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Msc cruises cruises, 7 night cruise to the western mediterranean.

• You want Vegas-style entertainment on a gigantic, modern ship
• You enjoy keeping busy and want a ship packed with features
• You love meeting new people and like a European experience
• You prefer a more traditional and intimate cruise experience
• You dislike crowds and announcements in numerous languages

7 Night Cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean

• You want a classic European cruise on a more intimate ship
• You don't need a lot of theme-park style amenities onboard
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7 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

• You want a stunning ship geared for an international audience
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2 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

• You want a cruise on a big, modern, totally international ship
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4 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You want big ship features on a humanly sized, classy ship
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5 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

12 night cruise to the baltic sea, 3 night cruise to the western mediterranean.

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4 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

3 night cruise to the middle east.

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14 Night Cruise to the Baltic Sea

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Possible to book through UK site?

By Aldri_CA , April 28, 2017 in MSC Cruises

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Hi everyone, we're looking to try out MSC for the first time on the upcoming Seaside ship. We're in Canada, and I have been looking at the US website's prices but somehow stumbled upon the UK website and noticed the rates (even after conversion from pound to CAD) were substantially cheaper on the UK site for the exact same cabin category. Does anyone know if its possible for a North American to book off the UK website or does MSC not allow this practice?

Thank you in advance!

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If you mean directly with MSC, then, the simple answer is no.

We in Ireland have to book through MSC UK as they don't have an office here and we can't access UK prices!

If you mean directly with MSC, then, the simple answer is no.   We in Ireland have to book through MSC UK as they don't have an office here and we can't access UK prices!

That's what I thought, but figured I'd double check. Thanks for your help!

Are you not able to book through an online travel agency? That should be ok.

I have booked the Meraviglia through the MSC UK website then, after recommendations through Cruise Criticers, I have booked through that website. All ok and a LOT CHEAPER!!

Hi again - I meant through an online travel agency and not MSC UK!

Interesting suggestion -- I will try looking for travel agencies and see if we can book this way!!

The UK TA I booked with had a notice (after booking) that that if you didn't have a UK address (for the eticket) you could use their office address. The name of the TA began with viva if that's helpful.

The UK MSC website does have a prominent notice that booking is only possible for UK residents. I'm not sure of the legality of booking UK rates if you are not a resident, or if there would be a penalty if MSC find out. One thing to be aware of is that in general cruise cancellation & change policies are much more restrictive in the UK than US.

Cruise lines call it 'regional pricing'. Princess and HAL do not allow UK residents to book through US agents which is really annoying when there are great promotions available in the US.

A distant relative was able to book a Princess cruise using a 'fake' US address but was rumbled at chick-in and required to pay the difference (US price v UK price) or be denied boarding. They paid up.

Some UK TAs are asking for a UK address for a booking, others aren't. I'm hesitant to book through them in case MSC doesn't let us on for whatever reason (or asks us to pay up the difference at the port as what happened to pp's friends). It would save us approx $1000/cabin but I'm not sure the added stress would be worth it in the end.

This is actually the first time I've been unable to find a Canadian or US TA that can't beat the price/offer that the direct cruise line is offering. I don't remember the last time we booked directly with a cruise line, but most travel agencies are offering the exact same thing as MSC. I think I would rather book directly with the cruise line in this case, but will continue to keep my eye out for North American deals just in case.

Thanks for everyone's help!

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MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the world's third-largest cruise brand and the leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region, and Southern Africa. With more market share and deployed capacity than any other player, they offer an enriching, immersive, and safe cruise experience for every guest. Their modern fleet of vessels, combined with a sizable future global investment portfolio of new ships, ensures that you will discover the world in absolute style, comfort, and safety. From the Mediterranean and Caribbean to the Far East and North America, they offer a wide variety of itineraries mapped to reveal the sights, sounds, and flavours of the world's most intriguing cultures. And with a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, they are dedicated to ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the sea as much as we do. With over 30,000 staff globally and a strong presence in many countries around the world, they are eager to make each of our cruises a voyage of discovery and unforgettable emotions for every guest. Sail with MSC Cruises for a world-class experience that combines international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs, and the latest user-friendly technology on board.

• Every booking made is ABTA & ATOL Protected

Mediterranean-style cruising with plenty of entertainment for all the family

• Tips now included as standard!
• Opt for a cabin in the MSC Yacht Club for private amenities, including an exclusive restaurant, pool area and sun deck
• Expect innovative new technology on new ship, MSC Bellissima, with an Artificial Intelligence device in every cabin

MSC Cruises currently has 22 ships and is one of the youngest and fastest growing fleets in the cruise industry, with an impressive number of vessels on order up to 2026. Their latest ship MSC Euribia named after the ancient goddess Eurybia who harnessed the winds, weather and constellations to master the seas, furthering the vision of the ship to master the deployment of state-of-the-art sustainable technologies to protect and preserve the precious marine ecosystem.

Their other new groundbreaking ships include MSC World Europa launched in 2022 and MSC Virtuosa launched in 2021; MSC Seashore , launched in 2021; and MSC Grandiosa , launched in 2019.

All MSC ships have plenty of facilities to keep the family entertained. Highlights include the 96-metre central promenades on MSC Bellissima and MSC Meraviglia, which come to life at night; the glass walkway with views of the lower decks on MSC Seaview; swimming pool areas with giant movie screens; full-sized bowling alleys.

On select ships, you’ll also find the MSC Yacht Club , with accommodation and 24-hour butler service. Yacht Club guests can access a private lounge, restaurant and swimming pool, and also get complimentary access to the spa.

The dining onboard is also a highlight, with lots of specialty options to choose from. Take your pick from steak at the Butcher’s Cut, a 3-course dinner in the Carousel Lounge before an Italian-inspired cuisine at Eataly.

An MSC Grand Voyage is more than just a simple cruise, it's a travel experience that takes in some of the world's most spectacular ports of call and lets you discover them as they were surely meant to be discovered: by sea. These days absolute speed is no longer the quest and passengers can look forward to rather more relaxed voyages from Europe to the Americas and to Africa and Asia too.

