msc cruise ship ages

MSC Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (Updated 2023)

MSC Cruises has an active fleet of 22 ships currently. They are currently one of the largest cruise line fleets in the world.

Their next ship, MSC World America will launch in 2025 – taking them to 23 ships.

Introduction to MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a Swiss-Italian cruise line, founded back in 1989 in Naples, Italy.

A sibling company of the giant Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), MSC has strong roots connecting it with the sea dating back to 1675.

Since 1989, MSC Cruises has built a formidable fleet of cruise ships, with the last few years adding several brand new ships per year on average and an order book with many more lined up.

Whilst the cruise shutdown of 2020 stopped MSC from sailing briefly, they were quick to continue the building of their new ships and did not sell off any of their current vessels.

This guide will help you work out which MSC Cruises’ ship is which!

MSC Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

MSC Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all msc ships new builds.

Only two of MSC Cruises’ ships ( MSC Armonia and MSC Sinfonia ) are not new-builds for MSC Cruises. These two ships are ex-Festival Cruises ships (previously named European Vision and European Stars ).

They were acquired when Festival Cruises went bankrupt and MSC Cruises purchased them for their operations.

MSC Cruises chose to use a modified version of the European-class ships and built MSC Lirica and her twin sister, MSC Opera .

MSC Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

What is the meraviglia plus class.

The Meraviglia Plus class was built after the success of MSC Meraviglia . The Plus class is an extended version of the ship (approx 15m longer) and has slightly larger facilities, including more cabins – giving an extra passenger capacity of 679 ( MSC Grandiosa – 6,334 compared to MSC Meraviglia 5,642).

What is the Seaside EVO class?

The Seaside EVO class was built after the success of MSC Seaside . This class is 16m longer, offering bigger facilities throughout the ship and more cabins. This enables a higher passenger capacity over the existing Seaside class of 548 passengers ( MSC Seashore 5,632 compared to MSC Seaside 5,084)

Additionally, newer classes of MSC ships are more environmentally advanced, offering enhanced wastewater treatment facilities and enhanced selective catalytic reductions (i.e reduced emissions).

MSC Cruise Ships Frequently Asked Questions

Which msc cruise ship is the biggest.

Currently, the biggest MSC cruise ship is actually a trio of sister ships:  MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa   and  MSC Grandiosa   – all 331 metres long and 191,200 GRT with a max passenger capacity of 6,344.

Which MSC cruise ship is the smallest?

Both  MSC Sinfonia  and  MSC Armonia  are the smallest MSC cruise ships in terms of GRT (Tonnage) but  MSC Armonia  actually carries 26 passengers less, at 2,520 max capacity.

Which MSC cruise ship is the newest?

The newest MSC cruise ship that has launched is  MSC Euribia . She was handed over to MSC Cruises on 31st May 2023.

Which MSC cruise ship is the oldest?

The oldest (still at sea) MSC cruise ship is  MSC Armonia . Whilst she entered service for MSC Cruises in 2004, she was actually built as  European Vision  for Festival Cruises back in 2001.

How many classes of ships does MSC have?

MSC Cruises currently have eight classes of ships. Two are hybrid classes (Seaside EVO and Meraviglia Plus) and the rest are unique classes.

Which MSC cruise ship is the best?

Ask ten different people which is their favourite MSC ship and you’ll get ten different answers! But  MSC Seaside  and  MSC Meraviglia  have frequently come top of many polls and are widely accepted as two of the most popular MSC cruise ships.

Where are MSC cruise ships built?

MSC Cruises builds a lot of its newer ships at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique (St. Nazaire) shipyard in France. The Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus class are some of the latest ships from there.

The Seaside and Seaside EVO ships were built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, Italy – one of the biggest cruise shipbuilders based in the Mediterranean.

How many ships does MSC have?

Twenty-two ships as of June 2023

Which MSC ships run on LNG?

Both MSC World Europa and the new MSC Euribia run on LNG fuel.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing an MSC Cruise ship for your cruise there is a vast range of ships that are perfect whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or as a family.

Look out for our detailed guide on the different MSC classes shortly!

Similar Posts

Day 5 – Cagliari, Sardinia

MSC Meraviglia Bars and Restaurants Guide

MSC Seashore feature preview

Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Day 0 – Pre-departure Day

MSC Magnifica Ultimate Buffet Guide

• Discover Exclusive Offers and Special Deals on 4th of July Cruise Deals
• Discover Exclusive and Special deals on MSC Kids Sail Free
• MSC Cruises June Deals & Add Drink & Wifi to Save More
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Poesia Mediterranean Cruises for 2024
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Sailings from New York
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Euribia Northern Europe Cruises for 2024
• Get exclusive cruise deals on MSC Cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral
• Discover Exclusive Offers and Special Deals on MSC Cruise Deals
• +1 (866) 622-3344

• Top Cruise Destinations
• All Cruise Destinations
• Top Departure Ports
• All Departure Ports
•  Ocean Cruises
•  River Cruises
•  Cruise Length
•  2 to 3 nights
•  4 to 6 nights
•  7 to 9 nights
•  10 to 13 nights
•  14 and more nights
• All Cruise Lines
• Cruise Booking
• Cruise Articles
• MSC Cruise Tips

List of MSC Cruises Ships by Class, Age and Size

Read About the comprehensive list of MSC Cruises ships by class, age, and size for your ideal luxury cruise experience.

Book A Cruise Now

Mediterranean Shipping Company, known as MSC Cruises, is the largest privately-owned cruise line in the world with a 23-cruise fleet. After Carnival and Royal Caribbean, more than 10% of travelers choose MSC cruises worldwide each year. MSC Cruises is the 3rd largest cruise company in the world. Each cruise offers comfort, innovation, dining, entertainment areas, and onboard experiences.

MSC Cruises covers 140 destinations and 50 boarding points in the summer. MSC ships sail year-round in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. MSC seasonal itineraries include South America, Southern Africa, North America, Northern Europe, Dubai, Asia, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the Red Sea.

With many cruise options, it isn't easy to choose the best cruise for you as they cover the most popular destinations like South America, Europe, The Caribbean and the Bahamas, Bermuda, Eastern Canada and New England, The Persian Gulf, and many more. Here is everything you need to know about MSC Cruises for planning your upcoming MSC Cruises journey. We covered all MSC Cruise ships by class, year, and size.

MSC Cruise Ships by Class

Cruise ships can be of various sizes and types. When you choose any of the cruises, you will have a class of that Individual cruise ship. It helps you to find similar cruises and separate cruises of the same cruise line.

MSC Cruise ships fleet in groups of classes. Each ship with the same classes has a very similar, with some minor changes on board. MSC Cruises has eight classes. The first-ever class of MSC cruises was "MSC Lirica Class," and the latest one is "MSC World Class".

1. Lirica Class

The “Mistral Class” cruise ships currently owned by MSC Cruises are the oldest group of ships in the MSC Cruise line. As per history, the mistral class ship was ordered by Renaissance Cruises in 1996, but later, they withdrew the order. Then Festival Cruises took the order and went bankrupt. In 2004, 4 cruise ships were taken over by MSC Cruises, and Mistral Class cruises became MSC Lirica Class Cruise ships.

New features in Lirica Class cruise ships included elegant accommodation, suites, family options, cabins with a balcony or ocean view, new child and teen areas, a spray park, more dining options, bars, refurnished shops, a longue, and restaurants.

MSC Armonia

MSC Armonia is one of the Lirica class cruise ships built in 2001, originally built for Festival Cruises as “MS European Vision,” and has been operated by MSC Cruises since 2004. She can accommodate 760 crew members and 2,065 passengers. Her itineraries destinations are the Mediterranean, MSC Grand Voyages, and South America.

MSC Sinfonia

Like the sister cruise MSC Armonia, MSC Sinfonia was a part of Festival Cruises before known as “MS European Stars.” She was the last cruise ship built for Festival Cruises, then it became a part of MSC in 2004 and sailed under the name of “MSC Armonia.” The maximum speed of MSC Sinfonia is 21.7 knots, and sailing is a famous destination in the Mediterranean with a capacity of 2646 passengers and 721 crew members.

MSC Lirica was the first newbuild cruise ship on service for MSC Cruises. Her sister cruises, MSC Armonia and MSC Sinfonia, are basically the same but have a smaller ship funnel and other modifications like windows and interior, but MSC Opera is a very similar sister cruise ship. She can carry 2648 passengers and 721 crew members. MSC Grand Voyages, the Mediterranean, and South America are the destinations where MSC Lirica is sailing.

MSC Opera cruise ship, built in 2004, is currently operated by Swiss company MSC Cruises. She is carrying 2658 passengers and 728 crew members. She served as the flagship of the company till 2006. She built with more classic lines than her sister in the Fantasia and Musica classes. She is sailing to the destinations of MSC Grand Voyages, Emirates, and the Mediterranean.

2. Musica Class

Musica Class ships started in 2006, operated by MSC Cruises, a Swiss global cruise line located in Geneva. The first cruise was MSC Musica, and the class was named after her. The 4 ships are on the list: MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesía, and MSC Magnifica.

The features of this Musica class cruise ship are luxury cabins and suits with an obstructed view, entertainment areas, pools, bars, restaurants, café areas, a Pullman bed facility, and more.

MSC Musica is the first cruise ship of the Musica Class, built in 2006 and operated by MSC Cruises. She has 1014 passenger cabins with 3223 passengers and 987 crew members capacity. The popular destinations she is sailing are the Mediterranean, MSC Grand Voyages, South America, Saudi Arabia, and the Red Sea.

MSC Orchestra

MSC Orchestra is the second cruise ship of the Musica Class family. It was built in 2007 for MSC Cruises. She accommodates 3223 passengers and about 940 crew members. The interior décor of marble and wood, soft furnishing, and Italian quality colors. She is sailing to cover the Mediterranean and MSC Grand Voyages.

MSC Poesía

MSC Poesía was built in 2008 by the “Aker Yards” in France. She is a sister Cruise ship of other Musica Class Cruise ships. She was the flagship of MSC Cruises until MSC Fantasia replaced her. She is the first vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet officially named outside Italy in 2008. She has 3223 passengers capacity and 1039 crew members capacity. The Mediterranean, MSC Grand Voyages, and Northern Europe are the destinations available to enjoy the MSC Poesía Cruise ships.

MSC Magnifica

MSC Magnifica was launched in January 2009, built in January 2010, and entered service in March 2010. She was constructed by “STX Europe” in France. MSC Magnifica can carry 987 crew members and 3223 passengers with 1279 cabins. MSC Magnifica sailing around the Caribbean & Antilles, Mediterranean, MSC Grand Voyages, and other global destinations. The ship has 13 decks, an Art-Deco style theatre, casino, cinema, dining and bar areas, and other entertainment areas.

3. Fantasia Class

The MSC Fantasia Class cruise ships have been operated by MSC Cruises since 2008. All Fantasia Class Cruise ships are part of third-generation ships built by STX Europe in St. Nazaire. Four Cruise ships, MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina, and the MSC Preziosa, are vessels under the MSC Fantasia Class.

The ships from Fantasia Class have 1313 seat theaters, around 30,000 m² large public areas, 1700 m² fitness areas, a mini golf course, and a tennis/basketball court. MSC Fantasia Class Cruise Ships received the “Six Golden Pearls” trophy for health, safety, and environmental-related capabilities.

MSC Fantasia

MSC Fantasia was the first ever cruise ship for MSC Fantasia Class, which is owned and operated by MSC Cruises. She started cruising from Genoa in 2008. MSC Fantasia was the largest ship to operate for MSC Cruises at the time of delivery. She has a 4D cinema, a spa, a race car simulator, and musical fountains.

She can carry 4363 passengers and 1370 crew members. MSC Fantasia vessels to the ports of the Mediterranean and MSC Grand Voyages.

MSC Splendida

MSC Splendida , previously known as “MSC Serenata,” was built in 2009 with a $550 million investment. Her capacity is 1370 crew members and 4363 passengers. She is ready to schedule to be sailing in Durban for 2023/2024 and will serve South Africa to Mauritius, Port Elizabeth, Mozambique, Reunion, Namibia & Cape Town. The ship has a system to program multiple songs to play and enjoy. She is the best Eco-ship that gives you luxury, style, and comfort to the MSC Grand Voyages, South Africa, and Mediterranean destinations.

In the Fantasia Class, MSC Divina is the third ship for the class and the twelfth ship built and sailing for MSC cruises. With 139,072 tons gross tonnage, she is larger than MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida. They renamed MSC Fantastica to honor the actress, Sophia Loren. The Cruise provides modern comfort, a variety of sports and entertainment, and relaxation facilities. She is one of the ships that are sailing to the private island destination, “Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve,” Bahamas.

MSC Preziosa

Preziosa is a magnified version of her two sister cruise ships, MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida. She was the 13th cruise ship of MSC Cruise line. 80% of rooms have an ocean view with a veranda on this cruise. The ship has 24.21 knots maximum speed. Public areas included seven restaurants, 20 lounges and bars, four swimming pools, a gym, and a spa. She has a capacity of 1388 crew members and 4345 passengers. MSC Preziosa departs from Rotterdam, Santos (Sao Paulo), Hamburg, Copenhagen, Le Havre, Le Havre Southampton, Oslo, Southampton, Copacabana Beach and Rio de Janeiro. She sailed to cover the ports & areas of South America, MSC Grand Voyages, and Northern Europe.

4. Seaside Class

The first and leading cruise ship MSC Seaside starts from December 2017 in the Caribbean Sea. The two original MSC Seaside Class is MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview are designed to sailing in warmer climates as MSC describe, they follow the sun. The ship features convertible staterooms and cluster cabins for groups and families, open modular, luxury suits with private jacuzzies and hanging gardens.

She sails with extra space areas and environmental technologies. The Seaside Class is developed on Fincantieri's "Project Mille". The all-cruise ships of this class have "Sea" prefix.

MSC Seaside

MSC Seaside was built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and entered services in 2017. She was the first ship of the MSC Cruises line's fleet in the United States. She is the 14th largest cruise ship in the world. She has cabins and suites with balconies to open-air bars and restaurants. Also, passengers can enjoy the ocean view from panoramic elevators and two glass-floor catwalks. She sails to the Caribbean & Bahamas, the Mediterranean, and MSC Grand Voyages.

MSC Seaview

MSC Seaview is a sister cruise ship of MSC Seaside and a very family-friendly ship. MSC Seaview is sailing to the Mediterranean, South America, and Western Mediterranean, but she is sailing to Europe or Brazil if you are planning during the winter months. She offers the longest zip lines at sea, shooting water cannons, and many other activities for kids and adults.

5. Seaside EVO Class

There are two cruise ships, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape, in the Seaside EVO Class. The first Cruise MSC Seashore entered service in 2021. It is a sub-class of Seaside Class, and both cruises are Eco-friendly. With the larger dimensions, more generous public spaces, countless options for relaxing and outside dining, and staterooms with more luxury and relaxation.

MSC Seashore

MSC Seashore became the lead ship of the Seaside EVO class. She is an evolution of her sister cruise ships, MSC Seaview and MSC Seaside from Seaside Class. She sails to the Western Caribbean, Bahamas, and Eastern Caribbean. She is equipped with the latest advanced environmental technology to increase energy. She can carry 5632 passengers and 1648 crew members.

MSC Seascape

The second Seaside EVO Class Cruise ship, MSC Seascape, is a similar version of the sister cruise, MSC Seashore . She can accommodate approx. 5877 passengers. She features a glitzy, New York City-inspired aesthetic. Start sailing from sunny Miami and explore white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Bahamas and Caribbean. Many environmentally friendly policies, safety features, and other minor details are similar to her sister ship, MSC Seashore.

6. Meraviglia Class

The Meraviglia Class has two MSC Cruise ships, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima. The class is larger than the Seaside class. This class has the sixth largest cruise ship in the world, behind Royal Caribbean's AIDAnova and Oasis-class cruise ships. This class of sheep can journey all around the world. Meraviglia Class was uniquely designed, allowing it to reach ports that other cruise ships couldn't access.

Some signature features of Meraviglia Class cruise ships are F1 simulators, Sportsplex, beverage options, various luxurious cabins and staterooms, spacious shopping areas, bars and restaurants, and more. Passengers can enjoy all-new entertainment concepts, including acrobatics, dance, and live music in Meraviglia Class ships.

MSC Meraviglia

MSC Cruises set the bar high as they launched the first cruise of this class, MSC Meraviglia , the biggest ship in the European market, in 2017. She is the lead ship of MSC Cruises' new "Vista Project" cruises. MSC Meraviglia offers an overnight stay on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, a Private Island of MSC in The Bahamas. She sails to Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Canada/New England. The cruise has 5642 passengers capacity.

MSC Bellissima

MSC Bellissima is the best family-friendly cruise. She debuted and started her journey in March 2019. Facilities on the cruise include a large number of dining, drinking, and entertainment options, including the second Cirque du Soleil at Sea, four pools, a ropes course, a water park, and a large central promenade lined with bars, shops, and restaurants. She has the capacity to carry 5655 passengers and sail to Asia.

7. Meraviglia-Plus Class

MSC Meraviglia-Plus Class has three new updated versions and new-generation cruises of Meraviglia Class with more advanced technology, space areas, entertainment areas, and more fun. The first cruise of this class, MSC Grandiosa, was launched in 2019. This class cruise has featured the first and only masterpiece, “Contemporary Fine Art Museum at Sea.”

The environmental-friendly cruises of Meraviglia-Plus Class operate at a global level, covering routes in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Europe, the Baltic Sea, North and Central America, the Arab Emirates, South America and the Indian Ocean, and the Far East.

MSC Grandiosa

MSC Grandiosa was the first ever cruise ship of Meraviglia-Plus Class debut in 2019. She offers more public space areas with exciting innovations. Passengers can enjoy flexible dining and unlimited drinks in various restaurants. She is MSC’s first ship with a selective catalytic reduction. She sails to MSC Grand Voyages, the Mediterranean, and South America. She has the capacity to carry 6334 passengers.

MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa is the second ship in the Meraviglia-Plus class. She is a sister ship to MSC Grandiosa with similar features and entered the service in May 2021. She is also the largest ship, like a sister cruise, with 181,541 GT and carries a total of 6334 passengers. An updating feature on MSC Virtuosa is the extended interior Promenade, with cafes, shops, and bars, and overhead the entire ceiling is a 95m by 6m LED screen displaying panoramas and the night sky.

MSC Euribia

The best family-friendly cruise, MSC Euribia offers a wide range of family activities, fun top decks, cabins, and more dining and drink options. She is called after "the ancient goddess Eurybia," furthering the vision of the MSC Euribia to learn the deployment of state-of-the-art sustainable technologies to save and maintain the precious marine ecosystem. MSC Euribia sails to the Baltic Sea and the Middle East with a capacity of 6327 passengers.

8. World Class

In 2022, MSC debut the first Word Class cruise ship “MSC World Europa” - the largest cruise ship in MSC’s history built by Chantiers de l'Atlantique of France. The design of this class would become the third new prototype ordered by MSC Cruises. The World Class series cruise installed with GE Power Conversion. MSC revealed that their upcoming sister cruise ship of MSC World Europa will debut in 2024 and two more in 2025 and 2026 respectively. All ships are powered by LNG.

The Word Class cruise ships have largest waterpark in fleet, 7 swimming pools including sliding roof, MSC kids club for families and children, 13 dining venues, 19 various cabin categories, with 7 new designs. The Gross tonnage of the Word Class cruise ships is 2,15,863.

MSC World Europa

MSC's first-class cruise ship, MSC World Europa , is the first cruise ship with green technology, MSC's first and the world's sixth largest cruise ship, debuting in 2022. With a 6762 capacity of passengers and 2626 cabins, she is cruising in the Mediterranean. MSC World Europa is a groundbreaking addition to the MSC Cruises set to redefine the concept of innovation and luxury on the high seas. The main activity hub onboard is "The World Galleria."

MSC World America

Enjoy the journey of the Caribbean as never before. In Spring 2025, MSC Cruises' second World Class ship, MSC World America, will join the fleet. Get ready to sail from Miami for two jaw-dropping tropical 7-night itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. She has similar features to the sister cruise MSC World Europa. The ship is 215,863 gross tons and will be ready to carry 6,762 passengers at full, with 2,126 crew.

