mainstream Family

MSC Cruises

MSC is a European cruise line with a Mediterranean flair, offering excellent value and beautiful ships. Known for family-friendly policies and international ambiance.

2
Ships
4
Regions
$580
From / Person
Mainstream
Tier
Smart casual
Dress Code
Visit Official Website
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Why MSC Cruises?

MSC Yacht Club Luxury

Experience ship-within-a-ship exclusivity with private suites, dedicated butler service, and access to exclusive areas including private pools and restaurants.

Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine

Savor Italian culinary excellence with celebrity chef partnerships, authentic regional specialties, and multiple dining venues featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Broadway-Style Entertainment

Enjoy spectacular shows featuring Cirque du Soleil at Sea, original productions, and world-class performances in stunning theaters designed for unforgettable evenings.

Worldwide Destinations

Explore over 200 destinations across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Asia, and South America with authentic shore excursions and cultural immersion.

Family-Friendly Adventures

Create lasting memories with LEGO partnerships, kids clubs, teen zones, and family-friendly activities designed to entertain every generation aboard.

Exceptional Value

Experience premium cruising with competitive pricing, inclusive amenities, and flexible booking options that deliver outstanding value for money.

The MSC Cruises Story

MSC Cruises was founded in 1960 by Gianluigi Aponte in Italy, initially operating as a cargo shipping company called Mediterranean Shipping Company. The Aponte family's maritime expertise and entrepreneurial vision laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's most successful cruise lines. In 1988, MSC entered the cruise industry with the acquisition of their first passenger ship, marking the beginning of their transformation from cargo to luxury cruise operations. Under the leadership of Gianluigi Aponte and his family, MSC Cruises experienced remarkable growth throughout the 1990s and 2000s, expanding their fleet and routes to serve international markets. The company's commitment to Italian craftsmanship, Mediterranean hospitality, and innovative ship design helped establish MSC as a major player in the global cruise industry. Today, MSC Cruises operates one of the world's most modern fleets, continuing the family's legacy of maritime excellence while pioneering sustainable cruising practices and cutting-edge vessel technology.

Awards & Recognition

Best Cruise Line for Families
Cruise Critic Cruisers' Choice Awards · 2023
Europe's Leading Cruise Line
World Travel Awards · 2023
Best New Ship - MSC World Europa
Cruise Critic Editors' Picks · 2023
Best Entertainment
Cruise International Awards · 2022
Best Cruise Line for First-Time Cruisers
Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards · 2022
Leading Cruise Line in the Mediterranean
World Travel Awards · 2022

What's Included

Every MSC Cruises fare covers these essentials. No hidden surprises — here's what comes standard with your booking.

Main Dining Room
Buffet
Room Service
Entertainment & Shows
Fitness Center
Pools & Water Features
Kids Club
Basic Drinks (Water, Tea, Coffee)

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The Fleet (2 Ships)

Meet the MSC Cruises fleet. Each ship has its own personality — click any ship to explore its full profile, deck plans, and upcoming sailings.

MSC Meraviglia

· Built 2017
4,500 guests 171,598 GT
Home port: Barcelona
6 bars 4 pools/water 6 entertainment

MSC Seaside

· Built 2017
5,179 guests 160,000 GT
Home port: Miami
6 bars 5 pools/water 5 entertainment

Onboard Experience

Explore dining, entertainment, pools, and more on each ship. Select a ship below to see what's available onboard.

