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26 Secrets You Must Know Before Cruising to Ocean Cay

by CaribbeanCruise LinesCruise NewsDestinationsMSC Cruises

Ever fancied spending time on a private tropical island? It’s a dream that’s normally out of reach, but book a cruise to Ocean Cay and you’ll get pretty close to the experience. Technically it is a private island, even though you’ll be sharing the experience with a couple of thousand others at the same time.

Still, it’s a fantastic destination that’s really popular with cruise passengers, despite only being open for a couple of years. Let’s look at some of the key facts and secrets about Ocean Cay, so that you make the most of your time at the island.

Ocean Cay MSC Cruises Marine reserve

1. Ocean Cay is Exclusive to MSC Cruises

The only cruise line that visits Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises, as they own the island. There are seven different MSC Cruises ships that include Ocean Cay as a port of call. These are MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Poesia, MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore and MSC Seaside.

MSC Cruises bought the island and renovated it specifically to be their own private cruise destination. No other cruise lines can visit, nor can any other holidaymakers. It’s only by booking one of the cruise breaks sailing from either Port Canaveral or Miami that you can visit the island.

Suggested read: Who Owns MSC Cruises?

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2. You Can’t Stay On Ocean Cay, But You Can Visit

Despite some cruise itineraries including a two-day visit to Ocean Cay, you aren’t allowed to stay on the island overnight. You must return to the ship for the evening. There are no hotels on the island, so you are not legally able to stay ashore at night.

Some people might be tempted by the idea of hiding away to enjoy a slice of private island life, even just for a night. You’ll get in a lot of trouble if you do. Just enjoy the late-night show then get back to the comfort of your cabin.

Ship docked at Ocean Cay overnight
Ship docked at Ocean Cay overnight

3. It Cost Around $200 Million to Renovate the Island

When MSC Cruises bought the island of Ocean Cay, they spent $200 million to make it fit for purpose as a cruise destination. This included building the cruise pier and adding facilities for guests to eat, drink and relax on the island.

Ocean Cay before the renovation in 2019
Ocean Cay before the renovation in 2019

The work on restoring the island began in 2016, and was held up by Hurrican Dorian just as it was getting close to completion in September of 2019. It was able to open in December 2019 despite the setback.

Suggested read: How Hurricanes Can Affect Cruises

In August 2023, the next phase of development was announced, with another $100 million investment. The island was closed for six weeks between April and May 2024 as a result, and work is continuing. It is expected to be completed by the end of the winter 2024-25 season.

4. There Are No Swimming Pools on Ocean Cay

There are no swimming pools on Ocean Cay, although if you want to swim then there are secluded lagoons that are safe. They don’t have a strong current and they have gentle slopes, including shallow waters that are suitable for young children.

Ocean Cay Lagoon
Ocean Cay Lagoon

The waters around Ocean Cay are really clear and clean, which makes them really pleasant for swimming. You’ll see some marvellous wildlife too. There’s no need for a pool when the lagoons are this pristine.

5. You Don’t Need Your Passport To Visit the Island

You won’t need to take your passport with you when you disembark at Ocean Cay. The island is privately owned, so isn’t classified as a foreign territory despite it being in the Bahamas. You will need to take your cruise card to sign out of the ship and to sign back in.

This is handy since there’s no risk of losing your important ID documents, but you will need to keep the keycard safe.

Some cruise lines offer itineraries that only sail to their own private islands. For those, you don’t need your passport at all for the entire cruise. A birth certificate will suffice.

That’s not the case with MSC Cruises. Their itineraries will always visit at least one other destination, so you will need your passport to board the ship.

6. Ocean Cay is a Man-Made Island

Ocean Cay is an artificial island that was built in the late 1960s by dredging, with the purpose of mining Aragonite sand. It’s now considered a Marine Reserve with conservation status. As part of the renovation, MSC Cruises has preserved the ecosystem.

Ocean Cay is man-made
Ocean Cay is man-made

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is located in the district of Bimini in the Bahamas, around 20 miles south of the Bimini islands. Ocean Cay is actually much closer to Miami than it is to Grand Bahamas, Nassau and the other Bahamas islands.

The cruise line has plans to build a Conservation Center. This will serve as a research base for scientists studying local coral and other wildlife, and will welcome guests to learn about the island and the surrounding waters (Source).

7. Ocean Cay Has Decent Wi-Fi

There is Wi-Fi access available across parts of Ocean Cay, although if you wander to more remote areas, you will struggle to get service. Access to the Wi-Fi on the island is included if you’ve bought an internet package on the ship.

A lot of people prefer to use a private island as a technology detox. But if you can’t resist posting your photographs online as soon as you’ve snapped them, then you’ll be able to.

8. Drinks Packages Carry Over Onto The Island

If you’ve bought a drinks package on your MSC cruise, it will carry over to any visit to Ocean Cay. This means you can enjoy the same drinks that you would on board at the venues on the island.

One of the bars on Ocean Cay
One of the bars on Ocean Cay

Some cruise lines treat their private island as a separate entity, meaning you have to pay for your drinks even if you’ve got a drinks package. So it’s good that MSC allows you to enjoy the same drinks at Ocean Cay as you would if you’d stayed on your ship (Source).

Suggested read: MSC Drink Packages Guide

9. You Can Rent a Cabana For The Day

For a little extra privacy, you can rent a private cabana on Ocean Cay from $249 for the full day, although some cabanas cost more. Each cabana includes beach chairs and a shaded area where you can escape the sun, and they can accommodate six guests.

Cabanas on Ocean Cay
Cabanas on Ocean Cay

You’ll also be given fresh water to help you cool down. Towels are provided, so you don’t need to take your own ashore if you plan on swimming or snorkelling. More expensive Ocean Cay beach cabana packages include lunch and snorkelling equipment too.

10. Food Is Included During Your Visit to Ocean Cay

Most food on Ocean Cay is included in your cruise fare, including the buffet and food trucks. There are some excursions which may include food, such as picnics. These incur the extra charge that you pay for the excursion.

The buffet at the food court includes traditional Bahamian dishes alongside classic favourites, and there’s also an ice cream parlour for guests to enjoy. Plus, some of the dining venues on the ship remain open while docked at Ocean Cay, so you can eat on board if you prefer.

11. There Are Eight Different Beaches You Can Enjoy

There are eight different beaches open to guests on Ocean Cay. North and South beaches have calm waters and are suitable for families, as is the Seakers Family Cove and the Family Lagoon Beach. Watersports are available at South Beach, while Ocean House Beach is only available to MSC Yacht Club Guests.

One of the beaches on Ocean Cay
One of the beaches on Ocean Cay

Not every beach is monitored by a lifeguard, so you’ll need to be careful if you choose to swim at one of the unprotected ones. However, finding a quiet spot to relax should be easier with so many beaches to choose from.

12. You Can Rent Various Watersport Equipment

There are a lot of watersports you can enjoy on Ocean Cay, including snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. These activities come with an additional cost, either to rent the equipment or as part of a guided excursion.

Kayaking and paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding

One of the more interesting excursions is a glow-in-the-dark experience available in the evening. You’ll be given a paddleboard with LED lights on the underside. These cast a gentle glow into the waters, attracting some interesting wildlife. Definitely one to try if you have the chance (Source).

13. Ocean Cay Isn’t Very Big

Ocean Cay isn’t a large island. It covers 95 acres and has around 1.5 miles of beachfront. You can walk from one end to the other in around 20 minutes. The size of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is very similar to that of Royal Caribbean’s private island, Coco Cay.

Ocean Cay size
Ocean Cay is two to three times as long as a cruise ship

14. There Are Bikes and Golf Carts For Hire

If you want to travel faster around Ocean Cay, you can hire a bicycle. You don’t have to be excluded if you have mobility issues or find walking long distances difficult. So consider hiring a golf cart if you want to experience all that Ocean Cay has to offer without pushing your walking limits too far.

15. The Ship Can Dock Directly At The Island

Most private islands require cruise guests to take a water shuttle boat to shore, but Ocean Cay has its own cruise pier where the ship can dock directly. As soon as you walk off the ship, you are on the island.

Cruise pier
Cruise pier

The pier was built as part of the $200 million renovation. It makes it much more convenient to travel back and forth to the ship if you want a break from the island, or have forgotten something essential in your cabin.

16. The Casino Remains Open on the Ship During a Visit

When a cruise ship docks in port, it normally has to close the casino due to national gambling regulations. However, because Ocean Cay is privately owned, it is considered to be international waters and so the casino can remain open.

So don’t worry if you’ve been itching to enjoy a few casino games, as you can wander back and forth between the island and the casino as you like. Plus it’s likely to be a quieter time since most people will be ashore, which is good if you don’t like crowds.

17. You Can Book a Special Picnic

One of the evening excursions available on Ocean Cay is the Sunset Evening Beach Picnic. This isn’t so much an excursion as the chance to enjoy your own picnic under the stars. It includes a basket with a blanket, a bottle of sparkling wine, and various foods and desserts.

It’s a lovely way to end your day on the private island. If you can find a quiet spot (which shouldn’t be difficult), then it can be a really romantic, memorable moment.

18. There’s a Lighthouse You Can Climb

Ocean Cay has its own lighthouse, and you can pay to climb it. There are three levels with a total of 165 steps if you want to go all the way to the top, where there is a 360-degree viewing platform. The tour is guided, and you’ll learn about the island as you climb.

Lighthouse on Ocean Cay
Lighthouse on Ocean Cay

It’s one of the more popular excursions on the island, so book early if you can. You’ll get amazing views across the whole of Ocean Cay. The whole thing only takes 30 minutes, so you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day (Source).

19. The Lighthouse Plays a Part in Special Evening Shows

With ships staying late at Ocean Cay, there are often evening shows including the popular Evening Lighthouse Show, where the lighthouse is lit up in an impressive demonstration. Live DJs will provide an atmosphere, and fire pits add to the tropical escape feel.

Ocean Cay lighthouse at night

There are other evening events you can enjoy too, including a Luna Libre Party or a romantic Sunset Champagne cruise. The fun isn’t just limited to the daytime on Ocean Cay.

20. Parts Of The Island Have a Dark Sky

Although parts of Ocean Cay will be lit up for the evening shows and as part of the lively atmosphere, there are plenty of secluded spots with a dark sky if you want to go stargazing. You’ll get an amazing view of the night sky from a peaceful beach location, away from the crowds.

Ocean Cay after dark
Ocean Cay after dark

There are also dedicated stargazing excursions if you’d prefer to be shown everything by an expert. You’ll be able to use state-of-the-art telescopes as part of the excursions, some of which are tailored specifically to children who have a passion for space.

21. You Can Get Married On The Island

Guests can choose an all-inclusive wedding package if they want to get married on Ocean Cay. Staff will arrange all the paperwork, so you just need to book it and turn up. There’s a special Wedding Cabana overlooking the ocean where ceremonies take place.

If you’re already married and feel like you’re missing out, then don’t worry – you can also renew your vows at the cabana in a private ceremony (Source).

Ocean Cay Wedding Pavilion
The Wedding Pavilion

22. Spa Treatments Are Available On The Island

At The Spa Ocean Cay, you can enjoy massages and gentle yoga classes while surrounded by the pristine marine reserve scenery. All skincare products used at the spa are eco-certified, so you can relax and enjoy a soothing treatment that befits the conservation theme.

Ocean Cay Spa treatment room
Ocean Cay Spa treatment room

You can even combine yoga and paddleboarding for a unique experience. Don’t worry, it isn’t as difficult as it sounds! (Source)

23. The Snorkelling Is Excellent

Many cruisers say that snorkelling is one of the best activities to enjoy at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. The water is crystal clear, and you can see lots of colourful fish as well as turtles and other marine animals.

Ocean Cay snorkelling
Snorkelling at Ocean Cay

You can snorkel right off the beach with your own equipment or hired snorkels and masks. For the very best experience, book a guided Ocean Cay snorkelling safari excursion.

24. You Don’t Have To Spend a Penny If You Don’t Want To

A visit to Ocean Cay includes food and some non-alcoholic drinks. There’s live music and entertainment for free, and sun loungers and beach chairs are all free of charge. You can bring your own snorkel, or just enjoy swimming in the ocean or the lagoons.

You really don’t need to pay for anything. But if you want to rent a floating water mat, inflatable ring, kayak, bicycle, pedalo, paddleboard, snorkel or even a cabana, then you can do so by charging it to your cruise card.

Otherwise, the Ocean Cay excursions prices can vary, and you’re best checking for your specific sailing.

Ocean Cay Rental Price List:

  • Cabanas – $249
  • Deluxe Cabanas – $349
  • Inflatable family raft – $25
  • Floating beach mat – $15
  • Paddleboard – £29
  • Kayak – £29
  • Umbrella – $12

25. Ocean Cay Has a Schedule of Organised Fun

Think you’ll get bored with sunbathing all day? Don’t like to swim? Fear not. Ocean Cay offers lots of organised activities that will keep the whole family entertained.