Book with MSC Cruises and receive:

• Pre-Paid Gratuities for the duration of the Sailing
• Book a Yacht Club Experience and receive the ‘Premium Plus’ All Inclusive Drinks Package

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Canary islands.

12 Nights • 3/June/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Vigo - Funchal - Santa Cruz de Tenerife - Las Palmas,Gran Canaria - Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands - Lisbon - Southampton

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7 Nights • 15/June/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Skagen - Oslo - Copenhagen, Denmark - Zeebrugge - Southampton

Spain & France

7 Nights • 22/June/24 • other dates available

Southampton - La Rochelle - Bilbao - La Coruna, Spain - Cherbourg - Southampton

• Short Break

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Southampton - Cherbourg - Zeebrugge - Amsterdam - Southampton

2 Nights • 4/July/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Le Havre - Southampton

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7 Nights • 6/July/24 • other dates available

Southampton - La Rochelle - Bilbao - La Coruna, Spain - Le Havre - Southampton

Mediterranean

14 Nights • 13/July/24 • other dates available

Southampton - La Coruna, Spain - Cadiz - Malaga - Alicante - Palma De Mallorca - Barcelona - Valencia - Lisbon - Southampton

12 Nights • 10/August/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Vigo - Funchal - Las Palmas,Gran Canaria - Santa Cruz de Tenerife - Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands - Lisbon - Southampton

Norwegian Fjords

7 Nights • 24/August/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Haugesund - Maloy - Flam - Kristiansand, Norway - Southampton

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Southampton - Alesund - Flam - Haugesund - Southampton

14 Nights • 7/September/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Lisbon - Cadiz - Casablanca - Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands - Las Palmas,Gran Canaria - Santa Cruz de Tenerife - Funchal - Vigo - Southampton

3 Nights • 21/September/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Cherbourg - Zeebrugge - Southampton

4 Nights • 24/September/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Cork, Ireland - Portland, Dorset, UK - Southampton

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14 Nights • 28/September/24 • other dates available

Northern Europe

7 Nights • 4/October/24 • other dates available

Southampton - Hamburg - Rotterdam - Zeebrugge - Le Havre - Southampton

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All Inclusive Emirates cruise & Stay at Rixos Bab Al Bahr

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As seasoned cruisers or even first time cruisers, choosing the correct and perfect cruising experience for you can be very stressful, some people like to be specific amenities, be positioned near a certain location, or some will take pot luck and be allocated any kind of cabin from the cruise line, this is all down to each person’s personal preference. Below, you’ll see a description of the experiences and services each one has to offer with the fantastic MSC Cruise Lines.

What's Included with Bella Experience

• Modern ships and elegant cabins
• A range of special diets catered for
• 20-hours-a-day buffet (gourmet menu for every time of day)
• Main Restaurant Dining
• Varied programme of Broadway-style theatre shows available almost every day
• Open-air sports facilities (Power Walking Track, Basketball etc.)
• Well-equipped gym with panoramic views
• Entertainment activities for adults
• Kids Club for infants and children
• Qualified multilingual personnel
• Preference of cabin *subject to availability and booking conditions
• Chance to request preferred dinner sitting (subject to availability)

What's Included with Fantastica Experience

• 24-hour room service (delivery is free)
• Breakfast in your cabin (delivery + breakfast free of charge)
• Main Restaurant dininga
• Well-equipped gym with panoramic view
• Additional kids' activities & classes: foreign language learning games and Doremi Chef cooking sessions with our onboard staff (subject to availability)
• Maximum flexibility in booking* (changing passenger name, changing dates)
• Possibility to select from the best available cabin locations (subject to availability)*
• Opportunity to book a cabin for the whole family (where this cabin type is available)
• Chance to request preferred dinner sitting (subject to availability) Priority in choice of dinner sitting*
• One complimentary picture for each guest, taken during the Mediterranean Night at the Main Restaurants

*booking conditions apply

What's Included with Aurea Experience

• Unlimited drinks with the Easy Package*
• Free access to the exclusive sun deck to enjoy the sun in complete tranquility
• MED by MSC room diffuser (100 ml)
• Relaxation amenities in each cabin (including bathrobe and slippers)

What's Included with Yacht Club Experience

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out
• 24-hour butler service and dedicated concierge
• 24-hour room service available
• Unlimited drinks in all MSC YC areas including mini bar
• Complimentary beverage selection an all onboard bars and restaurants, according to the selection available in each venue
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa
• Relaxation amenities in each suite (including bathrobe and slippers)
• Newspaper directly delivered in cabin request
• Full Internet package, up to 4GB (depending on lehgth of cruise)*
• Lavishly fitted suites offering outstanding comfort located in the upper decks of the ship
• Panoramic Top Sail Lounge with bar, afternoon tea service, light food selection 20 hours per day and live music available every night
• Dedicated exclusive Sun Deck with pool, solarium and bar
• Gourmet dining in the private MSC YC restaurant with free choice of dining time during restaurant opening hours
• Bars and lounges, speciality restaurant, pools, etc…
• Premium buffet 20 hours a day – a gourmet menu for every moment of the day
• Varied programme of Broadway and Las Vegas-style theatre shows available almost every day
• MSC Aurea Spa treatments*
• Entertainment activities for adults, infants and children
• Recreational activities for children
• Open-air sports facilities

*Not included into the cruise fare

MSC Yacht Club: An Exclusive Haven of Refinement

Discover a ship within a ship. A place where you can savour exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice. Where you can indulge in the luxury of a private club, while enjoying access to the myriad of recreation and entertainment possibilities that the rest of the ship offers. Luxurious accommodation and exclusive services are only the beginning. The MSC Yacht Club also boasts a range of superb private areas, from the elegant Top Sail Lounge with its panoramic views to the stylish restaurant and the One Pool Deck complete with private swimming pool, whirlpool baths, sun deck and bar.Created by renowned architects De Jorio Design International, each MSC Yacht Club Suite offers uncompromising luxury with a wealth of exclusive features.

