new msc cruise ship 2022

Mon-Sun 9:00 am - 6:00 pm EST

MSC VIRTUOSA

Click here  to find out more about our enhanced Health & Safety measures and our new, even safer onboard experience.

Itineraries

MAIN FEATURES

Environmental stewardship.

Advanced wastewater treatment system. Discover more on how the MSC Group is actively contributing to impactful environmental conservation and humanitarian programs at the MSC Foundation Centre on board.  

MSC Starship Club

This futuristic venue is much more than just a bar. It's an immersive entertainment experience. Featuring Rob , the first ever humanoid robotic bartender at sea , the MSC Starship Club will transport our guests to a different world.

As you sip your cosmic cocktail and gaze out of the portholes across the space, Rob and his human colleagues will take you to an exciting journey to discover new galactic destinations.

Watch the video |  See the Infographic

Galleria Virtuosa

The longest LED Dome at Sea. The indoor promenade features both Main and Speciality Restaurants along with numerous shops.

With 1168m 2 of retail space , MSC Virtuosa will exceed the already record breaking retail space onboard MSC Grandiosa, to present the largest shopping area at sea on any cruise ship with 11 state-of-the art boutiques and over 250 brands. 

The promenade is destined to become the ultimate destination for socializing and entertainment possibilities for guests.

MSC Virtuosa Pools

Family & Children

MSC Cruises is known for its award-winning family offering and has a long-standing partnership with the LEGO Group to design the kids club areas as well as on board activities. 

Discover all activities and services for children, tweens, teens and their parents here

MSC Yacht Club

The best location of the cabins and a reserved area accessible only to YC Members, dedicated restaurant and lounges and a large private pool area with solarium and whirlpool baths. 24-hour butler service, dedicated massage rooms and full access to Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa.

This is the MSC Yacht Club , the ultimate luxury cruise experience.

Spa & wellness

staterooms and Suites

Whether you’re looking for a duplex suite with private whirlpool bath, a sea-view balcony stateroom or a family option, you’ll find it all on MSC Virtuosa.

• Surface approx. 12-17 sqm, balcony approx 4-8 sqm
• Sitting area with sofa
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub , vanity area with hairdryer
• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
• ZOE - in-cabin Bluetooth speaker
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar

Choose the cabin type that best suits you:

• Balcony Aurea (best ship position, surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 11-1 3)
• Deluxe Balcony (surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 8-14 )
• Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 8-14 )
• Studio Balcony (single use, surface approx. 12 sqm, deck 13-14 )

The image is representative only

Size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category)

• Surface approx. 12-25 sqm, deck 5-11
• Window with sea view
• Relaxing armchair
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer
• Can accomodate up to 6 people
• Premium Ocean View, can accommodate up to 6 people (surface approx. 25 sqm, deck 9-11 )
• Deluxe Ocean View (surface approx. 16 sqm, deck 5 )
• Junior Ocean View (surface approx. 12 sqm, deck 8 )
• Junior Ocean View with obstructed view (surface approx 12 sqm, deck 8 )

• Surface approx. 12-17 sqm, deck 5-14
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• Deluxe Interior (surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 5-14 )
• Studio Interior (single use, surface approx. 12 sqm, deck 5-14 )

Entertainment

Restaurants & Buffet

L’atelier bar & art.

This warm, elegant bar offers a carefully selected wine list and creative signature cocktails accompanied by the sound of live jazz music and a pop-up art gallery.

Indochine Restaurant

Guests will be able to choose from a savory selection of French-Vietnamese dishes, along with a variety of Vegetarian and Vegan options. The carefully selected wine list features both Old and New World wines and Tropical signature cocktails complement the authentic experience.

Kaito Sushi Bar

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Kaito Teppanyaki

Step in, choose your spot at one of four cooking stations and watch your delicious Japanese dishes come to life, right before your eyes. Our expert chefs cook with flair on an open grill: a feast for the senses that sees flames and the finest sizzling ingredients coming together to form delicious dishes you'll remember forever.

Marketplace Buffet

The extensive buffet area includes various multifunction corners serving international dishes, ethnic cuisine, healthy options and a multitude of other tastes. It’s the ideal place for enjoying a great informal dining experience with a spectacular sea view.

Bars and Lounges

21 bars: 5 outdoor  bars with breathtaking view and 16 indoor bars, each offering a unique experience  including the first humanoid Robotic Bartender at sea.  The robot will be at the centre of an immersive bar experience and will entertain guests in eight different languages.

MSC Starship club

This futuristic venue is much more than just a bar. It's an immersive entertainment experience. Featuring Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, the MSC Starship Club takes our guests to a different world. Not only can Rob mix a range of signature cosmic drinks, he also speaks 8 languages, and enjoys entertaining guests with jokes, riddles and space facts. If he's in the mood, he may even show you his dance moves!

Dance away into the early hours in our chic nightclub. Grab yourself a drink from our extensive list of cocktails, mocktails, Spritz, Mojito’s, classic cocktails, beers or ciders and feel the beat. Dance the night away as skilled DJ’s spin the best of today’s dance and club favourites through a state-of-the-art sound system in our trendy nightclub.

Jean-Philippe Crêpes & Gelato

A gourmet ice cream parlour and French-style crêperie dreamed up by award-winning master pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury. Located in the impressive indoor promenade, it's the perfect place to enjoy a mouth watering made-to-order crêpe, with your choice of delicious sweet or savoury fillings. Treat someone you love to our unique house-made gelato or sorbet. Jean-Philippe Maury’s award winning gelato is made on the premises, using only the finest quality ingredients and fresh fruit purees.

Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café

French master pâtissier Chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury brings his award-winning touch to this coffee and chocolate bar boutique where enticingly sweet delights are created just for you in our unique open concept chocolate kitchen. As well as choosing from a variety of exquisite Chef created chocolate candies, guests can also create their very own chocolate bar right at the tablet stations. The boutique offers also a wide assortment of delectable French macaroons and fresh roasted coffee. No matter your preference, there is something for everyone.

Red Gem Casino bar

Hit the jackpot at our spacious bar in Le Grand Casino. Get that James Bond feeling, order a drink from our skilled bar tenders and cast an eye over the Casino as you contemplate where lady luck will go to next. We have a wide variety of selected cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine and fine spirits to refresh yourself with as you take a break from play.

Meet up with friends for an aperitif or after dinner cocktail and enjoy the stunning views while you listen to live piano music. With our handpicked carefully sourced drinks and fresh ingredients we are sure that you will be spoilt for choice.

Horizon Bar

Magnificent views of the sea, fantastic cocktails, The Horizon Bar is the place to be. Gaze out over the stunning panorama of the ocean while you sip on a cocktail at the Horizon Bar. With our handpicked and carefully sourced drinks and fresh ingredients we are sure that you will be spoilt for choice.

Enjoy the atmosphere of the big game in our unique sports bar. The wide and varied choice of draft beers, bottled beers, ciders and cocktails that we carefully selected are sure to quench even the strongest thirst. To sarisfy any hunger pangs, you can snack on our freshly made hotdogs, a perfect accompaniment to any game.

Masters of the Sea

Atmospheric and charismatic, our traditional British pub is the perfect setting to drop in for a pint. Serving beer, premium spirits and a wide array of beer based cocktaisl, the pub is an ideal place to kick back and have fun. If hunger kicks in, you can also enjoy  burgers, hotdogs and the traditional beer battered fish and chips made with the freshest ingredients by our talented chefs to satisfy your hunger pangs. 

Champagne Bar

With an array of first-rate champagne, bubblies, fresh oysters, caviar and fish, the chic Champagne Bar is a place to indulge in the finer things in life.

Infinity Bar

There are infinite choices in this ideal spot to join friends for an aperitif before a meal, or for a refreshing drink at any time of day. From traditional aperitifs, our Signature Cocktails to the contemporary classics, there is something to suit your taste.

TV Studio & Bar

Broadcasting live throughout the ship, our TV Studio and radio suite air live games, quizzes, talent contests and other fun content. An excellent selection of cocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks are available to get you ready for your big performance.

Atmosphere Bar North

Relax at the poolside with friends and family, with a refreshing drink from the Atmosphere Bar North. From Signature Cocktails, beers, coladas, soft drinks, coffee and tea there is something to suit everyone’s taste.

Atmosphere Bar South

Days by the pool with the grill, what could be better! We realise that hunger can strike at any time and at the Atmosphere South Bar our expert chefs serve up fresh and tasty specialities hot off the grill 20 hours a day. Satisfy your cravings from our menu of freshly grilled food!

Atmosphere Ice Cream Bar

Grab a taste of the sun with our delicious soft serve ice cream, fresh fruit treats frozen drinks and coladas.

Top Sail Lounge

Enjoy spectacular views in this elegant lounge, offering the Yacht Club bar list of spirits, craft cocktails, beers and wines, soft drinks and coffee drinks. You can also enjoy a fine selection of gourmet finger food throughout the day. 

MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar

This sundeck buffet and bar, exclusive to MSC Yacht Club Guests, offers an exceptional selection of freshly grilled specialities. Enjoy an expansive breakfast offering and carefully selected meats for lunch. Alternatively, You can grab something from our selection of fresh fish, meat and burgers and homemade pasta and a wide choice of fresh salads compliment the wide variety of food on offer.

MSC Yacht Club Sundeck & Bar

Exclusive to MSC Yacht Club Guests, the MSC Yacht Club Sundeck & Bar, offers a luxurious and tranquil place to enjoy an aperitif. Surround yourself in the lap of luxury and let our artful bar tenders prepare something special for you!

MSC virtuosa reviews

" It was exactly what we wanted - a very relaxing time, with good food, great weather and lots of cocktails. "

" Un voyage incroyable. Le Yacht Club était extraordinaire. Notre cabine était impeccable et le majordome formidable. "

" We are blown away by the ship, the wonderful food, the facilities and the staff. "

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• 6. Beethoven
• 10. Gershwin
• 11. Puccini
• 12. Paganini
• 14. Tchaikovsky
• 15. Morricone
• 16. Debussy
• 18. Schumann
• 19. Mendelssohn
• Studio Interior°
• Deluxe Interior
• Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View°°
• Junior Ocean View°°
• Deluxe Ocean View
• Premium Ocean View
• Studio Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony with partial view
• Deluxe Balcony Aurea
• Premium Suite Aurea
• Grand Suite Aurea with terrace and whirlpool
• MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite with whirlpool
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite

B: Cabin with bathtub | BS: Cabin with bathtub and shower | P: Promenade view ° Single cabin with reduced size bed (140x200cm). °° Reduced size bed (140x200cm). • All cabins have one double bed convertible to two single beds except for Studio Interior°. • 3rd and 4th beds available in all categories except for Junior Ocean View with obstructed view °°, Junior Ocean View°° and MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite. • 5th and 6th beds available in Premium Ocean View and Premium Suite Aurea • Cabins 13265, 13376, 14235, 14278 have only bunk bed.

• Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting cabins based on the ship class. Call our Contact Center to choose the best accommodation for you.

Ship configuration, data and descriptions may be subject to change depending on the season and on the destination and must be verified at the time of booking. 

• Gross Tonnage: 181.541 tons
• Number of passengers: 6,334 guests
• Crew members: 1,704
• Number of cabins: 2,421
• Length/Beam/Height: 331.43 m / 43 m / 75.5 m
• Maximum Speed: 20.1 knots

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Worldwide msc international, the future of cruising is coming, with just six months until the launch of msc world europa – msc cruises’ trail-blazing new flagship.

• MSC World Europa pushes the boundaries of what is possible at sea with host of spectacular new features for guests to discover
• Ship to become MSC Cruises’ most sustainable ship ever, powered by cleaner LNG fuel with green technology integrated throughout

Geneva, Switzerland – May 19, 2022 – MSC Cruises’ ultramodern urban metropolis at sea is just six months from entering service—setting a new standard for cruising and introducing a world of experiences that push the boundaries of what is possible. MSC World Europa will be the company’s most innovative, most environmentally advanced, and most exciting ship to-date. The eagerly anticipated new flagship is the first of MSC Cruises’ trail-blazing World Class ships. At 22 decks tall and more than 150 feet wide, she features 2,626 cabins and boasts more than 430,000 square feet of public space.

With so many new features and adventures to discover, here are 9 reasons why MSC World Europa will be the ultimate ship to launch in 2022:

• The Promenade – the beating heart of the ship

The 341-foot-long long, 7-deck-high outdoor World Promenade is one of the most impressive spaces on this incredible ship. Opening out to the aft with breath-taking sea views, the promenade offers one-of-a-kind entertainment and al-fresco dining experiences.

The crowning glory of the promenade is a striking architectural masterpiece, The Venom Drop @ The Spiral , which is the longest dry slide at sea and spans 11 decks. Spectators can admire the beauty of its sleek stainless-steel curves, while those feeling brave can jump on and experience the quickest (and most thrilling) way to get from the top of the ship to the promenade with the slide’s nearly 250-foot drop.

The promenade continues indoors with the World Galleria —covering more than 2,214m square feet and topped with an awe-inspiring LED and kinetic dome ceiling. The space is lined with bars, restaurants, shops and boutiques.

• Savor the World with outstanding restaurants, bars and lounges

MSC World Europa will transport guests on a gastronomic journey around the world with an incredible choice of 33 restaurants, bars and lounges – each with its own distinct style and ambiance. Globally inspired menus, best-in-class culinary artistry, and quality ingredients prepared with passion will result in exceptional eating and drinking experiences.

The ship will offer a spectacular range of 13 dining venues , including 6 specialty restaurants with two brand new concepts for MSC Cruises:

• Chef’s Garden Kitchen is the first hydroponic garden at sea, where the ingredients take center stage with micro herbs, salads and garnishes grown and harvested on board.
• La Pescaderia is MSC Cruises’ new signature Mediterranean fish restaurant offering the freshest fish. Sophistication meets casual and family dining—a must for all guests!