You can sign up for all kinds of fun things such as scavenger hunts, sandcastle building competitions and even the Ocean Cay Olympic Games.

26. There Are Excursions From Ocean Cay

To really make the most of your time at Ocean Cay, you can book an excursion. Popular options include:

  • Ocean Cay WaveRunner tour
  • Night-time stand-up paddleboarding
  • A boat ride to a shipwreck for snorkelling
  • Guided kayak tour
  • Catamaran ride with rum
  • Sunset Champagne boat cruise
  • Beachside stargazing
  • Deep-sea fishing
  • Scuba diving
  • Sunset picnic
  • Stingray adventure
  • Family catamaran tour
Shipwreck snorkelling excursion
Shipwreck snorkelling excursion

To Conclude

There is an extraordinary number of things you can see and do on the custom-designed island of Ocean Cay, including some wonderful excursions and secrets to uncover.

You’ll no doubt discover your own special surprises and moments during your cruise to the island. Feel free to get in touch via the comments below, and help me expand this list with even more ideas when you do!

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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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Large modern cruise ship at sea, like the newest MSC ship designs with tall decks and balconies

Newest MSC Ship: Every MSC Cruises Ship in Order, Newest First (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

As of late October 2026, the newest MSC ship sailing with guests is MSC World America, which started cruising from Miami in April 2025. That changes very soon: MSC World Asia is due to be delivered on November 25, 2026 and starts its first cruise from Barcelona on December 4, 2026, which will make it the line’s newest ship. After that, MSC World Atlantic arrives at Port Canaveral in 2027, with more World Class and a new class of ships ordered for 2029 to 2033.

This guide lists MSC Cruises’ newest ships in order, newest first, with each ship’s class, size, capacity and where it sails. It then covers what is on order and how MSC Group’s luxury brand, Explora Journeys, fits in. If you want to know which ships passengers like best rather than which are newest, see our MSC cruise ships ranked from best to worst.

The newest MSC ship right now (and the one arriving next)

Two ships share the title of “newest” this autumn, depending on how you count:

  • Newest ship in service: MSC World America. MSC took delivery in March 2025, named it in Miami in April 2025, and it now sails 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from PortMiami all year.
  • Newest ship built: MSC World Asia. The ship finished its final sea trials off the west coast of France in September 2026. MSC is due to take delivery at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire on November 25, 2026, name it in Le Havre a few days later, and start its first cruise on December 4, 2026.

If you’re booking for 2027, MSC World Asia is the newest MSC ship you can sail on. MSC World Atlantic takes over the title later in 2027.

Newest MSC ships in order (newest first)

The table below lists the eight newest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, from newest to oldest. “Guests” is the usual double-occupancy figure. The World Class ships can take up to about 6,760 people when every berth is full. Deployments are for winter 2026–2027 and can change, so check the current schedule before you book.

Ship First cruise Class Gross tons Guests (approx.) Where it sails
MSC World Asia December 2026 World 216,638 5,400 Barcelona, 7-night Western Mediterranean (Caribbean from late 2027)
MSC World America April 2025 World 216,638 5,400 Miami, 7-night Caribbean, year-round
MSC Euribia June 2023 Meraviglia-Plus 184,011 4,800 Europe
MSC World Europa December 2022 World 215,863 5,200 Mediterranean
MSC Seascape December 2022 Seaside EVO about 170,000 4,500 Galveston, 7-night Western Caribbean (winter 2026–27)
MSC Seashore August 2021 Seaside EVO about 170,000 4,500 Port Canaveral, 3- and 4-night Bahamas (winter 2026–27)
MSC Virtuosa May 2021 Meraviglia-Plus 181,541 4,800 Europe
MSC Grandiosa November 2019 Meraviglia-Plus 181,541 4,800 Port Canaveral, 7-night Caribbean (winter 2026–27)

Older ships come after these. MSC Bellissima (2019), MSC Seaview (2018), MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia (both 2017) are fairly modern. The Fantasia, Musica and Lirica class ships date from 2001 to 2013.

MSC World Asia (2026)

World Asia is the third World Class ship. It runs on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and has about 2,600 cabins. Like its sisters, it is divided into themed districts, but the design takes its cues from Asian cities and art. Its signature features are a Tree of Life structure in the family-focused Harbour area, inspired by Singapore’s Supertrees, and a 39-foot illuminated steel dragon above the promenade. The Tree of Life is also the entrance to a dry slide that drops 12 decks. In its first season it sails 7-night round trips from Barcelona to Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Messina and Valletta. Most of these ports also work as embarkation points. MSC has said the ship will reposition to the Caribbean in late 2027.

MSC World America (2025)

World America was the first World Class ship built for North American cruisers. It has seven neighborhoods, including the open-air World Promenade, and family features such as the Cliffhanger swing that hangs out over the side of the ship and an 11-deck dry slide. Most itineraries include a day at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. If you sail from the US and want the newest MSC ship you can board from home today, this is it.

MSC Euribia (2023)

Euribia is the newest of the Meraviglia-Plus ships and the second MSC ship to run on LNG. It has an indoor promenade under an LED dome and mostly sails in Europe, so it is a good choice if you want a recent ship without the size of a World Class vessel.

MSC World Europa (2022)

World Europa introduced the World Class design and was MSC’s first LNG-powered ship. It is the oldest of the “World” ships, but it is still one of the largest cruise ships in the world. It is based mainly in the Mediterranean.

MSC Seascape (2022) and MSC Seashore (2021)

These two Seaside EVO ships are built for warm-weather cruising. They have wide outdoor promenades close to the water, big pool decks, and a glass bridge walkway. For winter 2026–2027, Seascape sails from Galveston and Seashore runs short Bahamas trips from Port Canaveral. Both are good choices if you want a fairly new MSC ship on a US itinerary for less than World America usually costs.

MSC Virtuosa (2021) and MSC Grandiosa (2019)

Both are Meraviglia-Plus ships with a long indoor Galleria promenade under an LED ceiling. Virtuosa mainly sails in Europe. Grandiosa spends winter 2026–2027 at Port Canaveral on week-long Caribbean cruises.

Large cruise ship hull under construction in a shipyard dry dock
New ships for the MSC fleet are being built in shipyards in France and Germany. Photo: Diana ✨ on Pexels

MSC ships on order: what comes after World Asia

MSC has one of the largest orderbooks in the cruise industry. With World Asia, the fleet reaches 24 ships, and roughly ten more are due by the early 2030s. Here is what is confirmed so far.

  1. MSC World Atlantic (2027). The fourth World Class ship. It will sail Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral starting in winter 2027, with calls at Ocean Cay and Grand Turk. MSC has already shown some of its features, including a two-story Grand Hamptons Villa for families that sleeps up to eight people.
  2. World Class ships five to eight (about 2029–2031). MSC has ordered four more World Class ships from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. Two of them were announced in late 2025. Delivery dates differ slightly between sources, but they are expected roughly once a year from 2029 to 2031. None of them has a name yet.
  3. New Frontier class (from 2030). In December 2025, MSC ordered four ships from Meyer Werft in Germany, with options for two more. It is the first time MSC has worked with that shipyard. Each ship is planned at about 180,000 gross tons and 5,400 guests, with one ship a year from 2030. MSC has released few design details so far.

Construction dates often slip by a few months, so treat anything after 2027 as a plan rather than a promise. If being on a ship’s first season matters to you, book once itineraries open. Inaugural sailings usually cost more, and you can expect a few early operational issues.

Does sailing on the newest MSC cruise ship matter?

Most articles about the newest cruise ships skip this question, but it affects what you pay. Here are a few points worth weighing:

  • Size and features often matter more than age. The three World Class ships launched between 2022 and 2026 are very similar inside. Apart from the themed decor, MSC World Europa (2022) gives you much the same experience as MSC World Asia.
  • Newer usually means pricier. New ships charge more, especially in their first year. A ship that is three or four years old, such as Seascape or Seashore, often costs much less and still feels modern.
  • LNG matters to some travelers. World Europa, Euribia, World America and World Asia run on LNG, which cuts some local emissions compared with conventional marine fuel. If lower emissions matter to you, look at these ships first.
  • Location often decides it. For US cruisers, the real choice is usually between World America (Miami), Seascape (Galveston) and Seashore or Grandiosa (Port Canaveral), and from 2027 World Atlantic (Port Canaveral). World Asia is only an option if you’re happy to fly to Europe.

If you’re comparing new ships across cruise lines, our guide to Royal Caribbean ships by age uses the same newest-first layout.

Elegant open deck of a small luxury ship with loungers facing the sea
Explora Journeys offers MSC Group's upscale take on ocean travel. Photo: Tolga Aslantürk on Pexels

Explora Journeys: MSC Group’s luxury brand

MSC Group also owns Explora Journeys, a separate luxury brand with small ships, all-suite accommodation and a much higher price. Each ship carries fewer than 1,000 guests, so the experience is very different from the large MSC resort ships.

Explora’s newest ship is EXPLORA III. It was delivered in Genoa in July 2026, named in Barcelona in August 2026, and is the brand’s first LNG-powered ship. It is also slightly longer than EXPLORA I and II. Three more are planned: EXPLORA IV in 2027, then EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI over roughly 2027–2028. If you want a new ship from MSC Group but prefer a quieter, more upscale trip, Explora is the brand to look at.

Planning further ahead? Our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 can help you time a booking on one of these new ships.

For comparison with another fast-growing fleet, see the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

Once you have chosen a ship, our guide to MSC cabins to avoid helps you pick the right room on board.

FAQs

What is the newest MSC ship?

As of October 2026, MSC World America (in service since April 2025) is the newest MSC ship carrying guests. MSC World Asia becomes the newest when it starts its first cruise from Barcelona on December 4, 2026.

What is MSC’s newest ship sailing from the US?

MSC World America, which sails 7-night Caribbean cruises from Miami all year. MSC World Atlantic will join it in 2027, sailing from Port Canaveral.

What is the MSC World Atlantic ship?

MSC World Atlantic is the fourth World Class ship, due in 2027. It will sail Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, with calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Grand Turk.

What are the sizes of MSC ships?

They range from about 65,000 gross tons for the older Lirica class to about 216,000 gross tons for the World Class. The biggest ships carry around 5,400 guests at double occupancy and up to about 6,760 when every berth is full.

How many new ships does MSC Cruises have on order?

After World Asia, MSC has World Atlantic (2027), four more World Class ships (around 2029–2031) and four New Frontier class ships from 2030, with options for two more.

MSC-Cruises-ship-1.jpg

Who Owns MSC Cruises? A Look At The Massive Company Behind The Cruise Line

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

Most cruise lines are owned by large parent companies. If you find it tricky to keep track of which company owns which cruise line, you’re not alone!

The world’s largest cruise company is Carnival Corporation. It owns nine brands including P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Cunard. Then, we have the Royal Caribbean Group which owns not only Royal Caribbean International, but also brands like Celebrity Cruises and Silversea.

But what about MSC Cruises? Who owns MSC Cruises, and what other cruise brands do they own?

Read on for some super-interesting insights into the company behind the MSC Cruises brand…

MSC Cruises ship
MSC Seaside in Nassau

Just who are MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises is a global cruise line based in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded in Naples, Italy in 1989. MSC Cruises employs over 30,000 people and has 19 cruise ships, making it the fastest-growing global cruise brand.

Suggested read: MSC Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class

MSC Cruises is part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) – the world’s second-largest container shipping operator with 570 container ships.

The Mediterranean Shipping Company has the following divisions:

  • MSC Cruises – Holiday cruises
  • Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) – Cargo shipping
  • Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) – Ferries
  • Società Navigazione Alta Velocità (SNAV) – Ferries
  • MSC Shipmanagement Limited – Onboard and shoreside crew
  • Terminal Investment Limited (TIL) – Port operations
  • MEDLOG – Inland logistics

The MSC Cruises arm of the business is owned by Italian billionaire Gianluigi Aponte and his family, including wife Rafaela, son Diego and daughter Alexa. Gianluigi Aponte is the founder, chairman, and MSC Cruises owner, while his family members all have key roles in the business.

With a net worth of around $17.7 billion in 2022, Gianluigi and Rafaela Aponte are some of the richest people in the shipping industry and the 94th richest people in the world according to Forbes.

The largest privately owned cruise company

This all means that MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company. While other cruise lines are publicly traded and owned by shareholders, MSC Cruises is privately owned by the Aponte family.

Because MSC Cruises is privately-owned, it doesn’t have stock. It’s not possible to buy shares in MSC as you can do with Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line.

The CEO of MSC Cruises is Gianni Onorato, an Italian with 30 years of experience in the cruise industry. He has been the CEO of MSC Cruises since 2013. Prior to that, he was the president of Costa Cruises from 2004 to 2013.

So that’s what MSC stands for!

The ‘MSC’ in MSC Cruises stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company. This is because the MSC Cruises brand is part of the same shipping company that transports cargo around the world.

MSC shipping container in Southampton
Shipping containers in Southampton – Can you spot the MSC one?