You can discover the luxury of MSC Yacht Club onboard: MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia Find out more .

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My take on MSC. 10 pros and 10 cons.

By Stockjock , October 17, 2022 in MSC Cruises

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I read a lot of comments, asking whether or not one should book MSC.  After 4 or 5 cruises on MSC, here's my take.  I've probably booked at least 8-10 cruises, but about half were cancelled by MSC, due to covid or other schedule changes.  But I've been through the process quite a few times.   My general thought is that if unsure, once should consider trying MSC.  Even though I've experienced positives and negatives, I've never had a bad time on an MSC cruise.  However, pre-cruise frustrations may have taken months or years off of my lifespan. Feel free to chime in if you have additional questions or comments to share.   Pros: 1. MSC usually offers excellent value. 2. Their ships are beautiful, especially their newer ships. 3. While I haven't personally done Yacht Club, and while it isn't cheap, YC seems to offer more amenities than many other similar suite experiences. 4. Most entertainment is pretty good. 5. MSC's ships tend to be well-maintained, perhaps the best, or one of the best, at this in the industry. 6. Cabins are well-serviced and kept very clean. 7. Diverse international passengers who tend to be well-behaved. 8. MSC is ecologically and environmentally sensitive. 9. Tours are relatively well-priced. 10. Voyager's Club offers status match & meaningful discounts, at times.  Easier to advance due to status match. Cons: 1. Customer service shoreside can be maddening.  Local service agents cannot fix many problems.  Italy's response can be slow or non-existent. 2. While improving, pre-cruise communication can be spotty. 3. Announcements in many languages, which while understandable due to their clientiele, can grow quite tedious. 4. While shows are decent or better, they tend to be short.  We actually like this, but some may not. 5. Muster drill process seems longer and generally inferior to updated processes on other cruise lines. 6. Food is hit and miss.  Rarely bad, but rarely especially especially good or memorable.  Mostly average. 7. Basics, such as Kleenex & washcloths, are not provided.  You may be able to get them by asking. 8. Previously, staff could be rude, snotty or unfriendly.  I did note substantial improvement on my most recent cruise.  They hired more Filipinos, which helped. 9. A lot of pressure to buy or upgrade drink or dining packages.  They tried to get me to spend $40 on wine w/a terrible rating, even though I had a drink package. 10. Voyager's Club, while potentially easier to achieve status via status match, offers fewer perks at top levels versus the competition.

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I have only one pro, they did not kill us!

25 minutes ago, Stockjock said: Muster drill process seems longer and generally inferior to updated processes on other cruise lines.

Agreed.  Their current muster drill process is even worse than their muster drills before the pandemic. 

CampNCruise74

To beMostly on par, although arguably, No. 3 on Con's is only that way if you don't speak English as your primary language.  To be fair, if one speaks Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French or German it might be characterized as appreciated first and foremost or impressive in my case if its the Captain of the ship speaking all those languages at once. 

Gatordad1967

fair assessment, although I found the food to be generally good everywhere on the ship.

perakcruiser

What @Stockjock  did not mention - probably because it is not relevant for him - is the killer pro for most of the guests. "Kids cruise free" and the totally amazing free of any charges Kids Club and attitude towards young guests that is not even closely matched by any other line. 

Agreed with @CampNCruise74 , yes, the multi-language stuff can be tedious, but it is also an

irreplaceable gesture of respect to all guests on board. OK, not all, but most. 

25 minutes ago, perakcruiser said: What @Stockjock  did not mention - probably because it is not relevant for him - is the killer pro for most of the guests. "Kids cruise free" and the totally amazing free of any charges Kids Club and attitude towards young guests that is not even closely matched by any other line.    Agreed with @CampNCruise74 , yes, the multi-language stuff can be tedious, but it is also an irreplaceable gesture of respect to all guests on board. OK, not all, but most. 

Yep, we don't have kids, but I can see where that could be a big advantage. I'm coming at the multilingual situation versus other cruise lines I've sailed on.  Obviously, it's helpful for anyone who speaks those languages, but hearing a joke or announcement in 6 languages can get a bit old.  I understand why they do it, and also understand why it could be annoying to some.

Good summary, thanks. A few notes:

The very international clientele can be a no-go for some on the American market.

I have never had that drinks and dining packages upsell. At least here in Europe, if they're doing it now, that is a novelty for me.

I'd add to the shoreside bad costumer service that their website is ugly. Currently the Portuguese version is by the most part outdated from early September for no apparent reason. No news from the next season's installments, or other news. No joy on the World Europa debuting whatsoever and all the past summer cruises are listed as if they were open for booking!... I know, that might to be a local sort of thing, but I give it as an example alone.

I wouldn't say the employees are rude. Quiet reserved professionalism at best. I don't want my dinner waiter to behave like if he was my best friend for the day! I want him to properly deliver what I order.

Not only the new muster drill process may be bad, I believe the whole check-in and check-out processes are the main negatives they have. Surely the credit card validation machines are a safety plus, but other than that, they should try to make the check-in process more costumer friendly. At least here in Europe it is usually a line creation for the sake of line creation with no additional advantage. With current technology it would to easily possible for them to add such a 30 seconds per pax check-in process, removing most of the lines!

Have a nice day!

2 minutes ago, Nunagoras said: The very international clientele can be a no-go for some on the American market. I have never had that drinks and dining packages upsell. At least here in Europe, if they're doing it now, that is a novelty for me.

I sailed out of Port Canaveral.  When I boarded the ship there were staff EVERYWHERE holding menus of things to sell.  We sat in the  main area and had a drink.  We were approached numerous times to purchase an upsell.  They were at breakfast in the morning as well. I think after the first two days it was done.  But I have to say I wasn't a fan. I have no issue saying no and I realize they are only doing their job but I would have preferred not dealing with it at all.  Or at least a lot less. 

