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The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

MSC Cruises may be the biggest cruise line you've never heard of — assuming you're an American.

While the Switzerland-based company is the third-biggest cruise line in the world, it has far less name recognition among Americans than big U.S.-based lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . That's because, until recently, MSC Cruises mostly catered to Europeans. A large percentage of its customers came from countries such as Italy, Germany, France and Spain.

That's all changing now — and in a big way.

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

As it expands its fleet at a rapid pace , MSC Cruises is massively building its footprint in North America in an effort to woo more Americans. As recently as 2017, the line only had a single vessel based in North America. Now it's up to three ships sailing out of U.S. ports, and by the end of 2023, that number will have shot up to five.

All the North America-based ships are marketed heavily to Americans, and the line has tailored some of the features and activities on the vessels to a North American crowd.

Like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises has been building big resortlike vessels that offer every sort of amusement known to humans, from giant water parks to race car simulators. It currently operates eight of the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world — one of which (MSC Meraviglia) now calls North America home with year-round sailings out of New York City.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about MSC Cruises

• Its affordability
• The incredible array of activities on its ships
• The status match it offers with its loyalty program

What we could do without

• Onboard announcements in five languages (on overseas sailings)

The MSC Cruises fleet

MSC Cruises has grown enormously in recent years. As recently as early 2017, the line had just 12 ships in operation. But it's added new ships at a rapid pace over the past six years and now operates 22 vessels, more than any other major line besides Royal Caribbean and Carnival. It also has three more giant new ships on the way in the next few years.

If that sounds like too many ships to get your head around, note that all 22 of the vessels in operation, as well as the three on order, fall into six distinct classes . The ships within each of the classes have similar sizes and onboard attractions. If you know one ship in the class, you know them all.

Related: MSC Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

As a result of its rapid growth, MSC Cruises recently passed Norwegian to become the world's third-biggest cruise brand when measured by passenger capacity. Only Royal Caribbean and Carnival are bigger.

Not including pulldown bunks and pullout sofas, MSC Cruises' 22 ships have 77,832 berths — about 21,000 more than Norwegian's fleet. At its current pace of growth, MSC Cruises could soon pass Carnival to become the world's second-biggest line.

As noted above, the MSC Cruises fleet includes eight of the world's 20 biggest cruise vessels — MSC World Europa , MSC Euribia , MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape . Built in the last six years, these eight ships aren't quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class vessels (the world's biggest cruise ships), but they're right up there when it comes to amenities and passenger capacity.

The grande dame of the MSC Cruises fleet is its recently unveiled MSC World Europa. At 215,863 tons, it's the biggest MSC Cruises ship ever built and the first of a new series of so-called World Class vessels that are nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships.

The next-biggest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet are its recently unveiled Meraviglia Class vessels: MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia. Similar in design, these five ships aren't quite as big as MSC World Europa, but they're right up there when it comes to size, amenities and passenger capacity.

MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia, which debuted in 2019, 2021 and 2023, respectively, are a tad longer than MSC Bellissima and MSC Meraviglia and are considered a subset of the class known as Meraviglia Plus. Each can hold 4,842 passengers at double occupancy (or 6,334 passengers if every last pulldown bunk and pullout sofa is filled).

The other two Meraviglia Class ships, which date to 2019 and 2017, can carry more than 5,600 passengers with every berth filled.

In addition to these five giants, MSC Cruises also operates four large Seaside Class ships. Each has a total capacity of 5,336 to 5,632 passengers.

Add those in, and MSC Cruises operates 10 of the world's 35 biggest cruise ships, plus four somewhat smaller Fantasia Class vessels that can each hold around 4,400 passengers at maximum occupancy.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Together, the 14 World, Meraviglia, Seaside and Fantasia Class vessels make up MSC Cruises' big-ship fleet. The line's remaining eight vessels, split among two classes, are considerably smaller, with maximum occupancy topping out at 2,700 to 3,200 passengers.

The eight smaller ships, which in general are the line's older ships, allow MSC Cruises to offer itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of the World Class or Meraviglia Class vessels, although even the biggest MSC Cruises ships are still designed to be able to call at most ports around the world.

The smaller ships also appeal to a subset of MSC Cruises fans who are willing to give up some onboard amenities in exchange for intimacy. They're usually less expensive on a per-day basis, too.

In addition to all the above, MSC Group — the line's parent company — has announced plans for yet another class of big ships to start arriving later this decade, though few details have been released. MSC Group is also developing a series of small luxury vessels that'll operate under a separate brand called Explora Journeys.

Destinations and itineraries

MSC Cruises sails almost everywhere in the world, but its heaviest presence is in Europe, where it's the biggest cruise operator.

In a typical summer, the line will deploy the vast majority of its ships in the Mediterranean or northern Europe. In recent years, the line has also kept at least a couple of ships in Florida in summer for voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. This year, the line had two ships based in Florida for summer sailings to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, plus one ship sailing out of New York City for the summer.

During winter, MSC Cruises typically will add more ships to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. (For winter 2023-2024, it expects to have six in the region.) It'll also typically send four or five ships to South America in winter and often deploys vessels in winter to South Africa and the Middle East.

For winter 2023-2024, it'll have one ship in South Africa. The line's Middle East deployment this year has been cut back due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Additionally, MSC Cruises often offers an around-the-world cruise in winter on a single ship.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an MSC Cruises ship

In North America, MSC Cruises ships have generally sailed out of Miami , but the line recently added Port Canaveral and New York City as home ports, too. The line also offers cruises from the Caribbean islands of Barbados, Martinique and Guadeloupe, and in a major development, the line opened its first private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , in the Bahamas in 2019. It's a major stop for many MSC Cruises itineraries in the region.

In Europe, major MSC Cruises hubs include Southampton, England; Copenhagen; Kiel and Hamburg in Germany; Ancona, Venice, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, Bari and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) in Italy; Barcelona, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca in Spain; and Marseille, France.