The timeline of MSC

MSC Cruises was founded in 1988. However, the Aponte family’s involvement in the shipping industry dates back much further. Take a look at the timeline below to learn about the history of MSC Cruises…

  • 1675 – First record of the Aponte family’s involvement in shipping to and from Naples
  • 1970 – Gianluigi Aponte purchases a single ship and founds the Mediterranean Shipping Company
  • 1988 – MSC enters the cruise business with the purchase of the first cruise ship, Monterey
  • 2003 – MSC Cruises invests €5.5 billion on12 new ships to build the world’s most modern fleet of cruise ships
  • 2014 – MSC Cruises invests €5.1 billion on seven new cruise ships and the enlargement of four existing ships
  • 2016 – A further €3.9 billion is invested to build four World-class ships
  • 2017 – A further €2.6 billion is invested to build three more ships
  • 2019 – MSC Cruises’ private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, welcomes its first guests
  • 2020 – MSC Cruises is the first major cruise line to restart thanks to its industry-leading health and safety protocol

Fun fact: Gianluigi Aponte financed the purchase of his first cruise ship, Patricia, without a loan.

An Italian cruise line, but with international flair

MSC Cruises Cruises is an Italian cruise line. It was founded in Naples, Italy in 1989, although it’s now registered in Switzerland with headquarters in Geneva and operations offices in Naples, Genoa and Venice.

MSC Cruises offers cruises all over the world. The cruise line caters to many different nationalities with many languages being spoken on board. Announcements are often made in English, Italian, French, Spanish and German. Entertainment is mainly based around music or visuals such as acrobats and dancers, rather than comedians or lecturers.

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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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What’s Included in MSC Cruises (And How Much is Everything Else?)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsMSC Cruises

MSC Cruises can be some of the cheapest that you can book – but you need to understand exactly what that cruise fare then gets you. It’s no good assuming that you’re getting a bargain if it then turns out that you’ve got loads more that you need to fork out for.

Cruise Mummy smiling for a selfie with a large cruise ship MSC Euribia docked in the background. The ship is white with multiple decks, and various construction equipment is visible in the foreground under a cloudy sky.

What complicates matters even more is the fact that MSC offers three different ‘experiences’, all of which comes with different costs and different inclusions.

It can get a little confusing, but with this guide, I’ll make it clear what you get, and what you need to pay for, for each cruise fare you can choose.

And then you’ll know what counts as a real bargain cruise with MSC, and what actually isn’t as good a deal as you thought.

What’s Included in an MSC Cruise and What Costs Extra..?

1. Accommodation

As with any cruise line, your cruise fare covers your accommodation costs. It’s one of the main things that you’re actually paying for.

A cosy cabin on MSC Euribia cruise ship features two single beds with white linens and blue throws, separated by a nightstand. The room is decorated with framed marine-themed artwork and includes a vanity desk with a mirror and various amenities. Soft lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

And as you’d expect, you have the typical range of cabin options available:

  • Inside cabins with no view
  • Ocean View cabins that have a window
  • Balcony cabins with a private balcony space
  • Suites, offering the most space and a range of extra perks.

However, as I’ve already said, there are different cruise fares you can book with MSC, called ‘Experiences’. And the experience that you choose will determine which cabin types you’re able to book.

Experience Cabins You Can Book Choose Your Specific Cabin?
Bella Inside, Ocean View, Balcony No
Fantastica Inside, Ocean View, Balcony Yes
Aurea Suites Yes

If you book the Bella experience, you only get a Guarantee cabin – one where the cruise line will pick your room for you, and you’ll only find out where you’re staying a few days before you sail.

Close-up of MSC cruise ship highlighting Bella Balcony and Fantastica Balcony cabins, marked by red arrows, showcasing the ship's multi-tiered accommodation options.

You’ll also get the worst locations on the ship – the ones that are furthest from the restaurants or leisure amenities or those with an obstructed view.

Also, if you book a cabin for 3 or 4 people, there’s a chance that you could be split between two cabins instead, if there isn’t a larger room available. 

MSC Virtuosa balcony cabin with bunk beds

This might be a good thing, but if you’re travelling with kids it could make things difficult, especially since there’s no guarantee the cabins will be next to each other. They will be on the same deck and same side, but there could be several cabins between them.

If you choose Fantastica, you’ll get to pick where on the ship your cabin will be, and if you choose Aurea you can book one of the suites.

This includes a range of normal suites, and the option of booking in the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive part of your MSC ship that features on most newer MSC ships. These come with a range of additional perks such as a pillow menu, access to exclusive lounge and sun deck areas, and a welcome package with Prosecco and chocolates.

Regardless of whether you choose the cheapest Bella Inside cabin or the fanciest Aurea suite, you’ll always get a minibar, a TV, a safe, a hairdryer, air-con and a telephone. But you won’t always get a bed!

One cruise ship has solo rooms with sofa beds instead of a proper bed – so be warned!

Read more: MSC Bella Vs Fantastica Vs Aurea

2. Food

As with other cruise lines, MSC offers a wide range of food at no extra cost for your cruise fare.

You can enjoy the Main Dining Room or the buffet, along with a small range of other casual venues for items like burgers or pizza, and you won’t have to pay anything.

A plate of food featuring a sesame seed bun burger with a vegetable patty and sundried tomatoes, accompanied by a generous portion of golden French fries. The meal is set on a white tablecloth with silverware and a glass of sparkling water visible in the background.

But each MSC ship also has a range of speciality restaurants. These include steakhouses such as Butcher’s Cut, a variety of Asian restaurants such as the Kaito Sushi Bar or Oriental Plaza, and various other international venues including the Hola Tapas Bar, or the Indochine Restaurant. The specific venues will depend on which ship you choose.

For these restaurants, you’ll either need to pay a fixed price to dine there, or they will offer an a la carte menu, with the costs added to your account that you’ll need to settle at the end of the cruise.

A promotional banner for MSC Cruises advertises "Speciality Dining Packages" with options including Duo (two speciality dining experiences for €75), Trilogy (three speciality dining experiences for €95), The Finest Four (four speciality dining experiences for €125), L'Atelier Grill Chef's Table (€85), and Dinner and Bubbles (€115). The banner features images of gourmet food and happy diners.

MSC also offers the option of paying for a dining package. You can choose between one to five meals, and by paying in advance you can save up to 40% of the cost of paying for each meal individually when you’re on the ship.

So, that’s another way you can budget in advance and still enjoy all the experiences of your cruise ship.

3. Drinks

On an MSC cruise, there are a small selection of drinks that you’ll be able to enjoy at no extra charge – tap water, basic coffee and tea, ice tea, and juices at breakfast. But for everything else – sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks, you’ll need to pay.

Cruise Mummy raises a glass of amber-colored beverage in the Main Dining Room on an MSC cruise ship, with elegant décor and attentive staff in the background, capturing a moment of joy and fine dining on a luxury voyage.

You can pay for drinks individually, if you want. A glass of soda costs around $2.25, a beer will cost around $6, and a cocktail can vary between $7 and $16 depending on how fancy a drink you’re looking for.

Read more: MSC Cruises Drinks Menus with Prices

If you’re someone who likes to drink a lot (not just booze, but soft drinks too) then it’s worth considering a drinks package. With these, you’ll pay in advance for the duration of the cruise and then be able to enjoy unlimited drinks within your package.

There are three packages that include alcohol – Premium, Easy Plus, and Easy. There’s also an alcohol-free package that covers sodas, bottled water, speciality coffees and even soft-serve ice cream, and there’s a Minors package for younger guests.

A promotional banner for MSC Cruises highlights various drink packages with pricing. The options include the Easy Package (€47 per adult/day), Easy Plus Package (€63 per adult/day), Premium Extra Package (€87 per adult/day), Dine & Drink Package (€15 per meal or €9 per meal/day), Alcohol-Free Package (€29 per adult/day), and Minors Package (€20 per child/day). The banner features images of beverages and encourages guests to upgrade their drink packages.

The cost for the packages will vary depending on where you’re sailing and how long you’re cruising – British guests will pay between £64 and £77.05 per day for the Premium Extra package, for example.

Never jump into buying a drinks package without doing some basic budgeting first, as you might overpay if you don’t drink much each day. My drinks package calculator can help you work it out.

One thing to be mindful of is that the mini bar costs extra, even if you have a drink package. The only way you get to enjoy your mini bar for free is if you stay in the Yacht Club.

A minibar price list from MSC Cruises displays various items and their prices. Spirits include gin, vodka, and whisky at £9 each. Soft drinks like fruit juice, sodas, and ice tea are priced at £3.5 each. Mineral water ranges from £2.5 to £3.5, and beers such as Heineken and Beck's cost £8 each. Snacks, including peanuts, chocolate-covered peanuts, mixed nuts, and chips, are priced between £3.5 and £4.5. The form includes spaces for cabin number, quantity consumed, and total cost.

4. Room Service

On every MSC cruise, guests are welcome to enjoy room service on those occasions where they would rather dine in their room, or they just want a snack. 

A breakfast menu card from MSC Cruises allows guests to indicate their desired quantity for each item.

If you’ve booked the Fantastica or Aurea experiences, then room service is available 24-hours a day and there’s no charge at all for delivery. Some free items are available on the menu, but there are some that have a charge – you just won’t pay for the delivery.

If you’ve booked the cheaper Bella experience, then there will be a $4.99 delivery fee. This is per order, not per person, so you’ll only pay the single fee even if you’re ordering food for everyone in your cabin. You might also want to add a tip on for your budget, so bear that in mind.

5. Entertainment

MSC cruise ships offer a range of entertainment every evening, in the main theatre but also in some other venues around the ship. This can include singers, dancers, acted performances and more. Comedy isn’t too common, just because of the multi-lingual nature of the ships.

A vibrant stage performance on a cruise ship features a group of performers dressed in futuristic costumes under dynamic lighting. The background is illuminated with striking red and orange patterns, creating an energetic atmosphere. The audience is seated, watching the engaging and lively show.

None of this entertainment costs anything to enjoy – it’s all covered by the cost of the cruise fare.

It’s a nice way to pass the evening but make sure you head to the venue as early as you can if you want the best seats. The venues aren’t always designed very well and it’s not uncommon to be stuck behind a pillar, or for a venue to become very crowded.

6. Activities

MSC’s ships are packed with fun things to do during the day, but not all of them are covered by the cost of your cruise fare.

An arcade on a cruise ship features various games, including motorcycle racing simulators, air hockey, and other interactive attractions. The area is brightly lit with colorful neon lights, creating an exciting and playful atmosphere. Large windows offer a view of the sea, adding to the unique experience of gaming at sea.

The waterparks are free, so you can swim or ride the slides as much as you want, but pretty much everything else will have a fee that you’ll need to pay. Some examples include:

  • Bowling – typically £25 for 30 minutes
  • Flight Simulator – £15 per go
  • Formula 1 Simulator – £12 per go
  • Arcade games – between £1.50 and £5
  • 4D Cinema – £8

Those prices can quickly add up. But there is a way you can save – you can buy a Fun Pass.

A sign about the MSC fun pass that is on display for people to see

The Fun Pass works differently depending on which ship you’re cruising on – for some, it offers all-inclusive activities, while on others, it gives you a set amount of bonus credit. So if you paid £100, you’d get £40 extra free to spend on the activities on the ship.

Paying for a Fun Pass doesn’t just save you money, it also makes it easier to budget for the activities. You can set a rule where, once the Fun Pass is spent, that’s the activities budget done.

Read more: Is the MSC Fun Pass Worth It?

7. Kids’ Clubs

MSC Cruises has some excellent kids clubs onboard, and is one of the few cruise lines to properly cater for babies. So it’s an even bigger relief to know that the kids’ clubs on the ship are available at no extra charge.

Two children pose happily with certificates in front of a large LEGO sailor statue at an MSC Cruise Kids' Club. The boy on the left holds colorful streamers and a "Congratulations" certificate, while the girl on the right, wearing a Minnie Mouse hoodie and a face mask, holds a similar certificate and streamers. The background features bright colors and playful decorations, enhancing the fun atmosphere.

You can even enjoy free babysitting for babies and toddlers during the day in one-hour slots, so that you can enjoy your lunch and dinner in peace if you want to. You just need to make sure you’ve booked using the registration form.

Group babysitting is also available for children late at night, if you want to enjoy the nightlife on your ship. It’s available for children aged 3 and up, provided they are potty trained, and it costs $6 per child for the first hour, or $10 per child for the full three hours. The service is offered between 11 pm and 2 am.

8. Service Charges

As if the different experience fares you can book with MSC weren’t confusing enough, there’s one more quirk of MSC that can make budgeting a little tricker – daily gratuities. And that’s because sometimes they’re included, and sometimes they aren’t.

A crew member wearing a mask and uniform serves a guest seated on the deck of a cruise ship. The guest, a bald man with tattoos, is receiving a drink from a cart filled with various beverages. The scene takes place under a bright, sunny sky, with the ship's sleek exterior and other passengers in the background.