11 minutes ago, Nunagoras said: Good summary, thanks. A few notes:   The very international clientele can be a no-go for some on the American market. I have never had that drinks and dining packages upsell. At least here in Europe, if they're doing it now, that is a novelty for me. I'd add to the shoreside bad costumer service that their website is ugly. Currently the Portuguese version is by the most part outdated from early September for no apparent reason. No news from the next season's installments, or other news. No joy on the World Europa debuting whatsoever and all the past summer cruises are listed as if they were open for booking!... I know, that might to be a local sort of thing, but I give it as an example alone. I   Have a nice day!

Even though the Euribia cruise I mentioned in another thread has been cancelled, they are still accepting bookings on it, which doesn't make much sense to me. In 2020 and 2021, I had 2 cruises that had been cancelled, yet MSC didn't tell me for many months and in fact insisted that they were moving us all to new ships, which never happened. I've previously mentioned the most egregious example I've seen.  They moved me from a 4 night out of Barcelona to a 20-night out of Brazil on a different date with no notification in any way (no e-mail, phone call, letter or text).  Fortunately, I happened to look closer not long before final payment. Definitely some room for improvement in this area.

LatinaInTexas

Recently took my first MSC cruise in Seashore and you covered the big picture accurately. Of course everyone has their own take.

I hated the chaotic muster drill. Hated being assigned a 5:15 dining time and they couldn't get it changed. Didn't even notice any multi language announcements lol. Found the food pretty amazing but would have liked more choices to pick from at dinner in the dining room.

Found it really strange there were no washcloths in my cabin.

Overall everything else exceeded my expectations.

14 minutes ago, LatinaInTexas said: Recently took my first MSC cruise in Seashore and you covered the big picture accurately. Of course everyone has their own take. I hated the chaotic muster drill. Hated being assigned a 5:15 dining time and they couldn't get it changed. Didn't even notice any multi language announcements lol. Found the food pretty amazing but would have liked more choices to pick from at dinner in the dining room. Found it really strange there were no washcloths in my cabin. Overall everything else exceeded my expectations.

Speaking of changing dining times, here's what happened on a 2019 MSC cruise. They made some changes and got the dining time wrong (early rather than late, which I had originally selected).  Because I had issues before when calling them to correct errors, I figured I'd just correct this one on the ship.  Early, on day 1, I visited the Maitre'D and there was no one else waiting to talk to him.  I told him that I had booked late dining, but when MSC changed the reservation they moved me to early seating.  So I asked him to try to move me to a later seating. He looked me unsmiling, with utter contempt and disgust. He said, sternly, "Do you have ANY idea how many passengers I have on this ship?" I replied that I wasn't certain, but quite a few I would imagine. He said, again in a mean way, "Fifty-five hundred.  Fifty-five hundred passengers.  And *YOU* want early dining.  Am I understanding you correctly?!" I replied, "Yes sir, I'd sure appreciate it.  We actually booked late seating, but it got changed when I did a promotion change." With a disgusted look on his face, he changed the seating time and damned near threw my MSC card at me. My GF and I still joke about this to this day.  I'll ask her, "Do you have any idea how many passengers I have on this ship?!"  She'll reply, "Fifty Five Hundred!  I have Fifty Five Hundred passengers and *YOU* want late seating!!!"

5 minutes ago, Stockjock said: Speaking of changing dining times, here's what happened on a 2019 MSC cruise. They made some changes and got the dining time wrong (early rather than late, which I had originally selected).  Because I had issues before when calling them to correct errors, I figured I'd just correct this one on the ship.  Early, on day 1, I visited the Maitre'D and there was no one else waiting to talk to him.  I told him that I had booked late dining, but when MSC changed the reservation they moved me to early seating.  So I asked him to try to move me to a later seating. He looked me unsmiling, with utter contempt and disgust. He said, sternly, "Do you have any idea how many passengers I have on this ship?" I replied that I wasn't certain, but quite a few I would imagine. He said, again in a mean way, "Fifty-five hundred.  Fifty-five hundred passengers.  And *YOU* want early dining.  Am I understanding you correctly?!" I replied, "Yes sir, I'd sure appreciate it.  We actually booked late seating, but it got changed when I did a promotion change." With a disgusted look on his face, he changed the seating time and damned near threw my MSC card at me. My GF and I still joke about this to this day.  I'll ask her, "Do you have any idea how many passengers I have on this ship?!"  She'll reply, "Fifty Five Hundred!  I have Fifty Five Hundred passengers and *YOU* want late seating!!!"

OMG.I tried 3 times once I boarded to try and change mine. Basically I got the same vibe but after seeing the people before me leave in disgust and one screaming and yelling down the hall I took my table change and called it a day. I can just picture your scenario 😂 🤣

4 minutes ago, LatinaInTexas said: OMG.I tried 3 times once I boarded to try and change mine. Basically I got the same vibe but after seeing the people before me leave in disgust and one screaming and yelling down the hall I took my table change and called it a day. I can just picture your scenario 😂 🤣

I think that they've screwed my dining times on one or both upcoming cruises.  But I'm afraid to call MSC because it can change the pricing, cabins and/or promotion.  So once again, I'll address it once I'm on the ship. May God have mercy on my soul.

I've enjoyed sailing on MSC. I was aware before getting to the ship that I could just ask my cabin steward for a box of tissues and a washcloth. I did that Day 1 and I had everything I needed every day (sailing from Miami).

Staff were friendly. As others have noted, I don't really need the staff to act like we are best friends. I don't know them. Some Americans seem to want that type of interaction. I'm not sure why. I'm American and I don't care for really chatted people and I don't believe it's my place to be asking staff personal questions either. Americans do that all day on main US cruise lines. It must get tiring for staff. 

I have not had any major issues during the booking process. Once a mistake was made and it was fixed quick. It was not a mistake that is specific to MSC. Anyone on a different cruise line could have made that mistake. 

The ships are indeed beautiful. No complaints. Other than the Seashore has some odd layout on a couple decks for public venues. But, once I figured it out, I just followed the route and got from A to B. 

