MSC Cruises

Cruise Circle says...

The MSC Cruises fleet, comprised of 23 cruise ships sailing or under construction, is the world’s youngest fleet and ideal for all types of cruises from busy and active family holidays to relaxing couples’ holidays. As the third largest cruise brand in the world, they offer an unparalleled range of departures in Europe plus extensive options throughout South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa, the Caribbean, Northern Europe and more. Onboard, you'll find a stylish, comfortable environment and relaxed atmosphere suitable for all, extensive choices from a range of international dining venues, world-class entertainment and the latest technology onboard, all whilst keeping focused on sustainability to ensure they protect the environment for future generations.

See our selection of handpicked MSC cruise and stay holidays here.

The MSC Cruises fleet of 23 ships is designed to offer different experiences and can be divided into six classes: World, Meraviglia, Seaside, Fantasia, Musica and Lirica.

• The World class ships, propelled by LNG, these ships are the most environmentally friendly ships to join the fleet and offer a wealth of exciting onboard dining venues, entertainment and activities to suit everyone.
• The extraordinary features of the Meraviglia class make for a perfect experience at sea in every season. Expect authentic dining options, out-of-this-world entertainment such as the exclusive Carousel lounge and more
• Perfect for a sunny climate is the Seaside class of ship, design innovations include a unique waterfront promenade that circles the ship, lined with outdoor bars, restaurants and spaces for relaxation
• The Fantasia class ships are grand, impressive and family-friendly; Formula 1 simulators, 4D cinemas, infinity pools and stylish adults-only areas
• Slightly smaller, the Musica class ships offer a sophisticated, diverse experience with a waterfall in the foyer, sushi bars and comfortable cabins.
• Much smaller, the Lirica class offers a boutique cruising experience on newly-renovated ships. 

Customise your cruise by selecting Bella, Fantastica or Aurea experiences. For something unique, MSC's Yacht Club experience is a ship-within-a-ship concept, allowing you to enjoy small, luxury ship services like 24-hour butler service and exclusive pools and restaurants, but with the choice of entertainment & dining only found on larger ships. 

Who goes on MSC Cruises cruise ships?

MSC Cruises is one of the most diverse cruise lines you can sail on with a multicultural mix of Italians, Brits, Spanish, Germans and French in the Mediterranean, with more North Americans in the Caribbean (but still lots of Italians and Spanish-speaking passengers), and a big local market in South Africa and South America. You'll also come across all ages. The lively night scene means these ships work well for teens and younger cruisers, while the decent kids' clubs (particularly on the newer ships) and the clever arrangements of clustered family cabins mean a lot of families travel during school holidays.

Do I have to dress up on a MSC Cruises cruise?

Yes, a little. The usual dress code is informal during the day and smart-casual at night -- think nice trousers and shirt for men and nice pants/skirts with blouse or cocktail dress for women. There's usually one gala night per cruise, when black tie or dark suit and tie are encouraged for men, as is a formal dress for women. This is not enforced, but people do make an effort.

Is everything included on MSC Cruises cruises?

No, unless you're in one of the Yacht Club suites, and even then, not everything is included. MSC sells its cruises through a somewhat bewildering array of packages: Bella, Fantastica, Aurea and Yacht Club. All include your accommodation, meals in specified restaurants and big-stage entertainment, along with basic coffee and tea, and select juices at breakfast and lunch. Beyond that, perks and inclusions vary by which package you've purchased, with Bella having no additional inclusions and Aurea featuring unlimited beverages. The Yacht Club has the most inclusions, with extra dining venues for eating, spa thermal suite passes and most beverages (plus access to a personal butler and a dedicated Yacht Club lounge and pool).

What are MSC Cruises's most popular activities?

The action onboard an MSC ship is nonstop, with cruisers flocking to participate in pool games, sports contests, shopping promotions, trivia, karaoke and filling the nightclubs until late. On newer ships, high-tech arcade games are all the rage, including a 4D cinema, laser maze, F1 simulator and bowling. Many MSC cruisers are also just as happy to park themselves by a pool and stay there all day, and when the ship is in port, you'll find the vast majority of cruisers off the ship on ship-sponsored or independent tours.