MSC Meraviglia · 4,500 guests · Built 2017 · Barcelona
Sky Bar
cocktail
Known for panoramic sea views and signature cocktails
Champagne Bar
wine
Known for premium champagne selection and elegant atmosphere
Sports Bar
sports
Known for live sports viewing and casual drinks
Carousel Lounge
cocktail
Known for live music and evening entertainment
Atmosphere Pool Bar
pool
Known for tropical cocktails and poolside service
Pub La Pinta
cocktail
Known for craft beers and pub-style atmosphere
Carousel Theatre
theater
Main theater featuring Broadway-style productions and variety shows
Cirque du Soleil at Sea
theater
Exclusive Cirque du Soleil performances created specifically for MSC
TV Studio
comedy
Interactive game shows and comedy performances
Karaoke Bar
music
Guest karaoke performances and sing-along entertainment
Casino
casino
Full-service casino with slots, table games, and poker tournaments
Loft 19
music
Teen disco and dance venue with DJ entertainment
Atmosphere Pool
pool
Main outdoor pool with retractable dome and LED sky
Horizon Pool
pool
Aft pool deck with panoramic ocean views
Aquapark
aquapark
Water park area with multiple slides and splash zones
Kids Splash Zone
pool
Dedicated children's water play area with mini slides
MSC Aurea Spa
spa
Full-service spa with massage treatments and wellness therapies
Fitness Center
gym
Modern gym with cardio and strength training equipment
Thermal Suite
thermal
Relaxation area with saunas, steam rooms, and heated loungers
Hair Salon
salon
Professional hair and beauty services
MINI Club
Supervised play activities and educational programs for young children
JUNIOR Club
Adventure activities, games, and age-appropriate entertainment
YOUNG Club
Social activities, sports tournaments, and pre-teen entertainment
TEEN Club
Teen lounge with games, music, and supervised social activities
Basketball Court
sports
Multi-use sports court for basketball and other activities
Bowling Alley
games
Four-lane bowling facility with cosmic bowling nights
Ropes Course
adventure
Suspended obstacle course with challenging elements
Formula 1 Simulator
games
Professional racing simulators with F1 experience
XD Cinema
adventure
4D cinema experience with motion seats and special effects
MSC Seaside · 5,179 guests · Built 2017 · Miami
Sky Bar
cocktail
Known for panoramic ocean views and signature cocktails
Garage Bar
cocktail
Known for vintage motorcycle-themed decor and craft cocktails
MSC Yacht Club Top Sail Lounge
cocktail
Known for exclusive yacht club member cocktails and premium spirits
Jungle Pool Bar
pool
Known for tropical drinks and poolside service
Masters Bar
sports
Known for sports viewing and beer selection
Champagne Bar
wine
Known for premium champagne and sparkling wine selection
Metropolitan Theater
theater
Main theater featuring Broadway-style productions and live shows
Carousel Lounge
music
Live music venue with dance floor and DJ performances
MSC Cruises Casino
casino
Full-service casino with slots, table games, and poker tournaments
Comedy Club
comedy
Intimate venue featuring stand-up comedy performances
Seaside Theater
theater
Outdoor movie theater under the stars
Forest Aquaventure
aquapark
Multi-level water park with slides and interactive water features
Slide Complex
waterslide
Multiple racing slides and tube slides for all ages
Main Pool
pool
Large main pool with surrounding deck chairs and entertainment
Infinity Pool
pool
Adults-only infinity pool at the aft of the ship
Kids Splash Area
pool
Shallow pool area designed specifically for young children
MSC Aurea Spa
spa
Full-service spa with massage treatments, facials, and wellness therapies
Fitness Center
gym
Modern gym with cardio equipment, weights, and fitness classes
Hair and Beauty Salon
salon
Professional salon services including hair styling and beauty treatments
Thermal Area
thermal
Relaxation area with saunas, steam rooms, and heated loungers
Chicco Baby Club
Supervised play area for toddlers with age-appropriate toys and activities
Mini Club
Kids club with games, crafts, educational activities, and themed parties
Young Club
Teen hangout space with video games, movies, and social activities
Doremi Family Fun
Family entertainment program with shows and activities for all ages
Sports Court
sports
Multi-use court for basketball, volleyball, and soccer
Bowling Alley
games
Four-lane bowling alley with cosmic bowling nights
Adventure Trail
adventure
High ropes course and zip line experience
Mini Golf
games
18-hole miniature golf course with ocean views
Jogging Track
sports
Outdoor jogging track circling the upper decks

Ratings & Scores

How MSC Cruises stacks up across key categories that matter most to cruisers.

Best For

Overall cruise line ratings based on experience type

Family
9/10
Romance
6/10
Party
6/10
Relaxation
7/10
Food
7/10
Entertainment
7/10
Service
7/10
Value
9/10

Ship Ratings

Individual ship performance ratings across categories

MSC Meraviglia
Overall
8.2/10
Cabins
7.8/10
Dining
8.0/10
Entertainment
8.5/10
Service
7.9/10
MSC Seaside
Overall
8.2/10
Cabins
8.0/10
Dining
8.3/10
Entertainment
8.1/10
Service
7.9/10

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Popular Itineraries

Browse MSC Cruises's most popular routes organized by region. See day-by-day port stops, duration, and starting prices.

Bahamas
4-Night Bahamas
4 nights · MSC Seaside · from Miami
$580
per person
Day 1: Miami → Day 2: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve → Day 3: Nassau → Day 4: At Sea → Day 5: Miami
Families Couples Relaxation
View Details
Eastern Caribbean
7-Night Eastern Caribbean
7 nights · MSC Seaside · from Miami
$1015
per person
Day 1: Miami → Day 2: At Sea → Day 3: Charlotte Amalie → Day 4: San Juan → Day 5: At Sea → Day 6: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve → Day 7: At Sea → Day 8: Miami
Families Couples Relaxation
View Details
Transatlantic
14-Night Transatlantic
14 nights · MSC Seaside · from Miami
$2030
per person
Day 1: Miami → Day 2: At Sea → Day 3: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve → Day 4: At Sea → Day 5: At Sea → Day 6: At Sea → Day 7: At Sea → Day 8: At Sea → Day 9: Ponta Delgada → Day 10: At Sea → Day 11: At Sea → Day 12: Lisbon → Day 13: At Sea → Day 14: Barcelona → Day 15: Genoa
Families Couples Relaxation
View Details
Western Caribbean
7-Night Western Caribbean
7 nights · MSC Seaside · from Miami
$1015
per person
Day 1: Miami → Day 2: At Sea → Day 3: Cozumel → Day 4: Costa Maya → Day 5: Roatan → Day 6: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve → Day 7: At Sea → Day 8: Miami
Families Couples Relaxation
View Details

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Cabin Guide

Compare cabin types and categories across the MSC Cruises fleet. From cozy inside staterooms to luxurious suites, find the perfect fit for your voyage.