If you’re cruising from the UK, then the tips will be included. If you’re cruising from the US, then they won’t be, and you should expect to pay up to $14 per person, per day on your cruise.

For cruises in Europe it can vary but the cost will be similar if they aren’t included – make sure you check.

You’ll also want to remember other tips that you might want to pay – such as the luggage porters at port. It’s custom to give them a small tip and it helps to make sure they look after your bags for you.

9. WiFi

Kids using the internet

WiFi internet access is almost never included as standard with a cruise fare, and with MSC that’s no different – if you want to get online, you’ll need to pay extra.

The good news is that MSC’s packages are very well priced, with some of the lowest WiFi charges of any cruise line.

And, you aren’t forced to pay for the full duration of your cruise if you don’t want to – you can pay by the day, though it does work out a lot cheaper to pay for a full week.

There are three packages you can pick from:

  • Social – grants access to popular social media apps such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, WhatsApp and Pinterest, but you won’t be able to use them for video calls
  • Surfer – everything in the Social package, but access to the web/emails
  • Streamer – full access to the internet including video and audio streaming.
WiFi Package Cost Per Day Cost For A 7-Night Cruise
Social From €3.90 From €14.90
Surfer From €9.90 From €29.90
Streamer From €19.90 From €59.90

If you don’t want to pay for the WiFi, you can usually find free WiFi while you’re in port – chain restaurants, some bars and hotels are good places to try. Just make sure your phone is on airplane mode at other times, as roaming charges (especially at sea) can be astronomical.

10. Laundry

If you’re on a shorter MSC cruise, you’ll probably never need to use the laundry services, but for longer cruises, it can be more cost-effective to have some clothes washed instead of buying a whole holiday wardrobe.

MSC doesn’t offer self-service laundry unlike some other cruise lines, which means you have to use the laundry service. You can pay per item, or you can pay for a laundry package.

This image is a pricing list for laundry services on an MSC cruise. It details the costs in pounds and euros for various types of clothing items for both gentlemen and ladies, such as shirts, trousers, dresses, and skirts, along with the cost for other items like pillowcases and blankets. The list is presented in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian.

On a per-item basis, expect to pay around €3 per t-shirt or €9 for a dress. Packages start at €15 which gets you 10 items – so you can save a lot buying a package instead of paying for everything individually.

11. Flights and Transfers

One thing that isn’t included with an MSC cruise fare as standard is your flights. It’s possible to book a package through the cruise line, but most of the fares you see advertised will be cruise only.

A view from an airplane window shows the wing of the aircraft against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and the sun shining brightly. Below, a landscape of fields and rivers is partially covered in snow, with clouds scattered across the horizon, creating a serene and picturesque aerial scene.

Often you can save by booking your flights separately, either yourself or by using a travel agent to put together a package for you. You just need to be aware that, if something happens to your flight, the cruise ship won’t wait for you. 

Give yourself plenty of time to get to your embarkation port, and make sure you have insurance. If you can, it’s best to fly the day before and book an overnight hotel so that you’re guaranteed to make the ship in time.

Don’t forget transfers, too – you need to get from the airport to the cruise port after all, and that’s another cost to factor in.

And if you’re sailing from Southampton (or from a port that’s in your own country) then you’ll need to still think about how you’re getting there. If you’re using public transport, budget for those costs, and if you’re driving, you’ll need to think about parking.

Suggested read: How To Get To Southampton Cruise Terminal by Train

12. Shore Excursions

Shore excursions aren’t included in your cruise fare, and depending on the type of excursion, they can be pretty expensive if you book through the cruise line.

My son on an MSC shore excursion. He smiles with his arms outstretched, standing in front of the iconic Stonehenge monument. He is wearing a black hoodie with a "Love Our Planet" design and blue shorts featuring a Mickey Mouse patch. The grassy field and ancient stones create a historic and picturesque backdrop under a cloudy sky.

You have alternative options – in some ports, you might not need an excursion, and you can just wander off on your own to explore.

In others, look for local bus services or book excursions with a third party. You can often save a lot doing this, but the downside is that there’s a risk the ship will leave you behind if your excursion delays you in any way.

You could, of course, just stay on the ship – nobody’s forcing you to get off an explore, and this is a great way of keeping costs down.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest MSC Cruises offers…

To Conclude

MSC Cruises can be very cheap, though for the lowest fares, you might end up with a cabin in a less-than-ideal location. You also need to think about drinks prices, and the activities you want to enjoy around the ship.

Look into the extra packages that are available. You can make your MSC cruise all-inclusive (or as good as) if you pay for a drinks package and a Fun Pass, but only if you’ll definitely make use of them.

With a bit of planning, and working out how much you’re likely to spend on extras, you can make sure you’ve budgeted for a great cruise with MSC.

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Cruise Mummy

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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Large cruise liner moored in a harbour, illustrating MSC Cruises cabins to avoid

MSC Cruises Cabins to Avoid in 2026-27 (and Better Picks)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsMSC Cruises

The MSC cabins to avoid are mostly predictable: cheap Bella guarantee cabins that can come with an obstructed or metal-fronted balcony, interior cabins where the “bed” for extra guests is a sofa bed or pull-down bunk, and any cabin directly under the pool deck or buffet, above the theatre or nightclub, or next to crew doors and lift lobbies. Aft cabins low down can also pick up vibration. Most of these are easy to spot on a deck plan before you pay.

Below is a fleet-wide guide to the cabins worth skipping on MSC Cruises in 2026-27, why each one causes problems, and which cabins usually make better picks. If you’re sailing on one particular ship, check its own deck plan as well, because layouts differ a lot between the older Lirica-class ships and the huge World-class vessels.

MSC Cruises cabins to avoid at a glance

Cabin type or location The likely problem Who should worry most
Bella guarantee cabins MSC picks the cabin, so it could be obstructed, in a noisy spot, or split across two cabins for groups of 3-4 Light sleepers, families, anyone who cares about the view
Obstructed and metal-fronted balconies Lifeboats or solid metal panels block the sea view, especially when you’re sitting down Anyone paying extra for a balcony to enjoy the view
Interior cabins for 3-4 guests The 3rd and 4th berths may be a sofa bed or pull-down bunk, with very little floor space Families with teens or adults sharing
Under the pool deck or buffet Sun loungers dragged early in the morning, late-night cleaning, music Light sleepers, late risers
Above or below the theatre, clubs and bars Bass and applause late into the evening Early sleepers
Near crew doors, stairwells and lift lobbies Foot traffic, trolleys and door slams at all hours Light sleepers
Low aft and far forward cabins Vibration from engines or thrusters, more motion in rough seas Anyone prone to seasickness
Promenade-view and inward-facing balconies Less privacy and more noise than a sea-facing balcony Couples wanting peace and quiet
Connecting cabins (when you’re not with the group next door) Sound travels through the connecting door Anyone not travelling with the neighbours

How MSC’s experiences affect which cabin you get

Before thinking about decks and locations, it helps to understand MSC’s fare levels, because they decide whether you can choose your cabin at all. MSC sells most cabins under three “experiences”, plus the separate MSC Yacht Club.

  • Bella: the cheapest fare. You can’t pick your cabin number. MSC assigns it, usually only a few days before departure, and its own terms say the cabin may have an obstructed or partially obstructed view or, on some ships, a promenade view. Groups of three or four can even be split into two cabins on the same deck.
  • Fantastica: you choose your own cabin and location, and get free delivery of continental breakfast to the cabin, plus one free cruise change.
  • Aurea: you can choose from the best-placed balcony cabins and suites, with extras such as spa thermal-area access and a welcome package.
  • MSC Yacht Club: MSC’s ship-within-a-ship suite complex near the top of the ship, with butler service and private restaurant, lounge and pool areas.

The single biggest way to avoid a disappointing MSC cabin is to book at least Fantastica, so you control the location. Bella can be great value if you’re flexible, but you are accepting whatever cabin is left over, and the leftover cabins are often the ones on this list. Perks change from time to time, so check the current list on MSC’s experiences page before booking.

Obstructed and metal-fronted balcony cabins

On most MSC ships, the lowest balcony decks sit just above or beside the lifeboats. Some of these cabins have their view partly blocked by the boats, davits or other equipment, and some have balconies with solid metal panels instead of glass at the front. When you’re standing, you may see the sea fine. When you’re sitting on the balcony chair, you could be looking at a white wall.

MSC’s deck plans use a symbol for obstructed-view cabins, so look at the key before you choose. Ask your travel agent or MSC directly if you can’t tell whether a balcony is glass-fronted. Not every obstructed cabin is bad, either: some lower-deck balconies over the lifeboats are larger than standard ones, and passengers on cruise forums often say a small obstruction didn’t bother them. If you mostly use the balcony for fresh air rather than the view, an obstructed cabin at a lower price can be a fair trade.

Shaded balconies on the top balcony decks

The opposite problem shows up near the top of the ship. Balcony cabins directly under an overhanging deck get less sun, which some passengers like in the Caribbean heat and others dislike in a cooler northern-Europe summer. These same decks can be right under the pool area, so you may hear sun loungers being moved early in the morning.

Interior cabins with sofa beds or bunks

This is where MSC catches out a lot of families. Many MSC interior and ocean-view cabins can take three or four people, but the extra berths aren’t always proper beds. Depending on the ship and cabin, the third and fourth guests may sleep on a sofa bed or on a Pullman bunk that folds down from the wall or ceiling. On several newer ships, including Seaside-class and Meraviglia-class vessels, some cabins have a bunk-style sofa that converts into two stacked beds.

With four people, an interior cabin also has very little floor space once the sofa bed is pulled out, and only one small bathroom. That works for young children, but it can be a squeeze for teenagers or four adults.

  • Check the deck plan legend for symbols showing sofa beds, Pullman beds and cabins for up to four or five guests.
  • If you need two proper beds for the extra guests, look at MSC’s family cabins, two connecting cabins, or a balcony cabin with more space.
  • Remember that a Bella booking for three or four people can be split into two cabins if MSC can’t fit you in one.

If you’re still weighing up a cheap inside cabin against paying more for outside space, our guide to the pros and cons of a balcony vs an inside cabin walks through the trade-offs.

Rows of sun loungers beside an outdoor pool, the busy deck area that can make cabins below noisy
Cabins directly under the pool deck can hear loungers being moved early in the morning. Photo: Le Barbu La Conciergerie du Barbu on Pexels

Noisy cabin locations on MSC ships

MSC ships are lively. The newer ones have big theatres, nightclubs, bars that stay open late and water parks on the top decks. That’s part of the appeal, but it also means a few cabin locations are reliably noisy.

Under the pool deck, buffet or sports area

Cabins on the highest cabin deck sit directly under the pool deck and buffet on many MSC ships. Crew set out and stack sun loungers early in the morning and clean late at night, and on some ships there’s a sports court or kids’ area overhead. A deck plan won’t show the noise, so always check what sits on the deck above your cabin.

Above or below the theatre, clubs and bars

The lowest passenger cabin decks are often just above or below public areas such as the theatre, casino, nightclub or late-opening bars. Shows, applause and bass can carry into cabins late in the evening. Check the decks above and below your cabin, not just your own deck.

Near crew stairwells, service doors and lift lobbies

Look for unmarked doors and service areas on the deck plan near your cabin. These usually lead to crew stairwells or service areas where trolleys, room-service carts and housekeeping traffic go through day and night. Cabins right next to the main lift lobbies or launderettes also get more foot traffic and door noise. A few doors further along the corridor usually makes a real difference.

Promenade-view and inward-facing balconies

Some MSC ships sell balcony cabins that look onto an open-air promenade instead of the sea. On the World-class ships these face inward over the World Promenade, so you look across at other cabins and down at the bars and shops below. They suit people who enjoy a lively atmosphere, but they’re less private and noisier than sea-facing balconies. On a Bella fare, a promenade-view cabin is one of the cabins MSC can assign.

Cabins to avoid if you get seasick

Modern MSC ships are large and well stabilised, but motion is still felt most at the front, the back and the higher decks. If you’re prone to seasickness:

  1. Choose a cabin midship and on a lower or middle passenger deck, where the ship moves least.
  2. Avoid far-forward cabins, which rise and fall the most in a head sea and can also hear the anchor when the ship arrives in port.
  3. Think twice about low aft cabins, which can pick up vibration from the propulsion system and the thrusters during docking.
  4. Choose a cabin with an outside view if you can. Being able to see the horizon helps many people, which is a point in favour of an ocean-view or balcony cabin over an interior one.

Aft-facing balcony cabins are a special case. They’re popular for their wake views and often have bigger balconies, but they can feel more motion and vibration. They’re a great pick for good sailors and a risky one for anyone who feels queasy easily.

Bright bedroom with two single beds, similar to a cruise cabin set up with twin beds
Check the bed layout before booking, especially in cabins for three or four. Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

Connecting cabins and other small annoyances

Connecting cabins are ideal when your family or friends are next door, but if you’re not travelling with the people on the other side, the connecting door usually lets more sound through than a solid wall. The deck plan marks connecting cabins, so they’re easy to avoid.

