msc cruise line ship sizes

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

• CruiseMapper
• Ships and Lines

Cruise Ship Size Comparison, Dimensions

Compare cruise ship sizes by length, weight (tonnage), height, width/beam. Review cruise ship dimensions in both meters and feet, and FAQ information, definitions.

Cruise ship size comparison

In our huge table below there's a list of all most famous, ever best passenger cruise ships sorted by name. This survey also offers smaller cruise ships size comparison of top luxury all-inclusive vessels with gross tonnage even lesser than 5,000 GT. Now the list of all ship sizes related and integrated articles:

• passenger capacity of cruise ships
• cruise ships cost
• newest cruise ships (on order/under construction)
• list of the biggest cruise ships of the world
• world's largest cruiseship building companies
• cruise line companies list

Length of a cruise ship (Length Overall / LOA)

The cruise ship length is professionally referred to as LOA (length overall), meaning the maximum length between the two most distant points on its hull. LOA may also include the tip of the bowsprit - the pole extending from the ship's prow (usually on tall sailing ships, yachts, and smaller boats). The bowsprit is the "winning" part of the ship when competing in a race or during trials/speed tests.

Another passenger cruise ship length measuring (though not included in this survey) is called LWL. LWL signifies "loaded waterline length" (or just "waterline length"). It excludes the total length, denoting only the length at the point where the vessel sits in the water. The LWL measure plays an important role when assessing some ship properties, like "hull speed" (aka "displacement speed"), water displacement, the amount of paint needed for the ship's bottom, etc.

Longest cruise ship in the world

The longest cruise ships by size also occupy the first two positions in the list of the largest cruise ships of the world by passenger capacity and gross tonnage. The humongous Royal Caribbean's floating cities Allure and Oasis boast the whole 360 meters in length (1,181 ft), and breadth of 47 meters (154 ft), the unbelievable for a passenger cruise ship tonnage of 225,300 tons, and max crew-passenger capacity of almost 8,500 (2,170+6,300) - each!

Weight of a cruise ship (tonnage) and draft

The size (tonnage weight) of a cruise ship is measured in "gross tonnage" (GT). It relates to the vessel's internal volume (keel to funnel* and to the outside of the hull) and applying a mathematical formula. The cruise ship tonnage is generally used for determining registration fees, port fees, safety rules, regulations. Another ship data (though not included in this survey) is the vessel's "deadweight tonnage" (DWT), which is the weight a vessel can safely carry (cargo, passengers, etc).

The cruise ship draft (or draught) measures the number of meters/feet from the waterline to the lowest point of the keel - or the ship's "invisible" portion below the surface (and especially when loaded). The cruise ship's draft is very important when considering docking in a particular port, sailing through channels or the inland waterways of the continents (rivers and canals).

*Note: Actually, the ship's funnel is the only part of the enclosed interior space that is NOT included in its Gross Tonnage measurement.

Cruise ship weight

As one of our fans Mr John Spooner (cruiser / Retired Master Mariner) have pointed out, the "Gross Tonnage" weight is a measurement of VOLUME, and not of MASS. GT  is an index related to marine vessels' overall internal volume. According to Wikipedia's definition:

• "Gross Tonnage" (GT) calculations are based on the volume of all the ship's enclosed spaces.
• "Gross Register Tonnage" (GRT) is the vessel's total internal volume measured in "register tons" (each ton equals 100 ft3 / 2,83 m3).
• Neither GT nor GTR measures the vessel's displacement (mass), but really show how big cruise ships are.
• "Deadweight Tonnage" (DWT) measures how much weight a cruise ship (or any of the marine vessel types) can carry safely. This a weighted sum of the vessel's cargo (incl provisions, passengers, crew), fuel, water (fresh and ballast), etc.
• "Displacement Tonnage" is how much weight the water that a cruise ship (any vessel) displaces when floating (the total weight of the ship / including its contents). Displacement is usually applied to the navy rather than commercial marine vessels. It is measured when the ship is loaded at full capacity.

Compare cruise ship sizes

• Cruise Advice

MSC Cruise Ships By Size: Smallest to Largest

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• December 19, 2022

MSC Cruises is the largest privately owned cruise line in the world. Currently, the brand has 21 cruise vessels, from the 65,000-ton MSC Armonia to the new 215,000-ton mega ship MSC World Europa .