Guests will also find MSC Cruises favorites including the Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse; the Latin American street food of Hola! Tacos & Cantina; and Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi bar.

The 20 bars and lounges onboard include 7 brand new bar and café concepts like the line’s first onboard microbrewery, a new gin bar, a cocktail bar honoring the art of mixology, and much more.

• Awe-inspiring entertainment for all ages

Guests will experience a whole new level of entertainment across a host of venues including grand-scale theater productions, immersive performances in the aft lounge, and interactive family entertainment in the Luna Park Arena. Plus, they can let their hair down at the roller-disco or let their inner child free with the bumper cars.

Venues include:

• The Panorama Lounge at the aft of the ship will offer eye-popping, immersive entertainment.
• The stylish 1,153 seat World Theatre will host original productions each night of the cruise.
• The versatile Luna Park Arena is a new multifunctional entertainment venue that will host movies, game shows, kids’ activities and themed parties.
• MSC Cruises’ largest and most technologically advanced family offering

MSC World Europa's children's area will be the largest in the fleet , developed in collaboration with LEGO® and Chicco® with over 8,200 square feet of interior space and seven rooms dedicated to distinct age groups ranging from 0 to 17 years old.

Entertainment for children and teenagers will be even more varied thanks to original game and talent show formats that will be created for The Studio, Luna Park Arena and the World Theatre. 

Finally, extended operating hours at the Kids Club and Teens Club will allow younger cruisers to be accompanied by staff and enjoy other attractions onboard MSC World Europa , including bumper cars, the dry slide, and the virtual room.

• Relax and unwind with the ultimate leisure and wellness escape

Whether the aim is to relax and unwind or enjoy thrills and adventure, the seven swimming pools and 13 whirlpools located in distinct parts of the ship offer something for every vacationer.

Highlights include:

• Brand-new tranquil Zen Pool area at the aft of the ship: This ultra-chic area is adults-only and features two pools, a solarium, and a shady lounge area – all offering spectacular sea views from deck 18.
• The MSC Yacht Club features an extensive sundeck spanning two levels, private pool, and whirlpool.
• The Aquapark on deck 20 is the largest in MSC Cruises fleet, featuring a kids’ pool and slides for the whole family.
• La Plage – the main pool is the place to be for those looking for fun and entertainment with an incredible 37,000-square-foot pool deck area complete with different levels for sunbathing.
• The Botanic Garden Pool with retractable roof, tropical bar, and area for lounging.
• A next-level MSC Yacht Club for premium cruising

MSC World Europa will feature the largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club yet, offering unparalleled levels of comfort with more public space, expanded outdoor areas, and new stylish suites that share the ship’s futuristic design.

The exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept offers key-card access exclusivity and top-notch personal service. Enhanced public spaces include a totally reimagined two-level sundeck, while the private accommodations will include two brand-new ultra-spacious Owner-Suites.

• Innovative new accommodation design

MSC World Europa is as different on the inside as she is on the outside, with all-new cabin designs and more balcony cabins than any ship in the fleet. From luxurious suites with private facilities in the MSC Yacht Club to brand-new cabins overlooking the outdoor promenade, there are high-quality, comfortable accommodations to satisfy every taste.

The ship will offer seven new and innovative cabin types not seen on any other MSC Cruises ship, and more suites than ever will have private whirlpools.

Another highlight is the new Infinite Ocean View cabins with a panoramic window that slides down to form a glass balustrade when open.

• The ultimate itineraries

MSC World Europa will spend her inaugural season in the Gulf region to provide guests the ultimate winter cruise experience. Her season will commence on December 20, 2022 with a special 4-night sailing from Doha, Qatar to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The ship will then offer 7-night cruises from Dubai to the nearby modern metropolis of Abu Dhabi before continuing to Sir Bani Yas Island, where guests will have a chance to discover an exotic array of wildlife or bask in the warm sun on immaculate beaches. Sir Bani Yas is exclusive to MSC Cruises on days during which the ships call. MSC World Europa ’s program in the Gulf has been enriched with calls in the port of Dammam, Saudi Arabia to visit Al Ahsa oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ship also calls at Doha, the futuristic capital of Qatar, before returning to Dubai with an overnight in the city to discover all the marvels it has to offer.

Departing Dubai on March 25, 2023, MSC World Europa will head to the Mediterranean Sea. During the summer of 2023, she will offer 7-night cruises calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina; as well as Valletta, Malta; Barcelona, Spain; and Marseille, France.

• MSC World Europa to become one of the most environmentally advanced ships at sea

MSC World Europa will be the first LNG-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the most environmentally advanced to date. The fuel she runs on—liquefied natural gas (LNG)—is one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels available at scale and is set to play a key role in the decarbonization (or transition to zero emissions) of international shipping. It virtually eliminates local air pollutant emissions like sulphur oxides and reduces nitrogen oxides by up to 85%. LNG also plays a key role in climate change mitigation, as it reduces CO emissions by 25% and paves the way for the uptake of sustainable non-fossil fuels like green hydrogen. A demonstration fuel cell onboard will test the efficiency of this technology by producing heat and electricity about 30 percent more efficiently than the LNG engines would on their own.

MSC World Europa will also feature selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, shore-to-ship power connectivity, and advanced wastewater treatment systems to comply with the so-called Baltic standard, which features the strictest global criteria for wastewater disposal at sea. The ship’s underwater radiated noise management system will reduce potential noise and vibration impact on marine mammals, and a wide range of energy efficient equipment and systems will optimize engine use.

To learn more about MSC Cruises’ newest ship, click here .

Additional media materials are available at the MSC Press Area .

About MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise brand as well as the leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa, with more market share in addition to deployed capacity than any other player. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises is one of the two brands that sit within the Cruises Division of MSC Group, the leading privately held Swiss-based shipping and logistics conglomerate with over 300 years of maritime heritage. MSC Cruises – the contemporary brand - has a modern fleet of 19 vessels combined with a sizeable future global investment portfolio of new vessels. The fleet is projected to grow to 23 cruise ships by 2025, with options for six more vessel orders in place through 2030.

MSC Cruises offers its guests an enriching, immersive and safe cruise experience inspired by the Company’s European heritage, where they can enjoy international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs, and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ itineraries and experience on board its ships, click here .

The Company’s number one priority has always been the health and safety of its guests and crew, as well as the communities at the destinations its ships serve.  In August 2020, MSC Cruises implemented a new comprehensive and robust health and safety protocol to become the first major line to return to sea. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ health & safety protocol, click here .

MSC Cruises has long been committed to environmental stewardship, with a long-term goal to achieve net zero emissions for its operations by 2050. The Company is also a significant investor in next-generation environmental marine technologies, with the objective to support their accelerated development and availability industry-wide. To learn more about the Company’s environmental commitment, click here .

Finally, to learn more about the MSC Foundation, MSC Group’s own vehicle to lead, focus and advance its conservation, humanitarian and cultural commitments, click here .

Field Sutton

Director of Communications

MSC VIRTUOSA

Masterpiece at sea.

MSC Virtuosa’s namesake comes from the word virtuoso, meaning “someone highly skilled in any field of activity”, and so MSC Virtuosa was named to pay homage to the skills and expertise of the MSC Cruises architects and shipyard partners at Chantiers de l’Atlantique who designed and built this innovative class of ships.

MSC Virtuosa, along with her sister ships MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa and MSC Euribia, belongs to the “Meraviglia Class”, where the impressive array of onboard experiences come together in perfect harmony with the space and the destinations, to deliver the ultimate cruise holiday experience.

" We are blown away by the ship, the wonderful food, the facilities and the staff. "

" Amazing trip. Yacht Club was amazing. Our Cabin was spotless. The Butler was excellent. "

" It was exactly what we wanted - a very relaxing time, with good food, great weather and lots of cocktails. "

Itineraries

Main features, environmental stewardship.

Advanced wastewater treatment system.

Discover more on how the MSC Group is actively contributing to impactful environmental conservation and humanitarian programs at the MSC Foundation Centre on board.

MSC Starship Club

This futuristic venue is much more than just a bar. It's an immersive entertainment experience. Featuring Rob , the first ever humanoid robotic bartender at sea , the MSC Starship Club will transport our guests to a different world.

As you sip your cosmic cocktail and gaze out of the portholes across the space, Rob and his human colleagues will take you to an exciting journey to discover new galactic destinations.

Watch the video   |   See the Infographic

Galleria Virtuosa

The indoor promenade features both Main and Specialty Restaurants along with numerous shops. With 1168m2 of retail space , MSC Virtuosa will exceed the already record breaking retail space onboard MSC Grandiosa, to present the largest shopping area at sea on any cruise ship with 11 state-of-the art boutiques and over 250 brands. The promenade is destined to become the ultimate destination for socializing and entertainment possibilities for guests.

Carousel Productions at Sea

Enjoy an all-new entertainment concept blending breathtaking acrobatics, dance and live music to create exclusive original productions specially designed for MSC Meraviglia Class ships. It offers avant-garde artistic and immersive performances combined with the innovative technology in a surprising mix of new expressions and experimentation that will make you feel part of the show. On board MSC Virtuosa, you'll have the unique opportunity to admire two spectacular productions: AJEDREZ , inspired by the game of chess, and ARKYMEA , the story of a scientist in search of a hidden world. The shows take place twice a night, six nights a week, only at the Carousel Lounge , a glamorous, modern, technology-packed venue. Taste our Signature Cocktail while you enjoy a pre-show followed by this unique entertainment experience. (not included in the cruise fare, limited spaces, a signature cocktail package needs to be booked)

DISCOVER MORE

Family & Children

MSC Cruises is known for its award-winning family offering and has a long-standing partnership with the LEGO Group to design the kids club areas as well as on board activities.  Discover all activities and services for children, tweens, teens and their parents here

MSC Virtuosa Pools

MSC Virtuosa offers its guests 5 outstanding and unique pools, including one of the biggest and most intricate waterparks at sea. The pools are capable of accommodating over 1,000+ guests with comfort. The Atmosphere Pool, 1.700 m2 with about 10 m2 of public space per guest, is one of the most plentiful to be found at sea.

Spa & wellness

Msc yacht club.

The best location of the cabins and a reserved area accessible only to YC Members, dedicated restaurant and lounges and a large private pool area with solarium and whirlpool baths. 24-hour butler service, dedicated massage rooms and full access to Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa.

This is the MSC Yacht Club , the ultimate luxury cruise experience.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Cabins & Suites

Whether you’re looking for a duplex suite with private whirlpool bath, a sea-view balcony cabin or a family option, you’ll find it all on MSC Virtuosa.

• Surface approx. 17-58 sqm, balcony (if any) approx. 5-70 sqm, deck 9-18 .
• Luxury suites with premium interiors
• Some Suites have balcony with private whirlpool.
• Spacious wardrobe
• Bathroom with bathtub and/or shower
• Sitting area with sofa or separate living area
• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
• Wifi connection included
• Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar

Choose the Suite that best suits you:

• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite (surface approx 58 sqm ,  balcony approx. 70 sqm , deck 15 )
• MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite with whirlpool (surface approx. 59 sqm ,  balcony approx. 23 sqm , deck 9-12 )
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite (surface approx 29 sqm , balcony approx. 5 sqm , deck 14-18 )
• MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite (surface approx 17 sqm , deck 14-16 )

Discover a world of privileges with MSC Yacht Club including:

• 24-Hour Butler service and dedicated concierge
• Premium Extra Drink and Internet packages included
• Complimentary Access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea SPA
• Balinese massage package and Specialty restaurants package, available up to 2 days prior to embarkation; 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board
• 1 Free cruise change

Size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category)

• Surface approx. 25-39 sqm , large balcony approx. 3-36 sqm , deck 9-14
• Spacious Wardrobe.
• Setting Area with double sofa bed.
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryers.
• Double bed can be converted into two single beds (on request).
• Interactive TV, telephone and safe.
• Wifi connection available (for a fee).
• Mini bar. Air conditioning.
• Grand Suite Aurea with terrace and whirlpool (surface approx. 39 sqm , large balcony approx.  36 sqm, deck 12 )
• Premium Suite Aurea with terrace and whirlpool (surface approx. 27 sqm , balcony approx.   26-30 sqm, deck 9-13 )
• Premium Suite Aurea (Surface approx. 25 sqm , balcony approx.   3-14 sqm , deck 9-14 )

The image is representative only.

Size, layout and furniture may vary that shown (within the same cabin category)

• Surface approx. 12-17 sqm, balcony approx 4-8 sqm
• Sitting area with sofa
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub , vanity area with hairdryer
• ZOE - in-cabin Bluetooth speaker
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar

Choose the cabin type that best suits you:

• Balcony Aurea (best ship position, surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 11-1 3)
• Deluxe Balcony (surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 8-14 )
• Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (surface approx. 17 sqm, deck 8-14 )
• Studio Balcony (single use, surface approx. 12 sqm, deck 13-14 )

The image is representative only

Entertainment

MSC Virtuosa will offer a superb choice of entertainment for the whole family, from days in the water park or sports centre to evenings in the super-amusement park or the multi-purpose karaoke bar, comedy club, TV studio & bar.

Restaurants & Buffet

Indochine restaurant.

Guests will be able to choose from a savory selection of French-Vietnamese dishes, along with a variety of Vegetarian and Vegan options. The carefully selected wine list features both Old and New World wines and Tropical signature cocktails complement the authentic experience.

Hola! Tacos & Cantina

The new fast-casual street food dining concept, offers a selection of Latin American and Mexican-inspired dishes and drinks to be shared and enjoyed in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, open for lunch and dinner. Choose from a tantalising array of dishes from blue corn tacos and nachos, authentic beef empanadas and tasty tamales through to tortilla soup or vegetarian tacos, all to be savoured with our selection of Top 10 Tequilas and Mezcals!

Sea Pavilion

This exclusive restaurant is a world of contemporary Asian culinary emotions.