Who sails MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises is increasingly known for having big, bustling megaships that'll appeal to people who like a megaresort experience. In other words, if you're the kind of person who loves staying on property at Disney World or at a giant Las Vegas resort , this could be the line for you.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships offer vacationers a ton of options for dining (some vessels have more than a dozen distinct places to eat dinner or at least grab a quick bite) or entertainment. They're lively and fun.

They also have an inordinate amount of teen- and tween-friendly attractions — everything from some of the largest waterslides at sea to sprawling amusement areas with race car simulators, flight simulators and XD cinemas (more on all this below). That makes them particularly appealing to families, including multigenerational groups. Families are a big part of MSC Cruises' business.

But it's not just families that flock to MSC Cruises.

The line's ships are designed to offer something for everyone, and they thus appeal to a wide demographic, including couples of all ages and even solo travelers (the line has added solo cabins on its newer ships and occasionally runs promotions for solo travelers). They also draw customers from a wide range of the income spectrum.

At one level, MSC Cruises ships have a for-the-masses feel. However, overlaid across many of the line's ships are high-end suites, upscale restaurants and luxury services — most notably the suites and amenities in the exclusive, upscale MSC Yacht Club areas found on some vessels (more on that later). As a result, the line draws a good number of luxury-seeking travelers.

The demographic profile of MSC Cruises ships can be markedly different depending on where the vessels are based. On Caribbean sailings out of Florida, you'll find that a large percentage of passengers are English-speaking North Americans.

MSC Cruises voyages in Europe are often heavily filled with Europeans speaking Italian, German, Spanish and French, as well as some English speakers. In Europe, the line offers onboard programming in all five of these languages (all crew members speak English no matter where the ships are sailing).

Reality check: Due to the diverse origins of passengers on European sailings, the line typically makes announcements in all five of the aforementioned languages. This can result in extraordinarily long announcements at times, which can be a distraction to some cruisers. The good news is that on sailings out of U.S. ports, only safety announcements are made in all five languages. Other announcements are in English only.

Cabins and suites

MSC Cruises offers a wide range of accommodations on its ships. On its newest vessels, you'll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless "interior" cabins that measure as little as 172 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to suites more than five times that size that sprawl across two decks.

Still, MSC Cruises doesn't offer the sort of truly giant suites (more than 1,000 to 2,000 square feet) you'll find on some Norwegian and Royal Caribbean ships.

At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at affluent travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to being on a luxury ship, and they can be quite impressive.

The biggest suites on MSC Grandiosa, which launched in 2019, span two levels and offer around 635 square feet of interior space, plus another 237 square feet of outdoor balcony space.

On more than half of MSC Cruises' ships, many of the top suites are part of an exclusive, keycard-accessed area called the MSC Yacht Club . Billed as an upscale "ship within a ship" and aimed at luxury travelers, the MSC Yacht Club is at the very top of vessels and comes with a private lounge, a pool, sunning areas and even its own restaurant.

Related: Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

MSC Yacht Club accommodations also come with 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge.

Solo cabins (called interior studios) measuring just 127 square feet can be found on the line's seven newest vessels.

Insider tip: Passengers can use the interactive TVs in cabins to browse information, find out about daily events and activities, check bills and book services. On some ships, MSC for Me interactive wristbands can open your cabin door and also allow you to book services or make contactless payments for items on board.

Restaurants and dining

While a few of MSC Cruises' smallest ships have relatively limited dining venues, many of the line's vessels offer a wide range of choices.

On the line's recently unveiled MSC Euribia, for instance, there are nearly a dozen distinct eateries, as well as a number of bars and lounges that serve at least small bites. MSC Seashore has five specialty restaurants that feature waterfront, outdoor seating on the ship's boardwalk.

Every vessel has at least one or more main dining rooms and a casual buffet where meals are included in the fare.

For dinner in a main dining room, you must either have My Choice dining with the Aurea experience (a flexible dining option where you dine whenever you want) or classic dining (where you have a fixed table and time for dinner).

Nearly every ship also has at least one — and sometimes quite a few — extra-charge venues. Among the most common across the fleet is the American-style steakhouse Butcher's Cut, which is found on more than half the line's vessels. There also are sushi bars on more than half the line's ships, with varying names like Kaito Sushi and Galaxy Sushi.

The line's newest ships have teppanyaki restaurants, too, and passengers on MSC Cruises' Seaside Class ships, as well as MSC Meraviglia and MSC Splendida, can dine at a Mediterranean-style seafood restaurant.

Several of the line's newest vessels, including MSC Grandiosa and MSC Bellissima, also have the French cuisine-serving L'Atelier Bistrot.

Entertainment and activities

MSC Cruises offers a broad range of entertainment and activities on its ships. As noted above, the line's biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from Broadway-style theaters to spaces for circus-like performances; all manner of deck-top attractions; large casinos; and full-service spas. Plus, you'll find multiple bars, lounges and nightlife spots.

Theaters and shows

Like other megaship lines, MSC Cruises is known for big, glitzy theater productions performed in onboard theaters that are as state-of-the-art as anything you'll find on Broadway.

On the line's newer ships, such as MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Grandiosa, there are main theaters that hold nearly 1,000 people. They offer as many as six different full-scale theatrical productions during a typical voyage, with multiple showtimes for each production and a range of styles. You'll find original Broadway-style musicals, piano concerts and even operas.

Some MSC Cruises ships have high-tech, multipurpose entertainment spaces that serve as comedy clubs and karaoke bars but can also transform into music venues. Dubbed the TV Studio & Bar on some ships, these spaces also house radio and TV broadcasting equipment, and they can host games, quizzes and talent contests aired live on TV sets in cabins.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of MSC Cruises ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a seemingly endless array of bars, lounges and nightspots.

