more about the visual experience. Think a bizarre mix of.... Commedia Del Arte style costumes, chess, opera, ballet, dance and the circus. Throw in some hoops, diabolos, ropes, wires, led screens and you've got a show. The choreography was impressive and the performers are highly skilled. VERDICT: It took me a little time to settle in, but.... This wasn't terrible. Room for improvement but still a good value break. Got better as it went on. Staff were fantastic.

Date of experience : 29 June 2022

MSC Euribia Noisy Balcony Cabin 14115 and Cold food and overpricing

Went on our 3rd cruise on MSC Euribia. This was not the relaxing restful break that I was expecting. Our cabin 14115 was very noisy. Staff dragging furniture around every night at 1am and then again at 6am. Complained reception they said they will ask them to be quiet !!!! Nothing changed. The food in the MDR was overcooked and luke warm. We only ate their once. We had the 4 meal dining experience. 3 of the meals were lovely. but, unfortunately for me Hala Taco Cantina. 2nd course I found a hair in my salad ! they couldnt apologise enough. but, as dining experience was not offered a refund. just another meal there !!! I don't think so. We had a meal in the Masters of the Sea. the food was very tasty but as it had come from the depths of the kitchen and took over half an hour to come. it ws cold. The food in the buffet restaurant. was overcooked and lukewarm or cold. We lived on freshly cooked burgers and chips and salad and Gala pie !!! not the sort of food I was expecting on my cruise. We visitied Hamburg. Aparently all the shops are shut there on a Sunday. MSC say customers would rather stop there just to look around rather than a day at sea! The shuttle buses are an average of 14 euros each time. they differ slightly at different ports. MSC say they cannot make these any cheaper as this is what the pay !! MSC do not offer monetary refunds !!! they will offer you a very standard Gesture of good will £50 onboard cruise credit only. So if you want a mediocre cruise and poor food and nosy cabins and overpriced shuttle buses then book with MSC. This is my true experience on MSC and is based on my own experience.

Date of experience : 29 March 2024

MSC Cruises virtuosa

MSC Cruises. MSC Virtuosa 7 nights from Southampton to Norwegian Fjords. Weather superb - wall to wall sunshine. Haugesund, Flaam,Olden and Moloy. Spectacular scenery, welcoming people. Starting with their online website and app. Dreadful!!! Logging onto your profile often failed; information was often contradictory and out of date. Personal information got lost and had to be reinstated, this by ringing their Customer Service lines which was slow and painful. Supposed to do most of check in online but you couldn’t enter your payment details in advance and had to wait until on board. They also asked you to download a current photo but then took your picture at the check in desk 🤷‍♀️ Also, wrong level Yatch Club cards issued which needed to be sorted in board. At least they had a dedicated queue for our level (gold). There were three of us in our mini suite, which was a good size. However, the message hadn’t been relayed to housekeeping so it was only set up for 2, including the balcony furniture which they couldn’t increase 😡. Once made aware, our Steward did a great job of looking after us. The deal we got placed us as Aurea guests which meant we had a dedicated restaurant and sunbathing area with Jacuzzi . Our waiting staff were brilliant and the food was ok. Nothing special. The venue, however, was very cramped with tables close together and wonderful views of the lifeboats. The sun area was really nice, could just do with a bit more wind protection. We paid extra for a package that covered drinks, tips and WiFi, and another that gave us 2 speciality restaurants and one of the special shows plus drink. We also went to see the other special show. Drinks were up to a value of £13 which covered all we wanted, as well as Lanson champagne by the glass in the Champagne Bar. Lovely. The two special shows were amazing. Very Cirque du Soleil in their style and brilliantly executed. Highly recommend!! We ate in the Butchers cut and Vietnamese/French fusion restaurants. Excellent food and service. The theatre cast were also excellent and we very much enjoyed their shows. Pools were good, both inside and out With great flumes for kids and a ‘go ape’ style walkway. Also lots of kids entertainment area, most however at extra cost. The ship is big and beautiful but we found that there are too few indoor seating areas, where you could go and chill, read a book, have a drink. Need these when sailing in cooler waters and you don’t want to be in your cabin. Getting on and off the ship would have been so much quicker if their systems were up to the job. We’ve been on many ships and this was the slowest by far to clock in and out. Needs sorting! Disembarkation was a nightmare!! We were late back to Southampton and didn’t dock until gone 8am. Instead of sticking to their system of a limited number who can offload themselves, then wait for your group to collect luggage, they allowed everyone who wanted to take their cases off go first. Consequently instead of being off the ship at 8 ish, we couldn’t get off until 10. It then Took us 1 1/2 hours ( I timed it) to get out of the car park. Worst we’ve ever experienced and we’ve sailed from there quite a few times. So, the itinerary was great, Norway always delivers in all weathers. MSC like to pride themselves in their attention to detail. They’re getting most of the big things right, but the little details that make a company stand out from the others like getting things right first time?? Sorry but they’ve got a long way to go.

Date of experience : 18 September 2022

I have allocated by MSc Armonia an Obstructed ocean view cabin to Mediterranean countries from 24/11/23 to 02/12/23. There was a huge boat (not a life boat, more like a boat which MSc uses to transfer guests from port to the cruise) next to the window blocking the window. Therefore there wasn’t a any view of the ocean from the cabin. I have raised the issue with Lawrence Ford( customer service supervisor ) . I have sent several emails to customer service but Laurence Ford claimed “ It is a obstructed ocean view cabin” though view was totally blocked.” Laurence Ford asked me to send photo but my point is that cabin should be investigated so no other guest’ s holiday will not be ruined as mine did. MSc also took seven hours to separate double bed to tween bed. If there was “0 “ rate that’s what I will give MSc .

Date of experience : 24 November 2023

Refusing lawful refunds

I am still waiting a year later for my refund of €4500 when my cruise changed as a result of Russian invasion. They have no managers or supervisors available to speak on phone. And customer service have been ignoring my emails. Operations team respond but have no answers nor do they want to get any. I have to bring them to court now for my basic consumer rights. It’s completely unnecessary the amount of difficulty they are putting up. I’ve had better luck getting refunds from Ryanair. Try Costa Cruises instead.

Date of experience : 31 March 2023

My second time trying to book with MSC.