I travel internationally so I'm not bothered by different nationalities, foods, and languages. 

I'm on a cruise. Not sure why I would be grumpy about small stuff. Looking forward to my birthday cruise on the new MSC Seascape in February!

Happy cruising everyone. Definitely check out MSC. Save money and enjoy cruising 🤗 🌞 🛳🏝

15 hours ago, Stockjock said: 2. While improving, pre-cruise communication can be spotty.

I'm on my first MSC cruise in November, and I've definitely found that I agree with this, to the extent that even my own TA was obviously frustrated.

18 hours ago, CampNCruise74 said: To beMostly on par, although arguably, No. 3 on Con's is only that way if you don't speak English as your primary language.  To be fair, if one speaks Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French or German it might be characterized as appreciated first and foremost or impressive in my case if its the Captain of the ship speaking all those languages at once. 

Wow, this is 2022 and we still have people not getting with the program and speaking English. I hate when I go to other countries, and they all pretend not to understand me. So not cool. 

I think you nailed most of what I would have said.  We also had an issue where our dining time got changed when we got an upgrade but we had no issue changing it.  But we were also sailing very under capacity.  My #1 Con for MSC is the drink packages.  I HATE how it is done.  Trying to figure out the different levels and what goes with what.  I was worried the whole time I would order a drink that wasn't covered by my package and be charged for it.   I did eventually intentionally order two drinks with top shelf liquor in it and was alerted both times that it wasn't in my package and I would pay.  There are so many questions on the drink package.  I suppose it is better for some people who would like to have an option of price point.  

BklynBorn47

20 hours ago, Stockjock said: Feel free to chime in if you have additional questions or comments to share.

Just off the Meraviglia TA (Marseille to PC) where we had a great experience. I agree with your PROs As for the CONs

#1 We found the customer service pre cruise to be exceptional.   Never did we have a representative answer the phone as quickly as MSC did.   We needed this because we found the website terrible.

#3 We loved the International Vibe including the announcements.   I would try to understand the Spanish ones while my husband worked on his French and Germain.   Just our thing, I suppose.  

#5   We had an easy and efficient muster drill which I now think is because our muster station was the Broadway theater.   We relaxed in the seats and watched the video.   Just lucky I guess

#6 We thought the food was fine, especially the Italian dishes.   I liked being able to view the menus ahead of time on the screen in our cabin.   I’m allergic to fish and like to know what options I have before arriving in the dining room.   Twice in 18 days we opted for the buffet.

#9 NO ONE asked us to buy or upgrade anything except the photographers who kept suggesting we have our pictures taken.  

Finally the VALUE!   Our 18 day TA was not much more than the cost of flying home from Europe. I am glad we tried MSC and will definitely book them again although after reading reports of short post TA Caribbean cruises, maybe not on one of them.

Based upon a conversation I had with my cabin steward when he delivered the requested box of tissues, the reason that tissues are not routinely placed in the cabins is as follows:

The tissue box holder was in the bathroom within reach of the toilet.  Passengers were using the tissues as toilet paper instead of the toilet paper.

The tissues were causing plumbing issues when flushed.

As a result, MSC has the policy that boxes of tissues will only be provided upon request.

16 hours ago, Stockjock said: Speaking of changing dining times, here's what happened on a 2019 MSC cruise. They made some changes and got the dining time wrong (early rather than late, which I had originally selected).  Because I had issues before when calling them to correct errors, I figured I'd just correct this one on the ship.  Early, on day 1, I visited the Maitre'D and there was no one else waiting to talk to him.  I told him that I had booked late dining, but when MSC changed the reservation they moved me to early seating.  So I asked him to try to move me to a later seating. He looked me unsmiling, with utter contempt and disgust. He said, sternly, "Do you have ANY idea how many passengers I have on this ship?" I replied that I wasn't certain, but quite a few I would imagine. He said, again in a mean way, "Fifty-five hundred.  Fifty-five hundred passengers.  And *YOU* want early dining.  Am I understanding you correctly?!" I replied, "Yes sir, I'd sure appreciate it.  We actually booked late seating, but it got changed when I did a promotion change." With a disgusted look on his face, he changed the seating time and damned near threw my MSC card at me. My GF and I still joke about this to this day.  I'll ask her, "Do you have any idea how many passengers I have on this ship?!"  She'll reply, "Fifty Five Hundred!  I have Fifty Five Hundred passengers and *YOU* want late seating!!!"

very selfish of you..... 🙂

11 minutes ago, Homosassa said: Based upon a conversation I had with my cabin steward when he delivered the requested box of tissues, the reason that tissues are not routinely placed in the cabins is as follows:   The tissue box holder was in the bathroom within reach of the toilet.  Passengers were using the tissues as toilet paper instead of the toilet paper.   The tissues were causing plumbing issues when flushed.   As a result, MSC has the policy that boxes of tissues will only be provided upon request.

That makes sense.  We requested tissues also and the cabin steward provided them.

19 hours ago, Nunagoras said: Good summary, thanks. A few notes:   The very international clientele can be a no-go for some on the American market. I have never had that drinks and dining packages upsell. At least here in Europe, if they're doing it now, that is a novelty for me. I'd add to the shoreside bad costumer service that their website is ugly. Currently the Portuguese version is by the most part outdated from early September for no apparent reason. No news from the next season's installments, or other news. No joy on the World Europa debuting whatsoever and all the past summer cruises are listed as if they were open for booking!... I know, that might to be a local sort of thing, but I give it as an example alone. I wouldn't say the employees are rude. Quiet reserved professionalism at best. I don't want my dinner waiter to behave like if he was my best friend for the day! I want him to properly deliver what I order. Not only the new muster drill process may be bad, I believe the whole check-in and check-out processes are the main negatives they have. Surely the credit card validation machines are a safety plus, but other than that, they should try to make the check-in process more costumer friendly. At least here in Europe it is usually a line creation for the sake of line creation with no additional advantage. With current technology it would to easily possible for them to add such a 30 seconds per pax check-in process, removing most of the lines!   Have a nice day!