A few other details are worth checking:

  • Cabins opposite each other on promenade-view sections can see straight into each other’s balconies, so keep your curtains in mind.
  • Accessible cabins are often bigger, but they’re meant for guests who need them, and the bathroom layout is different.
  • Older ships in the Lirica class (MSC Armonia, Sinfonia, Lirica and Opera) have fewer balconies and smaller cabins than the newer ships, so it’s worth checking the size listed for your category.

Better MSC cabin picks

Avoiding the bad locations is half the job. These choices tend to work well across the MSC fleet:

Choose this Why it works
Midship cabin on a middle balcony deck Less motion, short walk to most venues, usually quiet above and below
A cabin with cabins above and below it The simplest way to avoid noise from public areas and the pool deck
Fantastica or Aurea fare You pick the exact cabin rather than taking a guarantee
Family cabin or two connecting cabins for 4+ Real beds and two bathrooms instead of a sofa bed and bunk
Larger lower-deck balcony with a slight obstruction More outdoor space for less money, if the view isn’t your priority
MSC Yacht Club Quiet, top-of-ship location with its own facilities, if the budget allows

One tip many cabin guides skip: look at the deck plan for the deck above and the deck below at the same time, and line up your cabin number vertically. On MSC’s large ships, cabins on the outside edge of a deck can sit under a quiet corridor while the cabin next door is under a bar. Ten minutes with the official deck plan PDF from MSC’s ship page is the best protection you have against a noisy cabin.

Your choice of ship matters too. The newer World-class and Meraviglia-class ships have far more balcony and family cabin options than the older classes, and MSC’s newest ships, listed in order, include MSC World Asia, which is due to begin sailing in the Mediterranean from December 2026. If you’re booking MSC Virtuosa, see our ship-specific guide to MSC Virtuosa cabins to avoid for deck-by-deck detail.

If you are tempted by the lowest fare, read about how cheap MSC fares and Bella cabins work before you let MSC choose your cabin.

Ship-by-ship MSC cabin guides

For deck-by-deck advice on a specific ship, see our guides to MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaside and MSC Virtuosa cabins to avoid.

FAQs

What are the worst cabins on MSC cruise ships?

The worst MSC cabins are usually Bella guarantee cabins with obstructed or metal-fronted balconies, interior cabins where extra guests sleep on a sofa bed or bunk, and cabins directly under the pool deck or buffet, above or below the theatre or clubs, or next to crew service doors.

Can you choose your cabin on MSC’s Bella fare?

No. On Bella, MSC assigns your cabin, often only a few days before sailing. It may have an obstructed or promenade view. To pick your exact cabin number, book Fantastica, Aurea or the MSC Yacht Club.

What is the best cabin location on an MSC ship?

For most people, a midship cabin on a middle deck with cabins above and below it is the best location. It has the least motion, is close to lifts, and stays away from noisy public areas.

Do MSC interior cabins for four have real beds?

Not always. The main bed is usually a double that can be split into twins, but the third and fourth berths are often a sofa bed or a pull-down Pullman bunk. Check the deck plan symbols or ask MSC before booking.

Which MSC cabins are best for seasickness?

Choose a midship cabin on a lower or middle passenger deck, ideally with a window or balcony so you can see the horizon. Avoid far-forward cabins and high or aft cabins, which move the most.

Large modern cruise ship at sea, the kind of mega-ship that tops MSC ships ranked best to worst

MSC Ships Ranked Best to Worst: Every Class Compared (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

If you want MSC ships ranked best to worst, the most useful way to do it is by ship class, because sister ships share almost the same layout, venues and cabins. Going by published guest ratings and editor reviews, the Seaside EVO ships (MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape) and the World class ships (MSC World America and MSC World Europa) sit at the top. The older Lirica class ships come last, though they still have fans who like value and a quieter pace.

This guide doesn’t use a made-up score of our own. It groups the whole fleet by class and shows ship age, size and what reviewers tend to praise or complain about. Where we mention review scores, we name the platform they come from. Those scores move up and down as new reviews come in, so treat them as a snapshot, not a final verdict.

How we ranked the MSC fleet

Every guest rating platform measures something slightly different. To keep this ranking open about its basis, we used three things:

  • Community review scores from Cruiseline.com’s “Best MSC Cruises Ships of 2026” list, which is based on reviews its members posted over the past year. The top eight ships were separated by only a few hundredths of a point, so small gaps don’t mean much.
  • Editor ratings and member feedback on Cruise Critic, which change as ships are refurbished and new reviews are added.
  • Hard facts: the year each ship entered service, its gross tonnage, its guest capacity, and whether it has the MSC Yacht Club suite enclave.

We then ranked whole classes, because a Fantasia-class ship from 2008 has far more in common with its 2013 sister than with a brand-new World class ship.

MSC ships ranked best to worst by class

Rank Class Ships In service Approx. size Max guests Yacht Club
1 Seaside EVO MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape 2021-2022 about 169,400 GT about 5,880 Yes
2 World MSC World Europa, MSC World America, MSC World Asia (from Dec 2026) 2022-2026 about 205,000-216,000 GT about 6,760 Yes
3 Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia 2017-2023 about 171,600-183,500 GT about 5,650-6,330 Yes
4 Fantasia MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina, MSC Preziosa 2008-2013 about 138,000-139,000 GT about 4,350 Yes
5 Seaside (original) MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview 2017-2018 about 153,500 GT about 5,080 Yes
6 Musica MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia, MSC Magnifica 2006-2010 about 92,400-95,100 GT about 3,220 Being added (see below)
7 Lirica MSC Armonia, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera 2001-2004 about 65,500 GT about 2,600-2,650 No

Sizes and capacities are rounded and differ slightly between sources. Maximum guests means every bed filled, including upper berths. Typical sailings carry fewer people. If you want the full launch-order list rather than a quality ranking, see our guide to the newest MSC cruise ships in order.

1. Seaside EVO class: MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape

These two ships come out on top for steady guest satisfaction. In Cruiseline.com’s 2026 list, MSC Seashore was first with a score of 4.119 and MSC Seascape third with 4.112. Seascape’s slight drop was put down partly to a dry-dock pause that reduced its number of reviews.

What reviewers praise: lots of outdoor deck space close to the water, infinity pools at the back of the ship, good service, and a manageable size compared with the World class giants. Both ships also have one of the biggest Yacht Clubs in the fleet.

Common complaints: the usual MSC big-ship issues. Pool decks and the buffet get busy on sea days, and many extras (drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi) cost more unless you book a package. For US cruisers, MSC Seashore is set to sail from Port Canaveral and MSC Seascape from Galveston in winter 2026-27.

2. World class: MSC World Europa, MSC World America and MSC World Asia

The World class ships are MSC’s largest and most ambitious. MSC World America came second on Cruiseline.com’s 2026 list (4.117) in its first year on the ranking, and MSC World Europa was further down at 4.105. Cruise Critic’s editors rate MSC World America 4.0 out of 5. They praise its big family area, top-deck attractions such as the Cliffhanger swing, lively bars, the pools and the thermal suite, and its large Yacht Club.

Common complaints: crowds and noise. The hard marble and stone surfaces make some venues, including the dining rooms, loud. Popular areas can feel packed when the ship is full, and many standard cabins are on the small side. MSC World America sails from Miami year-round on Caribbean itineraries.

MSC World Asia is the third ship in the class. It was due to be delivered in late November 2026, with a maiden voyage from Barcelona on December 4, 2026. Because it hasn’t carried guests yet, no one can honestly rate it. Expect a similar experience to its sisters, plus new features such as a dry slide called The Spiral and dining with an Asian theme.

Sunny cruise ship pool deck with loungers and a waterslide tower, typical of large modern ships
Big pool decks and waterslides are a big reason MSC's newest ships score so well with families. Photo: Ferdinand F Eman on Pexels

The middle of the MSC fleet: Meraviglia, Fantasia and Seaside

3. Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus class

Five ships make up this group: MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima, then the slightly larger MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia. MSC Meraviglia was fourth on Cruiseline.com’s 2026 list (4.111) and MSC Virtuosa tied for fifth (4.106), only a whisker behind the leaders.

What reviewers praise: the long indoor Galleria promenade with its LED sky ceiling, a full schedule of shows and evening entertainment, and a good mix of bars. It’s a strong choice when the weather is unreliable, such as northern Europe or a New York departure. MSC Meraviglia is scheduled to sail from New York in winter 2026-27.

Common complaints: with so much of the action indoors, the promenade can feel like a busy shopping mall in the evening. Outdoor deck space feels tighter than on the Seaside EVO ships.

4. Fantasia class

MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina and MSC Preziosa entered service between 2008 and 2013. MSC Divina tied for fifth on Cruiseline.com’s 2026 list, and one reviewer quoted there called a short sailing their best vacation ever. That shows a well-run mid-size ship can match the newest ones for many guests.

What reviewers praise: classic, elegant interiors, a Yacht Club on every ship in the class, and a size that feels big but still easy to find your way around.

Common complaints: fewer headline attractions than the newest ships, and some areas look their age between refurbishments.

5. Seaside class (original): MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview

We’ve put the original Seaside pair below the Fantasia class even though they’re newer. MSC Seaside dropped from second place on Cruiseline.com’s 2025 list to the bottom of the 2026 top eight. It’s still a fun, outdoor-focused ship with a seafront boardwalk and a water park. But reviewers often say it feels crowded for its size and that the layout is harder to get around than on the EVO versions. MSC Seaside is scheduled to sail from Miami in winter 2026-27.

The older MSC ships: Musica and Lirica classes

6. Musica class

MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica date from 2006 to 2010 and carry about 3,200 guests at most. They’re used for longer and more port-heavy itineraries, including South America and Alaska. Fans like the calmer pace and classic Italian style. Critics point to fewer dining choices and fewer attractions than on the newer classes.

The class is getting better for suite guests. According to Cruise Critic, MSC Magnifica gained a Yacht Club in a December 2025 dry dock, MSC Poesia was due to get one in February 2026, MSC Musica in late 2026 and MSC Orchestra in spring 2027. That would bring the Yacht Club to 19 ships across the fleet.

7. Lirica class

MSC Armonia, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Lirica and MSC Opera are the smallest and oldest ships in the fleet. Armonia and Sinfonia were built in the early 2000s for Festival Cruises before MSC took them over. All four were lengthened during a refurbishment program in 2014-2015, which added cabins and a spray park. Cruise Critic’s editors give MSC Lirica 3.0 out of 5.

What reviewers praise: low fares, small or no single supplements on some sailings, a quieter atmosphere, and friendly service.

Common complaints: dated decor, a small spa and gym, a buffet that feels cramped at busy times, and uneven entertainment. There’s no Yacht Club. These ships rank last for features, not because they’re unsafe or badly run. For a short, port-heavy trip at a low price, they can still be good value.

Couple relaxing on a cruise ship balcony looking out over calm blue sea
Choosing the right MSC ship depends as much on who you travel with as on the ship's age. Photo: cnrdmroglu on Pexels

Which is the best MSC ship for you?

The best MSC ship depends on who you’re travelling with and what you want from the trip. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Best for families: MSC World America or MSC World Europa. They have the biggest kids’ and teen areas, water slides, dry slides and family-focused districts. If you’d like something a little less hectic, MSC Seashore or MSC Seascape give you most of the fun with more deck space per guest.
  • Best for couples: MSC Seascape or MSC Seashore, for the outdoor spaces near the water and the infinity pools. MSC Divina is a good choice if you prefer a more classic, slightly smaller ship. On the World class ships, the adults-oriented quiet zones help, but expect noise in the main venues.
  • Best for the Yacht Club: MSC World Europa has the largest Yacht Club in the fleet, with Seashore and Seascape close behind. The Yacht Club includes butler service, premium drinks, a private restaurant and lounge, and its own sundeck. If you want a quieter enclave on a classic ship, the Fantasia class is a good fit.
  • Best on a budget: the Musica and Lirica classes usually have the lowest fares, especially on repositioning and shoulder-season sailings. In the US, the 2008-built MSC Poesia from Miami often costs much less than the newest ships. Check what’s included before comparing, and see our cruise deals for 2027 for current offers.

MSC cruise ship reviews: what to know before you book

Here’s something most rankings leave out: MSC’s guest ratings depend heavily on where the ship sails and who is on board. A ship sailing the Mediterranean in August carries many nationalities and lots of families, so announcements come in several languages and service runs on European timings. The same type of ship in the Caribbean feels much more like an American cruise. If you read MSC cruise ship reviews, look for ones written about the same region and season you’re considering. That will tell you more than the ship’s overall score.

Two other tips. Drinks and dining packages change the value of an MSC cruise a lot, so price your cruise with the package you’d actually buy. Big ships also suit sea-day-heavy itineraries, while the older, smaller ships feel best on port-heavy routes where you spend most days ashore. If you’re comparing MSC with other mainstream lines, our guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships ranked best to worst uses a similar class-by-class approach.

