If you’re considering trying out MSC Cruises for the first time, there are numerous advantages to sailing with this European cruise line. Their fares are among the most affordable in the market, offering exceptional value for their voyages.
MSC Cruises has been gaining popularity, particularly in North America. Not only do they offer competitive pricing, but they also frequently include extras like basic Wi-Fi and drink packages as part of their promotions, attracting cruisers from other cruise lines.
Having experienced four MSC cruises personally, I’ve compiled my thoughts on the top advantages of sailing with this cruise line.
Cheap cruise fares
MSC Cruises indeed stands out for its incredible prices, which are one of the primary reasons many cruisers opt to give them a try. As the world’s largest privately held cruise line, MSC consistently offers some of the most competitive cruise fares in the market, often rivaling or even surpassing those of Carnival Cruise Line. For budget-conscious travelers, this presents a compelling opportunity to experience a new cruise brand without breaking the bank.
To illustrate, one of the most remarkable deals I’ve personally snagged was a 4-night cruise aboard MSC Divina, complete with complimentary Wi-Fi and drinks, all for just $185 per person. Such affordability is unparalleled, especially when considering the value of the experience compared to alternative weekend getaway options.
Moreover, MSC Cruises regularly rolls out enticing promotions that include sought-after perks such as cabin upgrades, free Wi-Fi, complimentary drinks, and onboard credit. Notably, Wi-Fi and drink packages can be significant expenses for cruisers, often amounting to hundreds of dollars. By contrast, on other cruise lines like Carnival, securing a drink package alone can set you back $65 per day.
Large fleet
With 22 ships currently sailing and more on the way, MSC Cruises offers a plethora of options for cruisers to choose from. Its largest vessels, such as the upcoming MSC World America set to debut next year, rival the mega-ships of competitors, boasting all the modern amenities and features that today’s cruisers crave.
The diversity of MSC’s fleet ensures that there is something for everyone. Smaller and more intimate ships from the Lirica and Musica Classes venture to off-the-beaten-path itineraries, accommodating fewer than 3,000 passengers onboard. In contrast, the Seaside Class ships are tailored for warm climates, featuring abundant light-filled spaces, outdoor dining areas, and lounges. Moreover, MSC’s newer ships offer a wealth of family-friendly venues and activities, catering to cruisers of all ages.
When it comes to accommodations, MSC ships provide a wide range of cabin options, including solo cabins, inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, balconies, and suites. The top-tier suites, known as the Yacht Club in MSC’s terminology, offer premium service and amenities that rival those found on other cruise lines.
Wide variety of itineraries
MSC Cruises boasts an extensive itinerary that spans over 100 countries worldwide, with a strong presence in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. In the United States, they operate from Port Canaveral (Orlando) and Miami, offering convenient departure points for American cruisers.
Expanding their reach, MSC Cruises has recently introduced sailings from New York and has plans to commence operations from Galveston, Texas in 2025, thereby broadening accessibility for more passengers across the country.
In terms of itinerary lengths, MSC Cruises provides a diverse range of options, ranging from short 1-day cruises to epic 116-day World Cruises, catering to varying preferences and schedules. Additionally, one of the notable perks of sailing with MSC is the flexibility to embark at multiple ports during a cruise. For instance, on an upcoming MSC Seaside voyage, passengers have the option to embark at ports in Barbados, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. Similarly, in Europe, passengers can embark from various ports in Italy, France, and Spain, offering greater flexibility and convenience for travelers.
Family-friendly
MSC Cruises prioritizes family-friendly experiences, ensuring that even the youngest sailors have a blast onboard. Their ships are equipped with water parks, dedicated kids’ clubs, and family-oriented activities to cater to all age groups. With amenities like a kids-only section in the buffet and family cabins accommodating up to 10 passengers, MSC makes multigenerational travel hassle-free.
Their complimentary kids’ clubs offer a plethora of entertainment options, featuring renowned brands like LEGO and Chicco. From thrilling slides to interactive waterparks, MSC’s onboard facilities provide endless fun and opportunities for cooling off.
Sports enthusiasts can partake in various activities and tournaments, including soccer, basketball, tennis, ping pong, and foosball. For tech-savvy guests, MSC offers high-tech experiences like an F1 Simulator, bowling, VR Maze, video games, and a 4D Cinema, which can be covered with the Fun Pass Package.