MSC Cruises Ships By Size

In this article, we’ve organized all of MSC Cruises’ ships from smallest to largest and included important information and highlights of each vessel.

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

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: 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

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

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 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: 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 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 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

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

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 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

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 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 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 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 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 simulators, and Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse

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 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 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 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

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

READ NEXT: 15 Tips For Visiting Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Recent Posts

Liberty of the seas review + cruise news [podcast], sunk california cruise ship refloated after leaking 14,900 gallons of waste, carnival reports $92 million profit and record cruise bookings, disney details massive new cruise ship for singapore, share this post, related posts.

Cruise Line Hit with Lawsuit Following Alleged Assault at Sponsored Hotel

Carnival Inks a 10-Year Docking Agreement with Port of Seattle

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

• [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

• 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

Cruise gym dispute: passenger told to “move out of the way” as influencer films, princess cruises offering double points for a limited time, 4 things cruise lines want you to ignore, 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

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

Disney Cruise Line Creating Ultimate Vacation Destination Onboard The Disney Adventure

Alaska Cruise Comparison: Luxury, Expedition, Big Ship

New Culinary Adventures Await Onboard The Disney Treasure

Disney Adventure to Sail from Singapore in 2025 With New Details Revealed

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

Disney Cruise Line Creating Ultimate Vac...

Alaska Cruise Comparison: Luxury, Expedi...

New Culinary Adventures Await Onboard Th...

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

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 .

MSC Cruises Fleet

MSC cruise line ship fleet information. Cruisedeckplans.com shows the different classes of ships in the MSC fleet. On this page you can also compare features and dining options for each MSC ship. You will find daily service charge information, number of cabins, and gross tons for each ship. You can CLICK ON any ship to go to the ship page for that ship. Check out our unique stateroom capacity trend chart showing the changes in the size of the MSC cruise line ship fleet over the past few years. Check out our Master Ship List . You can filter and sort by cruise line or ship.

CLICK on a ship below to go to the ship decks and cabins page. MSC Cruises has 23 ships in the fleet. You can filter the MSC fleet by ship class using the box below. Typically MSC Cruises will build or buy several ships sharing similar features. They define the different types of ships as classes. Ships of the same class may be almost identical to each other.

MSC Armonia

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2001 Cabins 975

MSC Bellissima

CLASS: Meraviglia Tons 168k Built 2019 Cabins 2244

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 139k Built 2012 Cabins 1751

MSC Euribia

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 184k Built 2023 Cabins 2419

MSC Fantasia

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 138k Built 2008 Cabins 1637

MSC Grandiosa

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 181k Built 2019 Cabins 2405

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2003 Cabins 988

MSC Magnifica

CLASS: Musica Tons 95k Built 2010 Cabins 1253

MSC Meraviglia

CLASS: Meraviglia Tons 168k Built 2017 Cabins 2244

CLASS: Musica Tons 92k Built 2006 Cabins 1275

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2004 Cabins 1071

MSC Orchestra

CLASS: Musica Tons 92k Built 2007 Cabins 1275

CLASS: Musica Tons 93k Built 2008 Cabins 1275

MSC Preziosa

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 139k Built 2013 Cabins 1751

MSC Seascape

CLASS: Seaside Tons 169k Built 2022 Cabins 2270

MSC Seashore

CLASS: Seaside Tons 169k Built 2021 Cabins 2270

MSC Seaside

CLASS: Seaside Tons 154k Built 2017 Cabins 2067

MSC Seaview

CLASS: Seaside Tons 154k Built 2018 Cabins 2067

MSC Sinfonia

CLASS: Armonia Tons 66k Built 2002 Cabins 975

MSC Splendida

CLASS: Fantasia Tons 138k Built 2009 Cabins 1637

MSC Virtuosa

CLASS: Meraviglia-Plus Tons 181k Built 2021 Cabins 2405

MSC World America

CLASS: World Tons 216k Built 2025 Cabins 2631

MSC World Europa

CLASS: World Tons 216k Built 2022 Cabins 2631

About MSC Cruises

MSC Italian Cruises uniquely blends maritime traditions, culture and famous Mediterranean cuisine to deliver the ultimate cruise experience while displaying a real commitment to the finest hospitality afloat. In essence, MSC Italian Cruises has made true Italian service the heart of its business and its key point of differentiation in the cruise industry. MSC Cruises is a privately-owned and family-run company. From a fleet of three classic vessels in 2003, we have grown into a truly global cruise line. The Mediterranean heritage that is MSC Cruises is evident in the construction philosophy and elegant design of each of the ships in our contemporary fleet, reflecting the highest standards of quality. Our meticulously maintained classic vessel is perfect for those fond of the cruise ships of yesteryear, reflecting our Mediterranean heritage in a more intimate setting. Regardless of which MSC Cruise ship you sail, you will experience a level of service and attention that is unparalleled.