For a wider view across several lines, our look at the worst cruise ships explains which ships rate lowest in sanitation scores and surveys, and why.

For a look at how the two European lines compare on price, see our guide to Costa cruises vs MSC and the hidden costs.

If you are also considering Royal Caribbean, our Royal Caribbean vs MSC Cruises comparison covers price, food, cabins and kids clubs.

FAQs

What is the best MSC ship?

Based on 2026 community ratings on Cruiseline.com, MSC Seashore and MSC World America are the highest-rated MSC ships, with MSC Seascape and MSC Meraviglia just behind. Scores are very close and change as new reviews come in.

What is the worst MSC cruise ship?

The Lirica class ships (MSC Armonia, Sinfonia, Lirica and Opera) usually rank lowest because they’re the oldest and have the fewest features. They’re still decent value for short, port-heavy cruises.

Which MSC ship is best for families?

MSC World America and MSC World Europa have the most family attractions, including large kids’ clubs, water slides and dry slides. MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape are good options if you’d like a slightly less crowded feel.

Is MSC World Asia sailing yet?

MSC World Asia was due to be delivered in late November 2026, with its maiden voyage from Barcelona on December 4, 2026. It doesn’t have guest reviews yet.

Which MSC ships have the Yacht Club?

All World, Seaside, Seaside EVO, Meraviglia and Fantasia class ships have it, and MSC is adding it to the Musica class through 2027. The Lirica class ships don’t have a Yacht Club.

MSC-Cruises-bar-1-1.jpg

MSC Cruises Drinks Menus with Prices (2024)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsFood and drinkMSC Cruises

Taking a look at the MSC drinks menus before your cruise can be a good way to know what drinks are available on board, how much the drinks cost, and whether to buy a drink package or not.

MSC Cruises drinks

If you’ve not yet decided whether to get a drinks package or which one to get out of the five different packages that MSC Cruises offer, then be sure to take a look at my MSC Cruises Drink Package Guide.

That will give you all the info you need to easily work out whether the drinks package is worth it or not.

In this guide to the drinks menus on MSC Cruises ships, you’ll be able to see photos of the drinks menus from each of the bars, lounges and restaurants.

MSC’s drink prices

Here’s a quick summary of what you should expect to pay for drinks on an MSC cruise:

Drink Cost
Beer & cider £7.50 to £9
Glass of wine £8 to £10
Bottle of wine £31 to £79
Cocktails £10
Premium cocktails £14 to £17
Spirits £8 to £14
Soft drink £3 to £3.50
Mocktails £7
Energy drinks £5.50
Mineral water (still or sparkling) £2.50 to £3.50

It can be tricky knowing whether you should buy drinks individually, or pay for a drinks package, but I can help.

My drinks package calculator will give you an estimate of how much you’ll spend on drinks, and whether it would be better to pay for a package.

Just drop your email below and I’ll send it to you.

On MSC cruises, cocktails are always a popular choice, especially when sitting by one of the swimming pools.

MSC Cruises pool bar menu
MSC Cruises pool bar menu

All drinks served outside or by the pool are served in plastic glasses. They are nice plastic glasses, however, particularly the tall cocktail glasses. All of the drinking straws on MSC Cruises are biodegradable.

On MSC Cruises ships you cannot take your drinks into the pools or hot tubs as you can with other cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean.

MSC Cruises cocktails
Fruit Smoothie and Miami Vice

Here’s a closer look at what’s on the menu…

MSC Cruises Pool Bar cocktail menu
MSC Cruises Pool Bar mocktail menu
MSC Cruises Pool Bar beer and cider menu
MSC Cruises Pool Bar spirits and soft drinks menu
MSC Cruises Pool Bar wine list

MSC Cruises’ cocktail bar menu is the one that you’ll find in most of the indoor bars and lounges such as the Sky Lounge.

MSC Cruises cocktail bar menu
MSC Cruises cocktail bar menu

As well as cocktails, you’ll find as a large selection of beers, wines, spirits, and hot drinks.

MSC Cruises cocktails
Jamaican Paradise and Ultimate Mai Tai

Here’s a closer look at what’s on the menu…

MSC Cruises smoked cocktails
MSC Cruises gin and tonic menu
MSC Cruises signature cocktail menu
MSC Cruises signature cocktail menu
MSC Cruises contemporary cocktail menu
MSC Cruises tropical cocktail menu
MSC Cruises frozen cocktail menu
MSC Cruises mocktail menu
MSC Cruises spirits menu
MSC Cruises aperetif menu
MSC Cruises beer menu
MSC Cruises wine list
MSC Cruises soft drinks and coffee menu

The British Pub on MSC Virtuosa is called Masters of the Seas. On other ships it has a different name such as The Brass Anchor on MSC Meraviglia.

MSC Cruises British Pub drinks menu

If you love beer, this is the place to be as you’ll find 12 different beers on draft as well as a huge selection of bottled beers and beer-based cocktails.

MSC Cruises beertails
Beer Mojito and Black Velvet

Here’s a closer look at the menu…

MSC Cruises draught beer menu
MSC Cruises bottled beer menu
MSC Cruises pub menu

In the Main Dining Rooms, each of the lunch and dinner menus has a section headed ‘Sommelier Recommends’ where you can choose from a selection of wines of the day.

MSC Cruises lunch menu

Here a closer look at that…

MSC Cruises wine recommendations

However, you can also order anything from the full wine list. If you have a drink package, it makes sense to order by the glass as wines by the bottle are not included in any package.

When you order by the glass, some of the serving sizes can vary quite a lot! This is a photo of a glass of rose wine that in ordered in the Main Dining Room on MSC Virtuosa last year. (No, I hadn’t drank any before I took the photo!)

glass of rose wine

And below is a photo of a glass of rose wine that I ordered in the main dining room on sister ship MSC Euribia this year. It’s about three times as big!

Below is a closer look at MSC Cruises wine menus so you can see what else is available…

MSC Cruises champagne list
MSC Cruises white wine list
MSC Cruises white wine list
MSC Cruises rose wine list
MSC Cruises red wine list
MSC Cruises red wine list
MSC Cruises red wine list
MSC Cruises red wine list
MSC Cruises red wine list
MSC Cruises wine list
MSC Cruises wine list by the glass
MSC Cruises wine list by the glass red white rose
MSC Cruises beer list

In the Marketplace Buffet restaurant on MSC Cruises, there is a simple drinks menu with beers, wines, soft drinks and coffees.

At breakfast, if you ask for coffee or fruit juice in the buffet, it will be given to you from the machines. These drinks are free for everyone, with or without a drinks package, and they’re not the best.

However, if you do have a drink package then you should ask for freshly squeezed juices and a latte or cappuccino. These are included in the package but you won’t get them unless you ask specifically.

MSC Cruises buffet beer list
MSC Cruises buffet wne list
MSC Cruises buffet soft drinks list

On MSC Virtuosa, there’s a robot bartender called Rob who makes drinks for you in the Starship Club.

Rob Robot Bartender

You can order a drink from Rob using the touchscreens that are located in the bar. There’s a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to choose from, or you can create your own.

Drinks made by Rob the robot cost £18 for alcoholic drinks and £10 for non-alcoholic drinks. They come in a souvenir cup which you get to take home in a box.

Drinks made by the robot aren’t included in the MSC drinks packages, but you can order from a human server instead if you want the free drinks.

MSC Starship Club Menu

Minibar Price List

Each cabin on MSC Cruises ships has a refrigerated minibar that is refilled daily.

Drinks from the minibar are not included in the standard drink package are may be included in some upgrade drinks packages or in Yacht Club Suites.

MSC Cruises Minibar price list

MSC Cruises ships each have a variety of indoor and outdoor bars, lounges and restaurants. Oftentimes, you’ll see that the same menu is used in more than one venue.

For example, the Pool Bar Menu will be found in all of the outdoor bars as well as the Tropical Bar which is by the indoor pool. Most of the cocktail bars will have the same Cocktail Bar Menu.

There are, however, some drink lists which you can only get in one venue – such as the Champagne bar or the Starship Club.

Me in the Champagne Bar on MSC Euribia
Me in the Champagne Bar on MSC Euribia

Online and paper menus

MSC Cruises uses online menus wherever possible. On each table, there’s a sign with a QR code which you can scan with your mobile phone and it will take you to the menu.

You’ll need to be connected to the ship’s wifi to see the menus. You don’t need a wifi package to do this, so it won’t cost you anything.

MSC Cruises QR code scanner for online menus

If you don’t have a mobile device or don’t feel comfortable reading menus on one, paper menus are always available. Just ask one of the waiters for one and they won’t mind at all.

How to order drinks

Although the menus are online, you cannot order drinks online on MSC Cruises ships. Instead, you just tell a waiter what you would like.

Wherever you’re sitting, even if it’s on a sunlounger, the servers will come over regularly to ask if you would like a drink.

In the buffet, some ships have a button you can press that will call the waiter over, which is great!

To conclude

MSC Cruises drinks prices are broadly similar to other cruise lines. The cocktails aren’t particularly strong and the glasses of wine can be fairly small, so you may drink more than you expect to.

If you’re wondering whether to buy a package or not, be sure to take a look at my MSC drink package guide which has information about the various packages and also lists the drinks that are always free or charge with or without a drink package.

Don’t forget about my drinks package calculator too!

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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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bella-vs-fantastic-balcony-800x400-1.jpg

Which To Choose (2024)? (2024)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

When you book a cruise with MSC Cruises, as well as deciding all the usual things such as which is the best ship, which cabin type to go for and whether to buy the drinks package, you’ll have an extra decision to make…

MSC Cruises offers three different ‘experiences’ which are named Bella, Fantastica and Aurea. Each has different benefits and a different price, so you can decide whether you want a budget-friendly cruise, or to pay a little more for lots of added extras.

If you’re trying to decide whether to go for the Bella experience, the Fantastica Experience or the Aurea experience for your next cruise, read on and I’ll help you to make the right decision based on your preferences…

My Family on MSC Virtuosa
We upgraded from Bella to Fantastica

MSC Cruises changed what’s included in the Bella, Fantastica and Aurea packages from 2023 onwards. This guide has all the latest info – some of the info you find from other sources may not be up to date.

Benefits Bella Fantastica Aurea
Make changes to your booking For a fee Free once Free once
Choose your own cabin No YES YES
Free continental breakfast in your cabin Delivery fee applies Free Free
Discounted drinks package when you book Yes YES YES
Free delivery for room service (24-hour) No YES YES
Access to the Thermal Area No No YES
Welcome Prosecco & Chocolates No No YES
Choose your dining time No No YES
Access to the Top Exclusive Solarium No No YES
Spa discounts No No YES
Priority boarding & luggage drop-off No No YES
Available in cabins Balcony and below All Balcony and Suite

MSC Bella Experience

MSC Cruises’ Bella experience is the standard cruise package with no extra cost. You’ll get everything that you would expect on a cruise – accommodation, meals, entertainment and use of the kids’ clubs and leisure facilities.

The Bella experience includes the following…

Accommodation

With the Bella experience, you don’t get to choose your cabin, and it’ll be located somewhere in the less-desirable areas of the ship such as right at the front, right at the back or somewhere noisy like right above the nightclub.

Suggested read: MSC Cruises Cabins to Avoid

If you choose a Bella balcony cabin, it may have a metal rail rather than glass, which means that you would have to stand up to enjoy the view. Bella balcony cabins sometimes have obstructed views or they may be in locations that are prone to being windy or shaded.

As you can see from the following photo, the Bella balconies have metal fronts, so if you have kids aged about six or under, they won’t be able to see out. This could make it more tempting for them to climb on furniture, so I’d avoid these balconies with young kids.

That said, not all Bella cabins are bad, some of them are actually just as good as Fantastica cabins. So check the deck plan before you decide.

If you want to change your Bella stateroom or your booking, you’ll be charged an admin fee.

Suggested read: How To Upgrade Your Cruise Cabin After Purchase

MSC Virtuosa inside cabin
When I stayed in this inside cabin we had the Bella experience

Food and drink

With MSC Cruises’ Bella experience, you’ll be able to dine in the buffet or one of the main dining rooms at no charge, as well as having the option to eat in the speciality restaurants for an extra fee if you wish.

You can submit a preference for an early or late sitting, but there’s no guarantee that your request will be met as the first choices are given to guests who have booked the Fantastica or Aurea packages.

You’ll also be able to book a drinks package with a discount when you book your cruise. If you don’t book it when you book the cruise, you won’t get the discount.

Activities

With the Bella experience, you’ll be able to use the ship’s pools, gym, sports facilities and see shows in the theatre at no charge. Your children can attend sessions in the kids club each day for no extra cost.

Loyalty points

Whichever experience you choose, you’ll earn MSC Voyagers Club points which will give you discounts and perks on future cruises.

MSC Voyagers club gold card

Not available with suites…

You can select the Bella experience when you book any Interior, Ocean View or Balcony Cabin. You can’t select the Bella experience if you want to stay in a Suite.