Kaito Sushi Bar

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Kaito Teppanyaki

Step in, choose your spot at one of four cooking stations and watch your delicious Japanese dishes come to life, right before your eyes. Our expert chefs cook with flair on an open grill: a feast for the senses that sees flames and the finest sizzling ingredients coming together to form delicious dishes you'll remember forever.

Butcher's Cut

The traditional American-style steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut, celebrates the skill of a master butcher. Serving specialty cuts of meats including dry-aged tomahawk, t-bone, as well as surf and turf, this is a true steak-lovers dream, cooked in an open kitchen, giving onto a relaxed and sophisticated restaurant, inspired by the Golden Age of America.

Minuetto Restaurant

Blue danube restaurant, il campo restaurant, marketplace buffet.

The extensive buffet area includes various multifunction corners serving international dishes, ethnic cuisine, healthy options and a multitude of other tastes. It’s the ideal place for enjoying a great informal dining experience with a spectacular sea view.

Bars and Lounges

21 bars: 5 outdoor  bars with breathtaking view and 16 indoor bars, each offering a unique experience  including the first humanoid Robotic Bartender at sea.  The robot will be at the centre of an immersive bar experience and will entertain guests in eight different languages.  

MSC Starship club

This futuristic venue is much more than just a bar. It's an immersive entertainment experience. Featuring Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, the MSC Starship Club takes our guests to a different world. Not only can Rob mix a range of signature cosmic drinks, he also speaks 8 languages, and enjoys entertaining guests with jokes, riddles and space facts. If he's in the mood, he may even show you his dance moves!

Carousel Lounge

Sit back and enjoy the fun with an exclusive Signature Cocktail at the Carousel Lounge , a glamorous and modern, technology-packed venue specifically designed to meet the needs of Carousel Productions at Sea . This custom-built lounge covers 1,000 sq.m. and can accommodate up to 400 guests. Taste our Signature Cocktail while you enjoy a pre-show followed by this immersive entertainment experience. (Not included in the cruise fare. Limited spaces; a signature cocktail package needs to be booked).

L’Atelier Bar & Art

This warm, elegant bar offers a carefully selected wine list and creative signature cocktails accompanied by the sound of live jazz music and a pop-up art gallery.

In addition, discover the Art Wall and the current exhibition of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein , the pioneers of Pop Art. Read more

Dance away into the early hours in our chic nightclub. Grab yourself a drink from our extensive list of cocktails, mocktails, Spritz, Mojito’s, classic cocktails, beers or ciders and feel the beat. Dance the night away as skilled DJ’s spin the best of today’s dance and club favourites through a state-of-the-art sound system in our trendy nightclub.

Red Gem Casino bar

Hit the jackpot at our spacious bar in Le Grand Casino. Get that James Bond feeling, order a drink from our skilled bar tenders and cast an eye over the Casino as you contemplate where lady luck will go to next. We have a wide variety of selected cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine and fine spirits to refresh yourself with as you take a break from play.

Masters of the Sea

Atmospheric and charismatic, our traditional British pub is the perfect setting to drop in for a pint. Serving beer, premium spirits and a wide array of beer based cocktaisl, the pub is an ideal place to kick back and have fun. If hunger kicks in, you can also enjoy  burgers, hotdogs and the traditional beer battered fish and chips made with the freshest ingredients by our talented chefs to satisfy your hunger pangs. 

Infinity Bar

There are infinite choices in this ideal spot to join friends for an aperitif before a meal, or for a refreshing drink at any time of day. From traditional aperitifs, our Signature Cocktails to the contemporary classics, there is something to suit your taste.

TV Studio & Bar

Broadcasting live throughout the ship, our TV Studio and radio suite air live games, quizzes, talent contests and other fun content. An excellent selection of cocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks are available to get you ready for your big performance.

Atmosphere Bar North

Relax at the poolside with friends and family, with a refreshing drink from the Atmosphere Bar North. From Signature Cocktails, beers, coladas, soft drinks, coffee and tea there is something to suit everyone’s taste.

Atmosphere Bar South

Days by the pool with the grill, what could be better! We realise that hunger can strike at any time and at the Atmosphere South Bar our expert chefs serve up fresh and tasty specialities hot off the grill 20 hours a day. Satisfy your cravings from our menu of freshly grilled food!

Savannah Bar

Top sail lounge.

Enjoy spectacular views in this elegant lounge, offering the Yacht Club bar list of spirits, craft cocktails, beers and wines, soft drinks and coffee drinks. You can also enjoy a fine selection of gourmet finger food throughout the day. 

MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar

This sundeck buffet and bar, exclusive to MSC Yacht Club Guests, offers an exceptional selection of freshly grilled specialities. Enjoy an expansive breakfast offering and carefully selected meats for lunch. Alternatively, You can grab something from our selection of fresh fish, meat and burgers and homemade pasta and a wide choice of fresh salads compliment the wide variety of food on offer.

Jean-Philippe Crêpes & Gelato

A gourmet ice cream parlour and French-style crêperie dreamed up by award-winning master pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury. Located in the impressive indoor promenade, it's the perfect place to enjoy a mouth watering made-to-order crêpe, with your choice of delicious sweet or savoury fillings. Treat someone you love to our unique house-made gelato or sorbet. Jean-Philippe Maury’s award winning gelato is made on the premises, using only the finest quality ingredients and fresh fruit purees.

Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café

French master pâtissier Chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury brings his award-winning touch to this coffee and chocolate bar boutique where enticingly sweet delights are created just for you in our unique open concept chocolate kitchen. As well as choosing from a variety of exquisite Chef created chocolate candies, guests can also create their very own chocolate bar right at the tablet stations. The boutique offers also a wide assortment of delectable French macaroons and fresh roasted coffee. No matter your preference, there is something for everyone.

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• 6. Beethoven
• 10. Gershwin
• 11. Puccini
• 12. Paganini
• 14. Tchaikovsky
• 15. Morricone
• 16. Debussy
• 18. Schumann
• 19. Mendelssohn
• Studio Interior°
• Deluxe Interior
• Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View°°
• Junior Ocean View°°
• Deluxe Ocean View
• Premium Ocean View
• Studio Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony with partial view
• Deluxe Balcony Aurea
• Premium Suite Aurea
• Grand Suite Aurea with terrace and whirlpool
• MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite with whirlpool
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite

B: Cabin with bathtub | BS: Cabin with bathtub and shower | P: Promenade view ° Single cabin with reduced size bed (140x200cm). °° Reduced size bed (140x200cm). • All cabins have one double bed convertible to two single beds except for Studio Interior°. • 3rd and 4th beds available in all categories except for Junior Ocean View with obstructed view °°, Junior Ocean View°° and MSC Yacht Club Interior Suite. • 5th and 6th beds available in Premium Ocean View and Premium Suite Aurea • Cabins 13265, 13376, 14235, 14278 have only bunk bed.

• Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting cabins based on the ship class. Call our Contact Center to choose the best accommodation for you.

Ship configuration, data and descriptions may be subject to change depending on the season and on the destination and must be verified at the time of booking. 

• Gross tonnage: 181.541
• Number of passengers: 6,334 guests
• Number of cabins: 2,421
• Crew members: 1,704
• Length/Beam/Height: 331 m / 43 m / 65 m
• Maximum Speed: 22.2 knots

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MSC Cruises

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MSC Cruises

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MSC Cruises fleet

Msc world asia, msc world america, msc euribia, msc world europa, msc seascape, msc virtuosa, msc seashore, msc grandiosa, msc bellissima, msc seaview, msc meraviglia, msc seaside, msc preziosa, msc magnifica, review of msc cruises.

MSC Cruises Ltd (MSC Crociere, msccruises.com/en-gl) is a passenger shipping company headquartered in Miami Florida USA (since 2024). the company is a fully-owned subsidiary of MSC Group/Mediterranean Shipping Company (1960-established, Geneva Switzerland-headquartered) currently ranked as the world's second-largest containership company (after Maersk).

MSC Crociere is the world's largest privately owned cruise company. 2020-Q4 statistics ranked MSC the world's 3rd-largest cruise shipowner (by combined fleet's passenger capacity ~13%), preceded by Carnival Corporation (39%) and RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (24%).

The company's current management team is led by Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman), Gianni Onorato (CEO), and Emilio La Scala (President and Managing Director).

Ruben Rodríguez is MSC Cruises USA's current President. Effective April 30, 2025, he will retire from the post and will be succeeded by Lynn Torrent (MSC Cruises USA's current Executive VP & CCO/Chief Commercial Officer) effective May 1st/2025.

In 2021, MSC launched its travel brand EXPLORA JOURNEYS , with a separate fleet of smaller-sized luxury ships. EXPLORA JOURNEYS' main competitor in the European market is Viking OCEAN .

Between its official launch (2003) and July 2019, MSC served 20+ million passengers. MSC is also the world's fastest-growing cruise company, with a USD 20,5 billion investment plan (2017-2027) for building 17 new vessels and increasing its fleet to 29 vessels.

The parent company (MSC Group) was founded and owned by its current Chairman Gianluigi Aponte (1940-born). Since 2014, the company's President and CEO is his son - Diego Aponte, while his daughter (Alexa Aponte Vago) is the CFO. MSC entered the ship cruising market in 1988. MSC also owns Going2Italy (1982-founded Italian tour operator).

MSC's main competitor in the Mediterranean is Costa Cruises .

Company History

Founded by Achille Lauro as "Lauro Lines" (aka Flotta Lauro), MSC entered the cruise shipping business in the 1960s. Initially, MSC operated two ships - Achille Lauro (IMO 5390008, launched as "Willem Ruys") and Angelina Lauro (IMO 5264077, launched as "Oranje"). Angelina Lauro (1939-1979) burnt in St Thomas USVI in 1979. Achille Lauro (1947-1994) sank off Somalia'scoast due to onboard fire.

In 1985, Achille Lauro was hijacked by Palestinian Liberation Front members, and the accident resulted in decreased passenger numbers. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) purchased Flotta Lauro in 1989, and renamed it "StarLauro Cruises". Achille Lauro caught fire and sank in 1994. In 1995, the company changed its name to "MSC Cruises". Fleet's oldest liner - the 1982-built MSC Melody - was sold in November 2013 and scrapped in September 2018 (as MS Qing).

In 2014, MSC announced that its four Lirica-class boats are scheduled for refits and extensive drydock refurbishments under the company's "Renaissance Program" (budgeted USD 273 million). By this project, all four vessels (Armonia, Lirica, Opera, Sinfonia) were stretched/elongated by 25 m (80 ft).

Ship-reconstruction works were done at Fincantieri shipyard in Palermo Sicily , between 2014 (August 31) and 2015 (November 17).

Since 2021, all MSC cruise ship refurbishment projects are conducted at Palumbo Malta Shipyard (co-owned by MSC / 50% stake). Palumbo Group's other shipyards are in France (Marseille) and Italy (Ancona, Naples, Savona).

Most of MSC's fleet operates in Europe (Mediterranean and Baltic). The company's other strong markets are the USA (Caribbean), Canada New England, East Asia, South America, South Africa. Because of the international passenger base, all shipboard announcements are generally read in Italian, Spanish, French, German and English. Onboard mealtimes are fixed, with assigned seatmates. Optional dining includes Lido buffet restaurant, sushi, and Italian eateries.

MSC liners offer standout evening show entertainment - from classical concerts and jazz to contemporary dance music and circus-type acrobatics. Voyages are typically priced at value-oriented levels, but the liners offer an unprecedented range of modern vacation travel amenities and services that cost extra, such as fees for port shuttle buses, a la carte restaurant menus, etc.

Company changes 2024

In January was announced that in November 2025 MSC starts year-round homeporting operations from Galveston TX (ship Seascape, 7-night roundtrips departing on Sundays). Also in January, MSC started homeporting in NYC New York (ship Meraviglia).

In mid-January, MSC Group moved its operational headquarters to Downtown Miami (Block 55 at Sawyer's Walk/Overtown). The new facility (130,000-ft2/12080-m2 sized office space) now houses the company's three divisions - MSC Cargo (container ships/logistics), MSC Cruises (passenger liners) and Explora Journeys (expedition ships).

In February as fleet's COO/Chief Operating Officer was appointed Elia Congiu (with MSC since 2013, previously Chief HR Officer/Human Resources).

In late-February was introduced the "Open Booking" program, allowing passengers on a current cruise to reserve a future cruise without committing to a specific vessel/itinerary/date. The initiative complements MSC's existing "Future Cruise" (onboard booking) program introduced in 2023. The new "Open Booking" option requires a reduced deposit payment (USD100/EUR100/GBP100 per person) while on board. The customer receives a certificate that allows up to 12 months period to choose the next MSC voyage. If the ship and departure date are selected within 60 days (of making the onboard open booking), the customer receives up to USD200/EUR200/GBP200 in OBC (onboard credit per stateroom). With a booking made within a year is received up to $100 in OBC. MSC's open booking is also transferable (can be gifted to a family/friend) before choosing the ship/departure date.

In February, on two ships (Virtuosa and Euribia) MSC banned smoking and vaping in the Casino (turning the gaming lounge into a smoke-free venue) while on two other ships (Seascape and Seashore) were added a separate smoking-allowed Casino Lounge.

In April was appointed Neil Palomba (with MSC since 1996) as MSC Cruises USA's Executive VP of Operations, managing MSC's USA-based fleet plus Ocean Cay Bahamas. As MSC Cruises USA's VP of Food and Beverage Operations was appointed Josef Jungwirth (previously employed by Sandals Resort International and RCI/Royal Caribbean International.

In May was expanded fleetwide the shipboard family program. The new activities and services include Extended Baby Care Services (for infants 6 months to 2 yo/in collaboration with Chicco), Doremiland Open House and Family Party (held once-per-cruise), new Family Game Shows (MasterChef at Sea Juniors, Break the Wall, MSC Dance Crew, plus two new - World Quest/geography-based trivia game, and Caravaggio/art-themed spy game), extended Teenagers Club Hours (12-17 yo/open between 10 AM-1 PM, and 3 PM-midnight on sea days, and 3 PM-midnight on port days), Guinness World Record Activities (families can participate in quiz shows and win prizes) and MSC Foundation Day (in collaboration with the MSC Foundation/marine conservation initiatives/1-hour sessions allow kids to learn about environmental topics).