MSC Cruise Ships by Age (From newest to oldest)

The first MSC cruise was MSC Armonia, previously known as a "European Vision" in 2001, built with 245 million USD cost, and MSC's newest ship is "MSC World America," which will launch in 2024 with approx. 1.1 billion USD built worth.

The table below shows MSC Cruises Ships from newest to oldest by built year and also mentions refurbished year and approx. Built cost of each MSC cruise.

MSC Cruise Ships by Size

MSC has a total of 23 cruises on the list. All Cruises are made with different dimensions, shapes, and features. The large cruise ships (MSC World Class Cruises) have the greatest number of pools, waterslides, hot tubs, and other deck-top allures, as well as various bars, restaurants, and entertainment areas. There are a large number of cabins, staterooms, and more facilities in comparison to small cruise ships (MSC Lirica Class).

So, what about small cruises? Small cruises are also capable of carrying 2000 to 3000 people easily. It means small Cruises of MSC Cruises also offer luxurious and relaxation journeys with tasty dining and entertainment areas and fun activities. The main point is MSC Cruises sails globally. Travelers can choose their dream destination with their favorite MSC cruise ships.

From the biggest or largest cruise to the smallest one, all are covered in the list below, including Gross tonnage, capacity of passengers, number of cabins, including guests with disabilities.

Final Words

MSC Cruises has a wide range of cruise ships based on class. You can choose the best one as per your preference. If you are looking for a small one, you can go on Lirica Class cruises, but if you like giant and advanced tech cruises with a lot of activities and fun with more options in food, stay, drinking, and shopping, then you must book most luxurious and largest MSC World Class Cruises.

Enjoy your cruise journey with MSC with global destinations.

Unwrap the Season: A Guide to Christmas Markets Cruises in 2023

Book A Cruise Now Visiting a Christmas market is one of the most fun and interesting things to do during the festive season. Various cruise lines offer this tour to make sure that all the visitors [...]

November 09, 2023

Is continental breakfast free on Cruise Ship room service?

Book Your Cruise Vacations aboard a cruise ship are linked with luxury, relaxation, and an abundance of amenities. The notion of eating breakfast in the privacy of their own cabin appeals to many [...]

November 06, 2023

How much does it cost to go on Ovation of the Seas?

Book Ovation of the Seas For many years, cruises have been a well-liked holiday option for tourists looking for the ideal balance of action and leisure. The Ovation of the Seas from Royal [...]

Are Disney Cruises good for families?

Book Disney Cruises Disney Cruises, the company that is synonymous with enchantment and wonderful experiences, has expanded its domain to the high seas. These nautical adventures promise [...]

May 22, 2024

Cruise Inquiry

Our cruise experts will help you to plan your perfect cruise vacation!

* I consent to receive communications by email or phone. I understand I may opt out at any time using the unsubscribe link provided in all communications. Please proceed to the Privacy Policy page or read our Terms & Conditions to understand how your data might be used.

We use cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Privacy Policies

• Cruise News
• Cruise Tips
• All Cruise Lines
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Videos
• Port Webcams

• Advertiser Disclosure

MSC Cruise Ships Listed Newest to Oldest [Updated]

MSC Cruises currently operates 22 cruise ships and is the world’s largest privately held cruise company.

With cruise ships all around the world, MSC is one of the fastest growing cruise companies in the world.

Here is a list of every MSC cruise ship in order from newest to oldest.  The list will be updated as new ships are added to the fleet and as older ships are retired.

In this article: MSC Cruise ships listed by size.

The ships range from the 65,542 ton Lirica class entering service in 2003 to the 215,000 gross ton World class.

The majority of MSC cruise ships operate in Europe with a growing number of sailings to the Caribbean.

MSC Seacape

MSC Seascape is the second Seaside EVO-class ship with the cruise line.  The 170,400 Gross Ton ship was added to the fleet in November of 2022.  The ship offers over 42,000 square feet of outdoor space and joins MSC Seashore in the same class.

MSC World Europa

MSC Virtuosa

This Meraviglia Plus sub-class ship was launched on May 20th, 2021.  With a gross tonnage of 181,541, MSC Viruosa is 1,08t feet long and can carry 4,842 passengers at double-capacity.

MSC Seashore

This Seaside EVO-class cruise ship was launched in August of 2020.  With a gross tonnage of 170,412, the ship is 1,112 feet long and can carry 4,540 passengers at double-capacity.

MSC Grandiosa

The inaugural sailing of MSC Grandiosa took place on November 10th, 2019.   This Meraviglia Plus sub-class ship has a gross tonnage of 181,541 and is 1,087 feet in length.  At double capacity MSC Grandiosa can carry 4,842 passengers.

MSC Bellissima

MSC Bellissima debuted in March of 2019 as the 2nd Meraviglia class ship with MSC Cruises.  This 4,500 passenger smart ship has the largest LED dome at sea, a chocolate factory, an indoor basketball court in the sports zone, and an impressive water park.  Read our post on 7 things we loved about MSC Bellissima and see our full video review of the ship here .

MSC Seaview

The 2nd Seaside class ship with MSC, Seaview debuted in June of 2018.  The 153,516 ton ship can accommodate 5,179 passengers.  This was the 3rd ship to enter service for MSC in a period of just 12 months.

MSC Seaside

Entering service for MSC Cruises in November of 2017, MSC Seaside was named the hottest cruise ship of the year.  The new design allowed for passengers to enjoy more outdoor space on the open decks.  The ship was christened in Miami, Florida and has been called “The ship that follows the sun”.  Read our post on 8 reasons to cruise on MSC Seaside .

MSC Meraviglia

MSC Meraviglia was the largest ship MSC had ever built.  The ship debuted in May of 2017 and at the time was the 4th largest cruise ship in the world at 171,598 tons.  Meraviglia can accommodate 4,500 passengers.

MSC Preziosa

MSC Preziosa debuted in March of 2013 as the 4th ship in the Fantasia class.  The ship is an enhanced version of the original MSC Fantasia and is identical to MSC Divina at 139,400 tons.

MSC Divina was the first enhanced Fantasia class ship with MSC.  The 139,400 ton ship debuted in June of 2012 and has a capacity of 3,500 passengers.  Read our post on the must-see features of MSC Divina here .

MSC Magnifica

The 4th Musica class ship, MSC Magnifica entered service in March of 2010.   The 95,128 ton ship can carry 2,550 passengers at double capacity and cost $547 million to build.  Magnifica has already done one World Cruise and will sail for another in 2020.

MSC Splendida

The 2nd Fantasia class ship, MSC Splendida is a 137,936 ton ship that debuted in July of 2009.   The ship was originally to be named Serenata but was changed to Splendida to reflect the ship’s beauty and elegance.

MSC Fantasia

The first Fantasia class ship, MSC Fantasia debuted in December of 2008.   At 137,936 tons, Fantasia was the largest cruise ship operated by MSC until MSC Divina was built.  This ship can carry 3,900 passengers.

The 3rd Musica class ship, MSC Poesia debuted in October of 2008.  The 96,627 ton ship was the first MSC ship named outside of Italy and was the flagship of the cruise line until MSC Fantasia entered service.

MSC Orchestra

MSC Orchestra debuted in May of 2007.  The 92,409 ton ship was the second Musical class vessel with MSC and after a refit can now carry 3,200 cruise passengers.

MSC Musica debuted in July of 2006 as the first Musica class ship with MSC.  The 92,409 ton ship can accommodate 2,550 passengers.

Once a flagship of the cruise line, MSC Opera is the 4th Lirica class ship.  Although Opera debuted in 2004 it was the 3rd Lirica class ship to undergo the “Renaissance Program” that added some lounges, a new buffet, spray park, and restaurant.

MSC Lirica is an identical design to MSC Opera and was first debuted in March of 2003.   This was the first newbuild ship to enter service for MSC cruises as the first two ships were acquired from another line.  Lirica is a 65,591 ton vessel after it’s last refurbishment and can carry 2,366 passengers.

MSC Sinfonia

MSC Sinfonia debuted for MSC in March of 2005 but was originally built in 2002.  The 2nd Lirica class ship, Sinfonia was originally built for another cruise line that is no longer in operation: Festival Cruises.  This is a 65,542 ton vessel that can accommodate 2,679 passengers.

MSC Armonia

MSC Armonia was built in 2001 and entered service for MSC in May of 2004.  Originally built for the now defunct Festival Cruises, Armonia was refurbished in 2014 with the Renaissance Program updates that upgraded some of the public areas.  The ship is 65,542 tons and can carry 2,679 passengers.

MSC Cruise Ships Listed by Size and Year Built

Future msc ships.

There are 4 World Class ships on order or under construction, with MSC World Europa scheduled to enter service at the end of 2022.  Each ship in this class will be LNG powered and have a gross tonnage of 205,700.

MSC Euribia is a “Meraviglia Plus” sub class cruise ship and is scheduled to enter service in June of 2023.

MSC Cruises has a total of 12 cruise ships either under construction or on order.

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

• msc cruises

Carnival Cruise Ship Hosting the Cruise Line’s First Brazilian Carnival

Princess cruises will give you 120% in obc if your cruise gets cheaper after booking, homeport announced for disney adventure, disney cruise line’s new mega ship, cruise line bringing back casinos to all of their ocean ships, related articles, (2024) royal caribbean ships by age: newest to oldest (complete list), cruise ship lifeboats: 10 surprising facts most people don’t know, top 5 cruise lines by number of total berths: now and into the future, list of carnival cruise ships newest to oldest, recent popular posts.

Two brothers started Cruise Fever in 2011 when they decided they couldn't stop cruising so they might as well write about it. Do you have Cruise Fever too? Follow along on this incredible voyage!

© 2011-2024, Cruise Fever ®. All rights reserved

• Privacy Policy
• Cruise Newsletter

• Travel Photography
• Luxury Travel

MSC Cruise Ships By Age — Latest to Oldest

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line, with a contemporary fleet that provides a variety of cruise ships.

From the grandeur of their latest additions to the attraction of their traditional vessels, the corporate has strategically expanded its choices to cater to the varied preferences of vacationers throughout the globe. 

MSC Cruise Ships Listed by Age

The desk beneath exhibits the ship’s title, class, age, gross registered tonnage, and what number of friends it carries at double occupancy.

On this article, we’ve compiled an summary of all ships within the  MSC Cruises fleet , organized from latest to oldest, together with some key options.

MSC Cruise Ships by Class

The  Lirica Class  represents the oldest, with a conventional cruising expertise, whereas the  Musica Class  steps up with extra options and a barely bigger design.

The  Fantasia Class  and  Meraviglia Class  ships introduce a better passenger capability and extra luxurious amenities, every incrementally constructing on the final when it comes to improvements and measurement. The newest, the Seaside and World Class showcases MSC’s dedication to cutting-edge expertise and visitor facilities.

Notably, the  World Class  ships are set to redefine the way forward for cruising with environmental sustainability on the forefront.

MSC Euribia

Key Options : Doremi Fortress, Jungle Splash, Teen Membership 13-17, Household Sport Exhibits, L’Atelier Teatro, Hola! Tacos, Champagne Bar, Horizon Bar, Carousel Lounge, MSC Aurea Spa, MSC Fitness center, Adults-Solely Sundeck, Bamboo Pool, Zen Backyard, LED Promenade, and MSC Yacht Membership

MSC World Europa

MSC launched the  MSC World Europa , marking a step ahead in maritime structure and environmental friendliness. This ship set a brand new normal for contemporary cruising with its modern design for much less gasoline consumption and greener crusing.

Key Options: The Venom Drop @ The Spiral 11-story slide, Chef’s Backyard Kitchen Restaurant, seven swimming swimming pools, Aurora Borealis Aquapark, Espresso Emporium, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Raj Polo Tea Home, bumper vehicles, Pescadaria Seafood Restaurant, Zest – Juice Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse, a rollerblading enviornment, The Gin Undertaking, and youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment

MSC Seascape

Key Options: ROBOTRON amusement top-deck experience, Kaito Teppanyaki, foremost pool with a water fountain island, Pirates Cove Aquapark, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Butcher’s Reduce steakhouse with al fresco eating space, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina restaurant, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Membership Advanced, and Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar

MSC Virtuosa

Key Options: Starship Membership with a humanoid robotic bartender, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic exhibits, Indochine French-Vietnamese Restaurant, L’Atelier Bar & Artwork, 5 swimming swimming pools, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, TV Studio & Bar, Savannah Aquapark, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Kaito Sushi Bar, and Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse

MSC Seashore

Key Options: Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Wine Cave Bar, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite and outside area, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse with al fresco eating space, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina Restaurant, Pirates Cove Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Horizon Ice Cream Bar

MSC Grandiosa

Key Options: MSC Yacht Membership complicated, L’Atelier Bistrot French restaurant, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Method 1 simulator, HOLA! Tapas Bar, a bowling alley, Safari Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Polar Aquapark, Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic exhibits, Attic Membership Nightclub, and Jean-Philippe Crêpes & Gelato

MSC Bellissima

Key Options: MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic exhibits, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Butcher’s Reduce steakhouse, Polar Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, Sportsplex exercise area, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Method 1 Simulators, L’Atelier Bistrot French Restaurant, and Masters of the Sea pub

MSC Seaview

Key Options: Twin racing zip traces, The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Waterfront Boardwalk outside promenade, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, a Method 1 Simulator, Butcher’s Reduce steakhouse, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Pirates Cove Aquapark, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Asian Market Kitchen Restaurant, and the Jungle Seashore Bar

MSC Meraviglia

Key Options: Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic exhibits, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, a bowling alley, Kaito Sushi Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Brass Anchor Pub, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, MSC Yacht Membership Advanced, Polar Aquapark, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Method 1 simulator, and Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse

MSC Seaside

Key Options: The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Bistrot La Boheme French restaurant, Forest Aquaventure Park, two bowling alleys, Asian Market Kitchen restaurant, twin racing zip traces, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Teppanyaki Restaurant, Storage Membership, and a Method 1 Simulator

MSC Preziosa

Key Options: Doremi Fortress youngsters’ aqua park with Vertigo high-speed waterslide, MSC Yacht Membership Advanced, the Inexperienced Sax Jazz Bar, Butcher’s Reduce steakhouse, 4D cinema, youngsters’ and teenagers’ membership, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, a bowling alley, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Safari Lounge, and La Locanda Pizzeria and Wine Bar

Key Options: Swarovski crystal staircases, Butcher’s Reduce Steakhouse, an infinity pool, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Black and White Lounge, Method 1 Simulator, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, Caffè Italia, a bowling alley, and La Luna Piano Bar

MSC Magnifica

Key Options: Underwater-themed youngsters’ play space, Cuba Lounge Cigar Room, 4D cinema, Tiger Bar, Atlantic Metropolis On line casino, Purple Bar, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Oriental Plaza Asian fusion restaurant, and T32 Disco

MSC Splendida

Key Options: 4 swimming swimming pools, Sea Pavilion Asian restaurant, Membership 33 Disco, L’Espresso Espresso Bar, Royal Palm On line casino, The Purple Jazz Bar, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Butcher’s Reduce steakhouse, The Cigar Lounge, MSC Yacht Membership complicated, Tea Home & Dim Sum, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Fantasia

Key Options: Liquid Disco; Il Cappuccino Espresso Bar; MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar; Method 1 Simulator; Il Transatlantico Piano Bar; 4D cinema; MSC Yacht Membership “ship-within-a-ship” complicated with its personal restaurant, lounge, and pool deck; Sports activities Bar; and Prime Sail Lounge

Key Options: Three swimming pools and 4 scorching tubs, Mojito Bar, The Hitchcock Lounge Cigar Room, a youngsters’ dinosaur-themed play space, S32 Disco, Poker Room, Kaito Sushi Bar, the Zebra Bar, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Orchestra

Key Options: MSC Aurea Spa with Turkish baths and a sauna, La Cantinella Wine Bar, Shanghai Asian restaurant, The Savannah Bar, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, R32 Disco, Palm Seashore On line casino, 4 Seasons Italian buffet restaurant, La Cubana Cigar Room, and Purple Bar

Key Options: Waterfall within the atrium, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Havana Membership cigar lounge, Sanremo On line casino, Kaito Sushi Bar, youngsters’ and teenagers’ golf equipment, Enoteca Wine Bar, and Q32 Disco

MSC Sinfonia

Key Options: MSC Aurea Spa, Sanremo On line casino, Gelateria Italiana, Pasha Membership Disco, Ambassador Cigar Room, Caffè del Mare, Shelagh’s Home Irish Pub, youngsters’ golf equipment and water play space, Sinfonia Lounge & Library, and the Vitamin Bar

Key Options: La Cabala Piano Bar, Gelateria Italiana, Byblos Disco, Il Patio Bar, youngsters’ golf equipment and water play space, Vitamin Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with sauna and Turkish bathtub, Aroma Espresso Bar, and Sottovento Pub

MSC Armonia

Key Options: Youngsters’ golf equipment and water play space, MSC Aurea Spa, White Lion Pub, a on line casino, Caffè San Marco, and The Purple Bar

The Lirica class is famend for its cozy ambiance and private contact. The quartet ships’ manageable measurement helps a heat sense of neighborhood whereas providing key facilities like balconies on chosen suites.

Key Options: Las Vegas On line casino, The Espresso Nook, Blue Membership Disco, a pirate-themed youngsters’ playroom, the Vitamin Bar, Kaito Sushi Bar, youngsters’ golf equipment and water play space, and L’Ambiance piano bar

MSC Meraviglia Tour [VIDEO]

Related Stories

Captain inger klein thorhauge talks about cunard’s queen anne – all issues cruise, warning indicators of a unhealthy cruise deal, in accordance with consultants, princess cruises affords value matching on lowest revealed fares, z-man’s new elaztech pleasant zwg worm hook, captain inger klein thorhauge talks about cunard’s queen anne..., i visited one in all northern greece’s up-and-coming spots..., i used insider tricks to plan a multi-city brazil..., omni san diego resort completes renovation — lodging, greatest day mountain climbing backpack (greatest daypacks 2024), popular categories.

• Outdoor 908
• Travel Photography 879
• Tourism 538

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Thetravelcheck is your travel, tourism, and luxury travel related website. We provide you with the latest breaking news and videos straight from the travel industry.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Copyright 2023 © thetravelcheck.com. All rights reserved.

• [email protected]
• Log in to Manage your Booking
• MSC Cruises Check In
• Norwegian Cruise Check In
• Silversea Check In
• Durban Port
• Documentation needed

MSC Ships: List by Age, Size & Dates

MSC Cruises is the world's largest privately owned cruise line and currently operates a fleet of 19 ships—with 3 new ships planned to enter service by June 2023. With a variety of ship sizes, MSC Cruises offers something for everyone, ranging from the MSC Sinfonia (2,546 passengers)—their first ship in operation—to their latest ship, the MSC Seashore, which entered service in 2021 (5,877 passengers).

MSC Cruises operates year-round in the Mediterranean and some of the most popular cruise destinations worldwide, including the Mediterranean, South America, and South Africa. MSC Cruises prides itself on providing a true Mediterranean experience aboard its ships.

ON THIS PAGE WE ARE LISTING THE SHIPS:

• In alphabetical order
• From newest to oldest (year built)
• With MSC Yacht Club
• With MSC for Me
• By registration (flag)

MSC Ships in alphabetical order

Msc armonia.

Armonia means harmony in English, and the MSC Armonia has this in buckets. Minimalist fittings, beautiful clean lines, and soothing and tranquil colours will leave you feeling that you have escaped to your happy place.

Renovated: 2014 | Occupancy: 2,679

MSC BELLISSIMA

Be awed by the beautiful MSC Bellissima. Aboard the ship, there is ample public space, but this does not mean that she is not packed with plenty of entertainment options, bars, restaurants, a spa, and more! A walkway spans two decks, the highlight of which is the massive dome covering the ceiling—480 square meters of LED screens. For the active, choose from pools, a sportsplex, a gym, bowling, or F1 Simulators.