MSC Fantastica Experience

The Fantastica experience is an upgrade to MSC Cruises’ standard package. For an extra cost, you’ll enjoy a range of perks such as a cabin in a better location, the first choice of dinner sittings and more flexible booking terms.

The Fantastica experience includes…

Accommodation

When you upgrade to the Fantastica experience, you get to choose your own cabin, and you’ll have more choices of where to book your room, but you still won’t be able to select from the most desirable areas of the ship – that’s reserved for Aurea.

The wider choice of accommodation means that you may have the option of a sofa bed for kids, rather than a Pullman bed.

Our Fantastica Balcony Room on MSC Virtuosa
Our Fantastica Balcony Room on MSC Virtuosa with sofa bed

If you make the wrong choice with your cabin, you’ll be able to change it for free. If MSC Cruises have to change your cabin number for operational reasons, they will give you an upgrade.

If you wish to change your cruise dates or destination, you’ll be able to do this once for free. However, you’ll need to do it at least one month before departure and the new date must be within three months of the original. You should also note that it doesn’t state that you’re allowed to change the ship, just the date and destination.

Food and drink

As well as dining in the buffet and main restaurants, if you choose MSC Cruises’ Fantastica experience you can also enjoy breakfast delivered to your cabin at no charge.

For a little while they did remove this benefit, but now it’s back.

If you choose the Fantastica experience, you’re allowed to request your preferred dining time, but it’s subject to availability. So you aren’t guaranteed it still.

And in 2022, another benefit was added for Fantastica guests so they now also get a 20% discount on a dedicated speciality restaurant pre-paid package.

Activities

Just the same as the Bella experience, you’ll be able to use the ship’s pools, gym, sports facilities and see shows in the theatre at no charge. There are no longer any extra activities like cooking classes and foreign language classes for kids staying in Fantastica accommodation.

Services

Last year, a photographer would circle around the main dining room on Mediterranean Night taking photos and you could collect a printed photo for free from the photo counter. This is no longer a perk for Fantastica guests so if you do want any photos, you’ll have to pay for them.

Loyalty points

Whichever experience you choose, you’ll earn MSC Voyagers Club points which will give you discounts and perks on future cruises.

Fantastica’s available with any cabin type

You can upgrade to the Fantastica experience when you book any cabin type, including Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite.

Bella Vs Fantastica – what’s the difference?

When you upgrade from Bella to Fantastica you will get:

  • Choice of cabin location
  • Free room service at breakfast time
  • Choice of dinner sittings (subject to availability)
  • Opportunity to change your cabin, cruise date or destination for free

You can read more about the MSC Fantastica experience here: MSC Fantastica: Should You Upgrade?

MSC Aurea Experience

The Aurea experience is MSC Cruises’ top package. For an extra cost, you’ll enjoy benefits like access to exclusive areas of the ship, priority boarding and discounted spa treatments. However, MSC Cruises no longer offers free drinks for Aurea guests.

The Aurea experience includes…

Accommodation

One of the main MSC Aurea benefits is that it lets you choose from the best locations for Balcony cabins and Suites. You’ll also get a bathrobe and slippers in your cabin, and a pillow menu so you can get the best night’s sleep.

Food and drink

In previous years, the main benefit of the Aurea package is that you would get a free Easy drink package. This would entitle you to free draught beer, house wines, selected spirits and cocktails, soft drinks, fruit juices, bottled water and classic hot drinks.

You also get a ‘welcome package’ with prosecco and chocolates in your room on departure day.

Suggested read: MSC Drink Packages Guide

The MSC Aurea experience also gives you the option to enjoy My Choice dining in a dedicated restaurant or area as well as a 20% discount on a prepaid speciality dining package. Plus you get free delivery on room service 24 hours a day, but you need to pay for the actual things you order (except for breakfast, which like Fantastica is free).

Activities

The Aurea experience gives adults access to an exclusive sundeck on your ship. You’ll also get a Wellbeing package which includes access to the Thermal Area of the spa throughout your cruise where you can visit the sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.

From 2022, Aurea guests will no longer receive the free ‘Well Being Package’. This did include a welcome cocktail in the spa, a private MediSpa doctor consultation, a 50-minute massage and a tanning booth session. Instead, you’ll now get a 40% discount on a dedicated spa prepaid package or a 10% discount on any other spa treatments.

Services

Aurea guests get priority boarding on embarkation day with luggage drop off. There’s no VIP line at guest services or any other priority treatment during your cruise.

Loyalty points

Whichever experience you choose, you’ll earn MSC Voyagers Club points which will give you discounts and perks on future cruises.

MSC Cruises Aurea spa
The sauna on MSC Seaview

Only available in the best rooms…

The MSC Aurea experience is only available for guests staying in Balcony cabins or Suites. If you want an Interior or Ocean View cabin, then you will have to choose either a Bella or Fantastica experience.

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Fantastica Vs Aurea – what’s the difference?

When you upgrade from Fantastica to Aurea you will get:

  • Choice of the best Balcony cabins and Suites
  • Welcome prosecco and chocolates
  • Pillow menu
  • Dining in a dedicated restaurant or area at flexible times
  • Access to Thermal Area of the spa and the Top Exclusive Solarium
  • Discounted spa treatments
  • Priority boarding

You can read more about the MSC Aurea experience here: MSC Aurea Experience – Should You Upgrade?

Ah, but which is best? It’s not a simple answer…

Which MSC experience is best depends on how much value you place on each of the added extras and the cost of the upgrade.

The price to upgrade from Bella to Fantastica or Aurea varies from cruise to cruise and can also change over time. It also depends on the cabin type, so you might find that upgrading to Fantastica could cost £140 extra for an Inside cabin, but only £30 extra for an Ocean View cabin, as an example.

The price of upgraded experiences is payable per person, but it usually only applies to the adults in your cabin.

Are the Fantastica or Aurea Experiences Worth It?

On a seven-night cruise, let’s say that the Fantastica experience costs £50 per person extra and the Aurea experience costs around £100 per person extra (the actual prices may be different on your cruise)

So, you would need to look at the perks and decide if they are worth it for you…

MSC Fantastica perks:

  • Choice of cabin locations
  • Free room service at breakfast
  • Choice of dinner sittings (subject to availability)
  • 20% discount on a prepaid speciality dining package
  • Flexibility to change your room, cruise date or destination

MSC Aurea perks:

  • All of the Fantastica perks
  • Welcome prosecco and chocolates
  • Pillow menu
  • Dining in a special area with flexible times
  • Access to Thermal Area of the spa and Top Exclusive Solarium
  • Discounted spa treatments
  • Priority boarding

MSC Cruises Perks That You Can No Longer Get (Removed in 2022)

  • Free drink package for Aurea guests
  • Free tanning booth and cocktail for Aurea guests
  • Free delivery of room service outside of breakfast time
  • Extra activities for kids
  • ZOE virtual assistant
  • Free photo

Here’s when you should upgrade

The Fantastica package can be worth it…

1. If you’re not happy with the choice of Bella cabins

Take a look at the cabins you’re offered with Bella. If you don’t like any of them, you should probably consider upgrading to Fantastica for more choice.

2. If your dining time is important

On MSC Cruises, the second dinner sitting usually starts at around 8.30 pm, meaning that your meal is unlikely to be finished until well after 10 pm, possibly as late as 11 pm. If you’re cruising with kids, you’re unlikely to find this to be acceptable.

While you can speak to the maître d on the first evening and request an earlier dining time, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be able to do this for you, even if you have young kids.

Choose Aurea if…

1. You hate fighting for sunloungers

On some MSC Cruises ships, you’ll find that other guests reserve sun loungers with towels all day. Which means that there aren’t enough loungers for everyone else. If you have access to the exclusive sun deck for Aurea guests, this should be less of an issue.

It’s important to note though, that kids aren’t allowed in the spa or the private sundeck. If you have kids with you, you’ll only be able to use these areas when your little ones are in the kids’ club. You need to be child-free to really make the most of the Aurea experience.

2. You like to dine at different times each day

One day you might like to dine at 6 pm right after your excursion, another you might like to lay in the sun until 8 pm, get ready for an hour and then eat at 9p m. The Aurea package allows you to do this with the flexible dining option.

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To conclude

If you’re cruising on a budget, the Bella experience will be the best one for you. However, depending on your circumstances and the cost, it might be worth upgrading to Fantastica or Aurea.

If you’ve not cruised with MSC Cruises before, I’d recommend that you read my next article ‘Why Are MSC Cruises So Cheap?‘ to get an understanding of how MSC Cruises compares to other, more expensive cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and P&O Cruises.

If you want special treatment on your cruise above and beyond what you get from Aurea, I recommend that you look into the MSC Yacht Club instead.

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

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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Large cruise ship docked in clear turquoise Caribbean water, the kind of trip Carnival vs MSC buyers compare

Carnival vs MSC Cruises (2026): Which Cruise Line Is Best for You?

by CarnivalChoosing a cruiseCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsMSC Cruises

Carnival vs MSC comes down to the onboard vibe. Carnival is the casual, high-energy, American-style fun ship with lots of free comfort food and departures from about a dozen US ports. MSC Cruises is more European and international, with newer, sleeker ships, very low fares (kids often sail free) and the MSC Yacht Club, a luxury ship-within-a-ship that Carnival simply doesn’t have.

Both lines are among the cheapest ways to cruise from the US. Below we compare ships, homeports, cabins, food, drinks packages, entertainment, kids clubs and real costs as of late 2026, so you can pick the one that suits you.

Carnival vs MSC at a Glance

Feature Carnival Cruise Line MSC Cruises
Fleet size About 29 ships About 23 ships (MSC World Asia due Dec 2026)
Biggest ships Excel class: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee World class: MSC World Europa, MSC World America
US homeports Around a dozen, from Galveston to Baltimore, Long Beach and Seattle Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, New York
Onboard vibe Loud, casual, party-friendly, mostly American guests International, more relaxed by day, livelier at night
Private destinations Celebration Key, RelaxAway Half Moon Cay, Isla Tropicale (Roatán) Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Premium option Suites, Havana and Cloud 9 Spa cabins MSC Yacht Club (private restaurant, pool, butler)
Main drinks package CHEERS!, $69.95/day pre-cruise + 20% (dynamic pricing from Dec 1, 2026) Easy and Easy Plus, priced per sailing
Daily service charge About $18 standard, $20 suites $17 standard, $23 Yacht Club (since May 2026)
Kids clubs Camp Ocean, Circle C, Club O2 Baby, Mini, Junior, Young and Teen clubs (with LEGO and Chicco)
Loyalty program Carnival Rewards (spend-based, launched 2026) MSC Voyagers Club
Best for First-timers, groups, short getaways, fans of free casual food Bargain hunters, families with kids who sail free, Yacht Club luxury

Ships and Fleet: Who Has the Newer Ships?

Carnival runs about 29 ships, the largest fleet in its history after the former P&O Australia ships Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter joined the brand. The flagships are the three Excel-class ships, Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, which have the BOLT roller coaster, themed zones and the most dining choice. Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze add an Italian "Carnival Fun Italian Style" twist. The rest of the fleet runs from modern Vista-class ships to older Spirit- and Conquest-class ships that are smaller and simpler. For the full timeline, see our list of the newest Carnival ships in order.

Carnival is not standing still. Carnival Festivale, the fourth Excel-class ship, is due in spring 2027 from Port Canaveral, followed by Carnival Tropicale in 2028 and three larger "Project Ace" ships from 2029.

MSC’s fleet of about 23 ships is younger on average. Its biggest ships are the World class: MSC World Europa and MSC World America, which arrived in Miami in 2025 and is one of the largest cruise ships afloat. MSC World Asia is due in December 2026 for Mediterranean sailings, and MSC has more ships on order into the 2030s. Older Lirica- and Musica-class ships such as MSC Poesia are much smaller and quieter.

Which MSC ships sail from the US?

For winter 2026-27, MSC has seven ships across four US homeports:

  • Miami: MSC World America, MSC Seaside and MSC Poesia
  • Port Canaveral: MSC Seashore and MSC Grandiosa
  • Galveston: MSC Seascape
  • New York: MSC Meraviglia

To see how these ships rate with real passengers, check our ranking of MSC ships from best to worst.

Homeports and Destinations

This is where Carnival has a clear edge for US cruisers. It sails from around a dozen US homeports, including Galveston, Miami, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, New Orleans, Mobile, Baltimore, Charleston, Long Beach, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and New York area ports. Many people can drive to a Carnival ship, which saves flights and hotel nights.

MSC’s US program is concentrated in Florida, Texas and New York, mostly with 3 to 7 night Caribbean and Bahamas trips. MSC really shines if you are flying to Europe: it is one of the biggest lines in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, with ships embarking at several ports on the same itinerary.

Both lines have private destinations. Carnival’s Paradise Collection includes Celebration Key on Grand Bahama, RelaxAway Half Moon Cay and Isla Tropicale in Roatán. MSC’s Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a quieter, beach-focused island where ships often stay into the evening for a lighthouse show. Compare them in our guide to cruise line private islands.