Every MSC Cruises ship has a casino, and on the line's larger vessels, they are big operations. Le Grand Casino on MSC Grandiosa, for instance, has 164 slot machines, 12 table games (including blackjack, roulette and poker) and its own bar.

The five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels also have soaring interior mall-like spaces called Gallerias with bars, restaurants and retail shops, as does the new MSC World Europa.

Many of the Gallerias, for example, are home to an innovative chocolate bar and boutique created by well-known French patissier and chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury.

The Gallerias on the five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels — MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima — are topped with one of the most stunning features found at sea: a dazzling "digital sky" made with curving LED screens that offer regular light shows during the day and evening. There's something similar on MSC World Europa.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships also have interactive game zones with such attractions as Formula One racing simulators, immersive XD cinemas, arcade games and even full-size bowling alleys.

For something more soothing, all MSC Cruises ships include spas. These can be quite big on the larger vessels, with expansive thermal areas and a wide choice of treatments and services.

Insider tip: Passengers can get information about onboard entertainment and restaurants (and make reservations) on the interactive screens found around MSC Cruises vessels.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of MSC Cruises ships offer pools, hot tubs and plenty of lounge space, plus some spectacular family-focused fun zones — on the line's newest ships, at least.

On the line's Meraviglia and Seaside Class ships, top-deck amenities include sprawling back-of-the-ship water parks with multiple waterslides, ropes courses and watery play areas for the little ones.

Some ships even have zip lines — the longest at sea.

Additionally, the main pool areas on the newest MSC Cruises ships are among the biggest and most stunning at sea. Some of the line's ships also have adults-only pools topped with glass ceilings that can be opened on warm days.

Children's programs

MSC Cruises has some of the most extensive children's programs at sea, with dedicated clubs and activities for children as young as a couple of months old through the age of 17.

On most ships, the line offers programming for five distinct age groups.

For the very youngest cruisers, there's Baby Club, a program for babies and toddlers up to the age of 3. The line partnered with baby care brand Chicco to develop dedicated Baby Club play areas on every ship with toys, games and music and rhythm activities. You can leave your toddlers at the clubs, which have dedicated staff, or stay and play with them.

MSC Cruises ships also have a dedicated Mini Club (ages 3 to 6) and Junior Club (ages 7 to 11) with age-appropriate activities. Designed in partnership with the Lego Group, the Mini Clubs offer games, events and activities such as arts and crafts. Junior Clubs have a Masterchef at Sea Juniors competition, plus acting, dancing and singing activities.

Related: New MSC Cruises ship in New York is bigger than the city's biggest hotel

MSC Cruises ships also have Young Club, a tween program (ages 12 to 14) that includes sports tournaments, high-tech games and other activities.

Then there's Teen Club (ages 15 to 17), which hosts disco parties, karaoke parties and Wii, Xbox and PlayStation 4 tournaments. On MSC Grandiosa, teens even get the chance to pilot a drone through an obstacle course during an activity called the Drone Academy, and the ship holds a teen dance competition designed in partnership with the company behind "The X Factor."

Kids and teens clubs on newer MSC Cruises ships can also access cutting-edge equipment like 3D printing machines, virtual reality devices and 3D product scanning, all of which are used in activities.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need either a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. Passports must be valid for at least six months.

For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. It's important that the name on your reservation is listed exactly as it appears on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

MSC Cruises adds an automatic service charge of $16 per person to final bills on sailings out of U.S. ports. Sailings with pricing in euros have a 12 euro charge ($13.13 at current exchange rates). Children 2 to 11 pay half the adult rate on most cruises. Children under 2 are not charged for service.

Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars for cruisers who do not have a drinks package. If you buy a drinks package, the gratuity charges for drinks is folded into the package price when you book it. A 15% service charge is also added to items in minibars, salons and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise ship: Everything you need to know

MSC Cruises has been rolling out Wi-Fi with speeds so fast that you'll be able to watch Netflix from your room on your mobile device. Unlike some lines, though, MSC Cruises doesn't offer flat-fee pricing for Wi-Fi. Instead, MSC Cruises charges by the number of devices you use and how you want to use the internet (think: browsing, texting, sending emails or video streaming).

Basic packages for browsing start around $72 for one device with unlimited data. A two-device plan with unlimited data for browsing costs about $109. There's also a four-device browsing plan for about $223. If you're looking to stream video along with other internet uses, you'll need a streaming plan. These start around $100 for one device and can be as high as $313 for a four-device plan.

Unlike other cruise lines, MSC Cruises does not let passengers switch their internet plan from one device to another during the cruise, even if they're only using one device at a time. Make sure you sign up for the Wi-Fi plan on the device you intend to use it with. If you'll want access on both your phone and your tablet, you will need a two-device plan.

Passengers can chat with friends and family on board ships even if they don't have an internet package by downloading the MSC for Me app to a smart device. The app also lets you book services on board.

Carry-on drinks policy

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises doesn't allow passengers to bring their own alcohol on board.

Smoking policy

Smoking (including electronic cigarette smoking) is allowed in a limited number of designated areas on ships, with the primary smoking area on ships being an outdoor pool area that varies by ship and is indicated by signage. Smoking is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 fee.

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises does not build self-service launderettes onto its ships. Vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry-cleaning services.

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins.

For cruises in the Caribbean, South America and South Africa, as well as on MSC Grand Voyages going to Europe and to Australia, the onboard currency is the U.S. dollar.

On cruises in other parts of the world, the onboard currency is the euro. All vessels operate on a cashless system with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a Cruise Card (or, on the newer ships, an MSC for Me wristband) that you can use to make purchases.

Drinking age

You must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol on sailings in the U.S. and the Caribbean. The drinking age on sailings everywhere else in the world is 18.