SELLING POINTS: MSC is a rapidly growing line that is geared towards families. The ships are well designed and loaded with activities for everyone. MSC offers the Yacht Club experience, with many perks, for those who want to travel in luxury. MSC has adopted a simple cabin classification system that makes it easier to decide what category to book.

Stateroom Capacity Trend Chart

Watch growth and decline rates. Rapid growth may lead to quality and service issues.

MSC Cruises Ship Features

The following is a listing of some of the features that MSC Cruises offers. You can use the search box to filter the ships. You can also click on the columns to sort the table.

MSC Cruises Specialty Dining

Asian market kitchen, butchers cut, galaxy lounge, kaito sushi bar, kaito teppanyaki, ocean cay restaurant.

CRUISEDECKPLANS.COM Use the input buttons above to go to the main page for a Cruise Ship or Cruise Line.

Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm EST Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm EST

MSC Lirica brings you a distinctive cruise experience centered on elegance, comfort and hospitality in the finest MSC Cruises tradition. Magnificent internal vistas from the foyer and unimpeded ocean views from the lounges’ floor-to-ceiling windows contribute to a sense of relaxed spaciousness, which is complemented by a variety of intimate lounges.

Itineraries

MEDITERRANEAN

Get ready to dive into one of our pools, let your hair down at the themed parties, treat yourself to something delicious in one of our amazing restaurants, and much more!  

MAIN FEATURES

Family & kids.

With the help of prestigious partners like Chicco, LEGO® and Namco®, we’ve created fabulous new play areas for children of all ages, starting with an exciting Spray Park packed with fun water features.

Fitness and Relaxation 

The panoramic gym with its wide choice of sports facilities and the MSC Aurea Spa with its heavenly beauty treatments and massages are just two of the cutting-edge environments on board that will help you enjoy your leisure time to the full.

Entertainment & leisure

The world-class entertainment options onboard will delight all ages, from the high-tech Broadway Theater, the dazzling Las Vegas Casino and the futuristic Blue Club Disco to the virtual reality games arcade and pirate-themed kids’ playroom.

STATEROOMs and Suites

• Comfortable king bed that can be converted into two single beds on request
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• TV, telephone, safe and minibar
• Wi-Fi access available
• Approx. 140 ft 2 with a balcony that is approx. 32 ft 2
• Located on decks 9 - 10 The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).
• Window with sea view 
• Relaxing armchair
• TV , telephone, safe and minibar
• Wi-Fi access available ($)
• Approx. 129 – 237 ft 2 Choose the stateroom type that best suits you: Premium Ocean View (approx. 237 ft 2 , deck 9) Junior Ocean View (approx. 129 – 140 ft 2 , decks 7 - 10) Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View (approx. 129 – 140 ft 2 , deck 7) The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).

ENTERTAINMENT

Throughout your cruise, you can enjoy a wide choice of entertainment options and activities during the day, evening and night, from live music and spectacular shows to shopping, fitness classes and sunbathing by the pool. You’ll always find something fun to do.

Restaurants & BUFFET

The restaurant and buffet areas are designed to provide relaxed, sophisticated meals comprising an international variety of culinary specialties, from classic Mediterranean cuisine to award-winning sushi and other Asian delicacies.

L'Ippocampo Restaurant

Kaito sushi bar, la bussola restaurant, bars & lounges.

Each of the onboard bars and lounges is a unique location for enjoying yourself, as you savor the extensive selection of fine wines, beers, classic and innovative cocktails, healthy fruit smoothies, gourmet coffee and chocolate delights.

L'Atmosphere

The beverly hills bar, the coffee corner, la canzone del mare bar, lord nelson pub, il lido bar, starlight disco, armonia lounge & library, palm beach casino, gelateria italiana, vitamin bar.

Use the deck plans to select your ideal stateroom. The plan allows you to pinpoint the locations, while the colors distinguish the stateroom category.