My second time trying to book with MSC. Both times the cruise has been rescheduled to different dates with the original cancelled. They didn't want to refund but offer an alternative instead - which I couldn't do. It took them a month to refund the deposit

Date of experience : 17 August 2023

Terrible cruise company

Terrible cruise company. We did a two week cruise around the med,Balcony cabin which is quite small had to put our cases under the bed when i looked under cleaner obviosly doesnt clean under it,sat in cabin one afternoon & another passenger walked in we had two keycards & obviosly they had allocated our cabin to him. Breakfast buffett was like a war zone food on floor dirty plated on tables total disgrace, if you want to eat & drink from plastic plates cruise on Virtuosa.My agent sent email on 3rd August & we got a reply 4th October customer service is about as bad as it can be. Never again will i waste 5k on another cruise with MSC.

Date of experience : 31 July 2022

Dreadful check in process

Dreadful check in process. I am that annoyed with the check in process I wish I could cancel the whole trip now. The app does not work, does not recognise names and produces error messages when you try and get e tickets. There is no customer service, zero. will not be doing this ever again. Will be going back to holidays I organise myself minus travel agents and restrictions when I get there.

Date of experience : 23 September 2022

Booked a cruise on Grandiosa may 23…

Booked a cruise on Grandiosa may 23 £1800 internal room. then they change ship on us to Virtuosa, we then find the new listings is lot cheaper £1500 and we asked them to match the new price as it different ship or upgrade us to balcony as listing for that only £1850 with £100 on board credit. we got told head office must do allow 72 hours. 7 weeks later and still nothing. we have called loads times and now we told tough, if don't like it cancel and we not get our deposit back. we sailed loads with RC, P&O princess and NCL and never had problems like this. rude and don't care for customers. so we basically loose £300 deposit unless my credit card disputes it now as a not what purchased.

Date of experience : 17 October 2022

if i could give this company 0 stars i…

if i could give this company 0 stars i would. got back from a cruise today and iv never been treated so badly in my entire life. last night i went to the med centre where i was kept prisoner against my will, i was assaulted lied to and man handled because i went there because i was upset they said i had threatened to throw my self off the side which is a total lie. They threatened to handcuff me to the bed and tie my legs together to stop me from moving i asked to speak to my family it was refused i was told that they didnt want to speak to me which is also a lie.I was then dumped at the hospital with no money and no battery power on my phone and had to get back to nottingham from southampton on my own and the trains on strike i had to hitch a ride a lone woman on her own who got locked up for crying

Date of experience : 02 June 2023

Honesty is not their top competence

When all is well, I'm sure MSC offers some good cruises, but honesty and transparency is not speicelly high with the company. On their website - and in the information you get by - you are allowed to go ashore if you follow the country's rules. At the very bottom of a FAQ, however, it was stated that children are not allowed to go ashore - completely regardless of the fact that all countries on the route precisely and explicitly accept children. Willingness to answer questions the problem was not present at all. Emails were ignored and it was not possible to talk to someone other than a poor employee in customer service who of course could say neither one nor the other. Refund was of course not possible. Now we must look forward to seven days on a ship we are not allowed to leave. Wow. By the way, segregating by age is discrimination, no doubt.

Date of experience : 01 March 2022

Fantastic company with morals.

Date of experience : 15 March 2022

PLEASE AVOID AT ALL COSTS

PLEASE AVOID AT ALL COSTS RIDICULOUSLY OVER CROWDED BUFFET WAS LIKE QUEUING AT A CATTLE MARKET NO WAY NEAR ENOUGH SEATS TO ACCOMMODATE THE VOLUME OF PEOPLE ABOAD IF YOU ENJOY QUEUES THEN BOOK MSC THEY ARE SPECIALISTS 30MINS EVERYTIME FOR A DRINK NO SEATING VERY VERY VERY POOR FUN PASS COULDNT EVEN BE SPENT AS BOWLING AND OTHER THINGS WAS FULLY BOOKED SO HAD OVER £100 LEFT ON THE FUN PASS AND THEY WOULD NOT REFUND AFTER 2 EMAILS THEY INSULTINGLY OFFERED ME £50 OFF VOUCHER AGAINST A FUTURE CRUISE HOW GENEROUS I WOULDNT WANT A FREE CRUISE FROM THEM COULDNT WAIT TO GET HOME PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE AVOID AVOID AVOID

Date of experience : 15 October 2023

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MSC Cruises Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

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Basic Information

Departure ports, private ports/islands, complimentary dining, specialty dining, bars and beverages, msc inclusive experience, msc voyagers club, martha stewart celebration gifts, martha stewart excursions, msc for me app, final thoughts.

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Mediterranean Shipping Company has been in business since 1970. It started as a cargo shipping company and branched off into the world of passenger cruises in 1988 with its MSC Cruises division.

Today, MSC is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line — the fourth-largest overall — and is a leader in Europe, South America, and southern Africa cruises.

Even though it might not be the most well-known among cruise ship industry leaders like Royal Caribbean or Carnival , it has big plans for expansion — expect up to a dozen new ships over the next decade.

Name: MSC Cruises

Parent Company: Mediterranean Shipping Company

Number of Ships: 17 (2 more coming by 2021)

Destinations: 150+

Loyalty Program: MSC Voyagers Club

Credit Card: None

MSC operates 17 ships with 2 more on the way. MSC Virtuosa will debut in November 2020 and MSC Seashore will debut in 2021.

• MSC Armonia
• MSC Bellissima
• MSC Fantasia
• MSC Grandiosa
• MSC Magnifica
• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Orchestra
• MSC Preziosa
• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seaview
• MSC Sinfonia
• MSC Splendida

MSC Cruises sails to 69 countries across 6 continents from 52 departure ports.

MSC’s private island, located in the Bahama s, is called Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This private oasis has 8 beaches, a Bahamian shopping village, local cuisine, massage huts on the beach, and so much more.

Your day at Ocean Cay can include any of the following activities, some of which come with an additional fee:

• Beach picnics
• Beach soccer and volleyball
• Ceclo luxury electric pedalo
• Deep-sea fishing
• Evening lighthouse show
• Latin dance classes
• Luna Libre Party
• Ocean Cay Olympic Games
• Scuba diving
• Stand up paddleboarding
• Stingray adventure
• Sunset Champagne cruise
• Waverunners

There’s plenty to eat and drink at Ocean Cay, too. You can grab lunch at Seakers Foodcourt or one of the many food trucks located around the island.