During the day, there's no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination and you're bound for the top deck, that means dressing for the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to put on when you go inside) are just fine.

On most evenings, the line recommends "smart casual" dress, meaning summery dresses for women and a lightweight jacket for men. On select days, the line also holds Gala evenings on its ships where the dress code can be more formal. For Gala evenings, if dining in a main dining room, the line suggests a tuxedo, dinner jacket or dark suit and tie for men and a dressy outfit, formal gown or cocktail dress for women.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

MSC Cruises loyalty program

MSC Cruises has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the MSC Voyagers Club , that has four tiers ranging from Classic (requiring 1 point) to Diamond (10,000 points).

Members earn points based on the length of the cruises they take and which "experience" they book on those sailings. There are four different "experiences" you can book on an MSC Cruises sailing, each with different inclusions and price points. The most basic "Bella" experience will get you fewer points than the top "MSC Yacht Club" experience.

For a sailing of under five nights, for instance, your earnings would range from 200 to 800 points depending on the experience you book. For cruises that are five to nine nights in length, you'd earn from 500 to 1,500 points depending on the experience.

Every person in your stateroom will earn points for the cruise. You can also earn points with onboard spending and any bookings you made before embarkation. You'll earn 100 points for every $150 in prepaid and onboard expenses.

Know, though, that there are a couple of key caveats. Only the Voyagers Club member who makes the final payment for the onboard expenses will receive those points. For prepaid expenses, points will be equally distributed among the cabin occupants.

Say, for example, the total amount of prepaid onboard services that apply to all cabin occupants before the cruise is $600. If there are four cabin occupants, the spending for the points calculation of each member will be $150, which is equal to 100 points.

As is typical for cruise line loyalty programs, the entry-level tier (Classic) doesn't bring all that many truly valuable rewards. By far the most alluring benefit at this level is the 5% discount that members get when booking future sailings (note that this discount is not valid on Tandem and MSC Grand Tours). That's real savings every time you book a cruise.

The real perks begin at Diamond status, which brings a free dinner in an extra-charge restaurant, priority embarkation at the start of a cruise and priority disembarkation at the end of a cruise.

Unlike with most cruise line loyalty programs, you won't automatically keep your status forever with MSC Cruises. Once achieved, your status is good as long as you take a cruise at least once every 36 months. If you don't, not only will your points disappear, but your entire account will be erased, requiring you to re-enroll and start all over again.

That's the downside of the MSC Voyagers Club. However, the program also comes with one very big upside: MSC Cruises will let you status match your way to top-tier Diamond status based on your status level with any of more than two dozen other loyalty programs — not just those run by competing cruise lines but also those operated by Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton. It's very rare in the cruise world.

How much does an MSC Cruises voyage cost?

MSC Cruises is known for some of the most affordable ships at sea. It's not uncommon to find MSC Cruises voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from under $75 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, at the time of publication, four-night sailings from Miami to the Bahamas in September 2024 start at just $249 per person, not including taxes and fees of $100. That works out to just $87.25 per person, per night, with taxes and fees, for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October and parts of November.

The timing of when you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board an MSC Cruises ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet and a few other amenities — unless you've paid up for a more inclusive package.

When pricing cabins, MSC Cruises offers one of four main "experiences," each of which comes with different inclusions and varying price tags. The basic "Bella" experience includes your room, dining in the main restaurants and buffet, and access to all the included features of the ship, such as kids programs and theater shows.

Note that if you book the Bella experience, you cannot select a specific cabin. You can only choose between the broad categories of inside, ocean-view or balcony cabin, and a cabin is later assigned to you.

One step up is the more expensive "Fantastica" experience, which adds room service and breakfast delivered to your cabin, priority choice of dinner sittings, access to additional kids activities and classes, and more. At this level and above, you can pick a specific cabin when booking.

With the even pricier "Aurea" experience, you'll get complimentary access to the spa's thermal area, priority boarding and other perks. The Aurea experience also comes with access to My Choice dining and an exclusive sun deck area that on many ships features an exclusive bar and hot tubs.

Then there's the MSC Yacht Club experience, mentioned above, which is the ultimate in onboard living. Even with its higher price tag, the MSC Yacht Club still provides great value for its wide range of perks, such as unlimited drinks in all MSC Yacht Club areas, including premium spirits and minibar items.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their 1st cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to the MSC Cruises website to book directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise (there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process: trust us) we recommend you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. A good travel agent will quiz you about your interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They also can help if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure MSC Cruises is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who knows all about the line's various cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see them firsthand.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your purchase when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which earns 2 points per dollar spent on travel (and dining).

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Bottom line

Long a major player in Europe, MSC Cruises is growing fast in North America with a lineup of big, new, amenity-filled ships.

If you're a megaresort lover, you'll feel right at home on MSC Cruises' new World, Meraviglia and Seaside Class vessels, which rival the biggest vessels of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian for their array of onboard amusements.

You'll also love their affordability. Among the world's biggest ships, they offer some of the lowest pricing. You'll be sharing your vacation with hordes of other people, of course — as many as 6,000 on some MSC Cruises vessels. However, even the biggest MSC Cruises ships have quiet nooks where you can escape the crowds.

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Our Top Destinations

MEDITERRANEAN

Cruising the Mediterranean with MSC Cruises means coming within reach of the best in culture, tradition and monuments that have for centuries enriched its shores. This cruise offers the opportunity to visit and learn about countries and people facing this sea and their millenary history.

NORTHERN EUROPE

From Iceland, Greenland and the Norwegian Fjords to Scandinavia , via the Baltic Capitals , this is an extraordinary MSC Cruise voyage that propose interesting and unusual itineraries to explore some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the planet, where nature flaunts all of its splendour.