MSC Meraviglia · 4,500 guests
Category Type Size Max Guests Balcony Accessible Key Perks
Interior Stateroom Inside Cabin 160 sq ft 4 —
—
Ocean View Stateroom Ocean View 180 sq ft 4 —
—
Balcony Stateroom Balcony 200 sq ft 4 —
—
Junior Suite SUITE Suite 300 sq ft 4 —
Priority boarding Dedicated check-in Concierge service
Grand Suite SUITE Suite 550 sq ft 6 —
Butler service Priority boarding Private dining options
MSC Seaside · 5,179 guests
Category Type Size Max Guests Balcony Accessible Key Perks
Interior Stateroom Inside Cabin 160 sq ft 4 —
—
Ocean View Stateroom Ocean View 180 sq ft 4 —
—
Balcony Stateroom Balcony 200 sq ft 4 —
—
Junior Suite SUITE Suite 300 sq ft 4 —
Priority boarding Dedicated check-in Concierge service
Grand Suite SUITE Suite 550 sq ft 6 —
Butler service Priority boarding Private dining options

Gratuity & Fee Transparency

Know exactly what to expect for daily gratuities and service charges on MSC Cruises. No surprises at checkout.

Detail Info
Daily Gratuity Rate $14.00 per person/day
Suite Gratuity Rate $17.50 per person/day
Auto-Added to Bill? Yes
Prepaid Option Available

Cancellation & Booking Policy

Important details about deposits, final payments, and cancellation penalties for MSC Cruises bookings.

Deposits

A deposit is typically required at the time of booking to secure your cabin and rate. Deposit amounts vary by cabin type and sailing length. Your travel agent can confirm the exact amount for your chosen voyage.

Final Payment

Final payment is due before your sailing date. The deadline varies by itinerary length — typically 75-90 days prior for standard sailings, and further out for holiday or peak-season voyages.

Cancellation Penalties

Cancellation fees increase the closer you get to the sailing date. Early cancellations may receive a full refund minus a processing fee, while last-minute cancellations may be non-refundable.

Full Policy Details
MSC Cruises requires a deposit at booking, typically $100-300 per person depending on cabin category and cruise length. Final payment is due 75 days prior to departure for most cruises, with some premium suites requiring earlier payment. Cancellation penalties begin at 75 days before sailing, starting at 15% of cruise fare, increasing to 50% at 45 days, 75% at 15 days, and 100% within 14 days of departure. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase MSC's cruise protection plan or travel insurance to minimize financial risk from unexpected cancellations. The protection plan covers various scenarios including medical emergencies, job loss, and other covered reasons. Cancellations due to MSC operational changes may result in full refunds or future cruise credits, depending on circumstances and timing of the cancellation notice.
Travel insurance recommended
Book early for best rates
Agent can navigate policy details

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about cruising with MSC Cruises, answered.

You can book directly through MSC's website, by calling their reservation center, or through a certified travel agent. Online booking offers the best deals and allows you to select your cabin, dining times, and add shore excursions. Early booking often provides significant savings and better cabin selection.

Your cruise fare includes accommodation, all main dining room meals, select casual dining venues, most onboard entertainment, fitness center access, and kids club activities. Specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, shore excursions, spa services, and specialty coffees are additional charges.

MSC has a relaxed dress code during the day with casual attire appropriate for pools and casual dining. Evenings vary by venue - main dining rooms require smart casual to formal wear depending on the night. Gala nights call for formal attire, while specialty restaurants may have specific dress requirements.

Gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account at approximately $12-15 per person per day for interior/balcony guests and higher for suite guests. These can be adjusted at the guest services desk. Gratuities cover housekeeping, dining, and other service staff who make your cruise memorable.

MSC offers comprehensive kids programs including baby clubs (0-3), mini clubs (3-6), juniors clubs (7-11), young clubs (12-14), and teens clubs (15-17). Facilities include dedicated play areas, LEGO rooms, video game lounges, and supervised activities. Many ships also feature water parks and sports facilities.

Embarkation typically begins around 11:00 AM and continues until 4:00 PM, though exact times vary by port. You must complete online check-in before arrival and bring required documents. Arriving early in your boarding window ensures smoother check-in and more time to explore the ship before departure.