These locations serve up traditional buffet food as well as Bahamian specialties. If you need a drink or a snack like ice cream, stop by Lighthouse Bar, Springer’s Bar, The Smiling Fish Bar, or one of the many beach bars.

Hot Tip: Curious about award travel on cruises? Check out our guide to booking cruises with points and miles.

Onboard Activities

There’s a lot to do onboard an MSC ship. In addition to cruise ship staples like pools, a casino, and Broadway-style shows, MSC offers plenty of other unique activities.

Here is some of what you’ll find to do on an MSC cruise (not all activities are available on every ship; extra charges may apply):

• Arts and crafts
• Carnival party
• Dance classes
• Dancing shoes dance contest
• F1 simulator
• Fitness classes
• Flower Glory Party
• Himalayan Bridge sky walk
• Hollywood Stars
• Kelly and Kloe Onboard
• Kid’s Clubs for all ages (babies to teens)
• King and Queen of the Sea
• LEGO Experience On Board
• MSC Factor talent contest
• MSC’s Little Italy
• Officers and Gentlemen dance
• Oktoberfest
• Rock Star Tribute
• Sports tournaments (tennis, soccer, etc.)
• Stardust dance contest
• Virtual World
• Waterslides

Casual wear is acceptable onboard an MSC cruise during the day. On Gala Nights, formal wear is required in restaurants — this means suits and ties for men and cocktail dresses for women.

You’ll want to leave some room in your suitcase to bring outfits for your ship’s theme parties. Bring your 60s and 70s floral gear for the Flower Glory Party, white clothing for the White Party, and red, white, and green to celebrate MSC’s Little Italy.

Hot Tip: If you need some help deciding what to pack, use our handy printable cruise packing list.

Dining and Beverages

Like most other cruise lines, MSC offers both complimentary dining as well as specialty restaurants that come with additional charges.

Complimentary dining onboard an MSC ship consists of main restaurants and an extensive buffet.

You’ll also find restaurants on MSC that come with an additional charge. However, you can save up to 40% if you book before your cruise.

• Asian Fusion Restaurant
• Butcher’s Cut
• Chef Yamaguchi’s Asian Market
• Cirque du Soliel at Sea
• Galaxy Kaito
• Hola Tapas Bar
• In-room pizza delivery
• La Piazzetta
• L’Atelier Bistrot
• Kaito Sushi Bar
• Kaito Teppanyaki
• Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant
• Oriental Plaza
• Room service
• Sea Pavillion Hot Pot
• Surf & Turf
• Venchi Gelateria

Look for these bars and lounges on your next MSC cruise (not all locations available on every ship):

• Alchemist Bar
• Martini Bar
• Wine & Beer Bar

If you’d prefer to purchase your beverages ahead of time, you can opt for one of MSC’s beverage packages.

These packages are available at all onboard bars, the self-service buffet, and included restaurants.

Premium Plus Package: $79 per person per day

This package is for adults 21 and older and includes all drinks by the glass. It’s valid onboard including the specialty restaurants and at Ocean Cay.

This package includes drinks from the minibar and room service as well. You’ll also get a 30% discount on bottles of wine and Champagne.

• Cocktails, spirits, liquors, wine, and beer
• Soda, juice, bottled water, energy drinks
• Classic and premium hot beverages

Premium Package: $62 per person per day

This package is for adults 21 and older and includes drinks up to $12 each. It’s valid onboard including the specialty restaurants and at Ocean Cay.

• Cocktails, spirits, liquors
• Wines by the glass
• Draft and bottled beer
• Classic and premium hot drinks

Easy Package: $35 per person per day 

This package is for adults 21 and older and includes drinks up to $6 each. It’s valid onboard and at Ocean Cay.

• One brand of draft beer and/or bottled beer
• Selected spirits and cocktails, including non-alcoholic cocktails
• Classic hot drinks (espresso, cappuccino, latte, hot tea, hot chocolate)

Non-Alcoholic Package for Adults: $29 per person per day

This package is for adults and children ages 12 and up.

• Non-alcoholic cocktails
• Soda, energy drinks, juices
• Bottled and flavored water
• Premium coffee drinks, hot chocolate, tea
• Soft-serve ice cream

Non-Alcoholic Package for Children: $17 per person per day

This package is for children ages 3-11 and includes everything available in the Non-Alcoholic Package for Adults.

Drink packages must be purchased for the duration of your cruise. If 1 person buys a drink package, everyone else in that stateroom also needs to purchase a package .

If you purchase your package onboard, you’ll be charged a 15% service fee on top of the package price. To avoid this fee, purchase your beverage package ahead of time .

Bottom Line: The Premium Plus, Premium, and Easy beverage packages will transfer to Ocean Cay. Guests who purchase these packages will be able to use them on the island.

Accommodations

No matter what type of stateroom you choose on your MSC cruise, you’ll enjoy some standard amenities to make your voyage as comfortable as possible including a Dorelan mattress and pillows, widescreen TV, air conditioning, and a safe.

Here are some of the MSC stateroom highlights (not all stateroom types are available on every ship):

An Interior Studio is perfect for the solo traveler. Each small room has a single bed that can be converted into a sofa during the day.

If you’re traveling with a large group, check out the Family Stateroom options. This category of room consists of 2 or more adjoining staterooms and can sleep up to 10 people.

Hot Tip: Bring the kids because MSC is considered one of the best cruise lines for families .

If you want a stateroom that doesn’t feel like a stateroom, try the Duplex Suite. This 2-level suite features a master bedroom on the second level along with an additional double bed on the first level.

There are 2 bathrooms, 2 walk-in closets, and a large balcony with a private whirlpool tub.

A Two-Bedroom Grand Suite can accommodate up to 5 people. These rooms have 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms plus a large balcony.

For a luxurious experience, try a Suite with Private Whirlpool. These suites come with a queen-size bed and a large balcony with a private whirlpool bath.

For the ultimate in luxury, choose an MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite . These luxurious rooms have a bedroom with a king-size bed, separate living room, bathroom with tub and shower, refrigerator, coffee machine, fully stocked mini-bar, and a large balcony with a whirlpool tub.

Plus this room comes with all MSC Yacht Club benefits.

By choosing your stateroom on an MSC cruise, you’re also choosing your personalized MSC experience. Each experience comes with a set of perks and bonuses.