DUBAI, ABU DHABI & SIR BANI YAS

A journey with an MSC Cruise toward Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sir Bani Yas will immerse you in the region's mesmerizing blend of beautiful beaches, record-breaking attractions, and experiences like no other. Uncover the vibrant tapestry of Dubai's lifestyle , and immerse yourself in the world of luxury as you discover the city's opulent malls. Alternatively, soak in the city's vibrant nightlife scene and treat yourself to exquisite fine dining in one of Dubai's beautiful restaurants for a lavish experience.

CARIBBEAN & ANTILLES

Cruise to the Caribbean , one of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in the world. Drift away to the sound of waves and perhaps indulge in some shopping and a spot of night life in trendy Miami or the mysterious Mexican Costa Maya .

OCEAN CAY MSC MARINE RESERVE

Discover our new and exclusive Bahamian destination: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve . Here you can spend a one-of-a-kind experience on an authentic Caribbean island, while connecting with the natural world, feeling the warmth of the Bahamian spirit and immersing in an eco-friendly environment.

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Are MSC Cruises English Speaking? Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to embarking on a cruise vacation with MSC Cruises, many travelers may wonder about the language spoken on board. MSC Cruises caters to a diverse range of international guests, and as such, they ensure that language isn’t a barrier to communication and enjoyment. The company recognizes the importance of effective communication and offers services in English, Italian, German, French, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese.

What Is MSC Cruises Official Working Language?

MSC Cruises, one of the leading cruise lines in the world, understands the importance of effective communication in a diverse environment. With crew members hailing from different profiles and backgrounds, MSC Cruises recognizes that this diversity brings great opportunities and added value to their operations. To facilitate seamless communication among their multinational crew, the official working language onboard their ships is English.

Crew members can build connections, share knowledge, and learn from each other in a language that they all understand.

Whether it’s an announcement over the ships intercom, a conversation between crew members, or instructions given during safety drills, English serves as the common thread that binds the diverse crew of MSC Cruises. This ensures that all crew members can work harmoniously together, regardless of their native language, creating a welcoming and efficient environment for both the crew and passengers.

This commitment to a common language ensures seamless operations and exceptional service delivery to passengers worldwide.

How MSC Cruises Promotes Language Learning Among Their Crew Members

• Offering language courses for crew members who’re interested in improving their language skills
• Providing language exchange programs where crew members can practice speaking with native speakers of different languages
• Encouraging crew members to use their language skills in their day-to-day interactions with guests
• Organizing language-themed events and activities on board the cruise ships
• Creating language learning materials and resources specifically tailored for crew members
• Recognizing and rewarding crew members who show improvement in their language proficiency
• Collaborating with language learning institutions and experts to enhance the language learning programs
• Creating a supportive and inclusive environment that motivates crew members to continue their language learning journey

When it comes to MSC Cruises, voyages in Europe see a diverse mix of languages spoken by passengers, including Italian, German, Spanish, French, and English. The onboard programming caters to these languages, ensuring all guests can fully enjoy their experience. Additionally, English is widely spoken by the crew members, regardless of the ship’s location.

Is MSC Cruises English?

MSC Cruises is a popular choice for European travelers, offering voyages throughout the continent. However, it’s important to note that MSC Cruises voyages in Europe are often heavily filled with Europeans speaking Italian, German, Spanish, and French, as well as some English speakers.

This ensures that English-speaking guests have no trouble communicating with the staff, who’re there to assist and provide excellent service throughout the voyage.

For English-speaking travelers, it’s advisable to check the itineraries and choose sailings that may have a higher percentage of English-speaking guests. This can vary depending on the destination and time of year, as some cruises may attract more international travelers than others.

In addition to the onboard programming, MSC Cruises often provides guides and brochures in multiple languages, including English. This allows guests to explore ports of call and learn more about the fascinating destinations they visit during their cruise.

Language Options and Services for Non-English Speaking Guests on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises understands that not all guests may be fluent in English, and they aim to provide an enjoyable experience for non-English speaking guests as well. The primary language used onboard MSC Cruises is English, but the crew members are multilingual and can communicate in several languages.

Guests can make use of the language assistance services offered by MSC Cruises, which include multilingual announcements, daily programs, menus, and signage in multiple languages. Additionally, the entertainment shows onboard often have subtitles or translations available in various languages, ensuring that non-English speakers can fully enjoy the performances.

Moreover, MSC Cruises provides language-specific excursions and shore services in select ports, allowing guests to explore and interact with the local culture in their preferred language. It’s recommended to check with MSC Cruises in advance to inquire about the specific language options available on your chosen itinerary. With their efforts to accommodate non-English speaking guests, MSC Cruises aims to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable during their cruise vacation.

When it comes to dress codes on MSC Cruises, the general rule is resort casual attire, allowing guests to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying their vacation. For women, the cruise line recommends tailored pants, nice shorts, skirts, and dresses as appropriate choices. Men are encouraged to wear tailored pants, nice shorts, and collared shirts. On Gala Nights (which are always optional), guests have the opportunity to dress up with gowns, cocktail dresses, elegant pantsuits, or more formal attire. MSC Cruises aims to provide a versatile and stylish atmosphere for all it’s passengers.

Can You Wear Shorts on MSC Cruises?

When it comes to dress code on MSC Cruises, the overall dress style is resort casual. This means that guests are encouraged to dress comfortably, yet respectfully, throughout their cruise experience. For women, tailored pants, nice shorts, skirts, and dresses are all appropriate choices for most occasions on board. It’s important to note, however, that on Gala Nights (which are always optional), a more elegant attire is recommended. For these special evenings, gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pantsuits would be more suitable.

Similarly, men are advised to wear tailored pants, nice shorts, and collared shirts as their standard attire for most occasions on the cruise. It’s always a good idea to bring at least one or two formal outfits for these special evenings.

Guests are encouraged to dress according to their personal style while being mindful of the occasion and any specific dress code requirements. With a little planning and consideration, you can ensure that youre appropriately dressed for all the different activities and events on board.