{{deckPlanInfoHeader}}

{{deckPlanInfoText}}

• 7. Scarlatti
• 8. Paganini
• 9. Albinoni
• 10. Bellini
• 11. Vivaldi
• 12. Rossini
• 13. Sun deck, minigolf
• Junior Interior
• Junior Ocean View with partial view
• Junior Ocean View
• Premium Ocean View
• Junior Balcony
• Deluxe Suite Aurea

•Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting cabins based on the ship class. Call our Contact Center to choose the best accommodation for you.

• All cabins have one double bed convertible to two single beds, except in cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility (H).

• 3rd bed available in all categories except for Junior Ocean View with obstructed view.

• 4th bed available in Junior Interior, Junior Ocean View and Premium Ocean View.

Ship configuration, data and descriptions may be subject to change depending on the season and on the destination and must be verified at the time of booking.

• Gross Tonnage: 65,591 tons
• Number of passengers: 2,648
• Crew members: 721
• Numbers of staterooms: 988, incl. 4 accessible staterooms
• Length/Beam/Height: 902 ft. / 105 ft. / 177 ft.
• Maximum speed: 21.7 knots

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

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

What is the largest cruise ship in the world?

Does size really matter? The cruise industry thinks so. For more than a century, cruise lines have competed to claim the title of world's largest cruise ship.

When it set sail in 1912, ill-fated Titanic was the largest and grandest passenger vessel of its time. But since 2009, when Royal Caribbean debuted its first Oasis Class ship, those superlatives have applied to vessels more than five times Titanic's size.

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

Today, the largest cruise ships are floating cities, offering a plethora of bars and restaurants, expansive spas and sun deck retreats. They feature scores of recreation opportunities, including zip lines, surf simulators , rock climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, escape rooms, laser tag, top-deck go-karts , virtual reality gaming and even roller coasters .

So, what is the largest cruise ship in the world, and how do other cruise ships compare? Here's a quick rundown of the world's biggest cruise ships by both gross registered tons and maximum passenger capacity. Unsurprisingly, Royal Caribbean's Icon Class and Oasis Class dominate the top five in both categories, with only two other lines joining Royal Caribbean.

What is the world's largest cruise ship?

Currently, it's Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas . At 250,800 gross registered tons and carrying up to 7,600 passengers (plus 2,350 crew members), the ship is a true behemoth. It includes neighborhoods that feature everything from waterslides, an indoor AquaTheater, a carousel and an adults-only sun deck to lavish suites, retail shops, thousands of live plants and more than two dozen bars and restaurants.

The rest of the world's largest cruise ships

Note: This article excludes ships from lines like Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises and Aida, which do not cater to the North American market.

World's biggest cruise ships by tonnage

• Icon of the Seas: 250,800 gross registered tons
• Wonder of the Seas : 236,857 gross registered tons
• Symphony of the Seas: 228,081 gross registered tons
• Harmony of the Seas: 226,963 gross registered tons
• Oasis of the Seas: 226,838 gross registered tons
• Allure of the Seas : 225,282 gross registered tons
• MSC World Europa: 205,700 gross registered tons
• Carnival Celebration : 183,521 gross registered tons
• Carnival Jubilee : 183,521 gross registered tons
• MSC Grandiosa: 181,541 gross registered tons
• MSC Virtuosa: 181,541 gross registered tons
• Carnival's Mardi Gras : 180,000 gross registered tons

World's biggest cruise ships by passenger capacity

• Icon of the Seas: 7,600 passengers
• Wonder of the Seas: 6,988 passengers
• Allure of the Seas: 6,780 passengers
• Oasis of the Seas: 6,771 passengers
• MSC World Europa: 6,762 passengers
• Harmony of the Seas: 6,687 passengers
• Symphony of the Seas: 6,680 passengers
• Carnival's Mardi Gras: 6,631 passengers
• Carnival Celebration: 6,631 passengers
• Carnival Jubilee: 6,631 passengers
• MSC Grandiosa: 6,334 passengers
• MSC Virtuosa: 6,334 passengers
• MSC Bellissima: 5,686 passengers

What is the biggest cruise ship in the world today (2024)?

Currently, the largest cruise ship in the world by both tonnage and passenger capacity is Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. It takes the title from fleetmate Wonder of the Seas. Several other Royal Caribbean vessels — including Freedom Class and Oasis Class namesakes Freedom of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas — were also the largest at one time.