Launched: 2019 | Occupancy: 5,686

From the sublime to the divine, MSC Divina does not disappoint with her elegance and comfort. As the godmother of MSC Cruises, Sophia Loren was the inspiration for this vessel, as evidenced by the sumptuous suite named after her. Take a dip in the Infinity Pool or watch a show in the Broadway-sized Pantheon Theatre.

Launched: 2012 | Occupancy: 4,345

MSC FANTASIA

MSC Fantasia is modern, yet stylish with that Italian flair for which MSC Cruises is known. Where else can you walk on a Swarovski Crystal floor? With plenty of entertainment for both the under 18s and the adults, including a 4D cinema, F1 simulator and the Aqua Park, there will never be a dull moment.

Launched : 2008 | Occupancy: 4,363

MSC GRANDIOSA

Launched in November 2019, MSC Grandiosa is packed with features - speciality restaurants, the Jean-Phillipe Chocolat and Cafe, race water slides, Himalayan rope bridge suspended above the ship, Virtual Reality Maze and more. This ship is one of the most environmentally friendly at sea, ticking the box for greener travel.

Launched: 2019 | Occupancy: 6,334

One of the MSC ships refurbished in the 2015 Renaissance Programme, the MSC Lirica offers traditional cruise ship comfort, with wood, marble, and brass finishes throughout the vessel. There is plenty of space to spread out and find a spot in the sun to enjoy a cocktail or a quiet coffee. Cool down in the pool or Doremi Spray Park before heading to the Broadway Theatre to enjoy a show.

Refurbished : 2015 | Occupancy: 2,679

MSC MAGNIFICA

MSC Magnifica is refined yet opulent in feel - truly magnificent, just like her name. She is part of the Musica Class of MSC cruise ships. Enjoy the swimming facilities, including an indoor pool with a retractable roof, allowing you to enjoy it whether rain or shine. Relax in one of the 4 jacuzzis or in the Solarium. Perhaps you fancy dancing the night away in the T32 Disco or taking your chances with Lady Luck in the Atlantic City Casino.

Launched: 2010 | Occupancy: 3,223

MSC MERAVIGLIA

MSC Meraviglia was the first ship in the MSC fleet to be launched with MSC for Me - an app that can be downloaded onto any smartphone. This was one of the many firsts - including the first ship in the fleet to have a water slide that went out over the side of the ship; the first ship in the fleet to offer exclusive Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows in a purpose-built theatre; and able to dock at any cruise port in the world, meaning a wider variety of destinations is possible.

Launched : 2017 | Occupancy: 5,655

With the elegance and class of any fine lady, the MSC Musica will not disappoint. There is a spectacular waterfall in the foyer, which spans three decks and right in front of which is a transparent piano, poised on a suspended, crystal floor. The plush Teatro La Scala, seating over 1200 people, will enable you to settle in and enjoy a show. Kaito Sushi Bar is the ship's specialty Japanese restaurant.

Launched: 2006 | Occupancy: 2,550

MSC Opera was extended and refurbished under the Renaissance Program. There are new facilities that have been added, such as the spray park, as well as a host of extra balcony cabins and an enlarged restaurant - giving even more space to turn out culinary delights. Fans of opera will smile at the fact that each deck is named after a famous opera.

Launched : 2015 | Occupancy: 2,679

MSC ORCHESTRA

Like a well-tuned ensemble, the MSC Orchestra has the perfect combination of elegant interior design, quiet places to unwind, facilities for the active, (like 5 gorgeous pools and a gym), as well as wonderful restaurant options - choose from Dim Sum at the Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, top-notch pizza at La Piazzetta or Four Seasons Italian dining.

Launched : 2007 | Occupancy: 3,223

As her name suggests, the MSC Poesia is a poem to the ocean. For non-Italians, it is pronounced Poh-eh-zee-uh.) From the sumptuous spa where you can get a relaxing massage, to the Zen Garden and the theatre, decorated in the royal colour of purple, the ship is an ode to MSC Cruises' aim of providing something for everyone.

Launched : 2008 | Occupancy: 3,223

MSC PREZIOSA

As with all of MSC Cruises' ships , the MSC Preziosa is comfortable with Italian flair ever-present. Stroll through the piazza, made with real stone, or take a thrill ride on Vertigo, the longest water slide at sea! One of the beautiful features of the Preziosa is the infinity pool, looking for all intents and purposes like it is part of the ocean. A great place to unwind and be mesmerized by the ocean.

Launched : 2013 | Occupancy: 4,345

MSC SEASHORE

The first EVO Class Ship, MSC Seashore is inspired by MSC Cruises' vision for cruising in sunny weather and warm waters. Mirroring the Mediterranean way of life by providing indoor/outdoor eateries. To be launched in Spring 2021.

Launched : 2021 | Occupancy: 5,331

MSC SEASIDE

As with all the Seaside Class ships, the MSC Seaside is designed to bring the ocean closer to the passengers. Explore the Waterfront Boardwalk that circles the ship, meaning you can take a stroll in the sun, enjoying the breeze, whilst still being able to access the restaurants and bars from the outside.

Launched : 2017 | Occupancy: 5,336

MSC SEAVIEW

The MSC Seaview is known as "the ship that follows the sun", as she spends 6 months in each hemisphere, giving the illusion of eternal summer. Take your pick from 7 speciality restaurants or eat in one of the two buffets. Optionally, there is, of course, two main dining rooms, with excellent food displaying all of MSC Cruises' usual flair and panache.

Launched : 2018 | Occupancy: 5,336

MSC SINFONIA

Honoring many renowned European composers, MSC Sinfonia is a symphony of elegance, comfort, entertainment and delight. She will enthrall you from the moment you step into her cool interior, (before you begin to explore the pools, bars, eating areas, spa, kids clubs and more), right until the second you disembark.

MSC SPLENDIDA

With a host of different music venues, bars and restaurants on the MSC Splendida, you will feel spoiled for choice when deciding where to begin exploring. Tickle your taste buds with real McCoy Mediterranean specialties or spice it up with a Tex-Mex meal. Immerse yourself in a world-class production in The Strand Theatre, before having a flutter in the Royal Palm Casino or shaking those hips in Club 33.

Launched : 2009 | Occupancy: 4,363

MSC VIRTUOSA

MSC Virtuosa will be the new jewel in MSC Cruises' crown. Due to be launched in September 2020, delays due to COVID-19 mean that she will be launched in early 2021. With new specialty dining options - such as a tapas bar and an Indochine restaurant - as well as the first Robotic Arm bar at sea, there is plenty to look forward to on this beauty.

Launched : 2021 | Occupancy: 6,334

Which is MSC newest ship?

Currently, the newest MSC Cruises ship is the MSC Seashore which entered service in August 2021. The oldest MSC cruises ship is the MSC Armonia. She entered in service in 2001 under the name European Vision. She started sailing under the MSC Armonia banner in May 2004.

*the last time the ship was in dry dock

MSC Cruise Ships by size

The largest MSC Cruises ship are the MSC Meraviglia & MSC Grandiosa, at 181,541 gross tons. The smallest MSC Cruises ship is the MSC Lirica, at 66,132 gross tons.

MSC Ships by class

Four of MSC ships are among the world's 20 biggest vessels, but not all are supersized. The fleet is divided into 8 different classes by oldest to newest class:

Lirica Class (oldest): MSC Opera, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia

Musica Class: MSC Poesia, MSC Orchestra, MSC Musica, MSC Magnifica

Fantasica Class: MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Divina

Meraviglia Class: MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima

Seaside: MSC Seaview and MSC Seaside

Meraviglia Plus: MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa and the new MSC Euribia (June 2023)

Seaside Evo: MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape (Dec 2022)

MSC World: MSC World Europa (Dec 2022)

Which MSC Cruise ships have Yacht Club?

MSC Yacht Club is an exclusive onboard experience available on several MSC Cruise ships. It features private areas, butler service, and upgraded accommodations.

The Yacht Club is available on the following MSC Cruise ships:

MSC Euribia (June 2023), MSC World Europa (Dec 2022), MSC Seascape (Dec 2022), MSC Seashore, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia

MSC Ships that do not have Yacht Club:

MSC Magnifica,  MSC Poesia, MSC Orchestra, MSC Musica, MSC Opera, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia

For more on the Yacht Club 

On which ships is MSC for Me available?

In 2017, MSC Cruises launched MSC for Me, a digital smart ships programme and mobile app designed to enhance the Guest experience. It was first launched on MSC Meraviglia.

The app is available on MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, MSC Seashore, MSC Splendida, MSC Seaview, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa.

MSC Cruises by registration (flag)?

The Panama Flag was first used by MSC for the Lirica, Fantasia and Lirica class ships.

MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia are all under Malta flag. The MSC Seashore fly the flag of Italy

MSC Vista was MSC Euribia's previous name. She has since been renamed MSC Euribia and is set to launch in June 2023.

MSC currently has 19 ships sailing with 3 more due by June 2023

MSC Fantastica was renamed MSC Divina in honour of the fleet's godmother, the actress Sophia Loren.

MSC Yacht Club Royal suite 16007 on the MSC Divina is dedicated to Sophia Loren, with pictures of her movies in the cabin.

Top MSC South African cruises

Portuguese island.

All MSC Cruises to Portuguese Island for the 2024/2025 Season

Cruises to Walvis Bay

MSC Cruise to Walvis Bay, Namibia for the 2024 and 2025

MSC from Cape Town

All MSC Cruises From Cape Town , South Africa for the 2024/2025 Season

MSC Cruise Ships By Age and Size

MSC have 23 ships in operation and some of the biggest in the world! The New MSC Euribia is the latest ship as of of 2023. This post looks at MSC Cruise Ships By Age and size . MSC from Newest To Oldest and MSC ships size, weight, passenger and crew numbers’s. It is always good to know these facts about your favourite cruise line when booking a cruise for 2024 or 2025.

Finding out these MSC cruise ship facts and whether the ship is newer or bigger is really handy to know when you are booking your next MSC cruise. The newer Ships in the Fleet have more amenities and entertainment options such as bigger theaters and casinos. They may have better facilities such as restaurants and dining venues, more pools, slides and better Spa facitilies.

AD We have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy for more details.

Newer ships may also be set out better for multigenerational families with more family cabins and suites too. The newer ships also have lots of kids facilities and new state of the art experience’s on board and too.

It is also worth bearing in mind that some of the older ships may be smaller but this does not mean they are not as good. Some of the smaller ships have a more intimate feel which also can mahke the ships feel quite special.

This is everything you need to know about MSC Cruise Ships By Age, Size, Weight and Passenger Numbers 2024

Who are MSC cruises?

MSC is one of the biggest Shipping companies in the world. The group MSC Cruises is a Swiss-Italian global cruise line registered in Switzerland and based in Geneva. Therefore it has many cruise ships and new ships joining the fleet every year.

MSC Ships By Age Newest To Oldest

MSC have 22 ships. This is a list of MSC ships in order of newest to oldest at a glance;

• MSC Euribia New June 2023

MSC Seascape

Msc world europa, msc seashore, msc virtuosa, msc grandiosa, msc bellissima, msc seaview, msc seaside, msc meraviglia, msc preziosa, msc magnifica, msc splendida, msc fantasia, msc orchestra, msc sinfonia, msc armonia, what was msc’s first ever cruise ship.

MSC’s first cruise ship was Monterey in 1988 and was purchased from Lauro cruise line. MSC was actually first founded by Gianluigi Aponte in 1970 when a young Italian seaman and former bank teller. Gianluigi purchased his first ship,  Patricia . He acquired an even bigger vessel in 1971, which he named after his wife, Rafaela, followed by the carrier, Ilse, in 1973. MSC now own over 560 vessels not all of which are Cruise passenger ships but shipping container vessels.

How Many Ships Do MSC Have in use?

MSC have 22 cruise ships.21 cruise ships are currently in service, with MSC Euribia being launched in June 2023 which will bring the total number of ships in the fleet to 22.

MSC Cruise Ships By Age and Size class table

The following table shows MSC Cruises ships ordered by newest to oldest and all the details of size, passenger capacity and the amount of crew onboard.

This table also shows if the MSC ships have been refurbished thus giving you an idea if it is up to date and modern.

If you look at the Gross tonnage this measurement will give you an of the overall internal volume of a ship. Combine this with the passenger capacity of the ship and you will get an idea of the size of the cruise ship.

How big are MSC cruise ships?

MSC cruise ships are some of the largest in the industry . The smaller ships being the likes of MSC Opera and Lirica and the larger biggest ships being the MSC Virtuosa and the brand new World Europa class.

What Is The Newest MSC Ship?

The Newest MSC ship last year launched in 2023 was the MSC Euribia.

What is the biggest MSC ship?

The biggest MSC ship is the MSC World Europa which launched in 2022 she has a capacity for 6700 passengers.

What is the smallest MSC ship?

The smallest MSC ships are the;

What are the different classes of MSC Ships?

The different classes of MSC ships form newest to oldest are;

• World Class
• Meraviglia Class
• Meraviglia Plus class
• Seaside Class
• Fantasia Class
• Musica Class
• Mistral Class

Which MSC ships are in World class?

World class ship class on MSC is the World Europa ship

Which MSC ships are in Meraviglia class?

MSC Meraviglia class ships include;

• MSC Belissima

Which MSC ships are in Seaside class?

The MSC Seaside ships include;

• The MSC Seaview

Which MSC ships are in Fantasia class?

MSC Ships in Fantasia Class are;

• The MSC Splendida
• The MSC Divina

Which MSC ships are in Musica class?

The MSC Musica class Ships are;

• The MSC Orchestra

Which MSC ships are in Mistral class?

Mistral Class MSC ships include;

• The MSC Sinfonia

Full list of MSC Ships with facts and statistics

Msc euribia.

• Launched 2023
• Gross Tons 181,541
• Passengers capacity 6,334 Passengers
• Number of Crew 1,704

• Launched 2022
• Class, Seaside
• Length, 323 metres
• Width, 41 m
• Gross Tons, 169,400
• Has a capacity of 5,877
• And a crew of 1,648
• Cabins, 2,270
• Cruising Speed of knots 21.8

• Class, World Class
• Length, 333.3m
• Gross Tons, 205,700
• Has a capacity of passengers 6,762
• And a crew of 2,138
• Deck theme names, Capital Cities
• Cabins, 2,626
• Cruising Speed of knots 27.7

• Launched in 2021
• Length, 339m
• Has a capacity of passengers 5,632
• Cabins 2,270
• Cruising Speed of knots maximum of 21.8

• Class, Meraviglia class
• Length, 331m
• Gross Tons, 181,541
• Has a capacity of passengers 6,334
• And a crew of 1,704
• Deck theme names are composers
• Cabins, 2,421
• Cruising Speed of knots, 22.2 knots max

• Launched in 2019
• Length, 331.43m
• Deck theme names are Artists- see post on the art of Grandiosa here
• Cabins 2,421
• Cruising Speed of knots 20.1 max
• Length, 315.83m
• Gross Tons, 171.598
• Has a capacity of passengers 5,655
• And a crew of 1,595
• deck Theme names are the names of MSC ships
• Cabins 2,201
• Cruising Speed of knots 23.15 max

• Launched in 2018
• Class, Seaside class
• Length, 323m
• Gross Tons, 153,516
• Has a capacity of passengers 5,079
• And a crew of 1,413
• Deck themes are seas and oceans
• Cabins 2,026
• Cruising Speed of knots 22.98 max

• Launched in 2017
• Class, Seaside Class
• Has a capacity of passengers 5,084
• And a crew of 1,513
• Deck theme names are beaches or world
• Cruising Speed of knots 22,95 max

• Gross Tons 171,598
• Has a capacity of passengers 5,642
• And a crew of 1,608
• Deck Theme names are all UNESCO World heritage sites
• Cabins 2,214
• Cruising Speed of knots 22.89 max

• Launched 2013
• Class, Fantasia
• Length, 333,3m
• Gross Tons, 139,072
• Has a capacity of passengers 4,345
• And a crew of 1,388
• Deck theme names are all precious stones
• Cabins, 1,751
• Cruising Speed of knots 24,21 max

• Launched in 2012
• Refurbished in 2017
• Class, Fantasia class
• Deck names are greek gods
• Cruising Speed of knots 23.75 max

• Launched 2010
• Refurbished in 2021
• Class, Musica class
• Length, 293.8m
• Width, 32.2m
• Gross Tons, 95.128
• Has a capacity of passengers 3,013
• And a crew of 987
• Deck names are Italian coastal towns
• Cabins, 1,259
• Cruising Speed of knots 22.9

• Launched in 2009
• Width, 37.9m
• Gross Tons, 137.936
• Has a capacity of passengers 4,363
• And a crew of 1,370
• Deck Names are all renaissance Artists
• Cabins, 1,637
• Cruising Speed of knots 23.78 max

• Launched in 2008
• Refurbished in 2019
• Class, Fantasia Class
• Length, 333,30 m
• Width, 37,92 m
• Gross Tons, 137.936 
• And a crew of 1.370
• Deck names are Italian words such as Encanto
• Cabins 1.637
• Cruising Speed of knots 23.64 max

• Refurbished in 2018
• Class, Musica Class
• Gross Tons, 92,627
• Deck names are all Italian Poets and writers
• Cabins, 1,275
• Cruising Speed of knots 23 max

• Launched in 2007
• Length, 293.80
• Width, 32.2
• Gross Tons, 92,409
• Has a capacity of 3013 passengers
• Decks names are all classical instruments
• Cabins 1,275

• Launched in 2006
• Refurbished 2016
• Gross Tons, 92.409
• Deck names are Musical compositions

• Launched in 2004
• Refurbished in 2015
• Class, Mistral class
• Length, 274.9m
• Width, 28.8m
• Gross Tons, 655,91
• Has a capacity of passengers 2,579
• And a crew of 721
• Decks are named after classic Italian Operas
• Cabins 1,071
• Cruising Speed of knots 20.3 max

• Launched in 2003
• Gross Tons, 65.591
• Has a capacity of passengers 2,548
• And a crew of 752
• Deck names are composers
• Cruising Speed of knots 21.7 max

• Launched in 2002
• Refurbished 2015
• Class, Mistral Class
• Width, 28,8m
• Gross Tons, 65.542
• Has a capacity of passengers 2546
• Cruising Speed of knots 20.9

• Launched In 2001
• Refurbished 2014
• Has a capacity of passengers 2520
• And a crew of 780
• Deck names are precious stones

Where do MSC Ships sail?

MSC cruises operates a large fleet of ships , and the itineraries can vary depending on the season and year. They even have private island too. Here is a general overview of some of the ship voyages and the destinations they typically visit:

MSC Grandiosa: This is one of the newest ships in the MSC fleet, and it typically sails around the Mediterranean, visiting ports such as Barcelona, Marseille, Naples, and Palermo.

The MSC Seaside: This ship is known for its innovative design and typically sails to the Caribbean, visiting ports such as Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas.

MSC Splendida: This ship is often found in Asia and the Middle East, visiting ports such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.

The MSC Meraviglia: This ship typically sails to Northern Europe, visiting ports such as Amsterdam.

MSC Orchestra: This ship often sails around the Mediterranean and the Middle East, visiting ports such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Jerusalem.

The MSC Lirica : This ship is one of MSC oldest and smallest ships and is often found in South America. It often visits ports such as Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. It also has recently sailed in the med around the Costa DeL Sol and Costa Blanca.

Again, it’s also important to note that MSC cruises’ Itineraries can vary depending on the season and year, and the ships can also be repositioned to different regions. It’s best to check with the Cruise line or a travel agent for the most up-to-date information on the ships and future destinations.

Donna loves cruising with her husband and two teenage boys. Having cruised with the children from a young age she feels it is the perfect way to experience the world safely. Her boys are social butterfly’s and love meeting other children their own age whilst onboard some of the most extraordinary floating ships. She also writes over at Like Love Do, a travel memoir of her trips, from London to far off beaches. She has an eye for the unusual and like to go off of the beaten track just to find the perfect photo. With a passion for photography and exploring cruising has become the perfect holiday choice.

1 thought on “MSC Cruise Ships By Age and Size”

We have sailed many cruise lines over the past 30 years including MSC; first one was bad, second one was disgusting..the food on the buffet was always cold and nothing in the dining room appealed to us. Reading the comments on Facebook, we are not alone..never again!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cruise Knowledge

MSC Cruise Ships By Age — Newest to Oldest

Orlando Martinez

• December 22, 2023

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise line, with a modern fleet that offers a wide range of cruise ships.