Bella Experience: Comes with Balcony, Ocean View, Outside with Partial View, Interior, and Interior Studio rooms

• Your dining time will be assigned according to availability
• Access to the buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Use of ZOE on select ships (voice-enabled virtual cruise assistant)
• MSC for Me app

Fantastica Experience: Comes with Suite, Balcony, Ocean View, Interior, and Staterooms for Families

• All Bella Experience benefits
• Ideally located staterooms with better views
• Assigned dining times, but with priority over Bella Experience guests
• Free 24-hour room service

Aurea Experience: Comes with Suite, Duplex Suite, Grand Suite, and Suite with Whirlpool and Balcony

• All Fantastica Experience benefits
• Complimentary Easy Drink Package
• My Choice Dining so you can select your dinner times
• Spa package that includes 2 50-minute massages per stateroom
• Access to private sun deck (adults only)
• Priority embarkation
• MSC for Me Wristband: a waterproof wristband you can use to make purchases, book services, and unlock your stateroom

MSC Yacht Club Experience: Comes with MSC Yacht Club rooms

• Luxury suites located on the top decks
• Access to Top Sail Lounge
• Private sun deck with pool, whirlpool, solarium, and bar
• Private restaurant with a choice of dining times
• Priority check-in and check-out
• Dedicated concierge and 24-hour a day butler service
• Unlimited drinks in MSC Yacht Club areas
• Selected complimentary beverages in all onboard restaurants and bars
• Access to Thermal Suite
• Premium internet package

Hot Tip: Kids ages 11 and under travel free on most MSC cruises .

MSC Voyagers Club is a loyalty club that you can join if you’ve sailed with MSC in the past or if you have an MSC cruise booked.

There are 5 levels of membership that offer perks based on points earned. You’ll earn points each time you cruise, book an onboard service, and make onboard purchases.

Here are just some of the benefits and perks you can earn as an MSC Voyagers Club member (benefits are cumulative):

MSC Voyagers Club membership is valid for 3 years. If it has been more than 3 years since your enrollment date or the day of disembarkation on your last cruise, your membership will expire and you’ll lose all Voyagers Club privileges.

Hot Tip: MSC offers a discount of up to 10% on select sailings to all current and retired U.S. or Canadian military personnel and their families as well as all current and retired government employees including teachers, police officers, and firefighters plus their families.

Martha Stewart Partnership

MSC Cruises has partnered with Martha Stewart to bring passengers special excursions and experiences. Whether you want to send a gift or try a new shore excursion, you can do with Martha Stewart style.

Plus, if you’re sailing on MSC during a holiday, you’ll get to experience a special Martha Stewart 3-course holiday meal. These are available during Easter, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve .

Send a special gift to someone on your MSC cruise that represents Martha Stewart’s values — good food, good company, and commemorating achievements and adventures. These are available on Caribbean sailings leaving from Miami and Tampa.

• Includes a personalized letter from Martha Stewart plus a special dessert and recipe card
• Includes a personalized letter from Martha Stewart, a special dessert, recipe card, and a bottle of wine
• Includes a personalized letter from Martha Stewart, a special dessert, recipe card, a bottle of wine, a free photograph taken by an MSC photographer, a 5×7 picture frame, and a canvas beach bag

On select cruises, you can experience a specialty excursion inspired by Martha Stewart. These activities celebrate each destination’s local flavors and traditions.

• Tastes of Belize — Street Food, Artisanal Cheese & Jungle Delights
• St. John Hike to Watermelon Cay & Snorkel Trip
• Bacalar Lagoon Kayaking & Pineapple Farm
• The Perfect Margarita Mixology Session
• Swimming Horses of Cayman Experience
• Historic Homes Walking Tour & Key Lime Pie
• Jamaican Flavors Tasting Tour & Craft Market
• Bush Medicine Gardens & Tea Tour
• Bahamian Cooking & Cocktail Class
• Konoko Falls & Murphy Hill Farm Tour
• Flavors of St. Maarten Culinary Course
• Exploring Roatan’s Fishing Villages
• Savor San Juan’s Culinary Delights

Hot Tip: Not sure where to get the best deal on your cruise? Dive into our guide on the best websites to book cruises at the cheapest prices.

The MSC for Me mobile app is available on select MSC smart ships including MSC Bellisima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, and MSC Splendida.

This mobile app is designed to help your onboard experience be fantastic. With the app, you’ll be able to save time, keep track of your onboard activities, and stay connected with options including:

• Mobile check-in
• Interactive map of the ship
• Displays of onboard events and activities
• MSC for Me Wristband
• MSC for Me Chat
• Family and Friends Locator (available for an extra charge)
• ZOE (virtual cruise assistant)

Hot Tip: Are you using the right credit card? Consult our guide to the best credit cards to book cruises to make sure you aren’t leaving any benefits on the table.

MSC Cruises might not be the most well-known brand in the industry, but it is still one of the biggest cruise lines, with plans to expand even more. Keep an eye out for plenty of new MSC ships over the next decade.

MSC will appeal to many different types of cruisers since it has lots of different types of activities onboard. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll appreciate the pool, waterslides, and waterpark.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy the specialty restaurant options, and if you’re looking for luxury, you’ll adore the MSC Yacht Club Experience!

If you’re a frequent cruiser, you’ll love the MSC Voyager Club perks like cruise discounts and priority boarding.

Whether you’re looking for a laid back getaway to the Caribbean or an exotic voyage to South Africa, you’ll find it on MSC Cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is msc a luxury cruise line.

Yes, you can definitely get a luxury experience on an MSC cruise. If luxury is what you’re after, check out the Aurea Experience and MSC Yacht Club Experience. These levels of cruising come with Suites, Duplex Suites, Grand Suites, and Suites with Whirlpool and Balcony plus MSC Yacht Club Rooms. With these 2 levels of experience, you’ll enjoy luxury benefits like complimentary drinks, My Choice dining, spa packages, access to a private sun deck, a private restaurant, and more!

What is the best MSC cruise ship?

MSC Bellissima is often cited as the best ship in the MSC fleet. Debuting in 2019, it’s the newest MSC ship and, like its sister ship MSC Meraviglia, is one of the fleet’s biggest. It features an aquapark, waterslides, the “Himalayan Bridge” sky walk, 4D cinema, and more.

How much is the drink package on MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises offers multiple drink packages that range in price from $17 per person per day for a kid’s drink package to $79 per person per day for a package that includes all drinks by the glass (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic).