Understanding the Different Dress Codes for Different Areas of the Ship (e.g. Pool Area vs. Dining Area).

• Understanding the different dress codes for different areas of the ship (e.g. pool area vs. dining area).

The basic salary of MSC cruise ship crew members varies depending on the position and experience. On average, the hourly pay at Msc Cruises Sa is reported to be around $13 per hour. However, it’s important to note that there are additional factors such as gratuities and other benefits that can contribute to the overall income of crew members working on MSC cruise ships.

What Is the Basic Salary of MSC Cruise Ship?

What’s the basic salary of MSC cruise ship? The average hourly pay at MSC Cruises SA for a crew member is around $13 per hour. However, it’s important to note that this is just an average and individual salaries can vary greatly.

Crew members on MSC cruise ships typically receive additional benefits and allowances on top of their basic salary. These can include food and accommodation allowances, as well as access to onboard medical facilities and recreational amenities. In addition, crew members often have the opportunity to earn tips and commissions based on their performance and guest satisfaction.

It’s worth mentioning that while the basic salary may seem low compared to other industries, working on a cruise ship provides a unique opportunity to save money as living expenses are typically covered by the company. This can enable crew members to make significant savings over the duration of their contract.

It’s also important to consider that working on a cruise ship can involve long hours and demanding work. Crew members often work shifts that can span several weeks or months without a break, and the work can be physically and mentally challenging. However, many people are attracted to this line of work due to the opportunity to travel the world and experience different cultures.

Additionally, the opportunity for career progression and the chance to explore different destinations make working on an MSC cruise ship an appealing choice for many individuals.

Benefits and Allowances for Crew Members on MSC Cruise Ships

• Social Security Benefits
• Health Insurance Benefits
• Dental Insurance Benefits
• Vision Insurance Benefits
• Life Insurance Benefits
• Disability Insurance Benefits
• Paid Time Off Benefits
• Uniform Allowance
• Meals and Accommodations
• Education Reimbursement
• Crew Discounts on MSC Cruises
• Wellness Programs
• Retirement Savings Benefits
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Travel Opportunities

Source: Msc Cruises Sa Salary for Crew

MSC cruise is a family-friendly cruise line that welcomes children of all ages. In fact, they even offer discounted fares for children when they’re traveling with two paying adults. One of the highlights for kids onboard is the Doremi Land, a dedicated kids club with separate rooms for different age groups. From infants as young as 6 months old to children up to 11 years old, there are plenty of activities and adventures to keep them entertained throughout the cruise.

Does MSC Cruise Allow Children?

MSC Cruises is known for being family-friendly and welcoming children of all ages onboard their ships. They understand the importance of catering to families and provide a wide range of amenities and activities to keep children entertained throughout the duration of the cruise. Moreover, MSC offers deep discounts on fares for children traveling with two paying adults, making it even more affordable for families to embark on a memorable vacation.

One of the highlights for children on MSC Cruises is the kids club onboard MSC Seaside, known as Doremi Land. This dedicated area is truly special, offering separate rooms for different age groups from as young as 6 months up to 11 years old. This ensures that children of all ages have a safe and engaging environment to play and interact with other kids their own age.

The activities offered in Doremi Land are carefully designed to cater to each age group, with professional staff members overseeing the fun and keeping the children entertained. From arts and crafts sessions to sports activities and interactive games, there’s always something exciting happening at the kids club. Additionally, themed parties and events are organized regularly, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere for the young ones.

Safety measures are in place, and the staff undergoes extensive training to ensure the well-being of all children. Furthermore, there are designated times for drop-off and pick-up, allowing parents to plan their own activities and enjoy some quality time together.

With special discounts for children and a dedicated kids club called Doremi Land, families can rest assured that their children will have a fantastic time while on their cruise vacation.

Overview of Other Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities and activities to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience for all. Some of the highlights include:

1. Kids Clubs: MSC offers age-appropriate Kids Clubs for children of all ages, from babies to teenagers. These clubs provide supervised activities, games, and entertainment.

2. Family Entertainment: MSC Cruises offers family-friendly shows and performances, including Broadway-style productions, live music, and comedy shows that cater to all ages.

3. Water Parks and Pools: MSC ships feature water parks and pools designed for family fun. Kids can enjoy water slides, splash parks, and dedicated pool areas, while adults can relax in quieter pool areas.

4. Sports Facilities: There are sports facilities such as basketball courts, mini-golf courses, and even bowling alleys on board MSC ships. Families can engage in friendly competitions and enjoy various physical activities together.

5. Adventure Activities: MSC Cruises offer thrilling adventure activities like zip-lining, ropes courses, and virtual reality experiences, providing exciting opportunities for family bonding and adventure.

6. Family Dining: MSC ships offer family-friendly dining options, including dedicated kids’ menus and child-friendly dining venues. Families can enjoy meals together and cater to everyone’s tastes and preferences.

With these amenities and activities, MSC Cruises ensures that English-speaking families have a fantastic time onboard while creating lasting memories.

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status match program

Are you a loyalty member of another cruise line, hotel, or tour operator? If so, it’s time to discover our MSC Cruises Status Match program, which makes it easy to bring your earned benefits from another loyalty program with you and instantly enjoy comparable (or even greater) privileges on your future MSC Cruises sailings. Enrollment is free and easy. Simply submit your Status Match request by completing the form below and we’ll contact you once you’ve been approved and matched to your new MSC Voyagers Club loyalty tier. Once approved, you’ll instantly qualify for a 5% discount on future MSC Cruises sailings, where you’ll also receive onboard discounts for photos, Wi-Fi, and spa services; complimentary gifts; and other valuable savings. When you sail with MSC Cruises, you’ll immediately enjoy all of the privileges you’re used to —and then some.