Company changes 2023

In May MSC Foundation signed a partnership with NatureMetrics (provider of biodiversity monitoring data) for collecting data for marine species during voyages. By MSC's "eBioAtlas" project, the collected samples (from the seawater) are sent to NatureMetrics where they are analyzed using eDNA.

In June MSC signed a long-term agreement with Gasum Oy (1994-founded Finnish state-owned energy company) for the fleet's LNG bunkering operations in the Baltic. The deal was signed by Linden Coppell (MSC's VP of Sustainability & ESG/Environmental, Social and Governance) and Mika Wiljanen (Gasum's CEO).

MSC Explora Journeys (a total investment of ~EUR 3,5 billion) officially starts commercial operations in July 2023, with Explora I 's Maiden Voyage (July 17th).

In October was signed an agreement with Shell Western LNG BV (part of Shell plc/the world's second-largest oil and gas company/after ExxonMobil) to provide LNG for the ship Euribia. The deal was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago and Tahir Faruqui (Shell LNG's General Manager). Euribia's first LNG bunkering was in Port Rotterdam.

Since November 15th, the shipboard children's and teen's clubs (fleetwide/facilities for kids ages 12 to 17) operate with extended opening hours and longer live entertainment (8 hours daily). The company's expanded youth programming also includes more and new organized/supervised activities (sports, aquapark entertainment, kids-themed dinners, a different game show for teens every night/followed by a disco).

For 2023, MSC reported serving ~4,1 million cruisers (on 22 ships maintained by 46006 crew from 137 nationalities), 7669 operating days, 26,845167 million ALBDs (Available Lower Berth Days). Throughout 2023, MSC operated 385 itineraries (visiting destinations in 102 different countries) and offered 2150 different shore excursions.

Company changes 2022

In mid-March, MSC Group announced a partnership with Travelife Ltd for EXPLORA JOURNEYS' shore excursion program. "Travelife for Tour Operators" allows tour companies and travel agents access to the company's online management system (16x sustainability modules) with excursion checklists, planning tools, travel- and tourism industries' best sustainability practices examples.

In late-March, MSC became the Official Cruise Partner of "Formula 1".

In August, the entire MSC fleet received "ISO 21070:2017" certification (issued by the International Organization for Standardization) for marine environment protection. The certification specifies the onboard procedures regarding waste management practices (collection, separation, treatment, storage).

For winter 2022-2023 season (December thru April) MSC introduced fly-cruise packages from Brazil to the Caribbean. Via partnerships with Brazilian airlines, MSC provided Brazilian tourists with the opportunity to enjoy affordable 6-hour chartered flights from Sao Paulo (Guarulhos Airport) to Fort-de-France Martinique (Aime Cesaire Airport). In Martinique, they board the ship ( MSC Seaside ) for 7-day roundtrip Caribbean voyages and then fly back to Brazil. MSC's Brazil-to-Caribbean fly cruises are also inclusive of bus transfers (airport-cruise port-airport). The offer was available again for winter season 2023-2024 and again on MSC Seaside.

Company changes 2021

In June 2021 MSC officially launched its luxury brand " Explora Journeys ".

For summer 2021 season (July-October) MSC chartered flights (26000+ seats) to offer fly-cruise packages via partnerships with Europe's largest airlines including Iberia (Spain), Alitalia (Italy), Air France, Eurowings (Germany) and Neos (Italy). This way MSC guaranteed accessible airports and convenient flight times for accessing the homeports (embarkation ports) of 6x ships deployed in the Western Mediterranean (Grandiosa, Seaside), Eastern Mediterranean (Splendida, Orchestra, Magnifica), and the Baltic (Seaview). The package deals were also inclusive of airport-ship bus transfers and COVID health insurance (EUR 25 pp, by Europ Assistance).

On October 6, 2021, MSC opened bookings for Magnifica's Northern European winter 2021-2022 season - the company's first-ever winter season with deployment in the Baltic Sea. Starting on November 14th, the program offered 7-night roundtrips from all call ports in the itinerary (Hamburg, Ijmuiden-Amsterdam, Zeebrugge-Bruges, Le Havre-Paris, Southampton-London) and up to 12-hour port stays.

Company changes 2020

On July 30, 2020, MSC Cruises Ltd and Palumbo Group formed a 50-50 joint venture company to operate Palumbo Malta Shipyard (in Citta Cospicua). The Palumbo shipyard has 4x drydocks and will be used for refurbishments and general maintenance works on MSC ships (passenger and cargo) as well as on other cruise and ferry companies' vessels. The facilities will be updated, including with technologies to handle LNG-powered ships. The deal was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Cruises' Executive Chairman) and Antonio Palumbo (Palumbo Group's founder and Chairman).

In late-November 2020, MSC signed a long-term agreement with ABP Southampton for preferential docking rights. The deal starts in summer 2021 with the homeporting of MSC Magnifica at Southampton's newest/5th passenger terminal. By this agreement, every year MSC has to homeport at least one ship in Southampton.

Company changes 2019

In May 2019, MSC became the industry's first mainstream cruise shipping company with a permanent office in Canada (Mississauga, Ontario). MSC Cruises Canada's new office is served by 15 employees (full-time staff) led by Ian Patterson (Country Manager). With the Canadian office, MSC also launched two new websites - MSCCruises.ca (for consumers) and MSCbook.com/ca (for travel agents). Both websites debuted in English and were later upgraded with French language versions. MSC Cruises Canada has a bilingual call center and provides bilingual materials (brochures, flyers) for potential clients and travel agencies.

In early-December 2019, MSC signed with Japanet a 5-year sponsorship deal for V-Varen Nagasaki - Japanese professional football club owned by Japanet (TV shopping channel). As of 2020, the company also partners with the professional football clubs Chelsea FC ( London England ), Paris Saint-Germain FC ( Paris France ) and SSC Napoli ( Naples Italy ).

Company changes 2018

Since September 2018, MSC has an exclusive partnership with "Mohegan Sun" - Uncasville (Connecticut USA)-based casino/gambling complex operated by Mohegan Tribe and located on reservation land along Thames River. By this deal are matched MSC's loyalty program (Voyager's Club) with Mohegan Sun's Momentum program. Momentum members receive exclusive cruise perks (including booking discounts, priority embarkation-disembarkation, onboard amenities). MSC's shipboard casino program offers customers the chance to play on over 1300 different slot machines fleetwide, plus various table games. Onboard casino rewards also include specialty dining, spa treatments, booking discounts. Mohegan Sun loyalty program members receive the corresponding MSC status based on their current casino card levels.

In mid-October 2018, MSC planned to eliminate single-use plastics fleetwide by March 2019. The list of such items includes bags, cups, cutlery, toothpicks, aprons, stir pins, drink mixers, coffee lids. By the end of 2018, they will be replaced with 100% compostable and biodegradable substitutes made of renewable resources (corn-based polylactic acid, paper, bamboo, other organic materials. In addition, shipboard drinks are no longer served with straws.

In late-November 2018, MSC signed an exclusive partnership with Chelsea Football Club to become its official global cruise partner (January 2019 thru June 2024). The deal includes LED advertising at Stamford Bridge (football stadium in Fulham/west London). By the agreement, Chelsea FC representatives attended MSC Bellissima 's naming ceremony (March 2019) and on the new ship was also displayed Chelsea FC memorabilia.

In 2015, MSC ordered 4 newbuilds from STX France and Fincantieri Italy , with an option for 3 more units. The first two vessels were delivered in 2017 - Meraviglia (May) and Seaside (November).

On February 1, 2016, MSC announced it would build two "Meraviglia Plus"-class units, with max capacity 6300 passengers. The newbuilds ( Grandiosa /2019, Virtuosa /2021, Euribia /2023) have 200 additional cabins and are 16 m (50 ft) longer compared to Meraviglia-class (2444 staterooms). The last unit's/Euribia's construction started on June 28, 2021.

The first Meraviglia-Plus vessel was delivered in November 2019 (Grandiosa), the second - in February 2021 (Virtuosa). Meraviglia-Plus features include the first-at-sea Fine Art Museum with original artworks, an additional space allowing bigger indoor Promenade (length 111 m / 36 ft), two additional restaurants, and a larger outdoor LED screen (95x6 m / 280x20 ft). MSC signed an exclusive partnership with both Samsung (providing the technology) and Cirque du Soleil (live show programming).

In November 2017, MSC ordered 2 more (Seaside-EVO class) units from Fincantieri (contract value EUR 1,8 billion). They are are bigger (16 m longer, 17330 GT-tons larger, capacity 467 more passengers) in comparison to Seaview-Seaside. Their deliveries were scheduled for 2021 May ( Seashore ) and 2022 November ( Seascape ).

In early-August 2018, MSC signed an agreement for EUR 1,5 billion (USD 1,74B) for financing both Seaside-EVO liners. The financing was via a partnership with a syndicate of lender banks (Unicredit, BNP Paribas, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti). Fully backing the credit line was the Italian export credit agency SACE SIMEST. With the addition of Seaside EVO, MSC had an unprecedented total investment of EUR 10,5 billion into 12 new vessels with scheduled deliveries by 2026.

On November 30, 2017 (during Seaside's launch) the company Marlink (world's largest independent satellite Internet provider) provided over 0,5 gigabit per second throughput on its Sealink VSAT network. Seaside's record-breaking Internet speed was enabled on Intelsat's new EpicNG satellites. Marlink is MSC fleet's provider of satellite Internet via optimized "cloud of bandwidth". As of 2017, Marlink had as part of its Sealink network 25 satellites and 32 overlapping beams.

On June 14, 2018, MSC signed with STX France shipbuilding order for the 5th Meraviglia-Class unit (delivery in 2023, dual-fuel LNG -powered engines ). With this order, MSC had 13 newbuilds under construction or on order (2017-2026), of which 5x LNG-powered. The announcement was made at St-Nazaire yard. The ceremony was attended by Bruno Le Maire French Minister of Economy and Finance) and Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman). The event celebrated 3 major milestones - Virtuosa's steel-cutting, Grandiosa's keel-laying and Bellissima's float-out. For the first time in the shipyard's history, 3 vessels of a single shipowner were simultaneously under construction.

On October 18, 2018, MSC signed with Fincantieri an MoA agreement for 4x EXPLORA class ultra-luxury expedition ships. The contract's total value was EUR 2+ billion. Compared to the company's "liner fleet", the EXPLORA units are smaller (GT 64,000 tons, 500 staterooms). The first boat enters service in 2023, and the remaining 3 will be launched one per year (2024-2025-2026). The signing ceremony was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).

A curious fact is that Sophia Loren (1934-born Italian film actress) is MSC's traditional Godmother, naming each newbuild since 2003 ( MSC Lirica ).

(NEW) MSC Silenseas ships by STX France

On January 20, 2020, MSC and Chantiers de l'Atlantique (STX France) signed an MoU for the development of a sail-based (wind-powered) prototype of a cruise liner. The new class will be based on the Silenseas concept (introduced by STX France in 2018) that represents hybrid propulsion combining sails with dual-fuel marine engines.

MSC's new cruise vessel will be able to sail with min wind speed 15 knots (28 kph) and wind angle 50+ degrees. The currently considered design features GT tonnage 23,000, LOA length 210 m (689 ft), passenger capacity 300 (150 staterooms).

The sailing ship can reach speeds of 12 knots (14 mph / 22 kph) under sail in 15 knots (17 mph / 28 kph) winds. In winds over 15 knots, the vessel's propellers will be used, acting as a turbine that draws power from the sails. On Caribbean Sea routes, the new technology could reduce propulsion energy by 60%.

STX France's sail-ship design was developed for 3 vessel sizes, the biggest being 15,000 GT tons vessel with LOA length 190 m (620 ft) and 150 passenger staterooms. The French shipbuilding company started research in sail propulsion in 2009, Silenseas has technology patents (2009 and 2017) for the new sail. The unit is made from fiberglass, carbon and epoxy-resin panels. Similar is the concept of Peace Boat's new vessel Ecoship (built by Arctech Helsinki Shipyard in Helsinki, Finland ).

STX France's new wind-power technology was trialed on the Ponant -owned superyacht Le Ponant , on which one of the existing sails was replaced and the new technology tested.

Shipboard safety

In October 2017, MSC Cruises installed on Meraviglia a modern "Man Overboard Detection System". The company also announced its plans to install such systems fleetwide.

This is an intelligent video capturing, image processing and analysis system that was tested and tuned on the cruise ship for over 25,000 hours, resulting in confirmed accuracy level of 97%. The real-time video data (provided by the ship's HD CCTVs) is monitored and analyzed in a central security center by 2 independent image processing systems, which significantly lowers false alerts.

When the alarm activates (in a man overboard case), light and acoustic signals notify the ship's security officer who can immediately review the recorded video and notify the Navigation Bridge crew to start a rescue operation.

MSC WORLD-Class liners

On April 6, 2017, during the Meraviglia ship's delivery ceremony at STX France shipyard (Saint-Nazaire) , MSC signed a new ship construction MoU ("memorandum of understanding") with STX France for a new series of 4 vessels (WORLD Class) at a total cost EUR 4.5 billion. The ship's order was signed on May 31, 2017.

WORLD Class MSC vessels are with a max capacity of 6761 passengers. The number of staterooms is 2632 ( passenger capacity 5264 lower berths). The building cost (per unit) is EUR 1,125 billion, the shipbuilder is STX France.

Each unit has Gross Tonnage/volume 215,863 (GT tons), LOA length 333 m (1093 ft), waterline beam/width 41 m/135 ft (max width 54 m/177 ft), height 75 m (245 ft), draft 9,2 m (31 ft).