Cancellation penalties vary by booking date and cruise length. Generally, cancellations 75+ days before departure incur minimal fees, while cancellations closer to departure date result in higher penalties. Final payment is typically due 75 days before sailing, and cruise protection plans are available to minimize cancellation risks.

MSC Voyagers Club is the loyalty program offering benefits based on cruise nights sailed. Members enjoy priority boarding, cabin upgrades, onboard credit, reduced deposits, and exclusive events. Benefits increase through Classic, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Black tiers, with top-tier members receiving significant perks and recognition.

MSC Voyagers Club

MSC Voyagers Club is MSC Cruises' free loyalty program that rewards guests based on the number of cruises completed. Members earn cruise points and advance through tiers to unlock exclusive benefits and privileges.

How to Join: Automatically enrolled after completing your first MSC cruise, with points awarded based on cruise nights completed
Welcome
1 cruise point
Classic
3 cruise points
Silver
6 cruise points
Gold
11 cruise points
Platinum
17 cruise points
Diamond
25 cruise points
Welcome
1 cruise point
  • Welcome aboard gift
  • Loyalty program recognition
  • Access to exclusive offers
  • Priority reservation for specialty restaurants
Classic
3 cruise points
  • Priority boarding
  • 10% discount on spa treatments
  • Complimentary room service
  • Priority tender service
  • Welcome gift in cabin
Silver
6 cruise points
  • Priority disembarkation
  • 15% discount on spa treatments
  • 20% discount on specialty restaurants
  • Complimentary pressing service
  • Priority excursion booking
Gold
11 cruise points
  • Dedicated check-in
  • 25% discount on spa treatments
  • 30% discount on specialty restaurants
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi package
  • Priority cabin selection
Platinum
17 cruise points
  • VIP check-in
  • 35% discount on spa treatments
  • 40% discount on specialty restaurants
  • Unlimited Wi-Fi package
  • Complimentary laundry service
Diamond
25 cruise points
  • Executive VIP treatment
  • 50% discount on spa treatments
  • 50% discount on specialty restaurants
  • Premium Wi-Fi package
  • Exclusive Diamond events onboard
Visit MSC Voyagers Club Official Page

Guest Reviews

Real experiences from MSC Cruises guests. See what cruisers loved, what could improve, and their tips for first-timers.

Multi-generational Success
By Patricia H. · 2024-08-01 · Suite
Pros
  • Something for every age group
  • Excellent kids and teens programs
  • Beautiful ship facilities
Cons
  • Confusing ship layout
  • Long wait times for elevators
Food: 4/5 Service: 4/5 Cabin: 5/5 Entertainment: 4/5 Value: 4/5
Download the ship app for navigation help
Perfect Girls' Trip
By Ashley D. · 2025-02-01 · Balcony
Pros
  • Fantastic spa services
  • Great nightlife and bars
  • Excellent shopping onboard
Cons
  • Limited healthy food options
Food: 3/5 Service: 4/5 Cabin: 4/5 Entertainment: 5/5 Value: 5/5
Book spa treatments early as they fill up fast
Disappointing Caribbean Cruise
By Thomas B. · 2024-11-01 · Oceanview
Pros
  • Beautiful ship design
  • Good weather throughout cruise
  • Comfortable bed
Cons
  • Poor food quality
  • Unresponsive customer service
Food: 2/5 Service: 2/5 Cabin: 3/5 Entertainment: 2/5 Value: 2/5
Set realistic expectations
Solo Traveler's Decent Experience
By Robert K. · 2024-09-01 · Inside
Pros
  • Good value for money
  • Friendly solo traveler meetups
  • Diverse dining options
Cons
  • Noisy inside cabin location
  • Limited solo-friendly activities
Food: 4/5 Service: 3/5 Cabin: 2/5 Entertainment: 3/5 Value: 4/5
Request a cabin away from high-traffic areas for better sleep
Family Fun in the Caribbean
By Jennifer M. · 2024-03-01 · Suite
Pros
  • Amazing kids' club activities
  • Perfect family-friendly amenities
  • Outstanding water slides
Cons
  • Expensive shore excursions
Food: 4/5 Service: 5/5 Cabin: 5/5 Entertainment: 5/5 Value: 4/5
Book the kids' club early as spots fill up quickly
Great Mediterranean Adventure
By Maria C. · 2024-06-01 · Balcony
Pros
  • Beautiful Mediterranean ports
  • Excellent entertainment shows
  • Spacious balcony cabin
Cons
  • Crowded buffet during peak times
  • Limited English-speaking staff
Food: 4/5 Service: 3/5 Cabin: 4/5 Entertainment: 5/5 Value: 4/5
Book specialty restaurants in advance

Compare Cruise Lines

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