TOTALLY agree about check in.  We recently were on Carnival Mardi Gras and I COULD NOT BELEIVE how well they did getting people on in an expedited way.  The online check in process with credit cards, kids registrations, pre-purchased internet plans we got, passport stuff, was all so easy.   MSC needs to send all of their people over to the Carnival check in desk to witness a well oiled machine and make changes accordingly. 

Check out was bad however on the Mardi Gras and they didn't advocate  people checking luggage and instead brining it off themselves which created a fiasco.  On the Mardi Gras you had to go get your departing luggage stickers from the main desk and not from your room attendant like MSC does, assuming they still do that for people not wanting to wheel all of their luggage off themselves.  I kind of felt they might be trying to free up labor by getting people to take their own bags off. 

On MSC, we usually stay on and eat a long breakfast at the buffet with a few cups of coffee and try to avoid the crowds and just leave later. 

For Muster on Carnival we just had to report to our station at our leisure the first day and they scanned our cards and we were done! Viola!  Easy Peasy!

2 hours ago, asalligo said: Wow, this is 2022 and we still have people not getting with the program and speaking English. I hate when I go to other countries, and they all pretend not to understand me. So not cool.   

That's pretty myopic.  Uh Yeah.  It's 2022 and guess what the official language of Miami Dade County is?   Spanish.  Maybe they do understand you and might not feel their English is good enough to respond?   

4 hours ago, asalligo said: Wow, this is 2022 and we still have people not getting with the program and speaking English. I hate when I go to other countries, and they all pretend not to understand me. So not cool.   

I think that’s a total mischaracterization of my comments, and I think that if you read it again that will be obvious.    

The issue is not whether or not other people speak different languages, it’s that having to listen to the announcements or jokes in five or six languages can get old for someone who is not used to that, and perhaps even for someone who is used to that.

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MSC Cruises

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

•   Fleet
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MSC Cruises fleet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Company History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Company changes 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Company changes 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Company changes 2022

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

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

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

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

Company changes 2021

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

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

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

Company changes 2020

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

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

Company changes 2019

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

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

Company changes 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(NEW) MSC Silenseas ships by STX France

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

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

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

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

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

Shipboard safety

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

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

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

MSC WORLD-Class liners

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MSC private islands (Sir Bani Yas, Ocean Cay)

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

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

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

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

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

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

MSC Cruises Asia

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

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

(NEW) MSC kids programming

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

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

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

MSC wedding cruise deals

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

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

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

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

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

MSC cruise booking and cancellation policy changes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MSC digitalization program's main features are:

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

MSC fitness cruise packages

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

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

FREE Birthday cruise

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

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

MSC's "Dolphins Fan Cruise"

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

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

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

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

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

MSC virtual reality ship tours

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

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

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

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

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

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

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

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

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

Itinerary of MSC Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

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

Middle East 2024 Arabian Gulf voyages

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

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

Cruises from China

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

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

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

MSC Caribbean 2024-2025 itineraries

Caribbean and the French Antilles

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

Western Mediterranean

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

South America

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

South Africa

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

Middle East

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

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

Summer 2026 Mediterranean itineraries

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

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

MSC Cuba cruises from Havana

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

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

Cuban itineraries on MSC Opera were roundtrips from Havana .

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

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

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

(NEW) PortMiami MSC Terminal AAA

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

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

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

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MSC Cruises

PRICE MATCH PROMISE - Our prices beat booking directly with a cruise line* CALL to ADD All-Inclusive Drinks FREE Tips & Reduced Child prices* CALL to extend your stay before or after your cruise CALL for 2025 Special FlyCruise Packages *Selected sailings/cabins. New bookings only

Take to the sea in style with MSC Cruises. Explore incredible destinations around the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Dubai, amongst others, with a variety of itineraries to choose from and an array of tailored excursions to enjoy at every stop on your voyage. Each and every MSC ship has its own unique features, which along with their elegance and innovation, help to provide a comfortable and carefree experience for passengers. Luxurious cabins, exceptional facilities, creative cuisine and sublime entertainment also come as standard throughout the whole fleet. Destination2 offers a host of exclusive deals on holidays with MSC Cruises. Take a look at what’s on offer and book your dream luxury cruise today.

Latest MSC Cruises Offers

Set sail for less with our exceptional deals

MSC Virtuosa

No-fly mediterranean highlights.

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Sail from Southampton Malaga, Palma, Valencia, Barcelona & more

• Full Board Cruise
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MSC Orchestra

Rio de janeiro & brazil, morocco & spain.

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Sail from Rio de Janeiro Santos, Recife, Casablanca & more

• FREE 1 nt Rio de Janeiro stay
• Return Flights Included
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MSC Euribia

Dubai & abu dhabi & qatar.

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Sail from Dubai Doha, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain & more

• NEW SHIP 2023
• FREE 1 nt Dubai stay

Rome & Santorini, Mykonos & Pompeii

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Sail from Rome (Civitavecchia) Santorini, Mykonos, Izmir & more

• FREE 1 nt Rome stay

MSC Seascape

2 nts miami & caribbean delights.

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Sail from Miami Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic & more

• NEW SHIP 2022
• FREE 2 nts Miami stay

No-Fly Canaries & Madeira

12 Night Cruise

Prices from £1009pp

Sail from Southampton Tenerife, Lanzarote, Lisbon & more

No-Fly French & Spanish Delights

7 Night Cruise

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Sail from Southampton Bilbao, La Coruna, La Rochelle & more

MSC Meraviglia

New york & caribbean delights.

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Sail from New York Bermuda & more

• FREE 1 nt New York stay

MSC Grandiosa

Barcelona & mediterranean dreams.

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Sail from Barcelona Sicily, Rome, Marseille & more

• FREE 1 nt Barcelona stay

MSC Fantasia

Rome & mediterranean dreams.