What is included on MSC Cruises?

An MSC Cruise includes the main dining rooms and an extensive buffet. Entertainment, onboard features like pools and waterslides, and kids’ activities are also included. You’ll pay extra for specialty restaurants, alcoholic drinks, specialty non-alcoholic drinks, shore excursions, and some onboard activities.

What is the dress code on an MSC cruise?

Resort casual wear (like shorts and t-shirts) is acceptable on an MSC cruise except for Gala Nights. On these nights, formal wear is required in the restaurants — suits and ties for men and cocktail dresses for women.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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29 replies to this topic

It's very different from the mainstream US centric lines. And their business model is different. People tend to go with the expectation of it being like the lines they're familiar with, and then get upset - particularly when they pay for the most basic, Bella, package and expect Yacht Club perks!

Also, it is very continental European on service and style - which many people who've cruised solely on more US centric lines and never traveled Europe, are unfamiliar with. Service is unobtrusive, not in tour face. You have ti flag your server or waiter, they're not checking your table every 5 minutes. Announcements are in 5-7 languages. Food is different, smaller more appropriateportikns, more true Ifalian style (not Olive Garden, lol). Demographics aboard skew much more heavily to European and South American; US passengers make up less than half the guests, usually, even on US based sailings - and the cultural differences catch new guests out oftentimes. (Different attitudes towards queuing or smoking or attire, kids in bars, late night action, etc. ).

We love MSC. Absolutely stunning ships, great food, great service, whats not to love? Their pre- cruise suport is mainky abysmal - its the one line we always use a travel agent for - she handles the crappy shoreline service. Onboard, it's wonderful, in our experience. YMMV.

Judge for yourself, just be aware of what your experience includes, and the different type of service and atmosphere. . Also, a d this is jey - do the status match!! MSC will status match your highest frequent traveler program, be it cruise or hotel or airline or rental car . You can start of matched to whatever equivalent level and have perks already. MSC does require you to cruise once every three years to keep your status active, again - different from most lines.

You would NOT enjoy the MSC experience if you are used to Celebrity. The low price is a a draw but then you have to had liquor package and internet and tips and the food is Flavorless, for the most part. I loved nearly every meal on Celebrity and only one night was good for MSC. Just off the Seashore out of Miami and there were plenty of reasons why i wont go back - culturally it was not a fit, food horrible, lines for everything - made me really appreciate Celebrity's efficiency and culinary offerings! The ship was beautiful and they tried hard - but the lines for everything killed it for me.

Were Elite Plus on Celebrity also, abd haven't sailed them since we started with MSC.

I'd strongly suggest at least Aurea experience - private sundeck area, larger better room locations, anytime dining in a separate dining room (usually, or at least separate section), room service delivery waived 24/7, etc. And if the budget can suport if, Yacht Club is fantastic - private cabin area, lounge, dining room, pool, hot tubs, grill, decks, Thermal Suite access, and so much more.

We enjoy MSC for its differences, particularly both the onboard culture and the mix of cultures with the guests. We're constantly amazed at the cruise director staff that all speak at least 4 languages flueny and most speaks 5 or 6. The head CDs speaks 5 at a minimum and does most of the announcements themselves. Rhey put on a matinee condensced opera one day. The evebing shows are short but amazing - acribats, contortionist, pole dancer, ballroom dancers, and so forth - their more music and visuals than story lines given the wide diverse cultures aboard. We enjoy the differences from the mainstream lines - which are more alike than different, IMO. The ships are stunning, the entertainment is different, the cultural mix is fab, the food is very continental Italian style and diverse, the pizza is the best at sea, whats not to like?

I'd suggest trying it yourself - as you can see, it's definitely a hit or miss. Any cruise is a good cruise , to us - ans if the ports interest you, why not?

Keep in mind, in Europe, MSC does embarkation and disembarkation in virtually every port. They're not 'closed' single sailings like Celebrity, iebwhere everyone boards at one port and sails together the entire 7 or 10 nights. Instead, MSC has embarkation and disembarkation in most every port along the way, so people are coming and going, luggage in halls most nights, etc. Think of it more like a large elegant ferry with all the bells and whistles- entertainment and casino and dining and all that is the same regardless of ab embarkation port or not. You can also generally stay aboard later at disembarkation as they're not zeroing out every time.

We really enjoy them. You'd have ti decide for yourself! As Celebrity Elite + ourselves, we are very happy with the change and won't be back to Celebrity anytime soon, except for a few of their more diverse itineraries.

Sea-Reed and other MSC experts, I've read about queues for the desk and buffet, also long waits for drinks - have you experienced that, or is that just at peak times?

Also, does it take long to get ashore in port? Do independent travellers have to wait until after the excursions go out?

We also are Elite Plus with Celebrity and have cruised twice with MSC. I would strongly recommend if you are considering MSC, choose the Yacht Club.- anything else will be a big let down for sure.

I have enjoyed Celebrity several times as well. I have also enjoyed MSC several times. They will status match your Celebrity status; I was matched to their top status from Celebrities' top status.

Cardiff- we've sailed "back of the ship" and "front" and honestly, lines aren't any different then any other line we've sailed. Guest services usually has a line during the day, anywhere from a few people to 10+ or so, and lines have always moved speedily enough. No real difference from any other line.... one bug difference is a lot more people pay by cash or debit card on MSC versus more mainstream US lines, which makes for more queuing as those folks have to periodically top up their accounts *or don't understand "holds" against charges like CC customers are used to)...so that cab add to the line time.

Buffet- it's a buffet. With multiple cultures meeting up. On the ships we've been on, there's multiple stations wrapping around a central kitchen area - meaning people can approach each station from different sides, queues are the a thing. Sort of like the buffets in Solstice class ships, where each station is free standing and tiu can approach from either side - same thing. Added in, the different cultures where some don't queue at all, some only queue and everything in between. Be prepared to "stake your claim" or space and also give way when needed. Honestly, bever been issue - we can queue or moce in with the best of them! But - if you're expecting everyone to line up on an orderly fashion and follow some line - lose that assumption right now..

I have never been on MSC either.

From what I’ve read on here, I’m glad I didn’t and don’t think I ever now will as it sounds like my worst nightmare.

Since then I've had around six Costa cruises and I enjoyed them all.