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Dead whale caught on bow of MSC Cruises ship, authorities investigating

Authorities are conducting an investigation after a dead whale was found caught on the bow of an MSC Cruises ship.

The whale was discovered as the MSC Meraviglia ship approached the port in Brooklyn, New York, on Saturday. “We immediately notified the relevant authorities, who are now conducting an examination of the whale,” a spokesperson for the line told USA TODAY in an emailed statement.

The roughly 44-foot-long sei whale was towed to shore at Sandy Hook, New Jersey, for a necropsy, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries spokesperson Andrea Gomez. The examination, done on Tuesday, found broken bones in its right flipper and “evidence of tissue trauma along the right shoulder blade region.” The gastrointestinal tract was full of food, as well.

Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, the lead on the case, said in a Facebook post that the whale was a mature female.

“Most of the other organs were sampled including for biotoxin analysis and other life history studies,” Gomez said in an emailed statement. “Samples were collected and will be sent for histopathologic analysis. The tissue and bone samples collected will help biologists determine if the vessel interaction occurred pre or post mortem.”

NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident. Gomez noted that sei whales are endangered and usually seen a great distance from the coast in deeper waters.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of any marine life,” the MSC spokesperson added. “We have comprehensive measures in place to help avoid collisions, such as training all our deck officers with the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) and we follow regulations designed to protect whales and other marine life. This includes altering itineraries in certain regions to avoid whales and we will continue to evaluate and update our procedures with our partners and the authorities.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Authorities investigating after dead whale found on cruise ship bow

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MSC cruise ship sails into NYC with 44-foot dead endangered whale across its bow

N EW YORK (AP) — A cruise ship sailed into a New York City port with a 44-foot (13-meter) dead whale across its bow, marine authorities said.

The whale, identified as an endangered sei whale, was caught on the ship’s bow when it arrived at the Port of Brooklyn on Saturday, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration fisheries spokesperson Andrea Gomez said.

A spokesperson for MSC Cruises said the whale was on the MSC Meraviglia, which docked at Brooklyn before sailing to ports in New England and Canada.

“We immediately notified the relevant authorities, who are now conducting an examination of the whale,” officials with the cruise line said in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of any marine life,” the officials said, adding that the Geneva-based MSC Cruises follows all regulations designed to protect whales, such as altering itineraries in certain regions to avoid hitting the animals.

The dead whale was relocated to Sandy Hook, New Jersey, and towed to shore there to allow for better access to equipment and to conduct a necropsy, Gomez said.

The necropsy — an autopsy on an animal — was conducted on Tuesday, Gomez said. Samples collected from the whale will help biologists determine whether it was already dead when it was struck by the ship, she said.

Sei whales are typically observed in deeper waters far from the coastline, Gomez said. They are one of the largest whale species, and are internationally protected.

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Cruise ship sails into NYC port with 44-foot dead whale across its bow

A spokesperson for msc cruises said the whale was on the msc meraviglia, which docked at brooklyn before sailing to ports in new england and canada, published may 8, 2024 • updated on may 9, 2024 at 11:13 am.

A cruise ship sailed into a New York City port with a dead 44-foot endangered whale across its bow, marine authorities said.

The whale, identified as a sei whale, was caught on the ship's bow when it arrived at the Port of Brooklyn on Saturday, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration fisheries spokesperson Andrea Gomez said.

A spokesperson for MSC Cruises said the whale was on the MSC Meraviglia, which docked at Brooklyn before sailing to ports in New England and Canada.

“We immediately notified the relevant authorities, who are now conducting an examination of the whale,” officials with the cruise line said in a statement.

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“We are deeply saddened by the loss of any marine life,” the officials said, adding that the Geneva-based MSC Cruises follows all regulations designed to protect whales, such as altering itineraries in certain regions to avoid hitting the animals.

The dead whale was relocated to Sandy Hook, New Jersey, and towed to shore there to allow for better access to equipment and to conduct a necropsy, Gomez said.

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The necropsy, an autopsy on an animal, was conducted on Tuesday, Gomez said. Samples collected from the whale will help biologists determine whether it was already dead when it was struck by the ship, she said.

Sei whales are typically observed in deeper waters far from the coastline, Gomez said. They are one of the largest whale species and are internationally protected.

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• Exams: June 2025.
• Tuition: $8900.
• The level of Russian: Beginner.
• Duration of study: September/October 2024 – July 2025.
• Start date: September – October.
• Tuition: $7000.
• The level of Russian: All levels.

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Skift India Report: Majority of Travelers Procrastinate Buying Insurance

Amrita Ghosh , Skift

September 5th, 2023 at 11:00 PM EDT

Lack of education about travel insurance remains the biggest obstacle for brands’ selling it. Companies must therefore inform consumers on why they need the product regardless.

Amrita Ghosh

Only 25% of Indians traveling abroad purchase travel insurance well in advance while making travel arrangements, while the majority of them wait until the last three days to buy it, according to data compiled by insurance aggregator Policybazaar .

“Early buying allows travelers ample time to carefully review and select a travel insurance policy that offers the specific coverage they need. Besides focusing on coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions, travelers must ensure the policy covers the destinations they plan to visit and any specific activities they intend to do, such as adventure sports,” Manas Kapoor , business head of travel insurance, Policybazaar.com told Skift. 

What Influences this Behavior? A major chunk of Indian travelers visit Asian countries, where policy documents are not required until the day of the trip. This practice can lead to travelers overlooking the importance of securing insurance well in advance.

Benefits of Travel Insurance: To provide protection against baggage loss, flight cancellation, and medical emergencies.