Among these liners' key features are latest generation LNG-powered marine engines , new wastewater treatment plants, ultra-modern marine architecture with a Y-shaped superstructure (better panoramic views, significantly increased number of balcony staterooms), G-bow hull (vertically positioned / at a 90-degree angle, improving the vessel's stability and hydrodynamics/fuel efficiency), family-themed "villages", panoramic aft pool, glass-covered pool deck.

The first ships from the WORLD series were inaugurated in 2022 Dec ( MSC World Europa ) and 2025 April ( MSC World America ). The two optional vessels were ordered in November 2023 and scheduled for deliveries in 2026 May ( MSC World Asia ) and 2027 February (MSC World tbn). There is also an option for a 5th unit from this class.

In January 2016, MSC signed a partnership with Samsung for the latest technology equipment upgrade fleetwide. Among the provided by Samsung equipment are top-line flat HDTVs (for passenger cabins), LED screens and digital signage boards (in public areas), specialized medical equipment (for onboard hospitals), augmented reality mirrors, printing solutions.

In April 2018, the company introduced its new "Family Explorer Club" excursions program with expected over 250,000 children on cruises in 2018. The new tour program is designed to involve kids and their parents on custom-made shore excursions. The first boat offering this program was Divina. The new interactive land tour experiences are themed on the destination's history and each tour features a local historical character symbolic to that destination/city. Teams are equipped with digital explorer maps, detailed instructions for the mission, and kids receive stickers for every accomplished task. On these family-only tours, kids are booked half-price. Excursions usually start later in the morning and have a max duration of 4 hours.

MSC private islands (Sir Bani Yas, Ocean Cay)

In December 2015, MSC unveiled plans to develop an "unprecedented exclusive marine reserve island experience in the Bahamas". The USD 200-million project was launched in Nassau , where The Bahamas' Prime Minister and MSC's Executive Chairman signed a 100-year lease agreement, enabling MSC Cruises to occupy and develop the island - officially named Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve .

Ocean Cay was a 2-year long, USD 200 million project. The island is sized 95 acres / 38 hectares (0,38 km2 / 0,15 mi2) and is the world's only private marine reserve. It has a 3470 m (11400 ft) long beachfront across 6 beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is the biggest Caribbean private island development done by a cruise company. An interesting fact is that when the MSC ship is berthed in Ocean Cay, all its onboard facilities and services (including the casino) stay open and operational. Ocean Cay Island is surrounded by 64 mi2 (166 km2) of protected waters with coral reefs and ~90 different fish species.

In June 2016, MSC officially announced the exclusive "beach oasis" for MSC cruiseship tourists on roundtrips from UAE ( Abu Dhabi and Dubai ) starting winter 2016-2017. The 2,5 km (1,5 mi) stretch of land on Sir Bani Yas Island features shaded cabanas, hundreds of palm trees and 2000+ sunbeds across 36,000 m2 (387,500 ft2) of sand beaches. Other facilities and amenities available on the island include food and drink bars, MSC Aurea Spa (wellness complex, massages), sports facilities (beach volleyball, tennis), family-kids playground area (with pergola / outdoor garden for parrents), Bedouin tent (selling hand-made local arts and crafts), lounge space (live music, full-service bar), exclusive beaches (with VIP areas and cabanas).

The MSC island development is on a smaller isle connected to the main island by wooden boardwalk allowing exclusive access to MSC passengers. MSC worked closely with ecologists and the Abu Dhabi Port Authorities for over 2 years to develop the island and support the ongoing preservation work. The isle is one of the region's largest wildlife reserves due to decades of conservation works and ecological investments to maintain its biodiversity. The "Arabian Wildlife Park" on the main island is home to over 13,000 endangered and indigenous animals, as well as millions of plants and trees.

The first cruise to Sir Bani Yas Island departed on December 3, 2016 (visiting the island on December 5). Prices started from USD 720 per person (7-night itinerary on MSC Fantasia ). In July 2016, Costa Cruises announced that Sir Bani Yas Island will be added as a 1-day stopover (port of call) during season 2016-2017 on Costa neoRiviera . In 2017-2018, neoRiviera was replaced in Dubai by Costa Mediterranea . Costa passengers have access to a private (Costa exclusive) beach with VIP areas with cabanas.

Among the island's shore excursion options are jeep safaris in the wildlife park, sea kayaking, diving and snorkeling tours.

MSC Cruises Asia

In mid-January 2018, MSC announced a new partnership with China's largest online payment platform "Alipay". The deal offers mobile payments fleetwide - on all MSC vessels deployed in Asia. It allows customers to pay for onboard purchases. In November 2017, the Alipay option was introduced on MSC Lirica. Next ship with Alipay technology was MSC Splendida - homeported in Shanghai China since May 2018.

Since May 2017, all Costa Asia -managed cruise vessels (of all Carnival Corporation brands) allow use Alipay payment services onboard. The partnership between Carnival Corporation and Ant Financial Services Group (a subsidiary of Alibaba, China's biggest online trading company) enables Chinese cruise passengers on all Carnival Corp ships in Asia to pay for onboard services and products using their Alipay (mobile payment platform) accounts. Among these onboard services and products are shopping, tours/excursions, food, and drinks. These expenditures are added to the passenger's cabin folio, then cleared via his/her Alipay account on a nightly basis.

(NEW) MSC kids programming

In November 2019, on Grandiosa (fleet's flagship) MSC introduces a new kids' entertainment program featuring hundreds of hours (per week) of themed activities. For children and teens is allocated up to 700 m2 (7535 ft2) of shipboard space with separate rooms for different age groups. The activities include virtual gaming (consoles and arcade machines), large aqua parks with slides, treasure hunts, trivia games, themed parties, supervised playgrounds (indoor and outdoor).

Starting with Grandiosa, MSC now offers 3 new activities for children (MSC Dance Crew, The Drone Academy, Spy Mission) plus a new web series targeting teenagers.

• "MSC Dance Crew" is developed via partnership with FremantleMedia - the company behind the TV show franchises "The X Factor", "Idols" and "Got Talent". The new music competition experience is based on teams of 12-17-year-old children battling to win the title "dance crew of the year".
• "The Drone Academy" is via partnership with The Department ( London UK -based event agency). The high-tech drone racing activities take place in the ship's Sportsplex and happen at night due to flicker effects and the glowing drones. Teens (battling in teams) are previously trained on drone piloting. The race is at the 390 m2 (4200 ft2) sized arena and includes navigating 15 obstacles in the fastest time possible.
• "Spy Mission" is MSC's first activity where kids play a central role. They are led through different scenes (throughout the ship) to unravel storylines, follow clues and solve the mystery in order to win prizes.
• "Cabin 12006" is MSC's new teen-targeting web series tha follows "Kelly and Kloe Onboard" - run for 3 years (2016-2019) with 5+ million views online. Filming the "Cabin 12006" episodes is currently underway on Bellissima (March 2019-inaugurated).

MSC wedding cruise deals

Since 2015, MSC Cruises has a new cruise wedding program available on Caribbean itineraries. The program offers onboard marriages (also ashore) in several Caribbean port destinations, including Nassau Bahamas, Bridgetown Barbados, Grand Cayman Island, Falmouth Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, San Juan Puerto Rico, Philipsburg St Maarten, Charlotte Amalie St Thomas, and also Miami (on the embarkation day only).

MSC partnered with the wedding-planning company "The Wedding Experience" and offers cruise wedding packages with prices starting from USD 1600 (onboard) and USD 2200 (ashore) weddings. MSC's basic wedding package includes a pre-cruise event manager, a ceremony coordinator, 1 bottle of Champagne, 1 cake for two, 1 bridal bouquet, 1-hour photo session.

Event planners work with the couples to handle all the details (weddings and vow renewals). Also provided are wedding consultants and ceremony coordinators. Onboard / ashore receptions and ceremonies offer various options - video/photo packages, fresh flowers, themed music, food and drink packages, also specialty items (personalized stationaries for invitations) and ground transportation for ashore events.

Couples booking groups of 13 or more cabins receive a complimentary balcony stateroom. Couples booking groups of 30 or more cabins receive a complimentary suite. Complimentary Yacht Club stateroom is offered for 50 or more booked cabins. Onboard ceremonies can be attended by up to 150 non-cruising guests.

MSC Cruises' first ship to offer onboard weddings was MSC Divina.

MSC cruise booking and cancellation policy changes

In July 2017, MSC changed the company's cruise booking policy. It now requires final payments to be made 30 days earlier - from 60-days to 90-days prior departure.

• Cancellations made 89-61 days prior departure result in losing the non-refundable deposit.
• Cancellations between 46-60 days prior departure result in paying 50% of the original price.
• Cancellations between 16-45 days prior departure result in paying 75% of the original price.
• Cancellations made 15 days or less prior departure result in paying the full cruise price.

Since April 2, 2019, tips (gratuities) are included into MSC cruise fares for all UK and Ireland passengers.

On February 1, 2019, MSC officially revealed the in-cabin digital assistant ZOE. The technology ("cruise industry first") was developed by Harman International (US-based company, fully-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics). Harman International has developed digital audio solutions for major corporations (Including Google, Microsoft, Amazon).

• ZOE is an artificial intelligence device (voice-enabled, with advanced voice recognition software) available in all passenger staterooms.
• ZOE speaks 7 languages, answers cruise-related questions, provides info on shipboard services-activities-facilities, makes reservations and bookings.
• The digital device features far-field microphones, top-quality speaker, quad-core processor (for fast response times), direct phone connection (through Bluetooth). The system can also upgrade its own database to answer previously unanswerable questions.
• Passenger data (including itinerary/tour and shipboard preferences) is stored in Cloud Storage system and used on the next scheduled voyage.
• The device (sized ~15 cm) can be activated whenever passengers choose. A waiver must be signed to agree for their personal data to be stored.

Starting with Bellissima (2019), ZOE will be available on all newbuild MSC liners - including Grandiosa (2019) and Virtuosa (2020) - and introduced fleetwide over 2019-2024.

"MSC for Me" - fleetwide Digital Innovation Program 2017-2018

Each of the MSC cruise ships is fitted with thousands of connectivity points, digital access points, iBeacons (Bluetooth) and hundreds of interactive digital screens throughout the ship. In all staterooms are implemented RFID (radio-frequency identification) and NFC (near-field communication) access technologies.

The new program is implemented fleetwide but was first introduced on MSC Meraviglia . The ship, launched in June 2017, was fitted with a total of 114 Interactive screens, 244 info screens, 31 virtual screens, 81 video wall monitors, 3050 iBeacons, 700 WAPs (wireless access points), 1200 CCTV cameras.

MSC digitalization program's main features are:

• The apps implement facial recognition technology and interactive/smart bracelets by Samsung.
• Digital Concierge app - passengers can reserve/book onboard services, restaurants and shore excursions in real-time. The app is real-time and 24-hour, connecting MSC customers to the company's experienced staff online.
• Capture - virtual reality tool to preview the cruise itinerary, create personal photo galleries, online sharing.
• Organizer - a cruise planning tool used at mobile devices. It provides detailed information and also allows pre-booking (tours, theatre seats, dinner table, etc) before ship embarkation (pre-cruise booking) and while onboard (realtime cruise planner).
• Navigation - Interactive map (way finder) provides advice (scheduled events, opening hours, etc) and directions while on the ship. The app also allows real-time kids monitoring (via bracelets).
• TailorMade - digital advisor for personal recommendations based on the passenger's preferences (interactive gaming, gambling, culinary, recreational, entertainment, etc).
• Passengers can always opt out of all these connected ("Internet of things" / IoT) services offered.
• All passenger staterooms are fitted with door locks with built-in keypads (Samsung SHS-1321 NFC Ring).

MSC fitness cruise packages

Since 2017, MSC Cruises offers an upgraded fleetwide onboard wellness experience via a partnership with TechnoGym. It is part of the company's cruise fare-inclusive offers that can be chosen upon booking.

• The new program starts with an online questionnaire determining the customer's specific wellness goals, aspects of a healthy lifestyle (exercises, healthy diet, weight loss).
• The new wellness program is linked with the company's fitness-themed cruises . It also includes one-time personal trainer consultation. Personal training sessions are available onboard at extra cost.
• Also included are themed shore excursions (jogging, hiking, cycling), fitness classes (hula hooping, barre, yoga, Pilates).
• Resistance bands and workout mats are provided on the ship for in-cabin use.
• TechnoGym workout gear and laundry service for the exercise clothing are provided on the ship.
• Healthy food menu options are available in the ship's main dining rooms and Lido buffet restaurants.
• Deals are also inclusive of a medical evaluation with the ship's doctor (blood pressure, EKG, lipid panel).
• The new "Wellness Experience" program is operated with a total of 5 fitness cruise packages available for booking. Pricing starts from USD 930 pp (7-night itinerary, Interior Stateroom).

FREE Birthday cruise

In 2017, MSC started offering a new "free cruise deal" for customers celebrating their birthday. in case your birthday falls during select cruises, it is complimentary.

• MSC's free cruise offers are on itineraries in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic), Asia (Arabian Peninsula /Dubai), Caribbean (West Indies, Cuba). Longer itineraries are available through World Voyages .
• Booked passengers can extend their free birthday cruise and combine itineraries into B2Bs (back to back cruises) from 14 to 22 nights.
• Bookings must have at least one paying passenger and only one free birthday passenger. The birthday of the passenger must fall on one of the itinerary days, but excluding the arrival and departure days.
• Such offers are usually promotions, subject to selected availability and valid for lower cabin categories only (usually excluding Suites).

MSC's "Dolphins Fan Cruise"

MSC Seaside ship's itinerary March 17-24, 2018 (7-day Caribbean and Antilles roundtrip from Miami to Nassau Bahamas, St Thomas USVI, St Johns Antigua) was officially themed "Dolphins Fan Cruise". This special voyage was the result of the 3-year partnership between MSC and the NFL team. The sports-themed voyage will be hosted annually over the next 3 years (2017-2020). The 2018 voyage's prices started at USD 700 per person (balcony cabin rates based on double occupancy).