I liked the mix of nationalities aboard. The things which irritated me, like people standing talking in front of lifts and noisy children, would have been bad manners in most cultures.

I enjoyed the food, found the staff friendly and hardworking, found the ships and cabins clean and pleasant and, apart from some disorganisation on disembarkation and shuttles, everything went smoothly.

I'll let you know if they go down in my estimation after my next cruise .

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Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

A relative newcomer in the North American market, MSC Cruises is equal parts elegant and kitschy. The line tends to appeal to a wide swath of cruisers, from Europeans who like to party into the wee hours of the morning to American families who book because of affordable fares and "kids sail free" pricing.

To satisfy its diverse passenger base, MSC offers accommodations to fit all types of travelers. Rooms include inexpensive inside cabins that sleep two people, midlevel staterooms with windows and balconies, and high-end suites that offer cruisers with larger budgets a private oasis in the form of the MSC Yacht Club .

A variety of connecting rooms and cabins with extra bunks accommodate larger groups and families who wish to share space.

Because your cruise cabin will be your home away from home for several days, it's important to book one that fits your needs. That's especially true if you're sharing it with several people.

Whether you're looking at an inside cabin for a cruise with friends, balcony accommodations for you and your significant other or a suite for your family, here TPG breaks down what you can expect when you book a room on one of MSC's ships.

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

MSC Cruises cabin primer

MSC Cruises has become one of the fastest-growing lines in the cruise industry, with about two dozen ships in its fleet. The vessels fall into six classes : Lirica, Musica, Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World.

Although cabin offerings can vary from ship to ship and class to class, the standard types remain the same: inside, outside, balcony and suite.

Additionally, you'll find the same basic amenities in each room, unless otherwise noted below. They include two twin beds that can be joined to form a queen- or king-size bed; an in-cabin bathroom with a shower, a sink, a toilet and basic soap, shower gel and shampoo; a couple of nightstands; a chair or sofa; a desk/vanity; a closet; a safe; a hair dryer; a minifridge; a phone; USB outlets and a selection of both North American and European outlets.

On all ships except MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia, you'll also find an interactive TV that allows you to view the daily schedule, check your onboard account and choose from a selection of live TV programs and movies.

Twice-daily room tidying is provided by a room steward assigned to each cabin, and room service is available throughout the day for an added fee.

One confusing aspect of MSC's bookings is that you'll have to select an experience package in addition to a cabin type. Package tiers determine things like your ability to choose a specific cabin and preferred dining time and whether you'll receive welcome amenities in your room. Certain cabin types are only available in conjunction with certain package experiences and vice versa. Those are noted in each respective section below.

Accessible cabins , including accommodations for wheelchair users, are available on every ship in MSC's fleet. In addition to more space, they feature wider doorways and lowered sinks and toilets in the bathrooms, as well as grab bars.

MSC Cruises' experience packages

Here's what you get when you book each of MSC's three experience packages, which determine the perks you'll receive on your sailing.

• Accommodations
• Complimentary food in the dining room and buffet
• Broadway-style theater entertainment
• Access to the onboard gym, pool and kids club
• MSC Voyagers Club points
• One for-fee change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Drink package discount at time of booking
• All Bella perks
• Choice of specific cabin and location
• One free change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Ability to choose between early and late seating for dinner
• Room service (complimentary for breakfast, but fees apply for other meals)
• Discount on pre-cruise specialty dining package
• All Fantastica and Bella perks
• Flexible My Choice dining, which lets you eat at any time you choose between set hours
• Free 24-hour room service delivery
• Pillow menu
• A welcome package, including Prosecco and chocolates
• Complimentary access to your ship's solarium and thermal area
• A 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board
• Special Balinese massage offer when booked pre-cruise
• Complimentary use of bathrobe and slippers
• Priority boarding and luggage drop-off

Inside cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Inside cabins — rooms with no windows — are available on all ships in the MSC fleet. Ranging from 140 to 301 square feet (depending on the ship), they make for great sleeping because they're so dark. They're also ideal for passengers who are on a budget.

In addition to the standard amenities mentioned above, they provide room for anywhere from two to four passengers to sleep. (Rooms that sleep more than two feature bunks that pull down from the ceiling.)

These cabins are available with the line's Bella and Fantastica experiences.

If you're sailing solo, some MSC vessels offer cabins for one outfitted with a twin bed that converts into a couch. These interior studio accommodations are only available with the Bella package on MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima and the line's World Class ships.

Ocean-view cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Ocean-view rooms are similar to insides in that they provide basic amenities — but with a view.

Offering 129 to 269 square feet of space (depending on the specific ship and ocean-view category), these staterooms allow you to see outside through a porthole or a window that doesn't open.

MSC's outside cabins are available to passengers who book Bella and Fantastica packages.

Additionally, if you're traveling with your family or another group, several of MSC Cruises' ships — particularly those in the Meraviglia and Seaside classes — feature space for as many as 10 passengers via a series of connecting rooms. Options are available at the ocean-view and balcony levels.

Balcony cabins on MSC Cruises ships

You might be surprised to discover that most of MSC Cruises' balcony cabins provide less interior square footage than what's available in inside or ocean-view staterooms.

Balcony rooms run anywhere from 129 to 205 square feet, but their key feature is, of course, a private balcony, which does add an extra 32 to 129 square feet, depending on the vessel and specific type of balcony room booked. These cabins are bookable in conjunction with MSC's Bella, Fantastica and Aurea experiences.

Although balcony cabins offer upgraded amenities, including MSC's brand of hand lotion and toiletries, they are largely the same as inside and ocean-view accommodations.

MSC's newest ships — including those in the Meraviglia, Seaside and World Classes — house connecting balcony rooms that can sleep up to 10 in the same group traveling together.

Additionally, on its World Class ships, the line has introduced inward-facing balconies, similar to the ones Royal Caribbean pioneered in 2009 with the debut of its Oasis Class vessels . On World Europa, for example, they overlook the ship's promenade, offering views of the activity below, rather than the ocean.

MSC Cruises suites

All ships in MSC's fleet have suites that can be booked as part of the Fantastica and Aurea packages, but it's Aurea that offers the largest number of perks, as outlined above.

The several types of suites vary by ship in terms of size and amenities. Some come with balconies, while others only offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.

Junior Suites

Although this room type is listed as a suite, it's essentially a balcony cabin with a bit more space — 183 square feet of interior accommodation with a balcony that ranges from 140 to 183 square feet.