Key Findings: 

• As of July 2023, over 38% of the people traveling abroad plan their trips for more than 15 days, mostly for European countries, followed by 26% of them planning to stay for 7-10 days.
• 7 out of 10 people understand the importance of having an adequate sum insured while traveling abroad, choosing over 1 lakh dollars as the sum insured. While the rest of them choose almost half of it, which is the minimum coverage one can opt for.
• International leisure travel has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, with over 97% of travelers exploring foreign destinations. Thailand continues to be the most preferred Asian travel destination for Indians. 
• Statistics for the first quarter of 2024 reveal that 50% Indians traveling to Asian countries belong to the age group of 18-35 years, while those in the age bracket of 36-50 years account for 24% of travelers. 

IndiGo Expands Fleet With Order for 10 More Airbus A320 Neo Planes

Budget carrier IndiGo has decided to place an order for another 10 A320 neo family aircraft.

Existing Order: The additional aircraft will be part of a previous order for 300 Airbus jets worth around $33 billion, which was placed in October 2019.

The latest decision comes three months after IndiGo announced placing a record order to buy 500 narrow-body planes from Airbus worth $50 billion , which was one of the largest-ever aircraft purchases by an airline.

Delivery: The aircraft will be delivered between 2030 and 2035, the airline had said.

International Operations: Foraying into Central Asia, IndiGo is set to operate four weekly non-stop flights between Delhi and Tashkent from September 22. The airline recently launched new flights to destinations in Africa , West Asia and Southeast Asia.

Russia Woos Indian Travelers With E-Visa and Foreign Tourist Card

Russia is pulling out all the stops to lure Indian tourists in a bid to shore up arrivals in a post-pandemic scenario and amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

“We are still on our way to restore the flow of Indian tourists in Moscow like it used to be before the pandemic. Before the pandemic, there was very steady growth like 12-15% on a year-on-year basis,” said Bulat Nurmukhanov , head of international cooperation division at Moscow City Tourism Committee.

Visa Offering: The e-visa facility with validity for 60 days and a processing time of just four workdays was extended to Indians last month. The facility is expected to cut short the extensive documentation process and reduce the processing time.

“In the first half of this year, we have already received about 20,000 Indians in Moscow – 56% higher than the same period last year. Indians are coming back,” Nurmukhanov added.

Enabling Cashless Payments: The Russian government is also working on a plan to issue a foreign tourist card to help address payment-related issues, after the departure of MasterCard and Visa from the Russian market. 

Chennai Airport to Have Two Domestic Terminals from October

Chennai airport will have two functional domestic terminals, starting from October. 

How This Will Benefit Passengers: The development aims to reduce congestion, streamline operations, and enhance passenger experience during peak hours.

Operations: The move comes following the opening of a part of the new integrated terminal (T2) to which the international flight operations have shifted in July. While the existing domestic terminal (T1) will operate as usual, the international terminal (T4) that was handling international flights till a few months ago will turn into the second domestic terminal.

Clear Signages: Airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air, will use the T1 terminal while Air India, Air Asia and Vistara will shift to the T4 terminal, airport officials said. 

Signum Resort Igatpuri Opens Doors in Maharashtra

Hotel management company Signum Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Signum Resort Igatpuri in the western state of Maharashtra. 

Number of Rooms: The property will feature 35 rooms.

Recent Openings: Last month, Signum Hotels launched a property in Gujarat — Signum CityScapes Landmark in the port town of Dahej.

Footprint: The company has already opened 12 hotels in India and manages over 500 apartments spread across more than 40 locations.

Expansion Plans: Signum plans to open more properties in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Air India Express to Launch New Brand Soon

Air India Express , which will function as the low-cost arm of Tata Group-owned Air India, will follow in the footsteps of its parent company and unveil its new brand in the next couple of months, the airline said in a statement.

What the Rebranding Entails: Air India Express, which is in the process of getting merged with AIX Connect (formerly known as AirAsia India), will aim to establish meaningful connections’ including international routes, offer a ‘unique experience’ with an Indian touch, and offer ‘best-in-class value to its passengers, the airline said.

“Our ambitions will ride upon our huge fleet and network expansion, in the domestic India market as well as short-haul international region, unlocking synergies with the merger of the two entities,” said Aloke Singh , CEO of Air India Express and AIX Connect.

Integrated Website: In July, the two airlines had received regulatory approval to operate under the brand “Air India Express” and launched a unified website, airindiaexpress.com .

Operations: Air India Express and AIX Connect are subsidiaries of Air India, together operating over 300 flights daily across 30 domestic and 14 international airports, with a fleet of 54 aircraft, comprising 26 Boeing 737s and 28 Airbus A320s.

Vizag International Cruise Terminal to Launch Services in November

Set to launch services in November, the newly-inaugurated $11.56 million Vizag International Cruise Terminal is expected to boost cruise tourism from the port city in Andhra Pradesh .

Capacity: The terminal can accommodate 2000 passenger cruise ships. 

Other Facilities: Additionally, the terminal houses a covered storage shed-2 in port area, a truck parking terminal as well as one oil refinery berth to boost the capacity of the Vizag Port.

Cruise Services: The Visakhapatnam Port Authority — in association with cruise lines Cordelia, Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises — plans to add services to Chennai, Colombo/Trincomalee, Singapore and Bangladesh, besides exploring coastal cruises to Orissa and the Sunderbans. 

UAE-India Flight Prices Set to Drop 15-30% After September 14

After three months of price hikes, airline ticket prices from the UAE to several Indian cities are expected to decrease by 15-30% after September 14. 

Airfare Range: One-way fares are expected to remain in the $215.39 to $258.26 range until November 1. Following this, fares are expected to stay elevated until the second week of January 2024, coinciding with the festival season as well as the New Year rush, according to travel agents. 

Sweet Respite: Many Indian expatriates returning to the UAE after the summer holidays had to delay their travel plans due to a more than 200% increase in fares compared to off-season dates. However, fares for round-trip travel have now significantly dropped. 

New Offering: Emirates will introduce Premium Economy services to Mumbai and Bengaluru from October 29, coinciding with the beginning of the winter peak season.

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