During these sports cruises, passengers have the opportunity to interact in person with team alumni. The list of pre-scheduled onboard activities includes:

• Meet team's legends Joe Rose, Kim Bokamper, Nat Moore, Patrick Surtain, Sam Madison, Terry Kirby.
• Take autographs from the alumni, and get a photo with the team's cheerleaders.
• Cheer alongside team's cheerleaders and hype up the crowd with the mascot TD (The Dolphin).
• Enjoy special performances by cheer squad and the mascot.
• Get to know former players during Q&A sessions.

On April 28, 2018, the ship hosted the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders for the team's annual calendar photo shoot, with special onboard show programming.

• Via company's "Save & Sail" summer promotion, potential MSC cruise customers had the chance to book a balcony stateroom on the "Cheerleaders voyage" starting at USD 650 pp. The off-promo prices started from USD 1098 pp (Inside Cabin rates with double occupancy).
• Cheerleaders cruise itinerary (April 28 - May 5) was a 7-day roundtrip from Miami to St Maarten Island, Puerto Rico and Bahamas (Nassau).

MSC virtual reality ship tours

Samsung and MSC developed a cutting-edge virtual reality tool for touring MSC cruise liners. The new technology was announced during at Expo Milano 2015 (May 1 through October 31, 2015).

With this innovative technology, MSC made available to the company's top European sellers (travel agencies) a powerful tool for introducing the brand to potential customers. The technology is based on Samsung's "Gear VR" headsets (powered by Oculus) plus a custom-built software app. Potential MSC passengers can walk through any cruise ship in the fleet without setting foot on board. The tool allows "walking" through 6 key onboard areas (including staterooms, restaurants, pools, theatre / also watching a show). The 360-degree sensory experience even brings aromas in the air (when observing an onboard restaurant) - such as fresh-baked bread, fresh fruits, chocolate.

The virtual cruise ship tour technology uses software and hardware by AxedGroup. The virtual ship tour app runs on Samsung Galaxy Note phones. Other experiences include tours of new (prototype) MSC ships *currently under construction).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, MSC suspended its North American fleet's passenger shipping operations (all US-homeported liners) by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through May-June 2021.

European operations resumed in 2020 on August 16 (Grandiosa) and October 19 (Magnifica) but all voyages were eventually canceled. MSC had its fleet fully operational by June 5th, 2022.

Next are listed MSC's first scheduled departure dates by ship/region/homeport - ARMONIA (April 10, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), BELLISSIMA (July 2021/Red Sea from Jeddah Saudi Arabia), DIVINA (Sept 16, 2021/Bahamas from Port Canaveral), FANTASIA (Nov 7, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), GRANDIOSA (Jan 24, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), LIRICA (April 12, 2022/Med-Aegean-Athens), MAGNIFICA (June 20, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), MERAVIGLIA (Aug 2, 2021/Caribbean from Miami), MUSICA (June 5, 2022/Mediterranean from Monfalcone), OPERA (April 24, 2022/Mediterranean-Genoa), ORCHESTRA (June 5, 2021/Adriatic-Greece from Venice), POESIA (April 30, 2022/Med-Baltic repositioning/Rome-Rostock), PREZIOSA (Sept 23, 2021/Mediterranean-Genoa), SEASHORE (Aug 9, 2021/Mediterranean-Naples-Messina-Valletta-Barcelona), SEASCAPE (Nov 19, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Transatlantic from Rome to NYC New York), SEASIDE (May 1, 2021/Mediterranean-Rome-Genoa), SEAVIEW (July 3, 2021/Kiel Germany), SINFONIA (March 26, 2022/Mediterranean from Venice), SPLENDIDA (June 12, 2021/Adriatic from Trieste), VIRTUOSA (May 20, 2021/UK-British Islands from Southampton), WORLD EUROPA (Dec 21, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Red Sea from Dubai).

• In early-January 2021 MSC planned to start Mediterranean cruises (with Grandiosa) scheduled between January 24 and March 21. The 7-day itinerary (leaving on Sundays from Genoa) visited Civitavecchia, Palermo, Naples and Valletta (Malta), with embarkation available in all the Italian ports.
• MSC USA's pause (ex-Florida cancellations) affected 3 ships - Meraviglia and Armonia (from Miami) and Divina (from Port Canaveral).
• MSC South America 2021-2022 winter program was canceled (due to Brazil's new policies/ordinance 657) affecting 4 ships (Sinfonia, Orchestra, Preziosa, Splendida).
• LIRICA's Mediterranean 2021 season (7-day roundtrips from Ancona and Venice) was canceled and the liner restarts operations in 2022 (April 11/Aegean from Athens).
• MUSICA's South Africa 2021-2022 program (from Durban) was canceled.
• OPERA's Red Sea 2021-2022 program (from Dubai) was canceled.
• PREZIOSA's 2021 Baltic season (Baltic-Norway from Hamburg) was canceled.
• MSC's 2021-2022/winter South America (Preziosa, Seaview) and Arabia-Dubai (Fantasia) programs were canceled.

All affected bookings received full refunds in FCC (future cruise credit), including on prepurchased through MSC packages and services. With rebooking (made by December 31, 2021) was offered a 125% refund in FCC. Available for rebooking were all departures thru April 30, 2022. Optionally was offered a 100% monetary refund.

Itinerary of MSC Cruises

This section provides a concise review of MSC's current and future cruise itinerary program. The company operates regularly scheduled voyages in Europe (Mediterranean, UK, Baltic), the Caribbean (ex-Florida USA departures), South America, South Africa, Asia, Arabian Gulf.

Currently, MSC has no plans for ship deployments in Alaska, except via the sister brand Explora Journeys .

MSC's Grand Voyages are seasonally offered relocation voyages including Transatlantic crossings (Europe-USA-Caribbean, Europe-South America), Suez Canal (Mediterranean-Arabia/ Dubai UAE ), Mediterranean-Baltic-UK, Europe-South Africa. Cruises to Nowhere MSC offers in South Africa.

Note: An extensive ship relocation schedule you can see at RepositionCruises.com

With its newbuilds , MSC attracts a large number of retirees during winter and targets families with kids during summer and the school holidays. The company's smaller liners offer longer and more exotic itineraries but lack modern kids' facilities as they are tailored to older travelers.

In 2025, MSC starts homeporting in Galveston Texas USA (ship Seascape).

Middle East 2024 Arabian Gulf voyages

MSC Opera 's Arabian/Red Sea deployment in winter 2024-25 (from Dubai) was canceled and replaced with a Canary Islands deployment. In the Canaries, MSC Opera had scheduled 7-night itineraries (November 3, 2024, through March 16, 2025) visiting 6 call ports. Departing roundtrip from  Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the ship visits  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria ,  Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) ,  Funchal (Madeira) ,  Santa Cruz de la Palma , and  Arrecife (Lanzarote)  before returning back to Tenerife. MSC's new Canary Islands itinerary offers flexible homeporting options allowing boarding in Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Sundays), Las Palmas (Mondays), Madeira (Thursdays or Fridays) and Arrecife (Saturdays).

MSC Orchestra  is introducing a new Middle East cruise itinerary from  Safaga  in Egypt, featuring 20 seven-night sailings to  Jeddah ,  Aqaba for Petra  in Jordan,  Sharm El-Sheikh , and  Cairo .

Cruises from China

In May 2018, MSC Splendida started service on the Chinese market following its 2017 drydock refurbishment . The China-based ( Shanghai ) itinerary program included destinations in Japan, Korea, China.

MSC offers cruises in China since 2016 (with MSC Lirica ), followed by the deployments of Splendida (2018) and Virtuosa (2022).

In 2024 (April thru September), in China are deployed the MSC ships Bellissima and Splendida. Itineraries are based on homeporting in/roundtrip departures from Shanghai and Shenzhen/Shekou . Bellissima starts from Shenzhen on June 29th, and has scheduled 8x voyages (2- to 5-night in length) visiting Hong Kong and Japan (Okinawa, Yaeyama Islands, Miyako Island). In July-September (2024) Bellissima has scheduled 8x voyages (4- to 6-night) leaving out of Shanghai and visiting Japan (Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Osaka, Okinawa, Shimonoseki).

MSC Caribbean 2024-2025 itineraries

Caribbean and the French Antilles

• 2024/Seascape (PortMiami): 7-night Eastern Caribbean (Ocean Cay and Nassau Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Plata Dominicana) 7-night Western Caribbean (Ocean Cay, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Ocho Rios Jamaica)
• 2025/Seascape (Galveston TX, departing on Sundays): 7-night Western Caribbean (Mexico's Costa Maya and Cozumel, and Honduras's Roatan Island)
• Meraviglia (Port Canaveral): 3- to 7-night (Nassau and Ocean Cay, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Belize City)
• Divina (PortMiami): 3- to 10-night (Ocean Cay, Belize City, Roatan Honduras, Costa Maya, Ocho Rios, Cartagena Columbia, Colon Panama, Puerto Limon Costa Rica)
• Seaside ( Fort-de-France, French Antilles ): 7-night (Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe, Castries St Lucia, Bridgetown Barbados, St Georges Grenada, Kingstown St Vincent)

Western Mediterranean

• Grandiosa . 7-night (Genoa, Civitavecchia/Rome, Palermo Italy, Valletta Malta, Barcelona Spain, Marseille France)
• Virtuosa : 7-night (Genoa, La Spezia/Florence, Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Marseille
• Lirica (Genoa) 11-night (Civitavecchia, Messina Sicily, Lindos/Rhodes, Heraklion/Crete, Limassol Cyprus, Haifa Israel) 10-night (Ceuta, Malaga, Barcelona, Alicante, Tangier and Casablanca/Marrakech Morocco, Marseille)

South America

• Seashore (Brazil). 7-night (Maceio Salvador & Buzios Brazil)
• Seaview (Rio de Janeiro) 3- to 8-night (Buzios, Ilhabela, Ilha, Grande/Angra dos Reis, Ilheus & Salvador Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
• Fantasia (Santos, Brazil) 3- to 7-night (Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil, Montevideo & Punta Del Este Uruguay, Buenos Aires)
• Armonia (Itajai/Santa Caterina, Brazil) 7-night (Ilhabela Brazil, ports in Uruguay & Argentina)
• Musica (Bueno Aires) Ilhabela, Rio de Janeiro, Buzios, Ilha Grande/Angra dos Reis Brazil

South Africa

• Sinfonia (Cape Town) Mossel Bay, Walvis Bay and Ludertize (Namibia).
• Orchestra (Durban) Pomene & Portuguese Island/Inhaca Archipelago (Mozambique), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Cape Town (South Africa)

Middle East

• World Europa (Dubai) 7-night (Abu Dhabi/Dubai, Sir Bani Yas, Dammam/Al Ahsa Oasis Saudi Arabia)
• Opera (Dubai) Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas, Muscat, Khasab (Oman); 22 separate 7-night sailings in 2023-2024, starting from Dubai and covering ports like Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island,  Khasab in Oman  or  Fujairah in the UAE , the  Omani capital Muscat , and returning to Dubai.
• 17 new 7-night voyages in the Arabian Gulf by  MSC Virtuosa  from Dubai , taking passengers to  Doha in Qatar , the newly added  port of Manama in Bahrain ,  Abu Dhabi ,  Sir Bani Yas Island  in the UAE, and back to Dubai. 
• MSC Orchestra  is offering a new itinerary during the winter 2023-2024 season. Departing from  Safaga in Egypt , she sails on 20 7-night sailings to destinations like  Jeddah  in Saudi Arabia,  Aqaba for Petra  in Jordan, a newly introduced port of call at  Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt ,  Sokhna Port  for  Cairo in Egypt , and back to Safaga. International guests have embarkation options at Safaga, Jeddah, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Sokhna Port.

In 2025 debuts World Europa's sistership MSC World America and both are homeported in  Miami . Out of PortMiami, World America operates on two 7-day roundtrip itineraries - Eastern Caribbean (to  Puerto Plata Dominicana ,  San Juan Puerto Rico , and  Ocean Cay Bahamas ) and Western Caribbean (to Mexico's  Costa Maya  and  Cozumel Mexico ,  Isla Roatan Honduras , and Ocean Cay). World America's Maiden Voyage departs Miami on April 12, 2025 (Eastern Caribbean).

Winter 2025-2026 itineraries from the USA

In May 2024, MSC unveiled an expansion of ex-USA operations planned for winter 2025-2026 season.

The program is based on four homeports and seven ships leaving roundtrip from three states - Florida ( Miami  and  Port Canaveral ), New York ( NYC ) and Texas ( Galveston ).

Season's key highlight is the debut of MSC Grandiosa ship in Port Canaveral - the first USA-based Meraviglia-Plus class vessel. Grandiosa offers alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, while MSC Seashore ship (also from Port Canaveral) offers short breaks (3- and 4-night) to The Bahamas ( Nassau and Ocean Cay ).

In 2025, MSC starts operations from Texas (Galveston) with MSC Seascape ship offering 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries.

MSC World America ship (launched April 2025) embarks on its first season from Miami.

The other two USA-based MSC ships are MSC Divina (from Miami) and MSC Meraviglia (from New York City to Florida-Bahamas).

Summer 2026 Mediterranean itineraries

From May to October 2026, MSC Cruises' fleet of 9 elegant ships offers journeys to iconic destinations as well as off-the-beaten-path gems, blending relaxation, exploration, culture, and entertainment seamlessly.