From the grandeur of their newest additions to the charm of their classic vessels, the company has strategically expanded its offerings to cater to the diverse preferences of travelers across the globe. 

MSC Cruise Ships Listed by Age

The table below shows the ship’s name, class, age, gross registered tonnage, and how many guests it carries at double occupancy.

In this article, we’ve compiled an overview of all ships in the  MSC Cruises fleet , organized from newest to oldest, along with some key features.

MSC Cruise Ships by Class

The  Lirica Class  represents the oldest, with a traditional cruising experience, while the  Musica Class  steps up with more features and a slightly larger design.

The  Fantasia Class  and  Meraviglia Class  ships introduce a higher passenger capacity and more luxurious facilities, each incrementally building on the last in terms of innovations and size. The most recent, the Seaside and World Class showcases MSC’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and guest amenities.

Notably, the  World Class  ships are set to redefine the future of cruising with environmental sustainability at the forefront.

MSC Euribia

Key Features : Doremi Castle, Jungle Splash, Teen Club 13-17, Family Game Shows, L’Atelier Teatro, Hola! Tacos, Champagne Bar, Horizon Bar, Carousel Lounge, MSC Aurea Spa, MSC Gym, Adults-Only Sundeck, Bamboo Pool, Zen Garden, LED Promenade, and MSC Yacht Club

MSC World Europa

MSC introduced the  MSC World Europa , marking a step forward in maritime architecture and environmental friendliness. This ship set a new standard for modern cruising with its innovative design for less fuel consumption and greener sailing.

Key Features: The Venom Drop @ The Spiral 11-story slide, Chef’s Garden Kitchen Restaurant, seven swimming pools, Aurora Borealis Aquapark, Coffee Emporium, MSC Yacht Club complex, Raj Polo Tea House, bumper cars, Pescadaria Seafood Restaurant, Zest – Juice Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, a rollerblading arena, The Gin Project, and kids’ and teens’ clubs

MSC Seascape

Key Features: ROBOTRON amusement top-deck ride, Kaito Teppanyaki, main pool with a water fountain island, Pirates Cove Aquapark, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse with al fresco dining area, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina restaurant, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Club Complex, and Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar

MSC Virtuosa

Key Features: Starship Club with a humanoid robot bartender, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Indochine French-Vietnamese Restaurant, L’Atelier Bar & Art, five swimming pools, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, TV Studio & Bar, Savannah Aquapark, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, MSC Yacht Club complex, Kaito Sushi Bar, and Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse

MSC Seashore

Key Features: Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Wine Cave Bar, the Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite and outdoor space, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse with al fresco dining area, aft infinity pool, MSC Yacht Club complex, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina Restaurant, Pirates Cove Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Horizon Ice Cream Bar

MSC Grandiosa

Key Features: MSC Yacht Club complex, L’Atelier Bistrot French restaurant, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Formula 1 simulator, HOLA! Tapas Bar, a bowling alley, Safari Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Polar Aquapark, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Attic Club Nightclub, and Jean-Philippe Crêpes & Gelato

MSC Bellissima

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, MSC Yacht Club complex, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Polar Aquapark, Kaito Teppanyaki, Sportsplex activity space, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, Formula 1 Simulators, L’Atelier Bistrot French Restaurant, and Masters of the Sea pub

MSC Seaview

Key Features: Dual racing zip lines, The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant, Waterfront Boardwalk outdoor promenade, MSC Yacht Club complex, a Formula 1 Simulator, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Pirates Cove Aquapark, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Asian Market Kitchen Restaurant, and the Jungle Beach Bar

MSC Meraviglia

Key Features: Carousel Productions at Sea acrobatic shows, Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café, a bowling alley, Kaito Sushi Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with thermal suite, Brass Anchor Pub, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, MSC Yacht Club Complex, Polar Aquapark, HOLA! Tapas Bar, Formula 1 simulator, and Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse

MSC Seaside

Key Features: The Bridge of Sighs glass walkway, MSC Yacht Club complex, Bistrot La Boheme French restaurant, Forest Aquaventure Park, two bowling alleys, Asian Market Kitchen restaurant, dual racing zip lines, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar, Teppanyaki Restaurant, Garage Club, and a Formula 1 Simulator

MSC Preziosa

Key Features: Doremi Castle kids’ aqua park with Vertigo high-speed waterslide, MSC Yacht Club Complex, the Green Sax Jazz Bar, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, 4D cinema, kids’ and teens’ club, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, a bowling alley, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Safari Lounge, and La Locanda Pizzeria and Wine Bar

Key Features: Swarovski crystal staircases, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, an infinity pool, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, MSC Yacht Club complex, Black and White Lounge, Formula 1 Simulator, Galaxy Kaito Asian restaurant, Caffè Italia, a bowling alley, and La Luna Piano Bar

MSC Magnifica

Key Features: Underwater-themed kids’ play area, Cuba Lounge Cigar Room, 4D cinema, Tiger Bar, Atlantic City Casino, Purple Bar, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Oriental Plaza Asian fusion restaurant, and T32 Disco

MSC Splendida

Key Features: Four swimming pools, Sea Pavilion Asian restaurant, Club 33 Disco, L’Espresso Coffee Bar, Royal Palm Casino, The Purple Jazz Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, The Cigar Lounge, MSC Yacht Club complex, Tea House & Dim Sum, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Fantasia

Key Features: Liquid Disco; Il Cappuccino Coffee Bar; MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar; Formula 1 Simulator; Il Transatlantico Piano Bar; 4D cinema; MSC Yacht Club “ship-within-a-ship” complex with its own restaurant, lounge, and pool deck; Sports Bar; and Top Sail Lounge

Key Features: Three pools and four hot tubs, Mojito Bar, The Hitchcock Lounge Cigar Room, a kids’ dinosaur-themed play area, S32 Disco, Poker Room, Kaito Sushi Bar, the Zebra Bar, and MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar

MSC Orchestra

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa with Turkish baths and a sauna, La Cantinella Wine Bar, Shanghai Asian restaurant, The Savannah Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, R32 Disco, Palm Beach Casino, 4 Seasons Italian buffet restaurant, La Cubana Cigar Room, and Purple Bar

Key Features: Waterfall in the atrium, MSC Aurea Spa and Aurea Spa Bar, Havana Club cigar lounge, Sanremo Casino, Kaito Sushi Bar, kids’ and teens’ clubs, Enoteca Wine Bar, and Q32 Disco

MSC Sinfonia

Key Features: MSC Aurea Spa, Sanremo Casino, Gelateria Italiana, Pasha Club Disco, Ambassador Cigar Room, Caffè del Mare, Shelagh’s House Irish Pub, kids’ clubs and water play area, Sinfonia Lounge & Library, and the Vitamin Bar

Key Features: La Cabala Piano Bar, Gelateria Italiana, Byblos Disco, Il Patio Bar, kids’ clubs and water play area, Vitamin Bar, MSC Aurea Spa with sauna and Turkish bath, Aroma Coffee Bar, and Sottovento Pub

MSC Armonia

Key Features: Kids’ clubs and water play area, MSC Aurea Spa, White Lion Pub, a casino, Caffè San Marco, and The Red Bar

The Lirica class is renowned for its cozy ambiance and personal touch. The quartet ships’ manageable size supports a warm sense of community while offering key amenities like balconies on selected suites.

Key Features: Las Vegas Casino, The Coffee Corner, Blue Club Disco, a pirate-themed kids’ playroom, the Vitamin Bar, Kaito Sushi Bar, kids’ clubs and water play area, and L’Atmosphere piano bar

MSC Meraviglia Tour [VIDEO]

Recent Posts

Princess cruises offers price matching on lowest published fares, carnival’s latest updates on loyalty benefits, baggage rules, and onboard comfort, liberty of the seas review + cruise news [podcast], sunk california cruise ship refloated after leaking 14,900 gallons of waste, share this post, related posts.

Carnival Reports $92 Million Profit and Record Cruise Bookings

Disney Details Massive New Cruise Ship for Singapore

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

Luxury Cruising

The very latest cruise deals from all lines

MSC Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (2024)

• March 1, 2024
• No Comments

MSC Cruises has 22 ships currently in service in 2024 following the addition of the newest ship, MSC Euribia.

With so many ships, it can be tricky to know which one to choose. When you see a particular cruise advertised, it’s good to know if it’s on one of the newer, bigger ships or an older, smaller one. This can help you to work out if the cruise you want to book is good value for money.

Even regular cruisers can get mixed up about which ship is which, so I’ve created this handy guide to MSC Cruises ships, with tables to order the MSC ships by size, year and class.

MSC Ships By Size

The following table shows MSC cruise ships by size, ordered from largest to smallest:

Gross tonnage is a measurement of the overall internal volume of a ship. It’s one of the best ways to measure the size of a cruise ship .

The passenger number is based on how many passengers each cruise ship can accommodate at maximum occupancy. That would mean that all the extra beds are in use.

In reality, ships don’t cruise at maximum occupancy because sometimes you will have just two people in a cabin and so they won’t use the sofa bed or Pullman beds .

How Big Are MSC Cruise Ships?

MSC Cruises’ ships range in size from 248 metres long to 333 metres long. Each ship can accommodate between 2,520 and 6,762 passengers over 13 to 21 decks.

Compared to other mainstream cruise lines, MSC Cruises’ ships are quite average in size, with some mega-ships, some large ships and a few medium-sized ships.

MSC Cruises has no small ships . However, in 2023, the MSC Group launched a new cruise line called Explora Journeys. This features only small, luxury ships, the first of which was Explora I .

Which MSC Cruises Ship Is the Biggest?

The biggest MSC Cruises ship is MSC World Europa, which launched in November 2022. This World-class mega-ship can accommodate up to 6,762 guests with 21 decks.

MSC World Europa was used as a World Cup Cruise Ship Hotel in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The Yacht Club area of the ship provided accommodation for the family members of the players while the rest of the ship offered luxury accommodation for fans.

MSC World Europa is one of the top-10 biggest cruise ships in the world, behind Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships and the newer Icon Class. MSC World Europa is only around 5% smaller than the Oasis-class ships. However the rest of the MSC fleet is more aligned with other cruise ship sizes, not quite being the biggest.

Prior to the launch of MSC World Europa, the biggest MSC cruise ship title was a tie between MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa.

These virtually identical sister ships are 331 metres long and can accommodate up to 6,334 passengers. They each have 19 decks, 15 of which are accessible to passengers.

Are Bigger Cruise Ships Better?

Which size of ship is the best is a matter of personal preference and each has its advantages. For some people, bigger is always better, whereas other people will only choose to cruise on small or medium-sized ships.

Bigger ships tend to be newer and have more features and attractions on board, this can also mean that cruise tickets cost more.

Smaller ships have their advantages in that they tend to offer more port-intensive itineraries as they can access some ports which larger ships cannot.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest MSC Cruises offers…

MSC Ships By Year

The following table shows MSC Cruises ships from newest to oldest…

Which Is the Newest MSC Cruises Ship?

The newest MSC Cruises ship currently in service is MSC Euribia, which launched in 2023. She’s not the biggest ship in the fleet, but instead focuses on being a super-stylish cruise option packed with innovative technology.

Future MSC Cruises ships

In 2025, we can expect to see a sister-ship to MSC World Europa with the name of MSC World America. Third and fourth World-class ships will follow in 2026 and 2027.

MSC Ships By Class

In the MSC Cruises fleet, the ships are grouped into classes. Each ship in a class is very similar, with a few small differences on board.

The following table shows MSC Cruises ships grouped by class…

Seaside EVO Class

MSC Cruises had a new class of ship for 2021, the Seaside EVO-class. Beginning with the launch of MSC Seashore in August 2021, Seaside EVO-class ships are slightly larger than Seaside-class ships.

Ultra Luxury Class

In the spring of 2023, MSC launched the first of a new class of small, ultra-luxury cruise ships . These six new ships, built over five years, will be the smallest in the fleet at around a third the size of MSC Grandiosa. These aren’t part of the MSC Cruises fleet, instead, they fall under a new sister brand called Explora Journeys.

MSC’s Ultra Luxury Class ships will be aimed at guests who enjoy the MSC Yacht Club, offering a premium experience for wealthy guests who want the best of the best. They will be named Explora I to Explora VI.

To Conclude

MSC Cruises has ships of various sizes, with the largest ships being almost three times the size of the smallest ones in terms of volume (gross tonnage). As with all cruise lines, ships have got bigger over the years and the newest ships tend to be larger.

If you prefer smaller, more intimate ships, then look out for the MSC Group’s new ultra-luxury ships in the Explora Journeys brand.

Related Posts:

If you enjoyed this article please share!

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Most Popular

Cruise Ship Enters Dry Dock to Transition to New Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean Cancels Cruises Due to Dry Dock Schedule, Compensation Packages Offered

Newest Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurant Finally Opens, $70 Cheaper Than Originally Announced

Amsterdam Makes Bold Move To Slash Cruise Ship Visits And Relocate Terminal

The Magazine is the while the lovely valley teems with vapour around me, and the meridian sun strikes the upper surface of the impenetrable foliage of my trees.

RECENT POSTS

Cruise Ship Enters Dry Dock to Transitio...

Royal Caribbean Cancels Cruises Due to D...

Newest Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurant ...

Popular posts.

Three Year Cruise Moves Closer to Realit...

Two of Carnival’s Cruise Lines Rel...

• Baby & toddler
• Car Parking
• Celebrity Cruises
• Choosing a cruise
• Costa Cruises
• Cruise Lines
• Cruise News
• Cruise Special Offers
• Cruise Tips
• Destinations
• Disney Cruises
• First time cruisers
• Food and drink
• Holland America Line
• Hurtigruten
• Money saving tips
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• River Cruising
• Royal Caribbean
• Uncategorised
• Uncategorized
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises
• Work On A Ship

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Lines

MSC Cruises

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

•   Fleet
•   Review
•   Itinerary
•   News

MSC Cruises fleet

Msc world asia, msc world america, msc euribia, msc world europa, msc seascape, msc virtuosa, msc seashore, msc grandiosa, msc bellissima, msc seaview, msc meraviglia, msc seaside, msc preziosa, msc magnifica, review of msc cruises.

MSC Cruises Ltd (MSC Crociere, msccruises.com/en-gl) is a passenger shipping company headquartered in Miami Florida USA (since 2024). the company is a fully-owned subsidiary of MSC Group/Mediterranean Shipping Company (1960-established, Geneva Switzerland-headquartered) currently ranked as the world's second-largest containership company (after Maersk).

MSC Crociere is the world's largest privately owned cruise company. 2020-Q4 statistics ranked MSC the world's 3rd-largest cruise shipowner (by combined fleet's passenger capacity ~13%), preceded by Carnival Corporation (39%) and RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (24%).

The company's current management team is led by Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman), Gianni Onorato (CEO), and Emilio La Scala (President and Managing Director).

Ruben Rodríguez is MSC Cruises USA's current President. Effective April 30, 2025, he will retire from the post and will be succeeded by Lynn Torrent (MSC Cruises USA's current Executive VP & CCO/Chief Commercial Officer) effective May 1st/2025.

In 2021, MSC launched its travel brand EXPLORA JOURNEYS , with a separate fleet of smaller-sized luxury ships. EXPLORA JOURNEYS' main competitor in the European market is Viking OCEAN .

Between its official launch (2003) and July 2019, MSC served 20+ million passengers. MSC is also the world's fastest-growing cruise company, with a USD 20,5 billion investment plan (2017-2027) for building 17 new vessels and increasing its fleet to 29 vessels.

The parent company (MSC Group) was founded and owned by its current Chairman Gianluigi Aponte (1940-born). Since 2014, the company's President and CEO is his son - Diego Aponte, while his daughter (Alexa Aponte Vago) is the CFO. MSC entered the ship cruising market in 1988. MSC also owns Going2Italy (1982-founded Italian tour operator).

MSC's main competitor in the Mediterranean is Costa Cruises .

Company History

Founded by Achille Lauro as "Lauro Lines" (aka Flotta Lauro), MSC entered the cruise shipping business in the 1960s. Initially, MSC operated two ships - Achille Lauro (IMO 5390008, launched as "Willem Ruys") and Angelina Lauro (IMO 5264077, launched as "Oranje"). Angelina Lauro (1939-1979) burnt in St Thomas USVI in 1979. Achille Lauro (1947-1994) sank off Somalia'scoast due to onboard fire.

In 1985, Achille Lauro was hijacked by Palestinian Liberation Front members, and the accident resulted in decreased passenger numbers. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) purchased Flotta Lauro in 1989, and renamed it "StarLauro Cruises". Achille Lauro caught fire and sank in 1994. In 1995, the company changed its name to "MSC Cruises". Fleet's oldest liner - the 1982-built MSC Melody - was sold in November 2013 and scrapped in September 2018 (as MS Qing).

In 2014, MSC announced that its four Lirica-class boats are scheduled for refits and extensive drydock refurbishments under the company's "Renaissance Program" (budgeted USD 273 million). By this project, all four vessels (Armonia, Lirica, Opera, Sinfonia) were stretched/elongated by 25 m (80 ft).

Ship-reconstruction works were done at Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo Sicily , between 2014 (August 31) and 2015 (November 17).

Since 2021, all MSC cruise ship refurbishment projects are conducted at Palumbo Malta Shipyard (co-owned by MSC / 50% stake). Palumbo Group's other shipyards are in France (Marseille) and Italy (Ancona, Naples, Savona).

Most of MSC's fleet operates in Europe (Mediterranean and Baltic). The company's other strong markets are the USA (Caribbean), Canada New England, East Asia, South America, South Africa. Because of the international passenger base, all shipboard announcements are generally read in Italian, Spanish, French, German and English. Onboard mealtimes are fixed, with assigned seatmates. Optional dining includes Lido buffet restaurant, sushi, and Italian eateries.

MSC liners offer standout evening show entertainment - from classical concerts and jazz to contemporary dance music and circus-type acrobatics. Voyages are typically priced at value-oriented levels, but the liners offer an unprecedented range of modern vacation travel amenities and services that cost extra, such as fees for port shuttle buses, a la carte restaurant menus, etc.

Company changes 2024

In January was announced that in November 2025 MSC starts year-round homeporting operations from Galveston TX (ship Seascape, 7-night roundtrips departing on Sundays). Also in January, MSC started homeporting in NYC New York (ship Meraviglia).

In mid-January, MSC Group moved its operational headquarters to Downtown Miami (Block 55 at Sawyer's Walk/Overtown). The new facility (130,000-ft2/12080-m2 sized office space) now houses the company's three divisions - MSC Cargo (container ships/logistics), MSC Cruises (passenger liners) and Explora Journeys (expedition ships).

In February as fleet's COO/Chief Operating Officer was appointed Elia Congiu (with MSC since 2013, previously Chief HR Officer/Human Resources).

In late-February was introduced the "Open Booking" program, allowing passengers on a current cruise to reserve a future cruise without committing to a specific vessel/itinerary/date. The initiative complements MSC's existing "Future Cruise" (onboard booking) program introduced in 2023. The new "Open Booking" option requires a reduced deposit payment (USD100/EUR100/GBP100 per person) while on board. The customer receives a certificate that allows up to 12 months period to choose the next MSC voyage. If the ship and departure date are selected within 60 days (of making the onboard open booking), the customer receives up to USD200/EUR200/GBP200 in OBC (onboard credit per stateroom). With a booking made within a year is received up to $100 in OBC. MSC's open booking is also transferable (can be gifted to a family/friend) before choosing the ship/departure date.

In February, on two ships (Virtuosa and Euribia) MSC banned smoking and vaping in the Casino (turning the gaming lounge into a smoke-free venue) while on two other ships (Seascape and Seashore) were added a separate smoking-allowed Casino Lounge.

In April was appointed Neil Palomba (with MSC since 1996) as MSC Cruises USA's Executive VP of Operations, managing MSC's USA-based fleet plus Ocean Cay Bahamas. As MSC Cruises USA's VP of Food and Beverage Operations was appointed Josef Jungwirth (previously employed by Sandals Resort International and RCI/Royal Caribbean International.