What is the world's biggest cruise ship price?

Royal Caribbean paid about $2 billion to build Icon of the Seas. At press time, the least expensive cabins on Icon of the Seas started at $1,210 per person for a seven-night voyage ($173 per person, per night). If that's out of your price range, check out my recommendations for ships to try instead of Icon of the Seas .

What cruise ship is 5 times bigger than Titanic?

All of the ships in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class are at least five times larger than Titanic was, in terms of size. As far as passenger numbers, Titanic had capacity for 2,453 people, while Icon of the Seas can hold 7,600.

What is the largest cruise ship capacity?

Icon of the Seas can hold up to 7,600 guests at maximum capacity or 5,610 guests on a double occupancy basis (two people per cabin). The ship also employs more than 2,300 crew members. That means the ship can carry nearly 10,000 people when it's fully crewed and every passenger bed is occupied.

Got more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

MSC CRUISES PUBLISHES ITS 2023 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

  msc cruises today published its 2023 sustainability report with a performance review of the 12-month period in the areas of environment, social and governance..

Geneva, Switzerland, 20th June 2024 – MSC Cruises today published its 2023 Sustainability Report with a performance review of the 12-month period in the areas of environment, social and governance. The report also includes information on the line’s sister company and luxury travel brand, Explora Journeys, which launched EXPLORA I last year, the first of six vessels in its fleet. Also included are detailed data tables including operations, emissions, water, waste, headcount and gender distribution.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group’s Cruise Division , said, “We began publishing an annual Sustainability Report in 2019, making this our fifth report. During that time, our commitment to reaching our goals remains as strong as ever. Our approach to environmental, social, and governance issues has become more sophisticated as we have employed more ways to manage our activities in a more dynamic manner. This reflects our passion to not just align with stakeholder expectations and navigate a complex regulatory landscape, but to make meaningful measurable changes that have a long-term positive impact on our guests, our employees and our planet.

“We remain fully committed to our goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in line with the International Maritime Organization’s strategy but achieving net zero emissions cannot be done alone. We continue to work extensively with our close partners including the shipyards, technology providers, fuel providers and many others and I am pleased with the progress we as an industry are making. We continue to advocate to be regulated in a fair way, which does not discriminate against our industry.”

Highlights of MSC Cruises’ 2023 activities include:

- Fleet carbon intensity improved by 6.5 per cent compared to 2022, marking a 37.8 per cent reduction since 2008. The progress puts the line on track to achieve the IMO's target of a 40 per cent carbon intensity reduction before its 2030 deadline.

- Second liquified natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel launched, MSC Euribia, with a net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions voyage from France to Denmark. MSC Cruises remains committed to LNG as a critical pathway towards maritime decarbonisation. Fossil LNG offers immediate GHG emission reductions compared to conventional marine fuels and a direct pathway to renewable alternatives like bio-LNG and synthetic renewable LNG.

- Successful shore power connections numbered 44 for the line's ships at eight ports in Norway, Germany, UK and Malta. Shore power plays an important role in MSC Cruise’s strategy to lower emissions as this allows its ships to plug into a port's electrical grid at berth and shut down the vessel's engines to eliminate direct emissions when in port. The 2024 year-end target is 220 connections and the line is fully committed to utilise shore power in every port where it is available.

- Freshwater management produced 87.2 per cent of the fleet’s onboard water needs – more than 6.4 million cubic metres – through desalination. Using water more efficiently resulted in a reduction of onboard water consumption from 226 litres per guest day in 2022 to 187 litres in 2023, a reduction of 17.2 per cent.

- Collaborated with nature intelligence and environmental DNA specialists NatureMetrics to analyse seawater samples from three vessels, identifying more than 4,000 different animal species using DNA identification techniques, with results being made available to the scientific community. The project has global reach with the data contributing to the eBioAtlas, a global programme by NatureMetrics and IUCN.

The report also shows that in 2023 MSC Cruises' fleet of 22 ships carried 4,081,393 guests, sailed 385 itineraries to 102 countries in the world and offered 2,150 shore excursions.

The workforce totaled 49,874 representing 144 different nationalities with 18,866 new crew hires during the year. A new package of crew initiatives was introduced in 2023 with increased salaries, improved staff rotation and more training.

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises