Luxury Cruising Editorial

MSC Cruises can really split opinion. Some people think they’re fantastic, but others (including my husband) swear never to sail on the ships again after trying them.

So with a cruise line that has such a mix of experiences, the last thing you should do is book a cruise on the fleet without making sure the cabin is right for you.

Choosing the wrong cabin could put you in a negative mindset from your first hours onboard, and you might end up hating what could otherwise have been a fantastic holiday.

I’ve sailed on MSC Virtuosa twice, so I’ve tried both an inside cabin and a balconty cabin. And trust me, there are some cabins on this ship that you will definitely want to avoid!

Bella, Fantastica and Aurea Explained

Before I get into the information about your different cabin options, and the specific cabins you should avoid, there’s an essential caveat with MSC Cruises that makes a huge different to cabin choice.

When you book an MSC cruise, you’ll either pay for a Bella, Fantastica or Aurea experience. They include different features, but they also impact your cabin choice.

Pay for the cheaper Bella experience and you won’t be able to choose your cabin – MSC will pick it for you. With Fantastica you will be able to choose, but not from all cabins

The best Balcony Cabins and Suites are reserved for those who pay for the Aurea experience.

So while I can advise you on the MSC Virtuosa cabins that you might want to avoid, if you only have the budget to pay for a Bella experience cruise then you won’t get an option anyway – and it’s more likely that MSC will put you into one of these cabins.

Read more: MSC Bella Vs Fantastica Vs Aurea: Which To Choose

MSC Virtuosa Cabin Types

There are five main categories of cabin on MSC Virtuosa, and it’s worth learning more about these before we dive into the specifics on the cabins to avoid.

There are some interesting quirks within the cabins, including some of the nicest Interior cabin options on any ship… along with some of the smallest.

Which such variety in the cabin types as well as where each cabin is located, finding the one that’s right for you can be a lot to think about.

That’s what this guide will help with, but I also have a checklist that you can keep to hand and then apply to any cruise ship – not just MSC Cruises, but for any cruise line.

You can get my checklist here:

MSC Virtuosa Interior Cabins

As with most cruise ships, the most affordable accommodation on MSC Virtuosa is an Interior cabin – and if you’re happy without a view, they’re a solid choice.

These rooms are located on the inside of the ship, meaning they don’t have any windows or natural light, but they still offer a comfortable space to sleep, shower, and store your stuff between activities.

There are three main types of Interior cabin to be aware of: Studio Interior, Interior Bella, and Deluxe Interior.

The Studio Interior is the smallest cabin type on the ship, and it’s designed specifically for solo travellers. It comes with a slightly smaller bed (140 x 200cm – somewhere between a single and a double), and it’s a cosy fit at around 129 square feet.

But for one person, it’s perfectly functional, and it saves you from paying a hefty single supplement for a double cabin.

Then you have the Interior Bella and Deluxe Interior cabins. These are similar in size and layout, but there’s a key difference in terms of location and booking perks.

Interior Bella cabins are sold as part of MSC’s Bella experience, which means they’re in the least desirable parts of the ship – often on lower decks or right at the front or back.

Deluxe Interior cabins, on the other hand, are what you’ll get if you book a Fantastica fare, which includes a bit more freedom. These cabins are often located midship or on higher decks, and while the room itself is the same size, you’ll generally be in a quieter and more convenient part of the ship.

Most Interior cabins sleep two people, with twin beds that can be converted into a double. But there are a number of quad cabins available in the Deluxe Interior category, which sleep up to four guests using Pullman beds.

Just bear in mind that these are a very tight fit when at full capacity – there’s not much space to move around, and storage is limited. Still, if you’re cruising with kids or on a budget, it’s one of the cheapest ways to sail.

Pullman beds on Virtuosa fold down from the wall, and like on many ships, they can be a bit awkward if you’re in the lower beds – it’s not uncommon to bump your head when getting up or turning over.

They’re perfectly fine for children, and they can be used by adults, but taller or heavier guests may find them a bit uncomfortable.

MSC Virtuosa Interior Cabin Grades

Every cabin on MSC Virtuosa has a grade that tells you more about the cabin – the type and some information about the location.

Here are those grades for the Interior Cabins:

MSC Virtuosa Ocean View Cabins

If you’d rather not stay in a windowless cabin, or you think you might feel a bit boxed in without any natural light, then an Ocean View cabin is the next step up.

These rooms are similar in size and layout to the Interior cabins, but with the important bonus of a large rectangular or round window offering a view out to sea. The addition of daylight makes a big difference to how spacious the room feels.

There are a few different types of Ocean View cabins on MSC Virtuosa, and not all of them offer a perfect view.

The lowest category is the Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View – these rooms are typically located behind lifeboats or near parts of the ship’s structure that block the window.

Sometimes it’s just a partial obstruction, and sometimes the view is almost entirely blocked. If you’re not too fussed about what you see outside and just want the light, these can be a good value option.

Next up is the Junior Ocean View category. These are the same in terms of layout and furnishings, but with an unobstructed view – giving you a clear look at the sea from your window.

Then you have the Deluxe Ocean View cabins, which are a little more spacious than the Junior options. These are great if you’re travelling with kids or just want a bit more room to spread out, but don’t necessarily want to splash out on a balcony cabin.

At the top end of this category is the Premium Ocean View. These cabins are placed higher up on the ship and offer the best views of the category, along with the most generous floor space of all the outside cabins.

If you like the idea of a bigger room with plenty of light and a great sea view – but you’re not too bothered about stepping outside – this is probably the best Ocean View option to go for.

As with other cabins on Virtuosa, you’ll find some quad Ocean View rooms available, using a sofa bed or Pullman beds to sleep extra guests.

Some of the Premium Ocean View cabins can sleep up to 5, and they make for some of the best-value cabin options for larger families for that reason. On a lot of ships, families of 5 have to book connecting cabins.

It’s a tight squeeze when fully occupied, but a good budget-friendly setup for families who want to avoid paying for two separate cabins.

MSC Virtuosa Ocean View Cabin Grades

Here’s the full list of cabin grades for the Ocean View cabins:

The Ocean View Bella cabins could be any of the other categories, but in the worst locations on the ship and, again, you won’t get to pick which one you get.

MSC Virtuosa Balcony Cabins

There’s nothing quite like having your own private outdoor space at sea – and with a Balcony cabin on MSC Virtuosa, you can enjoy the fresh air, sea views, and a quiet spot to relax without ever leaving your room.

The good news is, over 70% of the cabins on MSC Virtuosa come with a balcony, so you’ve got plenty of choice – and even more if you include the suites.

There are several different types of Balcony cabins to be aware of, depending on your preferences and budget.

At the entry level is the Deluxe Balcony with Partial View. These rooms offer the same layout as a standard Balcony cabin, but the view is partially blocked – usually by lifeboats or external equipment.

You’ll still get the benefit of fresh air and some privacy, but you may have to peek around an obstruction to actually see the ocean. These are great if you just want the balcony feel without paying full price.

The most common cabin type on MSC Virtuosa is the Deluxe Balcony Cabin, which comes in various grades depending on deck location – BB, BR1, BR2, and BR3.

These are all the same size and layout, and the only real difference is where they are on the ship. Lower decks tend to be cheaper, while midship or higher decks usually come at a premium.

It’s really down to personal preference – some prefer a lower deck for stability, while others love the views from up top.

There’s also a small number of Studio Balcony cabins, which are a rare find on most ships.

These are designed for solo travellers, offering a slightly smaller footprint and a single bed – but still with your own private outdoor space. Perfect if you’re cruising alone but don’t want to give up the balcony.

Not all of them have single beds though, and I’ll touch on that more in the cabins to avoid…

Finally, the Balcony Aurea cabins offer the same layout as the standard Deluxe Balcony, but with a better location and included Aurea experience perks, such as priority boarding, flexible dining times, and access to the thermal spa area.

It’s a nice mid-tier step between standard balconies and full suites, especially if you value a bit more pampering on board.

MSC Virtuosa Balcony Cabin Grades

Here’s the full list of Balcony Cabin grades:

MSC Virtuosa Suites

If you’re looking to upgrade your cruise experience with a little extra space – or a lot – then one of the Suites on MSC Virtuosa could be just the ticket.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, travelling as a family, or simply want a more luxurious base for your holiday, these cabins offer more room to relax, better views, and a few added extras that make your time on board feel that bit more indulgent.

The Premium Suite Aurea is a great choice for families of up to 6, especially if you’re cruising with kids or teens and want a bit more privacy.

These suites are larger than standard Balcony cabins and feature a separate sleeping area with bunk beds, tucked behind a curtain near the bathroom.

It’s not a second bedroom exactly, but it does give a bit of division – ideal when you want the lights out for the kids but still want to stay up and read or watch TV.

The next category up is the Premium Suite Aurea with Terrace and Whirlpool, which builds on the layout above but adds something a little more special – a large forward-facing terrace and your very own private whirlpool bath outside.

These suites are located near the front of the ship, with a curved terrace that gives you fantastic panoramic views. Inside, you’ve got a separate lounge area with a sofa, table and chairs – so it really starts to feel more like a mini apartment than just a bigger cabin.

At the top of the non-Yacht Club suite options is the Grand Suite Aurea, which takes everything from the Premium Suite and scales it up.

These suites are found only on Deck 12 and come with a much larger interior living space and an even bigger terrace – again complete with your own outdoor whirlpool.

This is a great choice for longer cruises, or if you simply want to enjoy more space and comfort without stepping up to the Yacht Club level.

There’s plenty of room to stretch out, both inside and out, and it’s ideal for couples who want to treat themselves, or families who just want a bit of breathing room.

Here’s what’s interesting though – unlike other cruise lines, you don’t really get extra perks for booking a suite. Instead you just get the regular Aurea experience perks.

If you want a cabin that comes with more extras, you’ll need to book a Yacht Club cabin…

MSC Virtuosa Suite Grades

These are the MSC Virtuosa Suite grades:

MSC Virtuosa Yacht Club Cabins

If you want the most luxurious experience that MSC Virtuosa has to offer, then the Yacht Club is in a class of its own – quite literally.

This is MSC’s “ship within a ship” concept, giving you all the exclusivity and personalised service of a small luxury cruise, while still enjoying the full range of entertainment, dining, and facilities on the rest of the ship.

Yacht Club guests stay in beautiful accommodation with elevated service, private venues, and a long list of included perks. It’s ideal if you want a more peaceful and refined experience without missing out on the buzz of a larger ship.

There are a few different types within the Yacht Club.

Interestingly, MSC is one of the few cruise lines to offer an Interior suite in its ship-within-a-ship concept. Most luxury areas on cruise ships start with ocean view or balcony cabins – so this is a rare find if you want a taste of the suite life without the suite price tag.

The suite itself is well-appointed, with an upgraded bathroom, dedicated vanity area, and all the stylish touches you’d expect from a suite. It’s perfect if you care more about the service and experience than the view from your window.

The MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite is the most common Yacht Club suite and a great all-rounder. It offers a private balcony, a comfortable seating area with a sofa, and plenty of room to spread out.

If you’re looking for something a bit more impressive, the Duplex Suite takes things to another level – quite literally. This two-storey suite features a split-level layout with:

• A private dining area and guest bathroom on the lower floor
• A separate bedroom and full bathroom upstairs
• A private terrace complete with a whirlpool bath and sun loungers

It’s ideal for couples who want to indulge, or families who appreciate a bit of separation between living and sleeping areas.

At the top of the Yacht Club offering is the Royal Suite – the most luxurious accommodation on MSC Virtuosa.

There are only two of these suites on board, and they combine everything from the Duplex with even more space, a larger balcony, and all rooms arranged on a single level.

You still get your private whirlpool and sweeping sea views, but with a layout that’s more open and accessible. Think of it as a private penthouse at sea – and once you’ve stayed here, it’s hard to go back.

MSC Yacht Club Perks

What really sets the Yacht Club apart is the VIP treatment you receive throughout your cruise.

It’s worth noting that Yacht Club guests can still access all the regular parts of the ship, so you won’t miss out on shows, restaurants, or bars. But when you want to escape the crowds, you’ve always got your private retreat waiting.

MSC Virtuosa Yacht Club Cabin Grades

Special Cabin Types

MSC Virtuosa Family Cabins

Cruise ships are getting much better at accommodating families, and MSC Virtuosa is no exception. As well as the Premium Ocean View and Premium Aurea cabins that are great for families, there are several connecting cabin options on the ship too.

These connecting cabins are a great way to double your space, and as both cabins have balconies, you’ll often get an extra-wide balcony as the divider can typically be folded back.

There are a couple of special family configurations worth noting:

Super Family Cabins combine two connected balcony cabins, sleeping up to six people (three in each). They’re ideal for families with older kids or teens who want their own space but still be close by.

Super Family Plus Cabins are a more spacious option that link two connected suites, accommodating up to twelve guests in total. Perfect for extended families or two families cruising together!

These configurations are really popular, especially during school holidays, so if you’re planning a cruise as a group or with kids, it’s a good idea to book early to secure the layout you want.

MSC Virtuosa Accessible Cabins

MSC Virtuosa offers a selection of accessible cabins for guests with mobility needs, available across several categories including Interior, Balcony, and one Suite.

These cabins are supposedly designed with extra space, wider doorways, and roll-in showers, making it easier to navigate with a wheelchair or mobility aid… but I’ll revisit that when we get to the cabins to avoid.

You’ll also find lowered features like sinks, vanities, and closet rods, as well as grab rails and other adaptations in the bathroom to make things more comfortable and safe.

Most of these rooms are located close to the elevators for added convenience, and there’s enough space to move around with ease.

If you or someone you’re travelling with requires an accessible cabin, it’s best to book early – they’re in high demand and can sell out well in advance of the cruise.

MSC Virtuosa Cabins to Avoid

Now that we’ve looked at all the different types of accommodation available on MSC Virtuosa, it’s time to take things a step further – and highlight some of the specific cabins you might want to avoid.

Of course, I haven’t stayed in every single room on the ship (and I doubt anyone has), but I have spent a lot of time going through deck plans, reading reviews, and digging through cruise forums and Facebook groups to see what real guests have said.

This list focuses on cabins that people have had issues with, but fair warning – it’s all quite subjective. A cabin that one person hates might be perfect for someone else, depending on what you value most on your cruise.

1. Cramped Interior Cabins For Families

A lot of the cabins on MSC Virtuosa can sleep up to four guests.

Technically.

However the Interior Cabins in particular are very cramped even with the Pullman beds folded up against the sides during the day. At night, when they’re folded down? It’s very, very crowded.

You might be fine with it, but you absolutely have to be prepared for what could be an uncomfortable experience.

2. Accessible Cabins

It feels weird saying that you should avoid booking Accessible Cabins on the ship because, if you’re a wheelchair user, you’ll need to.

I guess this entry isn’t about avoiding it, but being aware of the issues that this category has – that the design maybe isn’t as well thought-out as MSC Cruises likes to say it is.

They have all the technical requirements such as the bathroom adjustments, but there’s just been no planning to make sure that the layout of the room itself is easy to navigate.

And that can very easily become frustrating.

3. Bella Balcony Cabins with Metal Fronts

Not all balcony cabins are created equal – and some of the Bella-grade Balcony cabins on MSC Virtuosa have metal-fronted balconies instead of clear glass.

That means when you’re sitting down, you’re pretty much staring at a metal wall instead of the sea.

If you’re someone who loves relaxing on the balcony with a view, this can be really disappointing. You’ll only get a proper view if you stand up, which kind of defeats the point.

These cabins are cheaper for a reason, but if a clear ocean view is important to you, it’s definitely worth upgrading to a Fantastica or Aurea Balcony instead.

4. Studio Balcony Cabins with Bunk Beds

At first glance, the Studio Balcony cabins for solo travellers seem like a dream – a rare chance to enjoy your own private balcony without the single supplement.

But be warned: some of these cabins come with bunk beds rather than a proper single/queen bed.

That’s because they’re designed more to be used as a connecting cabin for families, though if you’re on your own, it can just feel a little bit underwhelming. It’s not as nice as a proper bed.

For some people, it’s not a big deal. But others find it claustrophobic or simply unpleasant to look at. If you’re booking one of these rooms, it’s worth checking the deck plan and cabin number in advance to avoid the surprise.

5. Connecting Cabins That You Don’t Need

Connecting cabins are brilliant for families and groups – but if you’re not travelling with the people next door, they can be a bit of a nuisance.

The issue is that connecting doors don’t block sound as well as solid walls, so you’ll often hear your neighbours more clearly – conversations, TV noise, kids, everything. And if they’re the type to stay up late or rise early, you’ll know about it.

If you’re a couple or solo traveller looking for peace and quiet, it’s best to avoid booking a connecting room unless you actually need it. Check the deck plans or ask your travel agent before confirming your cabin.

6. Obstructed View Cabins

Some Ocean View and Balcony cabins on MSC Virtuosa are listed with partially obstructed views – and while they’re cheaper, it’s not always clear what kind of obstruction you’re getting.