In May was expanded fleetwide the shipboard family program. The new activities and services include Extended Baby Care Services (for infants 6 months to 2 yo/in collaboration with Chicco), Doremiland Open House and Family Party (held once-per-cruise), new Family Game Shows (MasterChef at Sea Juniors, Break the Wall, MSC Dance Crew, plus two new - World Quest/geography-based trivia game, and Caravaggio/art-themed spy game), extended Teenagers Club Hours (12-17 yo/open between 10 AM-1 PM, and 3 PM-midnight on sea days, and 3 PM-midnight on port days), Guinness World Record Activities (families can participate in quiz shows and win prizes) and MSC Foundation Day (in collaboration with the MSC Foundation/marine conservation initiatives/1-hour sessions allow kids to learn about environmental topics).

Company changes 2023

In May MSC Foundation signed a partnership with NatureMetrics (provider of biodiversity monitoring data) for collecting data for marine species during voyages. By MSC's "eBioAtlas" project, the collected samples (from the seawater) are sent to NatureMetrics where they are analyzed using eDNA.

In June MSC signed a long-term agreement with Gasum Oy (1994-founded Finnish state-owned energy company) for the fleet's LNG bunkering operations in the Baltic. The deal was signed by Linden Coppell (MSC's VP of Sustainability & ESG/Environmental, Social and Governance) and Mika Wiljanen (Gasum's CEO).

MSC Explora Journeys (a total investment of ~EUR 3,5 billion) officially starts commercial operations in July 2023, with Explora I 's Maiden Voyage (July 17th).

In October was signed an agreement with Shell Western LNG BV (part of Shell plc/the world's second-largest oil and gas company/after ExxonMobil) to provide LNG for the ship Euribia. The deal was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago and Tahir Faruqui (Shell LNG's General Manager). Euribia's first LNG bunkering was in Port Rotterdam.

Since November 15th, the shipboard children's and teen's clubs (fleetwide/facilities for kids ages 12 to 17) operate with extended opening hours and longer live entertainment (8 hours daily). The company's expanded youth programming also includes more and new organized/supervised activities (sports, aquapark entertainment, kids-themed dinners, a different game show for teens every night/followed by a disco).

For 2023, MSC reported serving ~4,1 million cruisers (on 22 ships maintained by 46006 crew from 137 nationalities), 7669 operating days, 26,845167 million ALBDs (Available Lower Berth Days). Throughout 2023, MSC operated 385 itineraries (visiting destinations in 102 different countries) and offered 2150 different shore excursions.

Company changes 2022

In mid-March, MSC Group announced a partnership with Travelife Ltd for EXPLORA JOURNEYS' shore excursion program. "Travelife for Tour Operators" allows tour companies and travel agents access to the company's online management system (16x sustainability modules) with excursion checklists, planning tools, travel- and tourism industries' best sustainability practices examples.

In late-March, MSC became the Official Cruise Partner of "Formula 1".

In August, the entire MSC fleet received "ISO 21070:2017" certification (issued by the International Organization for Standardization) for marine environment protection. The certification specifies the onboard procedures regarding waste management practices (collection, separation, treatment, storage).

For winter 2022-2023 season (December thru April) MSC introduced fly-cruise packages from Brazil to the Caribbean. Via partnerships with Brazilian airlines, MSC provided Brazilian tourists with the opportunity to enjoy affordable 6-hour chartered flights from Sao Paulo (Guarulhos Airport) to Fort-de-France Martinique (Aime Cesaire Airport). In Martinique, they board the ship ( MSC Seaside ) for 7-day roundtrip Caribbean voyages and then fly back to Brazil. MSC's Brazil-to-Caribbean fly cruises are also inclusive of bus transfers (airport-cruise port-airport). The offer was available again for winter season 2023-2024 and again on MSC Seaside.

Company changes 2021

In June 2021 MSC officially launched its luxury brand " Explora Journeys ".

For summer 2021 season (July-October) MSC chartered flights (26000+ seats) to offer fly-cruise packages via partnerships with Europe's largest airlines including Iberia (Spain), Alitalia (Italy), Air France, Eurowings (Germany) and Neos (Italy). This way MSC guaranteed accessible airports and convenient flight times for accessing the homeports (embarkation ports) of 6x ships deployed in the Western Mediterranean (Grandiosa, Seaside), Eastern Mediterranean (Splendida, Orchestra, Magnifica), and the Baltic (Seaview). The package deals were also inclusive of airport-ship bus transfers and COVID health insurance (EUR 25 pp, by Europ Assistance).

On October 6, 2021, MSC opened bookings for Magnifica's Northern European winter 2021-2022 season - the company's first-ever winter season with deployment in the Baltic Sea. Starting on November 14th, the program offered 7-night roundtrips from all call ports in the itinerary (Hamburg, Ijmuiden-Amsterdam, Zeebrugge-Bruges, Le Havre-Paris, Southampton-London) and up to 12-hour port stays.

Company changes 2020

On July 30, 2020, MSC Cruises Ltd and Palumbo Group formed a 50-50 joint venture company to operate Palumbo Malta Shipyard (in Citta Cospicua). The Palumbo shipyard has 4x drydocks and will be used for refurbishments and general maintenance works on MSC ships (passenger and cargo) as well as on other cruise and ferry companies' vessels. The facilities will be updated, including with technologies to handle LNG-powered ships. The deal was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Cruises' Executive Chairman) and Antonio Palumbo (Palumbo Group's founder and Chairman).

In late-November 2020, MSC signed a long-term agreement with ABP Southampton for preferential docking rights. The deal starts in summer 2021 with the homeporting of MSC Magnifica at Southampton's newest/5th passenger terminal. By this agreement, every year MSC has to homeport at least one ship in Southampton.

Company changes 2019

In May 2019, MSC became the industry's first mainstream cruise shipping company with a permanent office in Canada (Mississauga, Ontario). MSC Cruises Canada's new office is served by 15 employees (full-time staff) led by Ian Patterson (Country Manager). With the Canadian office, MSC also launched two new websites - MSCCruises.ca (for consumers) and MSCbook.com/ca (for travel agents). Both websites debuted in English and were later upgraded with French language versions. MSC Cruises Canada has a bilingual call center and provides bilingual materials (brochures, flyers) for potential clients and travel agencies.

In early-December 2019, MSC signed with Japanet a 5-year sponsorship deal for V-Varen Nagasaki - Japanese professional football club owned by Japanet (TV shopping channel). As of 2020, the company also partners with the professional football clubs Chelsea FC ( London England ), Paris Saint-Germain FC ( Paris France ) and SSC Napoli ( Naples Italy ).

Company changes 2018

Since September 2018, MSC has an exclusive partnership with "Mohegan Sun" - Uncasville (Connecticut USA)-based casino/gambling complex operated by Mohegan Tribe and located on reservation land along Thames River. By this deal are matched MSC's loyalty program (Voyager's Club) with Mohegan Sun's Momentum program. Momentum members receive exclusive cruise perks (including booking discounts, priority embarkation-disembarkation, onboard amenities). MSC's shipboard casino program offers customers the chance to play on over 1300 different slot machines fleetwide, plus various table games. Onboard casino rewards also include specialty dining, spa treatments, booking discounts. Mohegan Sun loyalty program members receive the corresponding MSC status based on their current casino card levels.

In mid-October 2018, MSC planned to eliminate single-use plastics fleetwide by March 2019. The list of such items includes bags, cups, cutlery, toothpicks, aprons, stir pins, drink mixers, coffee lids. By the end of 2018, they will be replaced with 100% compostable and biodegradable substitutes made of renewable resources (corn-based polylactic acid, paper, bamboo, other organic materials. In addition, shipboard drinks are no longer served with straws.

In late-November 2018, MSC signed an exclusive partnership with Chelsea Football Club to become its official global cruise partner (January 2019 thru June 2024). The deal includes LED advertising at Stamford Bridge (football stadium in Fulham/west London). By the agreement, Chelsea FC representatives attended MSC Bellissima 's naming ceremony (March 2019) and on the new ship was also displayed Chelsea FC memorabilia.

In 2015, MSC ordered 4 newbuilds from STX France and Fincantieri Italy , with an option for 3 more units. The first two vessels were delivered in 2017 - Meraviglia (May) and Seaside (November).

On February 1, 2016, MSC announced it would build two "Meraviglia Plus"-class units, with max capacity 6300 passengers. The newbuilds ( Grandiosa /2019, Virtuosa /2021, Euribia /2023) have 200 additional cabins and are 16 m (50 ft) longer compared to Meraviglia-class (2444 staterooms). The last unit's/Euribia's construction started on June 28, 2021.

The first Meraviglia-Plus vessel was delivered in November 2019 (Grandiosa), the second - in February 2021 (Virtuosa). Meraviglia-Plus features include the first-at-sea Fine Art Museum with original artworks, an additional space allowing bigger indoor Promenade (length 111 m / 36 ft), two additional restaurants, and a larger outdoor LED screen (95x6 m / 280x20 ft). MSC signed an exclusive partnership with both Samsung (providing the technology) and Cirque du Soleil (live show programming).

In November 2017, MSC ordered 2 more (Seaside-EVO class) units from Fincantieri (contract value EUR 1,8 billion). They are are bigger (16 m longer, 17330 GT-tons larger, capacity 467 more passengers) in comparison to Seaview-Seaside. Their deliveries were scheduled for 2021 May ( Seashore ) and 2022 November ( Seascape ).

In early-August 2018, MSC signed an agreement for EUR 1,5 billion (USD 1,74B) for financing both Seaside-EVO liners. The financing was via a partnership with a syndicate of lender banks (Unicredit, BNP Paribas, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti). Fully backing the credit line was the Italian export credit agency SACE SIMEST. With the addition of Seaside EVO, MSC had an unprecedented total investment of EUR 10,5 billion into 12 new vessels with scheduled deliveries by 2026.

On November 30, 2017 (during Seaside's launch) the company Marlink (world's largest independent satellite Internet provider) provided over 0,5 gigabit per second throughput on its Sealink VSAT network. Seaside's record-breaking Internet speed was enabled on Intelsat's new EpicNG satellites. Marlink is MSC fleet's provider of satellite Internet via optimized "cloud of bandwidth". As of 2017, Marlink had as part of its Sealink network 25 satellites and 32 overlapping beams.

On June 14, 2018, MSC signed with STX France shipbuilding order for the 5th Meraviglia-Class unit (delivery in 2023, dual-fuel LNG -powered engines ). With this order, MSC had 13 newbuilds under construction or on order (2017-2026), of which 5x LNG-powered. The announcement was made at St-Nazaire yard. The ceremony was attended by Bruno Le Maire French Minister of Economy and Finance) and Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman). The event celebrated 3 major milestones - Virtuosa's steel-cutting, Grandiosa's keel-laying and Bellissima's float-out. For the first time in the shipyard's history, 3 vessels of a single shipowner were simultaneously under construction.

On October 18, 2018, MSC signed with Fincantieri an MoA agreement for 4x EXPLORA class ultra-luxury expedition ships. The contract's total value was EUR 2+ billion. Compared to the company's "liner fleet", the EXPLORA units are smaller (GT 64,000 tons, 500 staterooms). The first boat enters service in 2023, and the remaining 3 will be launched one per year (2024-2025-2026). The signing ceremony was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).

A curious fact is that Sophia Loren (1934-born Italian film actress) is MSC's traditional Godmother, naming each newbuild since 2003 ( MSC Lirica ).

(NEW) MSC Silenseas ships by STX France

On January 20, 2020, MSC and Chantiers de l'Atlantique (STX France) signed an MoU for the development of a sail-based (wind-powered) prototype of a cruise liner. The new class will be based on the Silenseas concept (introduced by STX France in 2018) that represents hybrid propulsion combining sails with dual-fuel marine engines.

MSC's new cruise vessel will be able to sail with min wind speed 15 knots (28 kph) and wind angle 50+ degrees. The currently considered design features GT tonnage 23,000, LOA length 210 m (689 ft), passenger capacity 300 (150 staterooms).

The sailing ship can reach speeds of 12 knots (14 mph / 22 kph) under sail in 15 knots (17 mph / 28 kph) winds. In winds over 15 knots, the vessel's propellers will be used, acting as a turbine that draws power from the sails. On Caribbean Sea routes, the new technology could reduce propulsion energy by 60%.

STX France's sail-ship design was developed for 3 vessel sizes, the biggest being 15,000 GT tons vessel with LOA length 190 m (620 ft) and 150 passenger staterooms. The French shipbuilding company started research in sail propulsion in 2009, Silenseas has technology patents (2009 and 2017) for the new sail. The unit is made from fiberglass, carbon and epoxy-resin panels. Similar is the concept of Peace Boat's new vessel Ecoship (built by Arctech Helsinki Shipyard in Helsinki, Finland ).

STX France's new wind-power technology was trialed on the Ponant -owned superyacht Le Ponant , on which one of the existing sails was replaced and the new technology tested.

Shipboard safety

In October 2017, MSC Cruises installed on Meraviglia a modern "Man Overboard Detection System". The company also announced its plans to install such systems fleetwide.

This is an intelligent video capturing, image processing and analysis system that was tested and tuned on the cruise ship for over 25,000 hours, resulting in confirmed accuracy level of 97%. The real-time video data (provided by the ship's HD CCTVs) is monitored and analyzed in a central security center by 2 independent image processing systems, which significantly lowers false alerts.

When the alarm activates (in a man overboard case), light and acoustic signals notify the ship's security officer who can immediately review the recorded video and notify the Navigation Bridge crew to start a rescue operation.

MSC WORLD-Class liners

On April 6, 2017, during the Meraviglia ship's delivery ceremony at STX France shipyard (Saint-Nazaire) , MSC signed a new ship construction MoU ("memorandum of understanding") with STX France for a new series of 4 vessels (WORLD Class) at a total cost EUR 4.5 billion. The ship's order was signed on May 31, 2017.

WORLD Class MSC vessels are with a max capacity of 6761 passengers. The number of staterooms is 2632 ( passenger capacity 5264 lower berths). The building cost (per unit) is EUR 1,125 billion, the shipbuilder is STX France.

Each unit has Gross Tonnage/volume 215,863 (GT tons), LOA length 333 m (1093 ft), waterline beam/width 41 m/135 ft (max width 54 m/177 ft), height 75 m (245 ft), draft 9,2 m (31 ft).

Among these liners' key features are latest generation LNG-powered marine engines , new wastewater treatment plants, ultra-modern marine architecture with a Y-shaped superstructure (better panoramic views, significantly increased number of balcony staterooms), G-bow hull (vertically positioned / at a 90-degree angle, improving the vessel's stability and hydrodynamics/fuel efficiency), family-themed "villages", panoramic aft pool, glass-covered pool deck.

The first ships from the WORLD series were inaugurated in 2022 Dec ( MSC World Europa ) and 2025 April ( MSC World America ). The two optional vessels were ordered in November 2023 and scheduled for deliveries in 2026 May ( MSC World Asia ) and 2027 February (MSC World tbn). There is also an option for a 5th unit from this class.

In January 2016, MSC signed a partnership with Samsung for the latest technology equipment upgrade fleetwide. Among the provided by Samsung equipment are top-line flat HDTVs (for passenger cabins), LED screens and digital signage boards (in public areas), specialized medical equipment (for onboard hospitals), augmented reality mirrors, printing solutions.

In April 2018, the company introduced its new "Family Explorer Club" excursions program with expected over 250,000 children on cruises in 2018. The new tour program is designed to involve kids and their parents on custom-made shore excursions. The first boat offering this program was Divina. The new interactive land tour experiences are themed on the destination's history and each tour features a local historical character symbolic to that destination/city. Teams are equipped with digital explorer maps, detailed instructions for the mission, and kids receive stickers for every accomplished task. On these family-only tours, kids are booked half-price. Excursions usually start later in the morning and have a max duration of 4 hours.

MSC private islands (Sir Bani Yas, Ocean Cay)

In December 2015, MSC unveiled plans to develop an "unprecedented exclusive marine reserve island experience in the Bahamas". The USD 200-million project was launched in Nassau , where The Bahamas' Prime Minister and MSC's Executive Chairman signed a 100-year lease agreement, enabling MSC Cruises to occupy and develop the island - officially named Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve .

Ocean Cay was a 2-year long, USD 200 million project. The island is sized 95 acres / 38 hectares (0,38 km2 / 0,15 mi2) and is the world's only private marine reserve. It has a 3470 m (11400 ft) long beachfront across 6 beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is the biggest Caribbean private island development done by a cruise company. An interesting fact is that when the MSC ship is berthed in Ocean Cay, all its onboard facilities and services (including the casino) stay open and operational. Ocean Cay Island is surrounded by 64 mi2 (166 km2) of protected waters with coral reefs and ~90 different fish species.

In June 2016, MSC officially announced the exclusive "beach oasis" for MSC cruiseship tourists on roundtrips from UAE ( Abu Dhabi and Dubai ) starting winter 2016-2017. The 2,5 km (1,5 mi) stretch of land on Sir Bani Yas Island features shaded cabanas, hundreds of palm trees and 2000+ sunbeds across 36,000 m2 (387,500 ft2) of sand beaches. Other facilities and amenities available on the island include food and drink bars, MSC Aurea Spa (wellness complex, massages), sports facilities (beach volleyball, tennis), family-kids playground area (with pergola / outdoor garden for parrents), Bedouin tent (selling hand-made local arts and crafts), lounge space (live music, full-service bar), exclusive beaches (with VIP areas and cabanas).

The MSC island development is on a smaller isle connected to the main island by wooden boardwalk allowing exclusive access to MSC passengers. MSC worked closely with ecologists and the Abu Dhabi Port Authorities for over 2 years to develop the island and support the ongoing preservation work. The isle is one of the region's largest wildlife reserves due to decades of conservation works and ecological investments to maintain its biodiversity. The "Arabian Wildlife Park" on the main island is home to over 13,000 endangered and indigenous animals, as well as millions of plants and trees.

The first cruise to Sir Bani Yas Island departed on December 3, 2016 (visiting the island on December 5). Prices started from USD 720 per person (7-night itinerary on MSC Fantasia ). In July 2016, Costa Cruises announced that Sir Bani Yas Island will be added as a 1-day stopover (port of call) during season 2016-2017 on Costa neoRiviera . In 2017-2018, neoRiviera was replaced in Dubai by Costa Mediterranea . Costa passengers have access to a private (Costa exclusive) beach with VIP areas with cabanas.

Among the island's shore excursion options are jeep safaris in the wildlife park, sea kayaking, diving and snorkeling tours.

MSC Cruises Asia

In mid-January 2018, MSC announced a new partnership with China's largest online payment platform "Alipay". The deal offers mobile payments fleetwide - on all MSC vessels deployed in Asia. It allows customers to pay for onboard purchases. In November 2017, the Alipay option was introduced on MSC Lirica. Next ship with Alipay technology was MSC Splendida - homeported in Shanghai China since May 2018.

Since May 2017, all Costa Asia -managed cruise vessels (of all Carnival Corporation brands) allow use Alipay payment services onboard. The partnership between Carnival Corporation and Ant Financial Services Group (a subsidiary of Alibaba, China's biggest online trading company) enables Chinese cruise passengers on all Carnival Corp ships in Asia to pay for onboard services and products using their Alipay (mobile payment platform) accounts. Among these onboard services and products are shopping, tours/excursions, food, and drinks. These expenditures are added to the passenger's cabin folio, then cleared via his/her Alipay account on a nightly basis.

(NEW) MSC kids programming

In November 2019, on Grandiosa (fleet's flagship) MSC introduces a new kids' entertainment program featuring hundreds of hours (per week) of themed activities. For children and teens is allocated up to 700 m2 (7535 ft2) of shipboard space with separate rooms for different age groups. The activities include virtual gaming (consoles and arcade machines), large aqua parks with slides, treasure hunts, trivia games, themed parties, supervised playgrounds (indoor and outdoor).

Starting with Grandiosa, MSC now offers 3 new activities for children (MSC Dance Crew, The Drone Academy, Spy Mission) plus a new web series targeting teenagers.