Standard suites include rooms with huge balconies larger than the cabin's interior space and ones with private whirlpool tubs. They run from 269 to 355 square feet, with balconies measuring 32 to 409 square feet.

Grand Suites

Coming in between 377 and 420 square feet, with balconies spanning from 32 to 495 square feet, Grand Suites — found on Seaside and World Class ships — come in two types. They include standard one-bedroom Grand Suites, as well as two-bedroom varieties.

The latter has one bedroom with a queen-size bed and another with two twins. It sleeps up to five passengers and offers two bathrooms — one with a shower and the other with a bathtub.

While most suites are designed for double occupancy, some suite accommodations on MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Magnifica can sleep up to five people.

MSC Yacht Club suites on MSC ships

All cabins located in the MSC Yacht Club — an exclusive, gated area on select ships — are called suites, even the smallest and least expensive, which don't have windows or balconies.

Yacht Club suite types range from insides to two-deck duplexes, all of which come with butler and concierge services, luxuriously appointed furnishings (such as real marble finishes, memory foam mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets) and access to members-only restaurants, bars (alcohol is free there), lounges, pools and sun decks.

The Yacht Club features seven different types of rooms. Ships that have the MSC Yacht Club on board include MSC Bellissima, MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, MSC Splendida, MSC Virtuosa and MSC World Europa.

Note: Not all Yacht Clubs have the same suite types available.

MSC Yacht Club Interior Suites

Although these 161- to 226-square-foot cabins don't offer a view or fresh air, they are elegantly decorated and include all the Yacht Club benefits mentioned above.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suites

These Yacht Club digs are the equivalent of a balcony cabin — but in a dedicated area that includes all the exclusive perks. They run 236 to 366 square feet and have balconies ranging from 54 to 86 square feet, so they also come with a bit more space, both inside and outdoors.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suites

Similarly, Deluxe Grand Suites are like the Yacht Club equivalent of booking a Grand Suite with more perks. Depending on the ship, they offer anywhere from 269 to 463 square feet of space, plus 65- to 129-square-foot balconies. Some Grand Suites also have two bedrooms instead of one. Further, these rooms on Seaside Class ships include bathrooms with bathtubs, as well as separate living areas.

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites

Rising two decks, MSC's duplex staterooms measure 495 to 635 square feet and come with 65- to 334-square-foot balconies. They feature living rooms with two-person sofa beds downstairs and master bedrooms upstairs, which also sleep two passengers.

Each of these accommodations comes complete with two walk-in closets and two bathrooms — one with a bathtub and one with a shower. Most duplexes on Meraviglia and World Class ships also have their own private whirlpool tubs.

MSC Yacht Club Executive and Family Suites

The line's Executive and Family Suites, available only on Fantasia Class vessels, are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay in the Yacht Club with a family or other group of more than two people.

This option, which is one type of suite (despite its confusing name), has space for up to five cruisers via a combination of bunk beds, sofa beds and beds that pull down from the ceiling, depending on the ship. The suites clock in at around 431 to 549 square feet, depending on the vessel.

The only drawback is that these staterooms have no balconies and no in-room dining areas, but they do include all the perks you'd find in Yacht Club cabins.

MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites

Although they only occupy one level, at 388 to 667 square feet, MSC's Yacht Club Royal Suites are right up there with the Duplex Suites in terms of space. They offer the second-largest amount of square footage after the Owner's Suites. They come with huge balconies comprising 355 to 753 square feet of outdoor area.

Additionally, bathrooms in these suites offer bathtubs on Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World Class ships, and the latter three have private whirlpool tubs, as well. All four classes' Royal Suites also include separate living room areas.

MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suites

The largest and most impressive of all MSC's cabins are the Owner's Suites found in the Yacht Club. Offering an impressive 840 to 1,119 square feet — larger than some land-based apartments — plus 269- to 670-square-foot balconies, they're some of the most luxurious rooms afloat.

Specific amenities vary by ship, but as an example, Owner's Suites on MSC World Europa offer floor-to-ceiling windows and walk-in closets. These accommodations on both the line's Seaside and World Class vessels also feature bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs, as well as private whirlpool tubs and separate living room areas.

Bottom line

Although MSC Cruises' cabin types are straightforward, the line's add-on experiences can complicate things a bit.

Overall, what's key to remember is that MSC Cruises offers a wide variety of rooms and pricing to meet just about any budget or style of cruising. Each ship will offer accommodation choices from the least expensive, bare-bones interior rooms to the priciest suites, which come with butler and concierge services.

When you sail with MSC Cruises, you can expect function, style and comfort, regardless of the cabin type you book.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

More From Forbes

How to see the best of northern europe on a scandinavian cruise.

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Cruise ship passengers enjoy the view of Sweden’s Stockholm archipelago from the Royal Caribbean ... [+] ship ‘Serenade of the Seas.’

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes people in the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise.

Scandinavia—and Norway in particular—is an expensive place to travel around, so a cruise can make financial sense for those seeking an introduction to the region. For one price, you get your travel, accommodation, meals, and entertainment covered.

Such a trip offers the opportunity to sample various Scandinavian travel highlights , whether you prefer the Scandinavian capitals, the stunning Norwegian fjords, or soaking up the atmosphere of beautiful islands and historic ports in the Baltic Sea.

Popular Scandinavian Cruise Itineraries

Many different types of itinerary can be advertised as Scandinavian cruises. Typically, they focus on the Nordic capital cities. Some may also include the highlights of the Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic countries and ports in the north of Germany and Poland.

With popular Norwegian fjords cruises together with midnight sun and northern lights tours to the north of Norway also available, there is a lot of diversity in Scandinavian cruises.

Scandinavian Capitals : Cruise itineraries starting in the U.K. or Germany and calling in at two or even all three of Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen have long been popular.

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The Nyhavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark, is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers ... [+] visiting Scandinavia.

Helsinki is often included on such itineraries. If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while gaining access to some of the region’s best museums, such an itinerary is a perfect choice.

Such itineraries tend to be shorter, and are a great introduction to both cruising and Scandinavia, with limited sea days and plenty to see and do while in port.

Baltic Sea : Longer Scandinavian itineraries often include stops at Baltic Sea islands and ports. The beautiful Estonian capital city, Tallinn, or the Latvian capital, Riga, are particular highlights, as are ports on the northern coastline of Germany and Poland.