It could be lifeboats, ship machinery, or structural beams, and in some cases, they block most of the window or balcony railing. If you’re just after some daylight and fresh air, this might not bother you – but if you’re picturing wide-open sea views, you could be in for a let-down.

If you’re considering one of these cabins, try to look up photos of the specific cabin number online. Guests often share them in Facebook groups and forums, which can help you make a more informed choice.

7. Cabins Worse for Seasickness

If you’re prone to motion sickness, then certain areas of the ship are best avoided – especially cabins at the very front or very back on higher decks.

The forward part of the ship tends to pitch the most in rough seas, and the movement is exaggerated the higher you go. Aft cabins can sway more side to side, and in some cases, they pick up vibrations from the engines or wake.

The best cabins for avoiding seasickness are midship on a lower deck – they’re more stable, and you’ll feel much less motion. If that’s important to you, definitely avoid the top-deck, forward-facing cabins, no matter how nice the view might be.

8. Whirlpool Suites if Privacy is Key

A suite with your own private whirlpool on the balcony sounds like the ultimate cruise indulgence – and in many ways, it is.

But what you might not realise is that some of these whirlpool suites, because of the design of their balconies, are overlooked by the balcony cabins running alongside the rest of the ship.

That means it’s entirely possible for people above or beside you to see you while you’re trying to enjoy your soak.

If privacy is non-negotiable, you might be better off with a suite that doesn’t have a whirlpool – or at least be prepared to limit your spa time to the early morning or evening when fewer people are out and about.

9. Cabins in Loud Locations

Cruise ships are busy places – and while the cabins are generally well insulated, some areas are just naturally louder than others.

On MSC Virtuosa, cabins located directly beneath the pool deck (especially on Deck 14) can pick up noise from early-morning loungers being dragged around or the thump of footsteps from above.

Cabins underneath the buffet (again, these are cabins on Deck 14) can also get a bit noisy at unpleasant hours.

Similarly, cabins located near theatre spaces, nightclubs, or service areas may get a bit of unwanted ambient noise during the evening or early hours.

If you’re a light sleeper or you value a quiet retreat, try to pick a cabin that’s sandwiched between other cabin decks – that’s usually the best buffer from noise on either side.

The Best Cabins on MSC Virtuosa

While you can enjoy a cruise in any of the cabin categories on MSC Virtuosa, there are a few that stand out in particular.

1. Premium Ocean View Cabins

If you’re cruising with a larger family but don’t want to book multiple cabins or step up to a suite, the Premium Ocean View is one of the best-value family options on the ship – or indeed, any ship.

These rooms are surprisingly spacious and can sleep up to five guests, which is rare on any cruise ship. You won’t get a balcony, but you’ll still enjoy plenty of daylight and a view of the sea – all while keeping everyone in one room (and on budget).

2. MSC Yacht Club Interior

The Yacht Club Interior Suite is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s unusual to see an interior room offered within a luxury, ship-within-a-ship concept – but MSC makes it work.

While you don’t get a window or a balcony, you do get full Yacht Club privileges, including the private restaurant, lounge, butler service, and access to the exclusive sun deck.

It’s still more expensive than a regular cabin, but if you want the VIP experience without the suite price tag, this is your way in.

3. MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite

If you’re going all-out, you might as well do it in style – and the Royal Suite in the Yacht Club is about as good as it gets.

It’s incredibly spacious, beautifully designed, and comes with its own whirlpool on the balcony, plus uninterrupted sea views and all the Yacht Club perks.

Yeah, you’ll need to break the bank for it. But if you aren’t the kind of person to worry about “budget” on a cruise then these are very swish.

Final Word

There really aren’t any truly awful cabins on MSC Virtuosa, but depending on your preferences – whether it’s peace and quiet, being close to certain facilities, or avoiding too much movement if you’re prone to seasickness – some rooms will suit you better than others.

A lot of the insights in this guide come from cruise forums, Facebook groups, and reviews from past passengers.

So if you’re unsure about a particular cabin, it’s always worth asking around – there’s usually someone out there who’s stayed in that exact room and is happy to share their experience (and often photos too).

And don’t forget to check the MSC Virtuosa deck plans before you book – a quick glance at what’s above, below, or next to your cabin can save you from an unpleasant surprise later.

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

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