• "MSC Dance Crew" is developed via partnership with FremantleMedia - the company behind the TV show franchises "The X Factor", "Idols" and "Got Talent". The new music competition experience is based on teams of 12-17-year-old children battling to win the title "dance crew of the year".
• "The Drone Academy" is via partnership with The Department ( London UK -based event agency). The high-tech drone racing activities take place in the ship's Sportsplex and happen at night due to flicker effects and the glowing drones. Teens (battling in teams) are previously trained on drone piloting. The race is at the 390 m2 (4200 ft2) sized arena and includes navigating 15 obstacles in the fastest time possible.
• "Spy Mission" is MSC's first activity where kids play a central role. They are led through different scenes (throughout the ship) to unravel storylines, follow clues and solve the mystery in order to win prizes.
• "Cabin 12006" is MSC's new teen-targeting web series tha follows "Kelly and Kloe Onboard" - run for 3 years (2016-2019) with 5+ million views online. Filming the "Cabin 12006" episodes is currently underway on Bellissima (March 2019-inaugurated).

MSC wedding cruise deals

Since 2015, MSC Cruises has a new cruise wedding program available on Caribbean itineraries. The program offers onboard marriages (also ashore) in several Caribbean port destinations, including Nassau Bahamas, Bridgetown Barbados, Grand Cayman Island, Falmouth Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, San Juan Puerto Rico, Philipsburg St Maarten, Charlotte Amalie St Thomas, and also Miami (on the embarkation day only).

MSC partnered with the wedding-planning company "The Wedding Experience" and offers cruise wedding packages with prices starting from USD 1600 (onboard) and USD 2200 (ashore) weddings. MSC's basic wedding package includes a pre-cruise event manager, a ceremony coordinator, 1 bottle of Champagne, 1 cake for two, 1 bridal bouquet, 1-hour photo session.

Event planners work with the couples to handle all the details (weddings and vow renewals). Also provided are wedding consultants and ceremony coordinators. Onboard / ashore receptions and ceremonies offer various options - video/photo packages, fresh flowers, themed music, food and drink packages, also specialty items (personalized stationaries for invitations) and ground transportation for ashore events.

Couples booking groups of 13 or more cabins receive a complimentary balcony stateroom. Couples booking groups of 30 or more cabins receive a complimentary suite. Complimentary Yacht Club stateroom is offered for 50 or more booked cabins. Onboard ceremonies can be attended by up to 150 non-cruising guests.

MSC Cruises' first ship to offer onboard weddings was MSC Divina.

MSC cruise booking and cancellation policy changes

In July 2017, MSC changed the company's cruise booking policy. It now requires final payments to be made 30 days earlier - from 60-days to 90-days prior departure.

• Cancellations made 89-61 days prior departure result in losing the non-refundable deposit.
• Cancellations between 46-60 days prior departure result in paying 50% of the original price.
• Cancellations between 16-45 days prior departure result in paying 75% of the original price.
• Cancellations made 15 days or less prior departure result in paying the full cruise price.

Since April 2, 2019, tips (gratuities) are included into MSC cruise fares for all UK and Ireland passengers.

On February 1, 2019, MSC officially revealed the in-cabin digital assistant ZOE. The technology ("cruise industry first") was developed by Harman International (US-based company, fully-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics). Harman International has developed digital audio solutions for major corporations (Including Google, Microsoft, Amazon).

• ZOE is an artificial intelligence device (voice-enabled, with advanced voice recognition software) available in all passenger staterooms.
• ZOE speaks 7 languages, answers cruise-related questions, provides info on shipboard services-activities-facilities, makes reservations and bookings.
• The digital device features far-field microphones, top-quality speaker, quad-core processor (for fast response times), direct phone connection (through Bluetooth). The system can also upgrade its own database to answer previously unanswerable questions.
• Passenger data (including itinerary/tour and shipboard preferences) is stored in Cloud Storage system and used on the next scheduled voyage.
• The device (sized ~15 cm) can be activated whenever passengers choose. A waiver must be signed to agree for their personal data to be stored.

Starting with Bellissima (2019), ZOE will be available on all newbuild MSC liners - including Grandiosa (2019) and Virtuosa (2020) - and introduced fleetwide over 2019-2024.

"MSC for Me" - fleetwide Digital Innovation Program 2017-2018

Each of the MSC cruise ships is fitted with thousands of connectivity points, digital access points, iBeacons (Bluetooth) and hundreds of interactive digital screens throughout the ship. In all staterooms are implemented RFID (radio-frequency identification) and NFC (near-field communication) access technologies.

The new program is implemented fleetwide but was first introduced on MSC Meraviglia . The ship, launched in June 2017, was fitted with a total of 114 Interactive screens, 244 info screens, 31 virtual screens, 81 video wall monitors, 3050 iBeacons, 700 WAPs (wireless access points), 1200 CCTV cameras.

MSC digitalization program's main features are:

• The apps implement facial recognition technology and interactive/smart bracelets by Samsung.
• Digital Concierge app - passengers can reserve/book onboard services, restaurants and shore excursions in real-time. The app is real-time and 24-hour, connecting MSC customers to the company's experienced staff online.
• Capture - virtual reality tool to preview the cruise itinerary, create personal photo galleries, online sharing.
• Organizer - a cruise planning tool used at mobile devices. It provides detailed information and also allows pre-booking (tours, theatre seats, dinner table, etc) before ship embarkation (pre-cruise booking) and while onboard (realtime cruise planner).
• Navigation - Interactive map (way finder) provides advice (scheduled events, opening hours, etc) and directions while on the ship. The app also allows real-time kids monitoring (via bracelets).
• TailorMade - digital advisor for personal recommendations based on the passenger's preferences (interactive gaming, gambling, culinary, recreational, entertainment, etc).
• Passengers can always opt out of all these connected ("Internet of things" / IoT) services offered.
• All passenger staterooms are fitted with door locks with built-in keypads (Samsung SHS-1321 NFC Ring).

MSC fitness cruise packages

Since 2017, MSC Cruises offers an upgraded fleetwide onboard wellness experience via a partnership with TechnoGym. It is part of the company's cruise fare-inclusive offers that can be chosen upon booking.

• The new program starts with an online questionnaire determining the customer's specific wellness goals, aspects of a healthy lifestyle (exercises, healthy diet, weight loss).
• The new wellness program is linked with the company's fitness-themed cruises . It also includes one-time personal trainer consultation. Personal training sessions are available onboard at extra cost.
• Also included are themed shore excursions (jogging, hiking, cycling), fitness classes (hula hooping, barre, yoga, Pilates).
• Resistance bands and workout mats are provided on the ship for in-cabin use.
• TechnoGym workout gear and laundry service for the exercise clothing are provided on the ship.
• Healthy food menu options are available in the ship's main dining rooms and Lido buffet restaurants.
• Deals are also inclusive of a medical evaluation with the ship's doctor (blood pressure, EKG, lipid panel).
• The new "Wellness Experience" program is operated with a total of 5 fitness cruise packages available for booking. Pricing starts from USD 930 pp (7-night itinerary, Interior Stateroom).

FREE Birthday cruise

In 2017, MSC started offering a new "free cruise deal" for customers celebrating their birthday. in case your birthday falls during select cruises, it is complimentary.

• MSC's free cruise offers are on itineraries in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic), Asia (Arabian Peninsula /Dubai), Caribbean (West Indies, Cuba). Longer itineraries are available through World Voyages .
• Booked passengers can extend their free birthday cruise and combine itineraries into B2Bs (back to back cruises) from 14 to 22 nights.
• Bookings must have at least one paying passenger and only one free birthday passenger. The birthday of the passenger must fall on one of the itinerary days, but excluding the arrival and departure days.
• Such offers are usually promotions, subject to selected availability and valid for lower cabin categories only (usually excluding Suites).

MSC's "Dolphins Fan Cruise"

MSC Seaside ship's itinerary March 17-24, 2018 (7-day Caribbean and Antilles roundtrip from Miami to Nassau Bahamas, St Thomas USVI, St Johns Antigua) was officially themed "Dolphins Fan Cruise". This special voyage was the result of the 3-year partnership between MSC and the NFL team. The sports-themed voyage will be hosted annually over the next 3 years (2017-2020). The 2018 voyage's prices started at USD 700 per person (balcony cabin rates based on double occupancy).

During these sports cruises, passengers have the opportunity to interact in person with team alumni. The list of pre-scheduled onboard activities includes:

• Meet team's legends Joe Rose, Kim Bokamper, Nat Moore, Patrick Surtain, Sam Madison, Terry Kirby.
• Take autographs from the alumni, and get a photo with the team's cheerleaders.
• Cheer alongside team's cheerleaders and hype up the crowd with the mascot TD (The Dolphin).
• Enjoy special performances by cheer squad and the mascot.
• Get to know former players during Q&A sessions.

On April 28, 2018, the ship hosted the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders for the team's annual calendar photo shoot, with special onboard show programming.

• Via company's "Save & Sail" summer promotion, potential MSC cruise customers had the chance to book a balcony stateroom on the "Cheerleaders voyage" starting at USD 650 pp. The off-promo prices started from USD 1098 pp (Inside Cabin rates with double occupancy).
• Cheerleaders cruise itinerary (April 28 - May 5) was a 7-day roundtrip from Miami to St Maarten Island, Puerto Rico and Bahamas (Nassau).

MSC virtual reality ship tours

Samsung and MSC developed a cutting-edge virtual reality tool for touring MSC cruise liners. The new technology was announced during at Expo Milano 2015 (May 1 through October 31, 2015).

With this innovative technology, MSC made available to the company's top European sellers (travel agencies) a powerful tool for introducing the brand to potential customers. The technology is based on Samsung's "Gear VR" headsets (powered by Oculus) plus a custom-built software app. Potential MSC passengers can walk through any cruise ship in the fleet without setting foot on board. The tool allows "walking" through 6 key onboard areas (including staterooms, restaurants, pools, theatre / also watching a show). The 360-degree sensory experience even brings aromas in the air (when observing an onboard restaurant) - such as fresh-baked bread, fresh fruits, chocolate.

The virtual cruise ship tour technology uses software and hardware by AxedGroup. The virtual ship tour app runs on Samsung Galaxy Note phones. Other experiences include tours of new (prototype) MSC ships *currently under construction).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, MSC suspended its North American fleet's passenger shipping operations (all US-homeported liners) by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through May-June 2021.

European operations resumed in 2020 on August 16 (Grandiosa) and October 19 (Magnifica) but all voyages were eventually canceled. MSC had its fleet fully operational by June 5th, 2022.

Next are listed MSC's first scheduled departure dates by ship/region/homeport - ARMONIA (April 10, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), BELLISSIMA (July 2021/Red Sea from Jeddah Saudi Arabia), DIVINA (Sept 16, 2021/Bahamas from Port Canaveral), FANTASIA (Nov 7, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), GRANDIOSA (Jan 24, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), LIRICA (April 12, 2022/Med-Aegean-Athens), MAGNIFICA (June 20, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), MERAVIGLIA (Aug 2, 2021/Caribbean from Miami), MUSICA (June 5, 2022/Mediterranean from Monfalcone), OPERA (April 24, 2022/Mediterranean-Genoa), ORCHESTRA (June 5, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), POESIA (April 30, 2022/Med-Baltic repositioning/Rome-Rostock), PREZIOSA (Sept 23, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), SEASHORE (Aug 9, 2021/Mediterranean-Naples-Messina-Valletta-Barcelona), SEASCAPE (Nov 19, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Transatlantic from Rome to NYC New York), SEASIDE (May 1, 2021/Mediterranean-Rome-Genoa), SEAVIEW (July 3, 2021/Kiel Germany), SINFONIA (March 26, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), SPLENDIDA (June 12, 2021/Adriatic from Trieste), VIRTUOSA (May 20, 2021/UK-British Islands from Southampton), WORLD EUROPA (Dec 21, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Red Sea from Dubai).

• In early-January 2021 MSC planned to start Mediterranean cruises (with Grandiosa) scheduled between January 24 and March 21. The 7-day itinerary (leaving on Sundays from Genoa) visited Civitavecchia, Palermo, Naples and Valletta (Malta), with embarkation available in all the Italian ports.
• MSC USA's pause (ex-Florida cancellations) affected 3 ships - Meraviglia and Armonia (from Miami) and Divina (from Port Canaveral).
• MSC South America 2021-2022 winter program was canceled (due to Brazil's new policies/ordinance 657) affecting 4 ships (Sinfonia, Orchestra, Preziosa, Splendida).
• LIRICA's Mediterranean 2021 season (7-day roundtrips from Ancona and Venice) was canceled and the liner restarts operations in 2022 (April 11/Aegean from Athens).
• MUSICA's South Africa 2021-2022 program (from Durban) was canceled.
• OPERA's Red Sea 2021-2022 program (from Dubai) was canceled.
• PREZIOSA's 2021 Baltic season (Baltic-Norway from Hamburg) was canceled.
• MSC's 2021-2022/winter South America (Preziosa, Seaview) and Arabia-Dubai (Fantasia) programs were canceled.

All affected bookings received full refunds in FCC (future cruise credit), including on prepurchased through MSC packages and services. With rebooking (made by December 31, 2021) was offered a 125% refund in FCC. Available for rebooking were all departures thru April 30, 2022. Optionally was offered a 100% monetary refund.

Itinerary of MSC Cruises

This section provides a concise review of MSC's current and future cruise itinerary program. The company operates regularly scheduled voyages in Europe (Mediterranean, UK, Baltic), the Caribbean (ex-Florida USA departures), South America, South Africa, Asia, Arabian Gulf.

Currently, MSC has no plans for ship deployments in Alaska, except via the sister brand Explora Journeys .

MSC's Grand Voyages are seasonally offered relocation voyages including Transatlantic crossings (Europe-USA-Caribbean, Europe-South America), Suez Canal (Mediterranean-Arabia/ Dubai UAE ), Mediterranean-Baltic-UK, Europe-South Africa. Cruises to Nowhere MSC offers in South Africa.

Note: An extensive ship relocation schedule you can see at RepositionCruises.com

With its newbuilds , MSC attracts a large number of retirees during winter and targets families with kids during summer and the school holidays. The company's smaller liners offer longer and more exotic itineraries but lack modern kids' facilities as they are tailored to older travelers.

In 2025, MSC starts homeporting in Galveston Texas USA (ship Seascape).

Middle East 2024 Arabian Gulf voyages

MSC Opera 's Arabian/Red Sea deployment in winter 2024-25 (from Dubai) was canceled and replaced with a Canary Islands deployment. In the Canaries, MSC Opera had scheduled 7-night itineraries (November 3, 2024, through March 16, 2025) visiting 6 call ports. Departing roundtrip from  Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the ship visits  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria ,  Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) ,  Funchal (Madeira) ,  Santa Cruz de la Palma , and  Arrecife (Lanzarote)  before returning back to Tenerife. MSC's new Canary Islands itinerary offers flexible homeporting options allowing boarding in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Sundays), Las Palmas (Mondays), Madeira (Thursdays or Fridays) and Arrecife (Saturdays).

MSC Orchestra  is introducing a new Middle East cruise itinerary from  Safaga  in Egypt, featuring 20 seven-night sailings to  Jeddah ,  Aqaba for Petra  in Jordan,  Sharm El-Sheikh , and  Cairo .

Cruises from China

In May 2018, MSC Splendida started service on the Chinese market following its 2017 drydock refurbishment . The China-based ( Shanghai ) itinerary program included destinations in Japan, Korea, China.

MSC offers cruises in China since 2016 (with MSC Lirica ), followed by the deployments of Splendida (2018) and Virtuosa (2022).

In 2024 (April thru September), in China are deployed the MSC ships Bellissima and Splendida. Itineraries are based on homeporting in/roundtrip departures from Shanghai and Shenzhen/Shekou . Bellissima starts from Shenzhen on June 29th, and has scheduled 8x voyages (2- to 5-night in length) visiting Hong Kong and Japan (Okinawa, Yaeyama Islands, Miyako Island). In July-September (2024) Bellissima has scheduled 8x voyages (4- to 6-night) leaving out of Shanghai and visiting Japan (Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Osaka, Okinawa, Shimonoseki).

MSC Caribbean 2024-2025 itineraries

Caribbean and the French Antilles

• 2024/Seascape (PortMiami): 7-night Eastern Caribbean (Ocean Cay and Nassau Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Plata Dominicana) 7-night Western Caribbean (Ocean Cay, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios Jamaica)
• 2025/Seascape (Galveston TX, departing on Sundays): 7-night Western Caribbean (Mexico's Costa Maya and Cozumel, and Honduras's Roatan Island)
• Meraviglia (Port Canaveral): 3- to 7-night (Nassau and Ocean Cay, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Belize City)
• Divina (PortMiami): 3- to 10-night (Ocean Cay, Belize City, Roatan Honduras, Costa Maya, Ocho Rios, Cartagena Columbia, Colon Panama, Puerto Limon Costa Rica)
• Seaside ( Fort-de-France, French Antilles ): 7-night (Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe, Castries St Lucia, Bridgetown Barbados, St Georges Grenada, Kingstown St Vincent)

Western Mediterranean

• Grandiosa . 7-night (Genoa, Civitavecchia/Rome, Palermo Italy, Valletta Malta, Barcelona Spain, Marseille France)
• Virtuosa : 7-night (Genoa, La Spezia/Florence, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Marseille
• Lirica (Genoa) 11-night (Civitavecchia, Messina Sicily, Lindos/Rhodes, Heraklion/Crete, Limassol Cyprus, Haifa Israel) 10-night (Ceuta, Malaga, Barcelona, Alicante, Tangier and Casablanca/Marrakech Morocco, Marseille)

South America

• Seashore (Brazil). 7-night (Maceio Salvador & Buzios Brazil)
• Seaview (Rio de Janeiro) 3- to 8-night (Buzios, Ilhabela, Ilha, Grande/Angra dos Reis, Ilheus & Salvador Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
• Fantasia (Santos, Brazil) 3- to 7-night (Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil, Montevideo & Punta Del Este Uruguay, Buenos Aires)
• Armonia (Itajai/Santa Caterina, Brazil) 7-night (Ilhabela Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
• Musica (Bueno Aires) Ilhabela, Rio de Janeiro, Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil

South Africa

• Sinfonia (Cape Town) Mossel Bay, Walvis Bay and Ludertize (Namibia).
• Orchestra (Durban) Pomene & Portuguese Island/Inhaca Archipelago (Mozambique), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Cape Town (South Africa)

Middle East

• World Europa (Dubai) 7-night (Abu Dhabi/Dubai, Sir Bani Yas, Dammam/Al Ahsa Oasis Saudi Arabia)
• Opera (Dubai) Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Muscat, Khasab (Oman); 22 separate 7-night sailings in 2023-2024, starting from Dubai and covering ports like Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island,  Khasab in Oman  or  Fujairah in the UAE , the  Omani capital Muscat , and returning to Dubai.
• 17 new 7-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf by  MSC Virtuosa  from Dubai , taking passengers to  Doha in Qatar , the newly added  port of Manama in Bahrain ,  Abu Dhabi ,  Sir Bani Yas Island  in the UAE, and back to Dubai. 
• MSC Orchestra  is offering a new itinerary during the winter 2023-2024 season. Departing from  Safaga in Egypt , she sails on 20 7-night sailings to destinations like  Jeddah  in Saudi Arabia,  Aqaba for Petra  in Jordan, a newly introduced port of call at  Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt ,  Sokhna Port  for  Cairo in Egypt , and back to Safaga. International guests have embarkation options at Safaga, Jeddah, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Sokhna Port.

In 2025 debuts World Europa's sistership MSC World America and both are homeported in  Miami . Out of PortMiami, World America operates on two 7-day roundtrip itineraries - Eastern Caribbean (to  Puerto Plata Dominicana ,  San Juan Puerto Rico , and  Ocean Cay Bahamas ) and Western Caribbean (to Mexico's  Costa Maya  and  Cozumel Mexico ,  Isla Roatan Honduras , and Ocean Cay). World America's Maiden Voyage departs Miami on April 12, 2025 (Eastern Caribbean).

Winter 2025-2026 itineraries from the USA

In May 2024, MSC unveiled an expansion of ex-USA operations planned for winter 2025-2026 season.