• Valencia, Spain , entices with its vibrant port city charm, historical richness, and lively nightlife. Guests can explore cobblestone streets steeped in Spanish heritage, indulge in culinary delights like tapas and paella, and bask in the beauty of Playa de Las Arenas beach.  MSC Fantasia  and  MSC Seaside  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Valencia and Genoa, respectively.
• Livorno, Italy , a coastal gem in Tuscany, boasts historical marvels, fascinating museums, and mouthwatering seafood. From Livorno, travelers can easily visit Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, or marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. MSC Fantasia and  MSC Grandiosa  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Livorno and Valencia, respectively.
• Barcelona, Spain , thrives during the summer months with its festivals, beaches, and cultural attractions. From world-class museums to the architectural wonders of Gaudí, Barcelona promises a vibrant experience.  MSC Seaview  and  MSC World Europa  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Barcelona and Genoa, respectively.
• Palermo, Italy , the capital of Sicily, blends Norman architecture, Baroque churches, and bustling markets. Exploring its labyrinthine streets reveals a rich tapestry of history and culture. MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa offer 7-night itineraries departing from Genoa and Livorno, respectively.
• Ibiza, Spain , renowned for its beauty and nightlife, offers more than just revelry. From the charming Ciutat d’Eivissa to the stunning views atop Montserrat, Ibiza captivates with its diverse offerings.  MSC Musica  and MSC Seaside offer 7-night itineraries departing from Civitavecchia and Genoa, respectively.
• Cadiz, Spain , the oldest city in Western Europe, boasts a rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the nearby Donana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  MSC Orchestra  offers 10-night itineraries departing from Genoa that include a stop in Cadiz.
• Naples, Italy , a vibrant city on the southern coast, enchants with its historic treasures and proximity to Pompeii and the island of Capri. Guests can explore ancient ruins or bask in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. MSC World Europa, MSC Grandiosa, and  MSC Divina  offer 7-night itineraries departing from Genoa, Livorno, and Civitavecchia, respectively.
• Cannes, France , epitomizes glamour and Mediterranean allure, boasting pristine beaches, upscale boutiques, and the renowned Cannes Film Festival. Exploring the city’s old town, Le Suquet, offers a glimpse into its rich history. MSC Musica and MSC Seaview offer 7-night itineraries departing from Civitavecchia and Barcelona, respectively.

MSC Cuba cruises from Havana

In January 2016 MSC became the first major cruise line to homeport in Havana, with MSC Opera (sailing to Jamaica, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands) while MSC Armonia operated on 8-day/7-night itineraries, visiting ports in Central America and the Caribbean:

• 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Roatan (Honduras), Belize City (Belize), Costa Maya (Mexico), Isla de la Juventud (Cuba)
• 8-day roundtrip from Havana visited Montego Bay (Jamaica), George Town (Grand Cayman) and Cozumel (Mexico).
• Both itineraries were combinable into a 14-night roundtrip Havana back-to-back cruise .

Cuban itineraries on MSC Opera were roundtrips from Havana .

Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government to allow ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.

Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-minute JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.

IMPORTANT: On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.

(NEW) PortMiami MSC Terminal AAA

In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the building of a new Cruise Terminal AAA at Port Miami .

Port Miami is MSC's exclusive homeport in the USA. The new agreement extended the existing Saturday preferential MSC berthing rights also to Sundays. Additionally, the new cruise terminal (completed in October 2022) was projected to be able to accommodate MSC's largest World Class ships (carrying up to 7000 pax).

As of November 2019, MSC Cruises' largest ship, MSC Meraviglia joins the other 3 ships at PortMiami.

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An insider’s guide to msc ‘meraviglia’.

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MSC Meraviglia

Christened in Le Harve in the Normandy region of northern France by famed Italian actress Sophia Loren, MSC Meraviglia (meaning ’a wonder’) is one of the newest Italian chic meets utopian-style cruise ships by the Swiss-based cruise line, MSC Cruises, offering passengers a taste of the Mediterranean way of life .

Sailing with 5,714 passengers, Meraviglia stretches 315 meters from bow to stern, set across an impressive 19 decks with 2,760 cabins, 20 bars and lounges, a flight simulator, 4D cinema and a fully-fledged floating aqua park.

Swarovski crystal staircases float through its glittering Infinity Atrium boasting a two-story central promenade, Galleria Meraviglia , under a giant 480 square-meter LED roof (the longest at sea) that transforms from a starry sky to a virtual aquarium.

It is filled with lavish artwork, quirky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and a myriad of cozy boutiques stocked with over 300 brands from fine jewelers to wineries, crepe parlors, and the Jean-Philippe Maury chocolaterie by the namesake French master-pâtissier, where chocolatiers prepare oozing handmade bonbons, macaroons, and truffles live in an open kitchen.

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Galleria Meraviglia

From spinning salsa classes at Meraviglia Bar to wine tastings, themed street parties, and lucky bets on blackjack at Casino Imperiale , you’ll find plenty to do onboard Meraviglia with four swimming pools, a sports complex, a waterpark, and a towering high ropes course.

Buried at the core of Infinity Atrium, Infinity Bar is surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Meraviglia’s nightlife – but for a more serene evening, meander to the chic Champagne Bar with champagne flute-shaped chairs guarding its black mirrored bar, and an impressive crushed ice display, serving chilled Moët & Chandon with fresh oysters and caviar.

Champagne Bar

Home to a dance floor, late-night karaoke, and full TV studio, head to the high-tech TV Studio & Bar broadcasting live games, quizzes, and talent contests whilst transforming to a comedy club – or visit Brass Anchor Pub on Deck 7, Meraviglia’s traditional British pub with oak barrels, anchors, dartboards and chesterfield booths, where you can sample 12 beers on tap and snack on fish ‘n’ chips.

Next door to the Amusement Park with two F1 simulators, a full-size bowling alley, a 4D cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade, the Sports Bar bears the feel of a traditional American diner where you can graze on popcorn, hot dogs and tasty milkshakes – whilst the alfresco Horizon Bar serves spicy margaritas under the stars.

Brass Anchor Pub

Sky Lounge is the Soho House of Meraviglia – a glamorous top-of-the-ship lounge, art deco and licorice-colored, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, sexy jazz, and throat-tickling cocktails.

Down on Deck 5, you’ll find the plush red velvet 985-seat Broadway Theatre, producing six shows per cruise (two runs per night), from musical variety shows to magicians and Motown.

Whilst Carousel Lounge is home to highly immersive, experimental productions from the high-flying aerial circus show, House of Houdini , to the mid-air rock solos of Rock Circus , where acrobats spin and leap to the greatest hits of AC/DC and Guns & Roses.

Broadway Theatre

As the sun rises, shoot a game of basketball at the Sportplex, negotiate beams along the Himalayan Ropes Course (with a bridge where you can cross the ship 60 meters above sea level), or whiz down waterslides and champagne funnels at the Polar Aqua Park, twisting and turning, with spray guns and water dunkers for children.

MSC Aurea Spa

Glide through a pistachio reception adorned with gigantic rocks as you enter the MSC Aurea Spa , complete with 20 treatment rooms, a Jean Louis David beauty salon, a nail boutique, and The Thermal Suite.

With glass cubed chambers and little nooks, it houses sensory steam baths, an ice waterfall, a salt room, a Finnish sauna, a crystal Mediterranean sauna, salt relaxation rooms, a walk-in rainforest shower, two aromatherapy rooms, two thalassotherapy pools, black marble ergonomic beds and a snow grotto.

Its Balinese therapists offer a plethora of treatments from hot stone lava massages to lymphatic drainage and shiatsu – as well as aromatic candle massages, anti-cellulite treatments, and its signature Himalayan Dream massage using rare fossil salts from the Himalayan Mountains.

Or indulge in a thalassotherapy treatment using ingredients like seawater, seaweed, sea mud, and mineral salts, such as the Aurea Papaveris with a body scrub made from poppy flowers, grape seeds, and sea salt to improve elasticity of skin, reduce cellulite and remove toxins from the body.

Treatment room at the MSC Aurea Spa

You’ll also find the MSC Gym by TechnoGym overlooking Meraviglia’s pool deck with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, treadmills, exercise bikes, cardio, and kinesis equipment, and a spinning room and fitness studio holding yoga, pilates, and HIIT biking classes. You can also opt for a fitness package during your voyage that includes two full-body analysis scans and three private sessions with a personal trainer.

The Yacht Club

MSC Yacht Club Pool

Appointed with 94 lavish sites, The Yacht Club is MSC's exclusive ‘ship within a ship’ concept, offering guests VIP treatment onboard with a 24-hour butler service, a dedicated concierge, priority embarkation, and a private lounge, restaurant and sundeck.

Set across 700 square feet, its Royal Suites are grand and taupe, with plush velvet sofas, Egyptian cotton sheets, a sweeping balcony with a private whirlpool, sun loungers, and a dining table; a commodious living room and a whitewashed marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rain shower – you’ll also get premium Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, lavish bathrobes and slippers, and an unlimited complimentary mini-bar.

Royal Suite

Up on Deck 19, you can swan onto your private sundeck bordered by cream sun loungers with a bright turquoise pool, a bubbling hot tub, curved leather booths, and a solarium grill serving buffet breakfasts and light lunches from fresh seafood to a carvery.

Sommelier serviced with fine white clothed tables and elephant velvet armchairs, the Yacht Club Restaurant is the epitome of fine dining onboard Meraviglia, serving dishes like burgundy snails, blue cheese soufflé, champagne risotto, and grilled lobster tail.

Yacht Club Restaurant

Tiptoeing across dark marble walkways into the Yacht Club’s Top Sail Lounge with curved cherry sofas, mirrored ceilings, and wraparound panoramic windows, sip a glass of Dom Pérignon at a gold-wrapped bar, or indulge in afternoon tea as you sail out of port at sunset.

Restaurants

Feast your way through 12 dining venues onboard, from Mexican street food to East-West sushi bars, boasting culinary partnerships with Michelin-starred chefs like Ramón Freixa.

Hidden behind reception, Waves offers classic dining with low ceilings, rose chairs, and jazzy striped carpets, where you can take your Gala Dinner , savoring creamy salmon rillettes and wild mushroom pappardelle before chewing a tender 14-oz porterhouse steak with a glass of rich Californian merlot.

Waves Restaurant

L’Olive Doree is divided by a central walkway, lavish and royal, with golden pillars and a twining wine cellar at its center. Make a stop here for your Serata Italiana dinner nibbling on fried calamari and zucchini before swirling linguine alle vongole around your fork, paired with a Jermann Italian pinot grigio.

With panoramic windows, burnt orange floors, and a swirling utopian-style chandelier hanging above, head to Panorama for a slice of the Caribbean, gorging on Guadeloupe shrimp tails, island meatloaf, and blackened red snapper with coconut rice.

L’Olive Doree

Casual bites are served at Marketplace buffet, open 20 hours a day, with open kitchens, grills, rotisseries, and serving stations stacked with pizzas, creamy pasta, and light bites from China, India, and the Mediterranean, as well as a mozzarella factory area where you can watch it being stretched live.

Bright and lemon with high oak stools, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina serves tasty Mexican street food and Latin American bites from blue corn tacos to crab meat puff sandwiches, Iberian gourmet burgers, authentic beef empanadas, and tamales paired with reposado tequila, tobala mezcal, the ‘king of mezcals’ and bottomless jugs of Spanish sangria.

HOLA! Tacos & Cantina

Butcher’s Cut is Meraviglia's American steakhouse, wrapped in dark oak with an open kitchen and a sweeping wine cellar, serving thick, juicy, tender cuts of 36-oz dry-aged tomahawk and 24-oz T-bone paired with cabernet sauvignon from Napa Valley – complete with a weighty slice of New York cheesecake or bittersweet lava cake from Jean-Philippe’s .

Welcoming just 32 guests, Kaito Teppanyaki is a cozy and intimate teppanyaki restaurant featuring two neon cooking stations with eight tangerine stools on each side, where you’ll sip miso soup and graze on small plates of grilled salmon Sake Teriyaki, and Dragon Rolls with tempura prawns, roasted glazed eel, cream cheese and avocado cooled down with matcha tea ice cream.

Outside Kaito , you’ll stumble across a long sushi bar serving sashimi, maki, nigiri, and thick udon noodles to slurp.

Kaito Teppanyaki

Ocean Cay sits just off the promenade, rich, silver, and formal, with a sliced hull-shaped bar, fish mosaic murals, glass partitions, and portholes peeping out. Here, you’ll find an abundance of seafood from seasonal oysters to imperial oscietra caviar and mammoth seafood sharing platters filled with spiny lobsters, red king crabs, langoustines, and Argentinian shrimp before cleansing your pallet with a bourbon vanilla crème brulée .

And with a high-tech interactive wristband to scan at hubs around Meraviglia and book your gourmet dinners, activities, front-row seats for shows, and indulgent spa treatments, a world awaits you onboard.

For more information, visit msccruises.com .

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The 7 most anticipated new cruise ships of 2022

Cruise lines may have canceled many of their sailings over the past two years due to the coronavirus pandemic . But they didn't cancel orders for new ships.

As 2022 begins, major cruise operators such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are moving forward with plans to unveil more than 20 new oceangoing vessels during the year. That's a big number in the cruise world — on par with the years before the pandemic.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

The new ships are coming even as many lines have yet to resume sailings with all the vessels in their existing fleets.

In some cases, the new ships will be arriving months behind schedule due to pandemic-related construction delays at the shipyards that are building them. Thanks to such delays, the arrival of a few ships that had been scheduled for delivery in 2022 will be pushed to 2023.

But it'll be a big year for new cruise ships nevertheless.

Among the most notable newcomers will be Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , the biggest cruise ship ever built (and by big, we're talking about a ship that can hold nearly 7,000 passengers). Originally set to debut in 2021, it's now scheduled to begin sailing in March .

There also will be major new ships coming from Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and Disney Cruise Line . The latter, notably, hasn't had a new vessel debut in 10 years.

In all cases, the new ships that are on the way already are available for booking — and, indeed, booking up fast. Cruise fans always love to be on the latest and greatest.

Here, a list of the seven new ships arriving in 2022 we're most excited about:

Viking Octantis (Viking)

Maiden voyage: Jan. 12

Fast-growing Viking has rolled out more than 70 new river cruise ships and oceangoing vessels since its founding in 1997. But there's never been one like this.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, Viking Octantis is the line's first "expedition" cruise ship — a type of cruise ship specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As is typical for expedition ships, it's a tough vessel , with a reinforced bow that lets it bump through ice in polar regions and extra tanks for fuel and food. It also has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring (the latter being something that is relatively rare on cruise vessels of any type).