Additionally, guests can enjoy family-friendly entertainment such as the Family Game Show, Family Disco, and live theater productions, all included in the cruise fare. With an array of options catering to families, MSC ensures a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience for everyone onboard.
Loyalty program status matching
MSC’s Status Match program offers guests the opportunity to transfer their status from hotel or airline loyalty programs, providing immediate onboard benefits. This perk is particularly appealing to travelers who have earned status in various loyalty programs, such as Marriott, Best Western, Expedia, Club Med, Starwood, Sandals, Hilton, Hyatt, and Wyndham, among others.
Participants in the Status Match program can enjoy a range of benefits, including extra onboard credit, discounts on internet packages, access to the thermal spa, priority boarding, and complimentary dinner at specialty restaurants like the renowned Butcher’s Cut steakhouse.
Transferring status incurs no fee, but it can only be done once, so guests should carefully select the most valuable program to transfer from. To ensure recognition of the transferred status, guests should complete the application 7-10 days before sailing. The application form can be accessed on the MSC Cruises website, making it convenient for guests to take advantage of this exclusive program.
Upscale suite experience
The MSC Yacht Club represents a pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity within MSC cruise ships, akin to “a ship within a ship” concept. It offers an unparalleled, all-inclusive cruising experience, featuring upgraded suites, personalized service, and exclusive venues onboard.
One of the highlights of the MSC Yacht Club is its dedicated lounge, restaurant, and sun deck area, providing guests with a secluded and sophisticated ambiance. I particularly enjoyed the Yacht Club lounge, which offers an exquisite menu, as well as the rooftop buffet for breakfast and lunch.
Moreover, the premium experience extends beyond the ship to include customized port experiences and unique amenities at Ocean Cay Reserve, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. What sets the MSC Yacht Club apart is its exceptional value, offering a boutique-style experience at a more affordable price point compared to other luxury cruise lines.
Italian flair
MSC Cruises truly celebrates the essence of Italian culture and cuisine, paying homage to its origins and maritime heritage. Despite now being a Swiss company, MSC’s Italian roots are evident throughout the cruise experience, adding a touch of European charm and tradition.
The culinary offerings onboard MSC ships reflect Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage, with freshly made pasta, authentic gelato, and delectable Naples-style pizza being just some of the highlights. Guests can indulge in a variety of Italian dishes, from classic spaghetti to artisanal bread, salads, and an array of gelato flavors.
Special touches like Italian-themed nights in the Main Dining Room and the presence of renowned chocolatier Venchi Chocolate further enhance the Italian experience onboard. Venchi’s sumptuous chocolates and decadent gelatos provide guests with delightful treats that embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship and flavor.
Whether savoring a slice of pizza for breakfast or indulging in silky gelato, guests onboard MSC Cruises can embark on a culinary journey that showcases the best of Italian cuisine, creating unforgettable memories of Italian-inspired delights at sea.
Oodles of options
MSC Cruises provides customers with a unique opportunity to tailor their cruise experience through its MSC Experiences program, a departure from the standard offerings of most other cruise lines. With MSC Experiences, guests can select from various levels when booking their cruise, ensuring there are options available for every type of traveler.
Starting from the basic Bella experience to the more comprehensive Aurea level, guests can choose the package that best fits their preferences and budget. For those seeking the utmost luxury and personalized service, the MSC Yacht Club experience offers an exclusive option complete with a dedicated butler and private venues.
Additionally, MSC Cruises offers a diverse range of drink packages to cater to different tastes and needs. With five distinct packages available, guests can select the option that aligns with their beverage preferences, whether it’s a selection of beers and wines or a more extensive package featuring premium spirits, champagne, and specialty coffees. Moreover, MSC ensures that there are options suitable for guests of all ages, including children.
There are a lot of great reasons to try an MSC cruise!
In my personal opinion, MSC Cruises offers exceptional value for the price paid. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of my cruises with them and am eagerly anticipating my upcoming voyage to the southern Caribbean.
It’s essential for those considering MSC to have a clear understanding of what their money will get them. While the fares are remarkably affordable, it’s important to recognize that MSC is a business aiming to generate profit. Consequently, while you can’t expect luxurious vacations at such budget-friendly prices, MSC does offer a range of advantages.
With competitive base fares and the option to customize your experience with add-ons such as drink packages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and excursions, MSC ensures flexibility and choice for its guests. Additionally, the availability of multiple experience packages and a wide selection of ships and itineraries further enhances the appeal of sailing with MSC.