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Sail from Rome (Civitavecchia) Valencia, Marseille, Genoa & more

MSC Seaside

Miami & exotic caribbean.

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Sail from Miami Puerto Rico, Bahamas & more

• FREE 1 nt Miami stay

Madeira & Canaries Sunshine

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Sail from Funchal Tenerife, Lanzarote & more

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MSC World Europa

Marseille & mediterranean dreams.

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Sail from Marseille Barcelona, Genoa, Pompeii & more

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Barcelona & Mediterranean Medley

Sail from Barcelona Marseille, Genoa, Pompeii & more

Tenerife & Canaries & Madeira

Sail from Tenerife Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & more

• FREE 1 nt Tenerife stay

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Sail from Doha Abu Dhabi, Dubai (overnight) & more

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MSC Sinfonia

Venice & eastern mediterranean.

Sail from Venice (Marghera) Split, Athens, Mykonos & more

• FREE 1 nt Venice stay

MSC Seashore

Florida & caribbean delights.

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Sail from Orlando (Port Canaveral) Cozumel, Costa Maya & more

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MSC Seaview

7 nts majorca & 7 nts med gems.

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Sail from Palma Barcelona, Cannes, Rome & more

• FREE 7 nts Majorca stay

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Sail from Abu Dhabi Doha, Dubai (overnight) & more

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MSC Preziosa

No-fly bruges, amsterdam & paris.

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Sail from Southampton Bruges, Amsterdam, Paris & more

Rome & Mediterranean Medley

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Sail from Rome (Civitavecchia) Barcelona, Genoa, Pompeii & more

No-Fly 5 Night Mini Cruise

5 Night Cruise

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Sail from Southampton Choose your Cruise

Gran Canaria & Canaries & Madeira

Sail from Gran Canaria Tenerife, Lanzarote, Madeira & more

• FREE 1 nt Gran Canaria stay

MSC Splendida

Venice & italian, greek & turkish delights.

Sail from Venice (Trieste) Katakolon, Athens, Istanbul & more

No-Fly Glaciers, Waterfalls & Norwegian Fjords

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Sail from Southampton Haugesund, Kristiansand & more

2 nts Rome & Mediterranean Sunsets

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Sail from Rome (Civitavecchia) Valencia, Sardinia & more

• FREE 2 nts Rome stay

MSC Armonia

Venice & italy, croatia & malta.

Sail from Venice (Marghera) Split, Malta, Pompeii & more

Athens & Mediterranean Delights

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Sail from Athens Corfu, Bari & more

• FREE 1 nt Athens stay

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MSC Cruise Ships

Discover the fabulous features available on msc’s luxurious ships.

MSC Cruise Feature

Mealtimes onboard MSC Cruises are an utter delight with dining options to please all palates and appetites. A world of buffet flavours awaits at breakfast, lunch and dinner, or you can enjoy gourmet a la carte feasts in a variety of speciality restaurants. Imaginative desserts, snacks and fast-food favourites are also available, while special diets are catered for and children are provided with dedicated dining areas and dishes created especially for them. Passengers can also relax in an assortment of indoor and outdoor bars, lounges and cafes, and take advantage of a range of fabulous drinks packages.

Expect fun and excitement on every leg of your voyage, with unbelievable entertainment provided around the clock by MSC Cruises. Music, dancing and performances can be enjoyed right throughout your holiday, while a number of ships offer you the chance to embrace a world of adventure with an unforgettable 4D cinematic experience.

You’re also invited to showcase your own performing talents in The MSC Factor and join in the fun at any or all of the colourful parades and parties.

MSC family cruises offer fun for all, with magical memories to be made both at sea and on land. Tots, children, tweens and teens are welcome to share the experience, with cabins, dining options, activities and excursions to excite and delight all ages. Family-friendly facilities, including pools, kids’ clubs and video games rooms are available on most ships, while some boast zip lines, Formula 1 simulators, waterparks and more. When it comes to accommodation, you’ll find a variety of superb cabins to choose from. Options are provided for every need, age range and group size, and come with all the necessary modern comforts. Family dining is also a delight. Both children and grown-ups are treated to a smorgasbord of culinary treats, with young passengers getting their own special menu and allowed to eat with new friends in dedicated dining area. A range of specially tailored excursions are also on offer to ensure the fun doesn’t stop when your ship docks.

A spectrum of fabulous activities and incredible amenities can be enjoyed during your voyage with MSC Cruises. Swimming pools, spas and fitness centres can be found in all ships, while others include facilities such as cinemas, casinos, bowling alleys, zip lines, rock climbing walls and waterparks. Sports including tennis, squash, basketball, volleyball and five-a-side football are also on offer on selected vessels, while shopaholics can embrace a spot of retail therapy thanks to the provision of an assortment of glamorous retail outlets.

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MSC Cruises this Year is Offering Nine Ships in the Best Port's of Call in the Mediterranean.

MSC Cruises is offering the Ultimate Summer holidays with nine ships in the most coveted port's of call in the Mediterranean.

Geneva, Switzerland – 23 May 2024 – The Mediterranean’s picturesque seascapes continue to attract holidaymakers, and MSC Cruises is meeting the growing demand with a variety of itineraries that visit multiple cities in this breathtaking region, offering the ultimate summer holiday experience. It’s not too late to book now.

This summer, MSC Cruises provides an easy way for holidaymakers to explore popular Western Mediterranean destinations without the hassle of unpacking multiple times.

A cruise holiday offers exceptional value with diverse offerings both onboard and ashore to suit any traveler. From stunning itineraries and destination excursions to unique onboard experiences with international gourmet dining, award-winning facilities, family activities, and luxurious spa and fitness centers, MSC Cruises ensures endless enriching experiences for guests.

MSC May to October

From May to October, nine elegant MSC Cruises ships visit both iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations, blending relaxation, adventure, culture, and entertainment.

