Everything You Need To Know About MSC Cruises

MSC Seaside

Contents Show

If MSC Cruises has its way, it’ll eventually be as well known in North America as brands like Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean.

MSC Divina at Ocean Cay
MSC Divina docked at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

Although MSC is far better known in European markets, it has slowly but surely been grabbing the attention of American cruisers, especially since the splashy arrival of MSC Seaside back in 2017.

With prices that are often considerably lower than the competition and ships that have significantly raised the company’s profile, MSC is definitely making a splash with North American cruisers.

It’s worth noting, however, that the Swiss-based line has encountered a few growing pains along the way, especially in regard to the differing needs of an American audience.  

MSC Seaside sailing
MSC Seaside was a game-changer for the cruise line, making it a much bigger presence in the North American market. (Photo courtesy of MSC Cruises)

A Basic Introduction To MSC Cruises

Before we take a closer look at why MSC Cruises might — or might not — be right for you, let’s take a quick look at the history of the company.

Founded in Italy in 1989 as a part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company, MSC Cruises has since become one of the world’s largest cruise companies (and the largest privately-held cruise operator).

Until relatively recently, their primary target was European cruisers, with minor forays into the North American market.

It was the aforementioned MSC Seaside that really changed things where the company’s efforts to penetrate the North American market were concerned.

The ship — which previously sailed year-round out of Miami — was specifically designed for North America, with the company heavily promoting Seaside to both American and Canadian cruisers.

After the cruise industry shutdown in 2020, MSC Cruises moved Seaside from Miami to Europe and South America.

Two ships are currently homeported in Miami: MSC Divina and MSC Seashore. For the first time ever, MSC is also sailing from Port Canaveral. Currently, MSC Meraviglia is operating voyages from the central Florida port.

A fourth ship, MSC Seaview, is spending the winter sailing in the Caribbean from Barbados and St. Maarten.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is the newest private cruise line island in the Bahamas

In addition to the ships that ply the waters of the Caribbean, MSC Cruises recently invested heavily in the construction and opening of its own private Bahamian island called Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

The island, which differs from the private islands of other lines because of its focus on the environment, includes a dock for one ship, pristine beaches, and many activities for guests to enjoy.

Is This the Right Cruise Line For You?

While MSC Cruises offers similar amenities to its rivals, it tends to be priced lower (sometimes significantly so).

As for the experience, there is a definite European influence and international flavor to MSC sailings, with announcements in several languages (English, Italian, Spanish, French) to accommodate the many guests from outside North America and food with a distinctive European flair. 

Guests who sail MSC Cruises routinely comment on the European-inspired art and decor, thoughtful design of the ships, and connection to the sea the vessels offer.

On the other hand, a complaint which is sometimes heard is that that the crew is not as “friendly” as other lines, but this is probably related to the European ethos of the company which stresses the quality of service over what might be called a “feel good” approach to customer appreciation.

Consider the difference between a waiter at a casual American restaurant and a fine dining establishment in Rome, and you have an idea of what to expect.

What MSC’s Ships Have To Offer

During the busy winter season, MSC Cruises might have four or five ships sailing the turquoise Caribbean waters. Larger, newer ships such as the MSC Meraviglia and  MSC Seashore offer tons of onboard activities, easily comparable to the flashiest Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, or Carnival ships.

It’s worth noting that many of these activities come with an additional fee. This is one of the reasons we often say that when booking a cruise, make sure to look at the base fare and any expenses you’ll encounter along the way. 

MSC Divina Freeport Bahamas
MSC Divina is a sparkling jewel in the Caribbean

Slightly older vessels like the MSC Armonia and MSC Divina have been kept up well thanks to recent refurbishments; the Armonia was in late 2019, and the Divina was in 2016.

While smaller than the newest MSC ships, both the Armonia and Divina have a classic European feel and are generally well-regarded among those who prefer a smaller ship experience. 

READ MORE: MSC Meraviglia Ship Review

Onboard entertainment varies by ship. On the MSC Meraviglia, the options include theater shows, a ropes course, and more bars than you could hope to drink from in a week.

MSC Armonia and MSC Divina offer classic review shows and the type of musical acts that will be familiar to cruisers of other lines, along with a good mix of bars and restaurants.

For kids, every MSC ship offers a splash pad and pool section along with age-appropriate kids clubs featuring a partnership with LEGO.

MSC Cruises pizza
MSC serves some of the best pizza at sea

Regarding where the ships go, MSC Cruises has done its homework when it comes to creating interesting itineraries for travelers. A full slate of Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Bahamas sailings are offered, with most of the popular ports represented.

Most sailings range from three-night Bahamas getaways to two-week adventures. 

What You Need To Know About MSC’s “Experiences”

sail away msc cruises port miami

When it comes to booking on an MSC ship, things are handled differently than on any other line sailing out of North America. MSC offers a variety of packages which they call “experiences.”

Each of the three levels — Bella, Fantastica, and Aurea — offers both different perks and price points. So what is the difference between them?

  • Bella: This is the basic package, which includes your cruise fare and taxes, tap water, tea (tap) and coffee in the dining rooms, access to kids’ programs, and most onboard activities. This experience offers a guaranteed cabin, which means you cannot choose its location and are assigned your specific cabin closer to the sail date.
  • Fantastica: This package is offered in cabins located on higher decks, including some ocean views, balconies, and interiors, and features some extra amenities, including room service.
  • Aurea: The highest-end category is for those staying in a suite and includes discounts on spa treatments, as well as free access to the spa’s thermal suite.

Fantastica and Aurea also offer one free cruise change, which is applicable on either the cruise dates or the destination. The change needs to take place up to one month prior to departure for a new cruise that sails within three months of the original departure.

Aurea also offers flexible dining and access to a dining area specifically reserved for those classes. On most ships, Aurea guests have a dedicated outside space that is restricted to only guests at this level.

Occasionally, MSC Cruises offers specials in conjunction with the various levels, such as drink packages, wifi access, or other perks.

Because booking an “experience” is foreign to non-MSC cruisers, it’s worth consulting with a rep from the line or your travel advisor to ensure you understand exactly what you’re getting and how much it will cost.

MSC Divina stateroom cabin
A typical balcony stateroom on MSC Divina.

It should be mentioned that MSC Cruises has done a great job with its Super Family Cabin, which is a way for larger groups to sail together at an affordable price. 

Offered on the MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside, and MSC Seashore, these staterooms include a set of bunk beds, a king or two twins, a separate room with a fold-out couch, and two bathrooms! Some also offer additional features such as bathtubs (as opposed to a simple shower) and balconies. 

What is the MSC Yacht Club?

 MSC Meraviglia Outdoor Pool Yacht Club
The Yacht Club outdoor space

The MSC Yacht Club is a ship-within-a-ship concept that allows guests to have access to their own secure area. This entitles guests to their own restaurant, pool, bar, lounge (with drink package included), their own elevators, and priority embarkation.

MSC ships that have the Yacht Club are MSC Grandiosa, MSC BellissimaMSC DivinaMSC FantasiaMSC MeravigliaMSC Preziosa, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Splendida, and MSC Virtuosa.

Should you Consider MSC Cruises?

While they are still considered “the new kid” in the North American market, MSC Cruises is quickly gaining market share and mindshare among cruisers, thanks in no small part to fares that are often hundreds of dollars per person less than comparable sailings on their big-name competitors.

MORE: Photo Tour of MSC Divina

If you are ready for something a little different and willing to sacrifice some of the mass market appeals that come with other lines, then MSC Cruises is certainly something to consider.

Ocean Cay is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and offers unique experiences that simply can’t be found on any other cruise line’s private island. 

MSC Meraviglia promenade
MSC Meraviglia has the longest promenade at sea, offering entertainment and a dome screen.

For families, MSC should be a top contender, not only due to those exciting Family Super cabins but also for their frequent Kids Under 11 Sail Free promotions, the LEGO partnership, range of on-deck activities, and commitment to helping families connect in new and exciting ways.

This article was originally published in May 2020.

MSC Meraviglia Video Tour

Pin it!

everything you need to know about msc cruises

Share this post