Bright cruise ship cabin with a made-up bed, the kind of stateroom you can book on Carnival or MSC
Standard cabins on Carnival and MSC are similar in size; MSC's Yacht Club adds a private ship-within-a-ship. Photo: Engin Akyurt on Pexels

Cabins and the MSC Yacht Club

Standard inside, ocean view and balcony cabins are broadly similar on both lines. Carnival’s cabins are often a touch roomier on older ships, while MSC’s newer ships have a more modern, European design with less storage. Carnival also has specialty cabins like Havana (with private pool access) and Cloud 9 Spa cabins.

MSC’s fare structure matters here. Prices come in experiences such as Bella, Fantastica and Aurea, with Fantastica adding perks like room service breakfast and better cabin locations. Read what each includes before you book the cheapest fare.

The biggest difference is the MSC Yacht Club. It is a private area with its own restaurant, lounge, pool deck and 24-hour butler service, with drinks included. Carnival’s suites have priority perks, and Excel-class Summer Suites have a private sun deck, but there is nothing on Carnival close to the Yacht Club. If you want a premium experience on a mainstream ship, this is MSC’s strongest selling point.

On Carnival, cabin location matters a lot. Our guide to Carnival cruise cabins to avoid covers noise and motion hotspots.

MSC vs Carnival Food

Food is the top debate in any MSC vs Carnival cruise comparison. Carnival generally wins on free casual food: Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Pizzeria del Capitano and, on Excel ships, extra venues like Big Chicken. Main dining is reliable American comfort food, with the famous Warm Chocolate Melting Cake.

MSC leans Italian. Pizza, pasta, bread and desserts are strong, and the main dining room is a step up for many passengers. The trade-off is fewer free grab-and-go spots outside the buffet, and the buffet can feel busy on full sailings. Specialty dining on both lines (steakhouses, sushi, teppanyaki) costs extra.

Drinks Packages Compared

Carnival’s CHEERS! package costs $69.95 per person per day bought before your cruise or $74.95 onboard, plus a 20% service charge. From December 1, 2026, Carnival is moving to dynamic pricing that varies by sailing length, itinerary and season, so check the price for your exact cruise. Everyone 21+ in a cabin must buy it if one person does, and there is a 15 alcoholic drink per day limit.

MSC sells Easy and Easy Plus packages, priced per sailing and often discounted or bundled in Fantastica-style deals. Easy Plus covers more premium spirits and wines. Yacht Club guests get drinks included. If you only drink a few drinks a day, paying as you go can be cheaper on either line.

Performers on a brightly lit stage in a large cruise ship theater
Carnival focuses on comedy and party nights, while MSC offers big production shows. Photo: A. S. on Pexels

Entertainment and Onboard Vibe

Carnival is built for fun: deck parties, Punchliner Comedy Club, live bands, Playlist Productions shows, trivia and a busy casino. It feels casual and social, and most guests are American.

MSC has big production shows, a nightly theater, casinos, bars with live music and impressive public spaces, such as the LED ceiling Galleria on Meraviglia-class ships and the dry slide on World-class ships. Announcements are often in several languages, and in Europe the guest mix is very international. On US sailings, most passengers are American, but the style stays more cosmopolitan.

Kids Clubs and Families

Carnival’s free kids program is Camp Ocean (ages 2 to 11), Circle C (12 to 14) and Club O2 (15 to 17), plus waterparks on every ship and big slides on newer ones.

MSC splits kids more finely: Baby Club (under 3), Mini Club (3 to 6), Junior Club (7 to 11), Young Club (12 to 14) and Teen Club (15 to 17), with LEGO and Chicco partnerships. MSC often runs offers where kids sail free in the same cabin, which can make a big difference for families.

Price and Value: The Real Cost

MSC usually advertises lower base fares, especially for families. Carnival is very competitive on short 3 to 5 night trips. A fair comparison adds:

  1. Service charges: about $18 per person per day on Carnival (standard cabins) versus $17 on MSC (US sailings).
  2. Drinks: CHEERS! or MSC Easy, if you plan to drink.
  3. Travel to the port: Carnival’s wider homeport list can save you flights.
  4. Wi-Fi and specialty dining: both charge extra.

One thing many comparisons miss: loyalty status. Carnival replaced VIFP with spend-based Carnival Rewards in 2026, earning points on fares and onboard spend. If you are already high-tier with another line, MSC has a history of status-matching to its Voyagers Club, so ask before you book. For bargain itineraries, see our cheapest 7-day cruises from Florida.

Carnival vs MSC: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose Carnival if you want a lively, casual atmosphere, plenty of free burgers and tacos, comedy and party nights, and a homeport within driving distance. It is a great first cruise for groups and families.

Choose MSC if you want the lowest fares, kids sailing free, sleek newer ships, Italian food and a calmer daytime feel, or if you want luxury on a budget in the Yacht Club. It is also the better choice for a Mediterranean cruise.

Still weighing other lines? Read our Royal Caribbean vs MSC comparison and our Norwegian vs Carnival guide. Our cruise deals for 2027 page has current offers on both lines.

FAQs

Is MSC cheaper than Carnival?

Often, yes, on base fares. MSC regularly runs kids-sail-free offers and low Caribbean fares, but Carnival is just as competitive on short 3 to 5 night sailings. Compare the total after daily service charges and any drinks package before you decide.

Is MSC or Carnival better for families?

Both work well. Carnival suits families who want waterslides, a casual vibe and plenty of free food. MSC suits families chasing low fares (kids often sail free), big modern ships and age-split kids clubs from babies to 17.

What are MSC’s newest ships?

MSC World America (2025) is the newest ship sailing from the US, based in Miami. MSC World Asia is due in December 2026 and will sail in the Mediterranean. MSC Euribia and MSC Seascape are other recent additions.

Does Carnival have anything like the MSC Yacht Club?

Not quite. Carnival has suites and Excel-class Summer Suites with a private sun deck, but no ship-within-a-ship with its own restaurant, lounge, pool and butler service like the MSC Yacht Club.

Which has better food, Carnival or MSC?

Many passengers prefer Carnival for free casual food such as Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. MSC is stronger on Italian dishes, pizza and bread, but has fewer free grab-and-go spots outside the buffet.

Fun-Pass-MSC.jpg

Is the MSC Fun Pass Worth It?

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

A lot of cruise lines offer additional packages and passes that you can book for your cruise to save some money or to unlock some additional perks.

MSC’s Fun Pass is one example, but I have to be honest – it’s one of the most confusing extra packages I’ve ever seen on a cruise!

Group of happy friends gathered around a table, enjoying leisure activities offered by a fun pass.

There’s all kinds of different information from MSC that seems to be contradictory, but I’ve unpicked it all and made sense of it to bring you this simple, easy-to-understand guide to the MSC Fun Pass, and crucially, whether it’s worth buying.

What is the MSC Fun Pass?

The MSC Fun Pass is a pass you can book before you cruise or once onboard, though you’ll get the best deal if you pre-book. It offers you savings on lots of the onboard entertainment facilities on your MSC ship, such as the 4D cinema, bowling and more.

It’s actually two different passes, depending on which ship you sail on. There is:

  • The More You Play, The Less You Pay
  • All You Can Enjoy

You don’t get to pick one, and they work very differently. 

How The MSC Fun Pass Works

The two different MSC Fun Passes don’t offer the same deal, so let me explain them separately.

1. The More You Play, The Less You Pay – Explained

Promotional standee for msc's fun pass, highlighting various entertainment options and a savings offer on board a cruise ship.

This pass is available on MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview. It’s also available on MSC Euribia, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape, but the MSC website doesn’t tell you that.

This pass works by giving you free credit to use when you pay for a pass in advance – either before you cruise, or when you’re onboard. You get more bonus credit when booking before the cruise.

You’ll pay for the pass and your credit – including the bonus amount – is added to the pass. Every time you then use one of the entertainment facilities on the ship, the credit is deducted from the pass until you run out, at which point you’re charged as normal on your cruise account.

The amount of bonus you get on the ship depends on how much you pay, but before you cruise there’s just one flat fee option, which I’ll explain below.

Here’s a breakdown of the attractions it can be used with:

Attraction MSC Meraviglia MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia
Interactive Cinema YES YES YES
F1 Simulator YES YES YES
Bowling YES YES YES
Billiards No YES No
Zip Line No YES No
Flight Simulator YES No No
VR Maze No No YES
Video Games* YES YES YES
Buying Merchandise YES YES YES
*On video games, it doesn’t include arcade games where you can win prizes, only video game machines.

2. All You Can Enjoy Pass – Explained

A sign about the MSC fun pass that is on display for people to see

The MSC All You Can Enjoy Pass is available on the MSC Magnifica, MSC Fantasia, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida and MSC Preziosa.

This pass gives you unlimited use of the included entertainment facilities – you pay a single fee for your pass for the cruise, and then you can use the facilities as much as you want.

This pass is much easier to understand since it’s unlimited – once you’ve paid for the pass, you can then use these facilities without incurring any extra charges. 

Here are the facilities it covers:

Attractions MSC Magnifica MSC Fantasia MSC Divina, MSC Splendida, MSC Preziosa
4D Cinema YES YES YES
F1 Simulator No YES YES
Mini Bowling YES No YES
Billiards YES No No
Video Games No No No
Buying Merchandise No No No

MSC Fun Pass Cost & Value

In determining the value of the two different Fun Passes, you need to understand the cost involved, and what you actually save by purchasing them.

A futuristic-looking virtual reality arcade room onboard that's included on the MSC FUN PASS

The More You Play – Value

The More You Play Fun Pass can be bought onboard the ship, or you can pay for it before you travel.

If you book before you cruise, you’ll get the best value:

Currency Onboard What You’ll Pay Bonus Received Total Credit
GBP – £ £100 £80 £180
Euro – € €100 €80 €180
USD – $ $70 $70 $140

These prices may change – the information MSC provides is contradictory in places, but you get the idea – you get a lot of free extra credit when you book in advance.

If you pay for a Fun Pass on the ship, you’ll still get bonus credit, but it won’t be as much. The percentage bonus you get will depend on how much you pay upfront. Here are some example amounts – again, these may vary by sailing:

What You’ll Pay Bonus Received Total Credit
£25 £5 (20%) £30
£50 £10 (20%) £50
£70 £20 (28.5%) £90
£100 £40 (40%) £140
£150 £70 (47%) £220

You still get the best value pre-booking since you’ll get between 80-100% extra credit free, but booking on the ship is still good value.

As a guide, here’s the cost of all the attractions that are included, so you can see how quickly you’ll burn through your credit:

Attraction Cost
Interactive Cinema £10 adults, £8 children
F1 Simulator £12
Bowling £25 for 30 minutes, £45 per hour, £2 shoe rental
Billiards £20 per hour
Zip Line £10 per use
Flight Simulator £15
VR Maze £12
Video Games £1.50 to £5
Buying Merch Various
MSC FUN PASS promotional tarpaulin displaying various prices and deals for onboard activities.

The important thing to note is that these passes can be shared – you can buy one, and everyone in your family can use it. You don’t need individual passes.

A formula 1 simulator in front of a 3-monitor gaming setup available for MSC FUN PASS subscribers

All You Can Enjoy – Value

It’s a lot harder to judge the cost of the All You Can Enjoy Fun Pass because the cost varies depending on the demand and the individual itinerary, including the length. It makes sense for an unlimited pass that the longer you cruise, the more it should cost.

I’ve seen some people booking a 7-night cruise saying they paid around $80 or £100 but it’s not a per-night fee, and it’ll depend on how busy the ship is likely to be.

The only way to know how much it’ll cost will be to check the MSC website once you’ve booked, and try to add it on for your cruise.

You can book this pass when you’re on the ship, but you’ll save 20% on the final cost if you book it before you sail. Also these are per-person passes and you can’t share them.

The activities do cost less on the ships that offer this pass – for example, it’s mini bowling rather than full bowling lanes, and the 4D cinema isn’t as good as the fully interactive cinemas on the other ships.

Attraction Cost
4D Cinema £8
F1 Simulator £12
Mini Bowling £5 per person, per game
Billiards £20 per hour

So, is the MSC Fun Pass worth it or not?

Whether the MSC Fun Pass is worth it entirely depends on which ship you’re sailing on (and therefore which pass you can buy), and how much you’ll use the onboard entertainment amenities.

If you’ll use them a lot, it likely is worth buying, especially on the More You Play pass, since it’s free credits – if you would’ve spent £180 on those amenities anyway, then paying £100 for the £180 of credit is amazing value!

But, if you’re likely to spend less, or if you’re on one of the ships offering the All You Can Play pass and it’s a bit out of your price range, then don’t pay for it, and just pay for the attractions as you use them instead.

For a lot of people, you’ll be too busy relaxing in the bars, sunbathing by the pool or exploring the ports you visit. However, if your family loves these attractions, then I’d definitely recommend checking them out.

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Cruise Mummy

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

Read more about me

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