Valencia, Spain – Valencia, a vibrant port city, boasts rich history, Mediterranean charm, and arguably the best nightlife in Spain, making it a must-visit this summer. Cobblestone streets reveal Spanish history and modern style, alongside culinary delights like tapas, Paella, and horchata. Playa de Las Arenas beach offers daytime fun, while hip bars and nightlife light up the evening. Ships visiting Valencia this summer include:

• MSC Fantasia – 7-night itineraries from Valencia
• MSC Seaside – 7-night itineraries from Genoa

Livorno, Italy – This historical port town on Tuscany's west coast is rich in monuments, museums, and seafood. Natural spots like Macchia della Magona and nearby Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance, add to its appeal. Visitors can also explore Pisa's famous Leaning Tower and other historic sites. Ships visiting Livorno this summer include:

• MSC Grandiosa – 7-night itineraries from Livorno

Barcelona, Spain – A metropolis full of diverse experiences, Barcelona buzzes with summer festivals and outdoor activities, including beaches. The city offers world-class museums, restaurants, shops, and Gaudí's architectural masterpieces. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant El Raval area and the scenic Montserrat mountain. Ships visiting Barcelona this summer include:

• MSC Seaview – 7-night itineraries from Barcelona
• MSC World Europa – 7-night itineraries from Genoa
• MSC Musica – 7-night itineraries from Civitavecchia
• MSC Poesia – 11-night itineraries from Genoa

Palermo, Italy – Sicily's capital, Palermo, combines Norman art, Baroque churches, medieval streets, and markets. Exploring the city reveals historic sites like Palazzo d’Orleans and Teatro Massimo. Ships visiting Palermo this summer include:

MSC Fantasia Yacht Club Cabin tour - Cruising For All

Ibiza, Spain – Known for its nightlife, Ibiza also offers charming Ciutat d'Eivissa with its UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila and delightful Plaça de Vila. The climb to the cathedral provides spectacular harbor views. Ships visiting Ibiza this summer include:

Cádiz, Spain – As Western Europe’s oldest city, Cádiz offers significant historical heritage, pristine beaches, and regional cuisine. Nature lovers can explore the Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships visiting Cádiz this summer include:

• MSC Orchestra – 10-night itineraries from Genoa

Naples, Italy – Naples, shadowed by Mount Vesuvius, teems with artistic and architectural treasures. Ideal for exploring Pompeii or the island of Capri, the city captivates all five senses. Ships visiting Naples this summer include:

• MSC Divina – 7-night itineraries from Civitavecchia

Cannes, France – This French Riviera hotspot, known for its film festival, blends glamour and Mediterranean charm. Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery, pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and historical sites in Le Suquet. Ships visiting Cannes this summer include:

About MSC Cruises

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises is the world's third-largest cruise line and a market leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Southern Africa, with a growing presence in North America and the Far East.

The MSC Cruises fleet consists of 22 modern ships, with three new vessels set to launch in 2025, 2026, and 2027.

Operating in more than 100 countries, MSC Cruises offers voyages across five continents, calling at over 300 destinations and welcoming more than 180 different nationalities onboard.

MSC Cruises is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for its marine operations by 2050.

The post MSC Cruises this Year is Offering Nine Ships in the Best Port's of Call in the Mediterranean. appeared first on Cruising For All .

Is MSC Yacht Club Worth It? - Cruising For All

MSC Cruises, our official global cruise partner, have moved in land to launch the MSC Meadow in partnership with Chelsea Football Club, an initiative to regenerate an area of the banks of the River Mole in Cobham, Surrey.

By the end of the project, 100 trees will have been planted on the banks of the River Mole at our training ground in Cobham, providing valuable benefits for the local habitat.

Our players Kadeisha Buchanan , Ben Chilwell , Alfie Gilchrist , Hannah Hampton , Melanie Leupolz and Raheem Sterling all took part in the kick-off to the project, along with members of the MSC Cruises UK team. Swapping football boots for wellington boots, they began planting the trees.

The initiative, which MSC Cruises and Chelsea have co-developed, will establish a vital ecological corridor and improve biodiversity in the local environment. Additionally, it will have a positive impact on a wide variety of areas, including water quality, habitat improvement and flood management.

Claire Cronin, Chelsea FC’s chief marketing officer, said, 'We are proud to be working with our partner, MSC Cruises, on such a meaningful initiative. To have a partner who recognises the importance of addressing biodiversity loss is incredibly powerful.

'Not only will the MSC Meadow create valuable benefits for the local environment, but we hope it will inspire our millions of fans around the world to play their part in making a positive impact in their own communities.'

Antonio Paradiso, vice president of international sales for MSC Group’s Cruise Division and managing director for the UK & Ireland, added: 'We have a long-standing partnership with Chelsea Football Club and saw an opportunity to launch this community initiative in partnership with them to benefit our local environment. We look forward to taking part in other future projects like this.'

Tree planting is vital to both the climate and biodiversity. It forms a key part of the UK’s net zero strategy for greenhouse gas emissions, with the target to significantly increase tree cover by creating 30,000 hectares of new woodland every year.

A woodland environment also sustains a wide variety of plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms which are able to exist in unison to maintain balance and support life, a biodiversity that humans rely upon to provide clean water, fresh air and plants for food. At the moment, 16 per cent of UK species are at risk of being lost.

With only 15 per cent of rivers in England rated as being in good ecological condition, the banks of the River Mole in Cobham are a natural location for a project like this to take place. Pollinating species such as bees, which are crucial for food production but have been in decline, can benefit from a boost to the rural environment brought about by initiatives like the new MSC Meadow.

Chris Goodwin, environmental social governance manager for Chelsea FC, commented: 'The MSC Meadow is a long-term commitment to biodiversity improvement between Chelsea Football Club and MSC Cruises. The trees at our training ground will provide a positive environmental and social benefit for years.

'Biodiversity is seeing a significant decline with recorded species in the UK having been depleted on average by 19 per cent since 1970. Every initiative matters, no matter what size, and in the MSC Meadow we have a definitive action that we hope will raise awareness about the importance Chelsea places on nature.'