The program is based on four homeports and seven ships leaving roundtrip from three states - Florida ( Miami  and  Port Canaveral ), New York ( NYC ) and Texas ( Galveston ).

Season's key highlight is the debut of MSC Grandiosa ship in Port Canaveral - the first USA-based Meraviglia-Plus class vessel. Grandiosa offers alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, while MSC Seashore ship (also from Port Canaveral) offers short breaks (3- and 4-night) to The Bahamas ( Nassau and Ocean Cay ).

In 2025, MSC starts operations from Texas (Galveston) with MSC Seascape ship offering 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

MSC World America ship (launched April 2025) embarks on its first season from Miami.

The other two USA-based MSC ships are MSC Divina (from Miami) and MSC Meraviglia (from New York City to Florida-Bahamas).

Summer 2026 Mediterranean itineraries

From May to October 2026, MSC Cruises' fleet of 9 elegant ships offers journeys to iconic destinations as well as off-the-beaten-path gems, blending relaxation, exploration, culture, and entertainment seamlessly.

• Valencia, Spain , entices with its vibrant port city charm, historical richness, and lively nightlife. Guests can explore cobblestone streets steeped in Spanish heritage, indulge in culinary delights like tapas and paella, and bask in the beauty of Playa de Las Arenas beach.  MSC Fantasia  and  MSC Seaside  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Valencia and Genoa, respectively.
• Livorno, Italy , a coastal gem in Tuscany, boasts historical marvels, fascinating museums, and mouthwatering seafood. From Livorno, travelers can easily visit Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, or marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. MSC Fantasia and  MSC Grandiosa  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Livorno and Valencia, respectively.
• Barcelona, Spain , thrives during the summer months with its festivals, beaches, and cultural attractions. From world-class museums to the architectural wonders of Gaudí, Barcelona promises a vibrant experience.  MSC Seaview  and  MSC World Europa  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Barcelona and Genoa, respectively.
• Palermo, Italy , the capital of Sicily, blends Norman architecture, Baroque churches, and bustling markets. Exploring its labyrinthine streets reveals a rich tapestry of history and culture. MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa offer 7-night itineraries departing from Genoa and Livorno, respectively.
• Ibiza, Spain , renowned for its beauty and nightlife, offers more than just revelry. From the charming Ciutat d’Eivissa to the stunning views atop Montserrat, Ibiza captivates with its diverse offerings.  MSC Musica  and MSC Seaside offer 7-night itineraries departing from Civitavecchia and Genoa, respectively.
• Cadiz, Spain , the oldest city in Western Europe, boasts a rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the nearby Donana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  MSC Orchestra  offers 10-night itineraries departing from Genoa that include a stop in Cadiz.
• Naples, Italy , a vibrant city on the southern coast, enchants with its historic treasures and proximity to Pompeii and the island of Capri. Guests can explore ancient ruins or bask in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. MSC World Europa, MSC Grandiosa, and  MSC Divina  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Genoa, Livorno, and Civitavecchia, respectively.
• Cannes, France , epitomizes glamour and Mediterranean allure, boasting pristine beaches, upscale boutiques, and the renowned Cannes Film Festival. Exploring the city’s old town, Le Suquet, offers a glimpse into its rich history. MSC Musica and MSC Seaview offer 7-night itineraries departing from Civitavecchia and Barcelona, respectively.

MSC Cuba cruises from Havana

In January 2016 MSC became the first major cruise line to homeport in Havana, with MSC Opera (sailing to Jamaica, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands) while MSC Armonia operated on 8-day/7-night itineraries, visiting ports in Central America and the Caribbean:

• 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Roatan (Honduras), Belize City (Belize), Costa Maya (Mexico), Isla de la Juventud (Cuba)
• 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Montego Bay (Jamaica), George Town (Grand Cayman) and Cozumel (Mexico).
• Both itineraries were combinable into a 14-night roundtrip Havana back-to-back cruise .

Cuban itineraries on MSC Opera were roundtrips from Havana .

Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government to allow ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.

Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-minute JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.

IMPORTANT: On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.

(NEW) PortMiami MSC Terminal AAA

In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the building of a new Cruise Terminal AAA at Port Miami .

Port Miami is MSC's exclusive homeport in the USA. The new agreement extended the existing Saturday preferential MSC berthing rights also to Sundays. Additionally, the new cruise terminal (completed in October 2022) was projected to be able to accommodate MSC's largest World Class ships (carrying up to 7000 pax).

As of November 2019, MSC Cruises' largest ship, MSC Meraviglia joins the other 3 ships at PortMiami.

MSC Cruises related cruise news

MSC Explora Journeys partners with Louis Vuitton America’s Cup

On June 19th, MSC's luxury travel brand Explora Journeys successfully launched a partnership with Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup (sailing...

MSC Explora II ship's delivery pushed to September 2024

Explora Journeys has announced a delay in the delivery of Explora II to allocate additional time for final adjustments to the vessel. The Italian...

Crew missing after overboard incident on MSC Musica ship

A male crew remains unaccounted for after reportedly jumping from an MSC Cruises' ship. MSC reported that the individual went overboard last Monday...

Galveston and MSC Cruises announce $140M terminal development

A recent announcement by Galveston Wharves and MSC Cruises (the world's third-largest cruise shipowner) marks a significant milestone in the...

MSC Cruises to deploy 7 ships in USA for winter 2025-2026

MSC Cruises is set to deploy 7 ships in the United States for the winter 2025-2026 season, marking its largest presence in the market to date. These...

Passenger death/overboard from MSC Euribia ship in Sognefjorden Norway

A sea travel vacation turned tragic early Thursday, June 6th, as a passenger on MSC Euribia ship fell overboard into Norway’s renowned...

MSC Euribia successfully connects to shore power at Kiel’s Ostuferhafen cruise terminal

MSC Euribia has successfully connected to the shore power facility at Kiel’s Ostuferhafen cruise terminal for the first time, marking a...

MSC Cruises expands USA fleet (7 ships) in winter 2025-2026

MSC Cruises has unveiled an expanded lineup of itineraries for winter 2025-2026 season, providing tourists with more vacation options from its four...

MSC Cruises expands Family Program with new activities and services

MSC Cruises is enhancing its renowned kids and family program this summer with new entertainment options and services, ensuring memorable experiences...

MSC Cruises unveils summer 2026 Mediterranean itineraries

MSC Cruises caters to the ongoing allure of the Mediterranean by offering an extensive range of itineraries, allowing travelers to explore multiple...

•   show more news

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.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up

Is An Aircraft Carrier Bigger Than A Cruise Ship? Here's How They Compare

Aircraft carriers and cruise ships are some of the largest floating vessels in the world  — both capable of carrying thousands of people on board. Cruise ships and carriers are engineering marvels  decades if not centuries in the making as shipbuilding has advanced over the ages.

However, cruise ships and aircraft carriers differ massively in their purpose. Cruise ships are leisure vehicles, designed to bring tourists to many different ports and explore different places and countries, while at the same time having a good time between stops. On the other hand, aircraft carriers are naval vessels that countries use to project power and influence regional geopolitics, meaning the people aboard them aren't there to have a good time.

Both ships are massive floating cities, but which one is actually larger? Let's measure the largest examples of these boats.

What's the biggest cruise ship today?

At the time of writing, the title holder of the largest cruise ship in the world is Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas. She is an Icon Class ship with a gross tonnage of 248,663 and entered service with the cruise liner in January 2024. This gives her a length of 1,196 feet or 365 meters — about four football fields long — and a width of 159 feet or 48 meters (about 11 cars long, at around 14.7 feet long per car). Royal Caribbean spent $2 billion to build her, and its CEO, Jason Liberty, describes her as the "biggest, baddest ship on the planet," according to CNBC . 

However, the Icon of the Seas won't remain as the largest cruise liner for long. That's because her sister ship, the Star of the Seas, will have an expected gross tonnage of 250,880. She's currently under construction at Meyer Turku in Finland, with Royal Caribbean International expecting her to enter service in the summer 2025. A third Icon Class ship is slated for delivery in 2026, but we don't have much information on it right now.

The Icon of the Seas has a total of 20 decks, with 18 accessible to guests. However, not all decks contain rooms, of the 18 guest decks, only 12 have guest accommodations. The rest of the decks are reserved for amenities and crew.

What's the biggest aircraft carrier today?

The U.S. Navy claims that its newest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is the world's largest. It is the first ship in the Gerald R. Ford class of supercarriers and is designed to accommodate modern systems within its planned 50-year service life. The Gerald R. Ford has a length of 333 meters or about 1,092 feet — slightly shorter than the Icon of the Seas — and a beam of 40.8 meters or almost 134 feet. It also weighs a little less than 100,000 tons. This makes the carrier significantly slimmer and lighter than the cruise ship, but that's because aircraft carriers need to be as fast as possible.

This ship's primary mission is to deploy aircraft, but because it has such a short length of just 333 meters (versus the runways at U.S. Air Force bases, with the longest at Edwards Air Force Base with 4,579 meters), carriers use speed to get a brisk wind of over 30 knots blowing over the deck when launching planes, alongside the use of its catapult. The slimmer profile of an aircraft carrier allow it to go faster (which also means that it can get in and out of danger more quickly, too).

As for the price, the Gerald R. Ford class will cost the American taxpayer a cool $13 billion per ship . This is more expensive than the USS Nimitz , which it slated to retire in 2026, and has an inflation-adjusted price of over $11.5 billion.

How many people can fit in a cruise ship?

Aside from its size, we can also look at the number of people each ship can carry. After all, although the Icon of the Seas and USS Gerald R. Ford have almost the same length, it doesn't mean that they can carry the same number of people. The largest Royal Caribbean International cruise ship has 2,805 staterooms, meaning it can carry 5,610 guests if each room is occupied by two people.

However, the Icon of the Seas also has a few bigger rooms that can hold more people. If you fill all the rooms to the maximum, the ship's passenger capacity is at 9,302. And with its 2,350 total international crew to complement, that would mean that the Icon of the Seas has 11,652 souls on board when filled to the brim.

We must also remember that cruise ships aren't just floating motels. Instead, they're full-fledged entertainment venues with multiple amenities. The Icon of the Seas itself features 27 restaurants, 18 bars and lounges, six activity centers for kids and teens, and 24 other amenities, including a conference center, theaters, swimming pools, sports courts, to name a few.

How large is the crew of an aircraft carrier?

Aircraft carriers also have a large number of people aboard. But since they're military weapons, these are not tourists on a leisurely trip. Instead, they're mostly sailors and naval aviators, occasionally some marines and other personnel that are there to support the carrier's operations.

The USS Gerald R. Ford has enough accommodations for 508 officers and 3,789 enlisted personnel, for a total crew complement of 4,297. This is 1,715 less than the Nimitz's full complement of 6,012 people, showing how the Ford has streamlined its operations.

But aside from its crew, remember that aircraft carriers carry both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The majority of the Icon of the Seas' space is occupied by leisure amenities. On the other hand, the USS Gerald R. Ford has an expansive flat top for launching multiple aircraft simultaneously and it also has spacious hangars to store and service loads of up to 90 planes, helicopters, and drones — including the F-35C , F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning radar, EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft , and MH-60R/S helicopters.

What is the largest ship in the world right now?

The short answer to whether an aircraft carrier is bigger than a cruise ship is no, if you look at the biggest ships in their class. However, many smaller cruise ships will be dwarfed by the Navy's smallest actively serving carrier. But even though the Icon of the Seas and the USS Gerald R. Ford are behemoths in their own right, neither of them is the largest ship on the world to have been made (although they both made the top 10). Instead, this award goes to the oil carrier Seawise Giant, designed for shuttling oil from the Middle East to the United States. However, it has since been retired and sold for scrap in 2010.

As of today, the largest ship in service is the OOCL Spain, which is almost 400 meters long and can carry over 24,000 shipping containers. Next to it are four ships owned by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) — Irina, Loreto, Michel Cappellini, and Gülsün — all of which carry around 24,000 containers.

We might see larger cruise ships and carriers in the future, especially as Royal Caribbean International and the Navy still has several cruise ships and aircraft carriers on order. We might even see a larger carrier from other countries, as the U.S. Navy isn't the only one to field these mighty ships .

50 Best Cruise Ship Water Parks and Private Islands for Kids

A nyone who’s ever cruised in the Caribbean or Mexico knows how hot a day at sea can get. With temperatures routinely hitting 80 degrees and above, being able to cool off onboard your ship is a must. And for families with young kids and tweens, nothing beats a cruise ship water park with water slides when it comes to keeping everyone happy and refreshed on days at sea.

The Best Cruise Ship Water Parks for Kids of All Ages

Plenty of cruise ships have pools and water slides, but not all of them are a good fit for families with tweens or kids under 10 years old. Pools can get crowded, life guards may not be available, and water slides may be too scary or have height limits.

That’s not a problem with the following cruise ship water parks that have just what’s needed for all ages from toddlers to tweens to teens. From smaller water slides, wading pools, and tipping buckets to water cannons, surprise water spouts, and dancing fountains, here are the cruise ships with the best onboard water parks for every age group.

FAMILY CRUISE DEALS: Kids Cruise Free: These 7 Cruise Lines Let Kids Sail Free

Important note: With the exception of Disney Cruise Line , kids on all other ships must be potty-trained to play in these cruise ship water parks; swim diapers are not permitted on most ships.

Splashaway Bay Aqua Park and Category 6 Water Park on Royal Caribbean

Splashaway Bay aqua park from Royal Caribbean is an ideal cruise ship water park for tweens or kids under 10 who love to zip down water slides, splash through fountains, or get soaking wet beneath a massive tipping bucket. There’s also a Splashaway Bay area for little kids at Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

FIRST TIME: How to Make the Most of Your First Cruise Vacation

The main attraction at the Splashaway Bay water parks on Royal Caribbean ships are the colorful water slides, the number of which vary by cruise ship. Generally, you’ll find one or two larger slides for kids ages six and older (minimum height is 42 inches) and one small slide for the toddlers. For the big slide, the maximum weight is 300 pounds. There’s also a splash zone with ankle-high pools of water and an array of other water features (think water cannons, whirlpools, and a drench bucket) to get kids wet and laughing. 

For bigger thrills, look to the Category 6 water park on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . At 17,000 square feet, this is the biggest cruise ship water park in the world, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Spread across two decks, Category 6 boasts a number of firsts at sea: the first open freefall slide, the first dueling mat race slides, the first family raft rides on a cruise ship, and last but not least, the tallest drop slide at sea. It’s a truly epic water park that’s most suited to daredevil tweens and teens.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships with a Splashaway Bay Water Park:

• Adventure of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas
• Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships with a Splashaway Bay Water Park

Carnival waterworks on carnival cruise line.

Kids of all ages will be dazzled by the brightly colored Carnival WaterWorks water parks found on most Carnival Cruise Line ships. Though the space and design varies by ship, all of the Carnival ship water parks feature one or two water slides, a giant tipping bucket, and kiddie spray zones with fountains and water cannons that are perfect for younger kids.

WATER WORLDS: 14 Best Indoor Water Park Resorts in the U.S.

Most ships have either straight or curling slides, but Carnival Vista offers up the Kaleid-O-Slide . This water slide, geared toward the seven-and-up crowd, takes riders on mats down a 455-foot-long series of twists and turns while zooming through flashing kaleidoscopic lights and visual effects. Even younger kids will appreciate the Dr. Seuss-themed WaterWorks and spray zone on Carnival Horizon , which includes a massive water-tipping top-hat and two water slides. Some of Carnival’s ships also have racing slides that offer side by side thrills for older kids and adults.

Carnival Cruise Ships with a WaterWorks Water Park:

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

Forest Aquaventure Park, AquaPlay, Polar Park, Aurora Borealis Aquapark, and Ocean Cay Aquapark on MSC Cruises

One of the largest water parks for young kids at sea, the Forest Aquaventure Park and AquaPlay area on MSC Cruises offer a full range of amusements for kids, tweens, teens, and water slide-loving adults. There are four slides, including two racing slides with clear sections that extend out over the side of the ship; an easy, open air spiral slide; and a funky slideboard option with neon lighting. 

SUNSHINE STATE: 7 Best Orlando Water Parks for Families

For the smaller kids under 10, there’s a large shallow pool with fountains to play under, mini slides to give the kiddos a thrill, spray nozzles for getting mom and dad wet, and a giant tipping bucket. Above it all is an enclosed suspension bridge that might look scary and like a challenge to some of the younger kids, but is as safe as can be. 

MSC’s Polar AquaPark, found on MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima , isn’t nearly as toddler-friendly as Forest Aquaventure, which is a good thing for families with older kids and tweens. The water slides here are decidedly teen- and adult-sized, as is the rope bridge. There’s a smallish water slide in the splash zone, and kids under 10 will get a kick out of trying to figure out which is the next tipping bucket to go over (there are lots of them). There are also a few sprayers and a fountain wall for kids to run through. 

And the MSC World Europa has an impressive VR-enhanced water park called the Aurora Borealis AquaPark , which is geared more toward teens and adults than little kids. While it does have a toddler-only pool, the overall experience is best suited to bigger kids. The reef-themed Ocean Cay AquaPark can be found on MSC Euribia .

MSC Cruise Line Ships with a Forest Aquaventure and AquaPlay Water Park:

• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seascape
• MSC Seaview

MSC Cruise Line Ships with a Polar AquaPark:

• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Bellissima

MSC Cruise Line Ships with an Aurora Borealis AquaPark:

• MSC World Europa

MSC Cruise Line Ships with an Ocean Cay AquaPark:

• MSC Euribia

Reef Splash Zone on Princess Cruises

Thanks to its stellar Reef Splash Zone , the top cruise ship for families on Princess Cruises is Caribbean Princess . One of the best cruise ship water parks for the entire family, Reef Splash Zone features a kid-friendly pool and hot tub, a lounge area with plush seating, and a bar serving up delicious mocktails for the kids. The water park fun centers around Winnie the Whale, with water spraying from her spout and raining from her fluke. Inside her mouth is a pint-sized slide for children under 10. Assorted water sprays are located around Winnie the Whale.

TYPHOON LAGOON VS. BLIZZARD BEACH: Guide to the Disney Water Parks in Orlando

Pro tip: Take it from me: Never turn your back on a tween with their hand on a spray gun.

When everyone’s had enough of the water, you’ll also find oversized backyard games including cornhole scattered around this cruise ship water park. 

Princess Cruise Line Ships with a Reef Family Splash Zone Water Park:

• Caribbean Princess

Nemo’s Reef, Toy Story Splash Zone, AquaLab, and AquaDuck and AquaMouse Water Coasters on Disney Cruise Line

Limited to the eight and under set, the 1,500-square-foot Nemo’s Reef on Disney Cruise Line ships is filled with Finding Nemo characters, countless fountains, pop jets, and spray nozzles. There’s also a toddler-sized water slide with a slip-n-slide feel that will have young kids going back again and again. And, unlike on most other cruise ships, toddlers in swim diapers are welcome to play here. 

KID-FRIENDLY CRUISES: 7 Best Cruise Lines for Families (and Their Most Kid-Friendly Ships)

For the tweens and kids eight years old and up, the AquaDuck water coaster stretches more than 750 feet, and a parent can ride together with their child on a two-person raft that goes up and down and out over the side of the ship. 

In fact, each of Disney’s cruise ships has at least one water play area for younger kids. You’ll find a sprawling water playground called AquaLab themed around Donald Duck’s mischievous nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, and Disney Fantasy. On the Disney Wish, a very basic splash area called The Toy Story Splash Zone is geared toward toddlers age three and under, while the AquaMouse water slide—for kids (and adults) seven and older—is Disney’s first theme park-like attraction at sea.

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a Nemo’s Reef Water Park and AquaDuck Water Coaster:

• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a AquaLab for Little Kids:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a Toy Story Splash Zone for Toddlers:

• Disney Wish

Kids Aqua Park on Norwegian Cruise Line

All of Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s Breakaway, Breakaway-Plus, and Prima class ships have a Kids’ Aqua Park play area.

The water parks for kids on Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Joy , and Norwegian Encore have the most to offer, including a large tipping bucket, mesh climbing structures, water cannons you can aim from above, and an exciting kid-sized slide. The water parks for young kids on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway are less impressive, with just a wading pool, two very tiny slides, and a handful of splash elements. The same can be said for the kids water play area on the Norwegian Prima .