For those interested in Viking history, look out for smaller ship itineraries featuring Visby on the wonderful island of Gotland .

One such trip is this 12-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which includes a visit to both Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stop in the latter.

The old city walls of Visby on Gotland island, a popular cruise port.

Norwegian Fjords : By far the most variety can be found in the Norwegian fjords region , with almost all major cruise lines operating at least some itineraries here. Although port calls in Flåm and Geiranger will soon be severely limited, many alternative ports will still be able to welcome some of the world’s largest cruise ships.

Whether you prefer the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or the smaller ships that can sail along narrower fjords, there will be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you.

Following the recent rise in popularity of the region as a cruising destination, the fjords season has extended, with trips available as early as April and as late as September.

British line P&O Cruises operates its relatively new megaship Iona in the fjords region for much of that period, with regular departures from Southampton on a popular 7-day itinerary.

Midnight Sun : Although all summer cruises in the region will experience long summer days, specific midnight sun itineraries set sail for the far north of Norway to let guests experience the thrill of being outside with the sun in the sky at midnight. Many of these trips visit Honningsvåg, which allows guests to travel by bus to the North Cape.

Northern Lights : In recent years, Scandinavia—or more specifically Norway—has become a year-round cruising destination thanks to the growth in popularity of northern lights cruises .

Aurora borealis in the sky seen from a cruise ship in Arctic Norway.

These itineraries can be found heading north of the Arctic Circle between October and early April.

Planning Tips For Scandinavian Cruises

Cruising in Northern Europe offers a fantastic variety of excursions and experiences, from historical city tours to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures.

The region’s love of the outdoors lifestyle means active experiences are easy to find, both through cruise line excursions and independent operators.

The high levels of English comprehension across the region means booking your own activities and exploring ports independently is much easier than in many other parts of the world. Even so, look for independent tours that take place earlier in the day to reduce any time-related risk.

No matter when you visit Scandinavia, pack for all weathers. The height of summer can be marred by heavy rainfall, while it’s possible to get sunburnt in the snow-covered conditions of February and March.

Pack a versatile wardrobe. Layered clothing accommodates the region's variable weather, while specialized gear might be necessary for specific excursions.

Cruising And Sustainability

Prospective travelers should be aware of environmental concerns associated with cruising in this pristine region. The industry is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission vessels in sensitive areas, particularly the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjords .

Some local initiatives protesting against cruise travel have also gathered momentum, so cruisers should be aware of these issues before setting foot ashore.

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This cruise line will match your hotel and airline loyalty status – for 3 days only

Are you a sucker for a status match? If free coffee, a cocktail reception and free laundry service sound like perks you'd enjoy on your next vacation, listen up. For three days only, Virgin Voyages will extend its existing status match offer to include airline and hotel loyalty status matches.

Members of Virgin Voyages' Sailing Club loyalty program have been able to match with other cruise lines' loyalty programs for a while. However, if you have airline or hotel status, now could be the time to book that voyage you've been considering.

Here's all you need to know to take advantage of this offer.

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

What's the deal?

Book one of several select cruises with Virgin Voyages from Wednesday to Friday, submit proof of your loyalty status on Virgin Voyages' website by Friday, and you'll be automatically moved to Blue Extras, the second tier of Virgin Voyages' three-tier Sailing Club program. You'll be awarded the corresponding perks, starting on your first cruise following the match. (Rates start at $149 per person, per night for four-night sailings.)

Perks include one free bag of laundry to be sent out and returned to your cabin, one free specialty coffee per day and a cocktail reception.

Which brands will Virgin Voyages match?

This promotion will take loyalty status match requests into account for the following major airline and hotel brands:

• United Airlines MileagePlus
• American Airlines AAdvantage
• Delta Air Lines SkyMiles
• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
• Frontier Airlines Miles
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Marriott Bonvoy
• Hilton Honors
• World of Hyatt
• Choice Privileges
• IHG One Rewards
• Wyndham Rewards
• Radisson Rewards
• Best Western Rewards

Virgin Voyages will also match your status if you are a loyal repeat traveler with another cruise line, but that offer is ongoing. The cruise line will continue to consider cruise line status matches after this deal ends.

What's the catch?

The obvious caveat is that you must book a cruise for your hotel or airline match to be considered.

You also can't be at the lowest tier within your airline's or hotel's loyalty program. Entry-level tiers don't qualify for the match. It's not enough to just be enrolled in a loyalty program. You must have earned some status within it first.

Additionally, this isn't a traditional type of match. Regardless of the level you've reached with your airline or hotel, you will only be awarded middle-tier status — Blue Extras — with Virgin Voyages. This promotion won't earn you the perks of Deep Blue Extras — the highest tier — no matter how elite you are elsewhere.

Which other cruise lines offer status matches?

Status matches are not common in the world of cruising. The only line that offers matches to cruise lines, hotels and airlines is MSC Cruises. MSC's matching program awards passengers status based on the loyalty level they submit for consideration. The drawbacks are that major U.S. airlines aren't yet part of the program, and if you don't cruise within three years of obtaining your status match, you'll lose it.

The only other megaship cruise lines that allow status matches are Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises — but only with one another since they're sister brands. If you have status with one, you can submit a request to have it matched with the other.

Bottom line

Virgin Voyages prides itself on being a bit of an outlier in the cruise industry. The line has refreshingly managed to turn cruising on its head by eliminating buffets, hiring a resident drag queen and installing tattoo parlors on its ships.

Its current Sailing Club loyalty program hotel and airline status match is a great way to earn status and perks with a cruise line that offers a different way to cruise.

Want to learn more about Virgin Voyages? We've got you covered:

• Here's what it's like to sail Virgin Voyages
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• We tried every single one of Virgin Voyages' bars
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CRUISES FOR SINGLES

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Book now and take advantage of our special offer: 50% off our solo travellers' supplement* on selected Winter 2024-25 cruises in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Travelling solo on an MSC ship means meeting new travel companions and making new friends .  Whether you're sipping an exclusive cocktail at one of our captivating bars , savouring exquisite dishes at our s pecialty restaurants , or immersing yourself in new destinations through our curated excursions , you'll find endless opportunities to share incredible experiences with like-minded adventurers. Rest assured, with an MSC Cruise, both on board and ashore you'll never get bored . Don't miss out on all the fun!

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