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships with Water Parks for Little Kids:

• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Viva

Which Cruise Lines Have Private Island Water Parks?

Several of the most family-friendly cruise lines have their own private islands where you’ll find water parks and splash areas of varying complexity.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is a massive water-themed playground of an island sure to dazzle both adults and kids. Among the offerings: Thrill Waterpark with its two towers and 13 slides, plus the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and an obstacle course pool. Perfect Day at CocoCay is also home to the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, Oasis Lagoon, which has coves, a swim-up bar, private cabanas, swim-up islands with in-water loungers, and a kid-friendly beach entry.

Disney’s Castaway Cay has plenty of water fun to offer as well. You can snorkel, swim with stingrays, zip down water slides in the water park area, and even run a 5K.

Both Carnival and Holland America visit the 2,400-acre Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas. As with Perfect Day at CocoCay and Castaway Cay, there’s a kid’s water park area here as well. Families can also go horseback riding on the beach and swing with stingrays. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay private island does not have a water park.

Note that not all sailings from these lines stop at their private islands, so if this experience is of interest, be sure to check the itinerary before booking.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 13 Best Outdoor Water Parks in the U.S.
• When Do You Need a Child Travel Consent Form?
• When to Visit Disney World and Disneyland to Avoid Big Crowds

The post 50 Best Cruise Ship Water Parks and Private Islands for Kids appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

Protect Your Trip »

The 26 best new cruise ships for 2024.

Check out these exciting new vessels before booking your next cruise.

The Best New Cruise Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas will be the world's biggest new cruise ship.

Cruising is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, with passenger numbers projected to reach 37.2 million by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Cruise lines are responding to this growth by building new (and often, larger) vessels with all the bells and whistles, including technological advancements that are more environmentally friendly and create the capability to use alternative fuels.

U.S. News has compiled this roundup of new cruise ships that have just set sail or are scheduled to launch later in 2023 and in 2024, plus a preview of new ships coming in 2025 and beyond. The list includes everything from expedition and luxury yacht-style vessels to reimagined ships and megaships – plus the debut of a brand-new cruise line.

• New ships for 2023
• New ships for 2024
• New ships for 2025 (and beyond)

Oceania Vista: May 2023

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Top feature: Luxurious, distinctive spaces

Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's first new ship in 10 years. The 1,200-passenger, all-veranda vessel features a fresh interior design inspired by nature. The elegant new signature spaces include the dramatic Grand Staircase, the reimagined Martinis bar, the clubby Grand Lounge and 180-degree ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons.

Another highlight of the new ship is the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Elevated dining concepts on Oceania Vista include the new venue Ember, wellness-inspired cuisine at Aquamar Kitchen and The Bakery at Baristas, which specializes in French and Italian pastries.

Book an  Oceania  cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival Venezia: May 2023

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Top feature: Italian-style ship

Fares begin around: $419 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night cruise to the Bahamas

Sails to: Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Panama Canal

Originally built for the Chinese cruise market in 2019, Carnival Venezia first sailed throughout Asia under the Costa Cruises brand. It headed to Europe in 2020, then was reintroduced as a Carnival Cruise Line vessel in 2023. The rebranded ship, now homeported in the U.S., features Carnival's "Fun Italian Style" concept, with Venetian-style artwork and the Piazza San Marco atrium – not to mention Italian-inspired beverages and dishes at venues like Frizzante, Amari, Marco Polo, the Canal Grande Restaurant and La Strada Grill.

The 4,090-passenger ship has classic Carnival favorites, too, like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Piano Bar 88 and the Serenity Bar. Guests will also find Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, three kids clubs, the outdoor SportSquare and onboard water park WaterWorks.

Find a  Carnival  cruise on GoToSea.

Resilient Lady: May 2023

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Top feature: New and exciting entertainment offerings

Fares begin around: $2,550 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to the Greek islands

Sails to: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific

Virgin Voyages' third adults-only ship , Resilient Lady , debuted with its MerMaiden voyage sailing the Greek islands in May 2023. The new 2,762-passenger ship offers the same features as its sister ships, including more than 20 dining venues with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, an impressive fitness and wellness program, and superyacht-inspired cabins.

The immersive entertainment is one highlight on the new Virgin ship, with shows like rock 'n' roll "Persephone," a concept from the Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive. The Supper Club Series featuring Another Rose is a new show by Randy Weiner of theatrical performance "Sleep No More." The evening with the Supper Club includes a dining experience with cabaret and acrobatic performances in a tale of ill-fated love.

Explore  Virgin Voyages  deals on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia: June 2023

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Top feature: Commitment to sustainable cruising and environmental stewardship

Fares begin around: $219 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Northern Europe cruise

Sails to: Northern and Western Europe

The LNG-powered MSC Euribia has several features that exemplify the line's commitment to sustainable cruising , including an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system and energy-saving equipment like smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation. MSC Euribia's hull, decorated with the hashtag #SaveTheSea, was designed by artist Alex Flämig and is also a symbol of MSC Cruises ' dedication to preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.

One of the most striking features on MSC's fifth (and final) Meraviglia-class ship is the two-story Galleria Euribia. The 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade – lined with shops, restaurants and bars – sits beneath the longest LED dome at sea. Another highlight is the Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship. The new space features floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor areas, and Big Band at Sea: a 19-piece in-house group of musicians and entertainers. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.

Compare  MSC Cruises  on GoToSea.

Viking Saturn: June 2023

Courtesy of Viking

Top feature: "Residential design" (found on all Viking ocean vessels)

Fares begin around: $2,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Mainland Europe, British Isles, Iceland, Mediterranean and India

The 930-passenger Viking Saturn is the ninth ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet and identical in design to its eight sister ships. The all-veranda vessel offers six categories of accommodations ranging from the 270-square-foot Veranda Stateroom to the spacious 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. On board, guests will enjoy the sleek, elegant Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and lounges. The line's enrichment program includes lectures with resident historians, TED Talks and sessions with world-renowned guest speakers. There are eight dining venues featuring destination-focused cuisine, the Nordic Spa with its snow grotto, two pools and hot tubs, and a sports deck.

Book a  Viking Ocean cruise on GoToSea.

Norwegian Viva: August 2023

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Top feature: Indulge Food Hall

Fares begin around: $629 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night Greek islands cruise

The line's second Prima-class ship, Norwegian Viva mirrors the elevated design of sister ship Norwegian Prima . The new ship features six complimentary dining venues, including globally inspired dishes at Indulge Food Hall, pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill and 270-degree ocean views at the beautifully redesigned main restaurant, Hudson's.

The Haven on Viva is the most exclusive and spacious private enclave in Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet; it was designed by one of Italy's leading designers, Piero Lissoni. Guests will also find updated styling at Mandara Spa. There's no shortage of entertainment on Viva; it's home to the first free-fall dry slide in the world, a three-story racetrack, high-tech mini-golf and the musical "Beetlejuice." Viva has the capacity to carry up to 3,099 guests.

Find a  Norwegian Cruise Line  itinerary on GoToSea.

Explora I: August 2023

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

Top feature: Luxury details and design, with a focus on sustainability

Fares begin around: $3,000 per person (double occupancy) for a six-night cruise to the Caribbean and Columbia

Sails to: Mediterranean and Western Europe, Caribbean and Central America, U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

Explora I is the first of six luxury vessels for new cruise line Explora Journeys. Owned by the Aponte family and MSC Group, the elegant 922-guest ship combines Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship, offering suites and residences that are comfortable and spacious enough to be considered "homes at sea."

Guests can explore 14 decks offering nearly 27,000 square feet of outdoor space. Lounge at four pools (one with a retractable glass roof), book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa, work out at the fitness center or browse the boutiques. There are also six dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen for culinary classes and private dining. Regional wine pairings will accompany the onboard dining experience, which includes Pan-Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as classic steakhouse offerings.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Silver Nova: August 2023

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Top feature: Ship's asymmetrical deck plan, which offers more open spaces and higher ceilings

Fares begin around: $3,850 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Central and South America

Sails to: Caribbean, Central America, South America, U.S. West Coast, Alaska, Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Silversea Cruises' newest ship is the 728-guest Silver Nova . The 12th vessel in the fleet is ultra-luxurious and offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry. Two highlights are the ship's asymmetrical design and aft suites, which have 270-degree views. Silver Nova's nine dining options include S.A.L.T. Kitchen's destination-inspired menus, Silversea 's classic dining experience at Atlantide and French cuisine at La Dame. Silver Nova is also Silversea's most environmentally friendly vessel yet.

Explore  Silversea  cruises on GoToSea.

Seven Seas Grandeur: November 2023

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Top feature: "Journey in Jewels," the first Fabergé egg at sea

Fares begin around: $3,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Mexico and Central America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Panama Canal

The 746-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises' third Explorer-class vessel when it launches late this fall. While Grandeur is similar to its two sister ships, Explorer and Splendor , the new vessel features updated lounges, restaurants, spa spaces and suites. The line's signature Regent Suite – coming in at an impressive 4,443 square feet – has also been redesigned by Miami firm Studio DADO.

A few additional standout spaces include the art nouveau design of the Observation Lounge (located at the bow of the ship) and the reimagined Serene Spa. The stunning new Compass Rose is the ship's main dining room. Meanwhile, the onboard art collection is also notable: Seven Seas Grandeur will set sail with the first Fabergé egg at sea.

Compare  Regent Seven Seas  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Ascent: November 2023

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Top feature: 32 restaurants, bars and lounges, including the redesigned Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud

Fares begin around: $756 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Sails to: Europe, Caribbean

The fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge class, Celebrity Ascent , will accommodate up to 3,260 passengers and offer the same features as other ships in the series. There are 32 bars, lounges and restaurants, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.

Other favorites from the Edge-class ships will return on Ascent, such as the multideck Sunset Bar and an open-air Rooftop Garden with floating pools that are cantilevered over the edge of the ship. It's also home to Celebrity's Magic Carpet, a multipurpose 90-ton deck that moves up and down the side of the ship between Decks 2, 5, 14 and 16; it's used for everything from tendering passengers to hosting happy hours and private functions and late-night parties. Guests will also find Celebrity 's innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the exclusive ship-within-a ship concept of The Retreat.

Book a  Celebrity Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Carnival Jubilee: December 2023

Top feature: Two new ocean-themed zones, Currents and The Shores

Fares begin around: $669 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Western Caribbean

Carnival's newest ship in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee , will offer six zones (fun themed areas) for up to 6,631 passengers. The LNG-powered vessel features two new zones: Currents and The Shores. Currents is an immersive space with innovative technology such as LED windows and a wave-shaped LED Ceiling. Located on Decks 6 and 7, the space offers new venues for imbibing, dining and listening to live music, such as casual bar Inks, Ph.D and stylish lounge The Golden Mermaid. This is also where you'll find Emeril's Bistro 717.

The Shores, located on Deck 8, features a three-deck-high art installation of a school of fish, a boardwalk, and vibrant colors throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. Dining and bar venues include Rudi's Seagrill, Cucina del Capitano and Marina Bar. Enjoy other returning Carnival favorites on Jubilee such as the BOLT sea coaster, Waterworks, SportSquare, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Icon of the Seas: January 2024

Top feature: Largest cruise ship in the world, carrying up to 7,600 passengers

Fares begin around: $1,930 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the first Icon-class vessel in the Royal Caribbean International fleet – and the first new class of ship since 2014. When the massive vessel debuts in January 2024, it will replace Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship at sea (Icon of the Seas is 6% larger). The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods – including the new Surfside neighborhood, a colorful space geared toward family fun with kids clubs, Splashaway Bay, themed eateries and bars, adjacent staterooms and more.

There are four additional new neighborhoods as well. Thrill Island features Category 6, the largest water park at sea, while Chill Island boasts the line's first swim-up bar and The Hideaway features the first suspended infinity pool at sea. AquaDome, the impressive glass-enclosed space at the top of the ship, is home to the AquaTheater, panoramic ocean views, a waterfall, and bars and restaurants.

Sun Princess: February 2024

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Top feature: Princess Cruises' largest ship and the first in the line's Sphere class

Fares begin around: $577 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean, Mediterranean

Sun Princess will have many new attractions when it launches in early 2024. It has the most balconies on any Princess Cruises ' ship, and you'll find exciting new dining, activity and entertainment offerings. One notable highlight is Park19, a top-deck space with activities for kids of all ages, including the Sea Breeze Rollglider, the first ride of its kind on a cruise ship. This new attraction soars 19 decks high and offers unparalleled views of the ocean below.

Cruisers can enjoy additional spaces like a two-story dome that is a pool during the day and a stage for shows at night; the European-inspired Piazza, which offers ocean vistas from nearly every angle; the Princess Arena, a high-tech performance space; the elegant three-story Horizons Dining Room; and the new Wake View Terrace with an infinity pool. There are also new styles of accommodations and expanded offerings for young children, tweens and teens. Sun Princess can accommodate up to 4,300 passengers.

Queen Anne: May 2024

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Top feature: The Pavilion, a glass-enclosed pool area with a retractable roof

Fares begin around: $1,199 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, British Isles, Australia, Asia, Africa and Indian Ocean

When Queen Anne launches in spring 2024, it will be Cunard Line's 249th ship since the company's inception in 1840, and the line's first new vessel in 14 years. The 3,000-passenger ship will feature a fresh, modern design, yet still give a nod to the Cunard's art deco past.

Once on board, guests will discover new entertainment venues like the Bright Lights Society show bar and more wide-open spaces throughout the ship, as well as Cunard 's first two-story theater. New international dining options include Japanese restaurant Aji Wa with sushi and omakase menus, plus Indian cuisine at Aranya. Queen Anne also offers an extensive health and wellness program in collaboration with health group Mareel that features a large thermal suite, a spa pool and a top-deck wellness studio.

Find a  Cunard  cruise on GoToSea.

Utopia of the Seas: July 2024

Top feature: Three- and four-night ultimate weekend getaways

Fares begin around: $471 per person (double occupancy) for a three-night Bahamas cruise

Sails to: Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island)

Utopia of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean's sixth (and final) Oasis-class ship when it debuts in summer 2024. With a capacity of 5,668 passengers, the vessel will join the line's other Oasis- and Icon-class ships as the largest cruise ships sailing on the high seas. The ship will have the same eight neighborhoods as other Oasis-class ships, including Central Park, The Boardwalk and the Pool & Sports Zone.

The 40-plus food and beverage options will include new additions like the Pesky Parrot bar and a themed "mixed reality" dining experience that takes place on a train. A reimagined playscape is another addition, with nets, games, puzzles, slides and climbing walls for junior cruisers. The line's Ultimate Abyss – a dry slide with 10 stories of thrilling twists and turns – will now stretch an additional 43 feet, making it the longest dry slide at sea.

Explora II: August 2024

Top feature: Luxurious cabins

Fares begin around: $4,500 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean and Central America, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula and Red Sea, India, Indian Ocean and Africa

As sister ship to Explora I, Explora II will offer the same transformative travel experience for 922 guests. The luxury vessel will feature 461 oceanfront suites with private terraces. Cruisers can take advantage of 11 culinary options across six dining venues, a dozen indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen. Guests will also have access to four pools, 64 private cabanas and wellness facilities.

Silver Ray: Summer 2024

Top feature: One of the most spacious ships ever built; extraordinary space-to-guest ratio

Fares begin around: $4,000 per person (double occupancy) for a nine-night cruise to South America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Caribbean and Central America

Silver Ray, Silversea's second Nova-class ship, is scheduled to set sail in summer 2024. The 728-passenger, low-emissions vessel will offer the same advanced hybrid fuel technologies as its sister ship, Silver Nova. It will also have Silver Nova's horizontal layout and asymmetrical design, creating more open public areas and providing suites with 270-degree views. In addition, guests on board the luxury vessel will have their choice of eight dining venues and a wide selection of bars and lounges, including The Marquee, a new alfresco restaurant.

Viking Vela: December 2024

Top feature: Larger than Viking's other ocean vessels, carrying up to 998 passengers

Fares begin around: $4,999 per person (double occupancy) for a 12-night northern lights cruise

Sails to: Scandinavia, British Isles, Iceland

Measuring 748 feet long and 101 feet wide, Viking Vela will be the line's largest ship when it debuts at the end of 2024. It will accommodate 68 more passengers than its sister ships, but feature Viking's signature veranda staterooms, public spaces, amenities and dining venues. Seasoned Viking cruisers can look forward to favorites like The Nordic Spa, the Wintergarden, Mamsen's, the Explorers' Lounge, the Sports Deck, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table.

Disney Treasure: December 2024

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Top feature: Debut of new Disney Parks-inspired onboard venues

Fares begin around: $4,028 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line's private island)

Fans of Disney Cruise Line will find many familiar venues, attractions and restaurants on the new Disney Treasure, sister ship of Disney Wish . However, there will also be plenty of new features, including the theme of the ship: adventure. The Grand Hall, inspired by the movie "Aladdin," is designed with dark shades of blue, turquoise and gold and features a golden statue of a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Plaza de Coco replaces Disney Wish's "Frozen" dining experience with a two-night Mexican, "Coco"-themed theatrical dinner show. Meanwhile, "Disney The Tale of Moana" – a Broadway-style production based on the film "Moana" – will be exclusive to Disney Treasure. Adults will also find new lounges, such as the Jungle Cruise-themed Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, which is inspired by "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Disney Treasure can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

MSC World America: Spring 2025

MSC's new futuristic ship – and sister ship to MSC World Europa – will be based in Miami and sail the Caribbean. The LNG-powered, 6,762-passenger ship will offer more than 420,000 square feet of public space and many of the attractions found on World Europa, such as the MSC Luna Park Arena and World Galleria. There will also be more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, as well as the line's private enclave, MSC Yacht Club.

Oceania Allura: June 2025

Oceania Allura will be the eighth ship in Oceania's fleet, the second vessel of the line's Allura class and the sister ship to Oceania Vista. The 1,200-passenger Allura will offer the same upscale amenities as Vista, as well as a new Chef's Studio and one of the highest space-to-guest and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Allura is scheduled to debut in June 2025.

Star Princess: August 2025

Star Princess is scheduled to set sail in 2025 as the sister ship to Sun Princess. The 4,300-passenger, LNG-powered ship will offer the same features as Sun Princess, including the Dome, the Piazza and the line's Signature Collection Suites. The vessel will also have 29-plus restaurants and bars.

Star of the Seas: Summer 2025

Royal Caribbean plans to introduce Star of the Seas – the second Icon-class vessel and sister to Icon of the Seas – in summer 2025.

Disney Cruise Line: 2025

Disney purchased the former Global Dream from Genting's Dream Cruises in 2022, when it was still being built at the German shipyard MV Werften. Disney plans to base the ship in Singapore for at least five years, offering Disney vacations to the Southeast Asian market. When it launches in 2025, the vessel will be the line's seventh ship and is expected to carry 6,000 passengers. Another newly built, currently unnamed Disney ship is planned to debut in 2025, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 2025 and beyond

The third Prima-class ship is expected to be approximately 10% larger than the first ship in the class, Norwegian Prima (143,535 gross tons). The following ships for the line are anticipated to be even larger, with the fifth and sixth Prima-class vessels (debuting in 2027 and 2028) weighing as much as 171,000 gross tons.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's fifth Edge-class ship will be more eco-friendly, thanks to the addition of a new tri-fueled engine model and the capacity to store three different kinds of fuel, including methanol. The effort toward net-zero emissions and more sustainable cruising is a partnership between Royal Caribbean, the French shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique and the technology firm Wärtsilä. A debut date for this ship has not yet been announced.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. She used her extensive experience with cruises to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships
• The Best Cruise Lines
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Gay Cruises
• The Best Transatlantic Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Amazon prime day luggage deals.

Amanda Norcross June 25, 2024

Sun Princess Review

Holly Johnson June 25, 2024

The 7 Best Key West Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 21, 2024

The Best San Diego Whale Watching

John Rodwan June 21, 2024

6 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Brittany Chrusciel and Marisa Méndez June 21, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 20, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Amanda Norcross June 20, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Amanda Norcross June 18, 2024

What to Bring to a Water Park

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024