Like other expedition ships, Viking Octantis also sails with a large and seasoned "expedition team" that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

But there are several new and unusual features to Viking Octantis, too. Most notable is The Hangar, an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to the ship's Zodiac landing craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

Viking Octantis also is upscale. Like all of Viking's vessels, it has an elegant Scandinavian design. Its restaurants include a version of Viking's signature Italian spot, Manfredi's, and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen's outlet. Also familiar is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge promising stunning views of passing scenery.

In another first for polar expedition cruise vessels, every cabin on the vessel has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

The details: Viking Octantis debuted in January with sailings to Antarctica out of Ushuaia, Argentina and is repositioning to the Great Lakes for the summer. Fares for 12-night Antarctica trips start at $14,995 per person, not including taxes and fees. Great Lakes sailings start at $6,495 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 855-338-4546 or visit viking.com .

Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Maiden voyage: March 4

Royal Caribbean is going big again with its next ship — really big. The latest in the line's groundbreaking Oasis Class of vessels , Wonder of the Seas will measure 236,857 tons, making it the biggest cruise ship ever built.

That's about 4% bigger than the current size leader in the cruise world, which also is part of Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class: The 3-year-old Symphony of the Seas .

Wonder of the Seas will be similar to Symphony of the Seas and three earlier Oasis Class vessels with a few new twists that will contribute to its bigger size, including a dedicated suite area with a private lounge, restaurant and sun deck. Like the four earlier Oasis Class ships, it will be 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the equivalent of more than three football fields.

Royal Caribbean's first Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas, debuted in 2009. The line added additional Oasis Class vessels in 2010, 2016 and 2018. Each of the ships has been a little bigger than the last, and they're all more than 20% bigger than any other cruise vessels afloat.

Like the earlier Oasis Class ships, Wonder of the Seas will offer multiple main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top deck. Inside the vessel, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine, plus a huge casino, spas and theaters with real Broadway shows.

As with earlier Royal Caribbean ships, it'll even have an indoor ice-skating rink.

The details: Wonder of the Seas initially will be based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for sailings to the Caribbean, before moving to the Mediterranean for the summer. Fares for seven-night Caribbean voyages start at $763 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 866-562-7625 or visit royalcaribbean.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean ships and itineraries

Evrima (The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection)

Maiden voyage: May 6

We feel like a broken record on this one, as we placed it on our list of the most anticipated new cruise ships of 2020 (the year it originally was scheduled to debut) and then shouted it out again on our list of the most anticipated new ships of 2021 . But after a seemingly never-ending series of delays blamed first on shipyard troubles and then on the COVID-19 pandemic, the very first ship from startup line The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , the new luxury cruise division of The Ritz-Carlton , failed to debut during either year.

Now the line is adamant that it is truly coming in May. If it does (and we're sure hoping so), it'll be a notable event in the cruise world, marking the entry of one of the luxury hotel world's most famous brands into cruising.

Holding just 298 passengers, Evrima will be a small, yacht-like vessel with an elegant, residential look (as you might expect for Ritz-Carlton). Standout features will include spacious cabins, a stylish spa and lots of deck-top lounge space for sunning, plus five separate restaurants including an à la carte venue designed by Sven Elverfeld of the three Michelin-starred Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Germany .

Fans of Ritz-Carlton, for sure, are excited about the new vessel.

The details: After a series of five delays that have resulted in the cancellation of more than two years worth of cruises, Evrima now is scheduled to debut in May in Europe before repositioning to the Caribbean for the winter. Fares start at $3,900 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night voyage in the Caribbean. For more information, call 833-999-7292 or visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com .

Disney Wish (Disney Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: July 14

It's been a long time coming. But Disney Cruise Line finally is coming out with a new ship this year — its first in 10 years.

At 140,000-tons, Disney Wish will just be a tad bigger than Disney's last two new ships (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy). But it'll have a whole new array of trademark Disney wow on board, from a Star Wars-themed "hyperspace lounge" that offers a "window" view of passing starships to Marvel- and "Frozen"-themed restaurants.

Cabins on the ship will include seven oceanview rooms located over the bridge — a first for Disney Cruise Line. These rooms will have an extended living area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bow and out across the ocean. And if all that isn't enough, there will be four Royal Suites with a Sleeping Beauty theme — two of which feature an insane two-story floorplan.

Among other notable features will be a reimagined Oceaneers Club (the area for kids 3 to 12 on Disney ships) where children can enter via a "magical slide." The Oceaneers Club also will offer a Marvel Super Hero Academy where kids can design (and virtually fly) in their own super suit. The club also will house Rapunzel's Art Studio, Belle's Library and Anna and Elsa's Sommerhus where there will be a variety of mini-games with Olaf serving as the host.

Disney Wish is just the first of three new "Triton Class" ships that Disney Cruise Line has on order for delivery over the next few years — an expansion that will nearly double its size when measured by passenger capacity.

The details: Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night trips to the Bahamas out of Port Canaveral, Florida. Fares start at $771 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 800-951-3532 or visit disneycruise.disney.go.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Seabourn Venture (Seabourn)

Maiden voyage: July 15

Viking isn't the only major line getting into expedition cruising in 2022. So is Seabourn. Seabourn Venture will be the 33-year-old luxury line's very first expedition ship.

Like Viking Octantis, Seabourn Venture will be a hardy vessel specifically built to travel to some of the world's most remote places, including Antarctica and the Arctic. Indeed, it's scheduled to spend much of its time each year in the polar regions, while also offering sailings to such off-the-beaten-path, warm weather places as the Amazon.

Designed to carry just 264 passengers, it'll be a ship loaded with outdoor equipment for off-ship adventure, including kayaks and bikes. It'll also boast a staggering 24 Zodiac boats for waterborne exploring and landings in remote areas — enough to get every passenger off the ship at the same time (something that isn't always the case with expedition ships). And it'll be home to 26 expedition guides including scientists, historians and naturalists who will lecture regularly on board and lead guided tours on land.

But perhaps Seabourn Venture's standout adventure feature will be its two six-person submarines. As on Viking Octantis, passengers on Seabourn Venture will be able to explore the world under the water in polar regions as well as what's above the waterline.

The ship also will have a high-definition Cineplex camera that can pick up wildlife like a polar bear up to 4 miles away, streaming the footage into the Discovery Center while leaving the wildlife undisturbed.

On the luxury side of things, every room on Seabourn Venture will be a suite and have its own balcony — something that often isn't the case with expedition ships. And the ship's restaurants will serve elegant cuisine crafted in part by leading American chef Thomas Keller.

The details: Seabourn Venture will spend much of its first summer sailing in the Arctic before repositioning to Antarctica for the winter. Fares for Arctic sailings start at $11,099 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 206-626-8351 or visit seabourn.com .

Norwegian Prima (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: Aug. 17

For the first time in nearly 10 years, Norwegian Cruise Line is getting an entirely new class of ships. Under development since 2017, Norwegian Prima will be the first of six sister vessels scheduled to debut between 2022 and 2027 that collectively will be known as the Prima Class.

At 142,500 tons, Norwegian Prima will be notably smaller than the vessels the line has been adding in recent years, such as the 2-year-old, 169,116-ton Norwegian Encore — a factor that will allow it to access smaller ports around the world. But Norwegian Prima still will pack a lot of over-the-top amenities, including a go-kart track that spreads over three decks (a cruise industry first).

The ship also will boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says will provide more G-force than an accelerating F1 racecar. Additionally, the vessel will be home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, and a list of interactive real-life gameshows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right," "Supermarket Sweep," "Press Your Luck" and "Beat the Clock."

But Norwegian Prima will be about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It'll also mark a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian says Norwegian Prima will offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship as well as the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessels as well as the brand's largest-ever inside, oceanview and balcony cabins.

Norwegian also says Norwegian Prima will offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship including more total pool deck space than any other ship in the brand's fleet.

The details: Norwegian Prima initially will sail in Northern Europe during the summer before repositioning to North America in the fall. Fares start at $799 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a five-night trip to Mexico out of Port Canaveral, Florida. For more information, call 800-657-5773 or visit ncl.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)

Maiden voyage: Dec. 20

It won't be quite the world's biggest cruise ship, though it will be close. At around 205,000 tons, MSC World Europa will be nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's record-size Oasis Class vessels, including the aforementioned Wonder of the Seas.

By one measure, it'll be even bigger. MSC World Europa will be 21 decks high — three decks higher than the Oasis Class ships. But it'll be less long and less wide than the Oasis Class ships, leaving it about 10% smaller in overall size.

Like the Oasis Class ships, MSC World Europa will be able to hold nearly 7,000 passengers with all berths filled — 6,762 to be exact.

As for its onboard offerings, MSC Cruises is taking a page from Royal Caribbean's playbook by breaking down the public areas of MSC World Europa into districts. They will include an adults-only "Zen district" and a separate "family district" that houses as many as 10 new kids facilities. There also will be a central interior promenade with entertainment, shops and bars.

In addition, MSC World Europa will have six pools and 14 hot tubs, making it one of the most pool-covered ships at sea. The watery offerings will include an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that will integrate virtual reality technology. There also will be a family sundeck.

MSC World Europa also will have 13 dining venues, including the new-for-the-line Chef's Garden Kitchen (an outlet focused on microgreens) and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. In a twist, the ship will have three separate buffet restaurants as well, each with its own ambiance.

Drinking spots will include an English-style pub serving beer made on board as well as a new gin bar concept, a first for MSC Cruises. Dubbed Masters of the Sea Pub, it'll span two decks.

The details: MSC World Europa initially will sail in the Persian Gulf out of Dubai before repositioning to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2023. Fares for seven-night sailings start at $559 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 877-868-8870 or visit msccruisesusa.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises

Other newcomers

In addition to the above, newcomers for 2022 also include several more small expedition ships and other small vessels from such cruise operators as Silversea Cruises , Emerald Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages. There also are two new ships debuting for start-up line Virgin Voyages and new ships coming for Princess Cruises , Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises — all sisters to previously unveiled vessels.

Viking also has several other new ships debuting in addition to Viking Octantis.

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Explora I Cruise Ship to Call to 21 Greek Ports in 2024

Piraeus Port of Athens recently welcomed EXPLORA I for her maiden call marking the ship’s debut in the Eastern Mediterranean. The ship is the first of a fleet of six for the luxury ocean travel brand Explora Journeys of the MSC Cruises .

Following her maiden call, EXPLORA I set sail from Piraeus on June 27 visiting Volos , Thessaloniki , Kavala and Istanbul, followed by the arrival back in Piraeus on July 5.

EXPLORA I will call to 21 Greek ports in 2024 , with many of the journeys offering convenient embarkation and disembarkation in Piraeus. Highlight destinations for guests travelling on board EXPLORA I in Greece include Katapola  ( Amorgos ),  Paros ,  Patmos  and  Corfu .

Explora Journeys is the privately-owned luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

With overnights and longer stays at destinations, Explora Journeys’ guests can delve deep into local cultures and experiences, creating memories that last a lifetime. Journeys start at 7 nights and can extend to 14 or 21 nights, all departing from easily accessible ports.

allCruises ,  Cruiseway Travel ,  Navihellas Cruise Centre  and  Top Kinisis Travel  are the sales representatives of MSC Cruises  in Greece .

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Step Inside The World’s Most Luxurious Cruise Ships

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

When it comes to cruising, it's definitely more about the journey than the destination – and today's cruise ships focus more and more on the passenger experience. Designs and aesthetics are constantly improving and being elevated with spaces curated by top interior designers, high-end suites that rival those in 5-star hotels, and even extensive art collections on board. We take a look at the world's most beautiful cruise ships that bring a little extra sparkle, inside and out.

MS Rotterdam, Holland America Line

The 2,668-guest MS Rotterdam is the third in the Pinnacle Class series for Holland America Line. At 984 feet (300m) in length, the craftmanship used to create the classic nautical lines of the ship’s exterior reflects almost 150 years of expertise within the company. Her interiors dazzle too, with fluid lines, vibrant colors and airy, light-filled spaces from the shared areas to the staterooms and suites.

Music is the ship's main inspiration, on show everywhere from the atrium’s dramatic harp-like sculpture to the impressive World Stage, where musicians play against a wraparound LED screen. Thoughtfully curated art is displayed throughout the decks and staterooms too, from museum-quality antiques and works by the masters to avant-garde sculptures and thought-provoking photography by emerging artists. Together, they make up a floating gallery of 2,645 pieces of work ranging in value from around $500-$620,000.

Silver Moon, Silversea

Silversea's  Silver Moon maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodation that the cruise line has become known for – yet takes it to a whole new level. The ship's high-end suites have been enriched with elegant decor, premium amenities and luxurious details such as handcrafted beds by Savoir. Bespoke crystal panels by luxury French brand Lalique have been incorporated into the brand's signature restaurant, La Dame.

The innovative new culinary enrichment programme Sea and Land Taste (SALT) is designed to immerse guests in culinary experiences, from classes and market trips to extra-special meals. Dining spaces are filled with unique objects and arts and crafts pieces that draw on influences from all over the world, while color palettes throughout are used to enhance the dining experience. Lighter tones brighten the demo area, the main restaurant has rich details and accents, while the bar has a darker, more mysterious feel.

Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Cruises

Scenic Eclipse  promises to deliver an ultra-luxury cruise experience for up to 228 guests. Her indulgent suites are flooded with natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, which open onto a private veranda or terrace. All 114 suites are furnished with king-size beds, ambient lighting and lounge areas. The Owner’s Penthouse Suites are even more incredible, each with its own spacious curved terrace, private spa pool and sun loungers, plus a private lounge and dining area.

The shared spaces are pretty decadent too. There's the 550-square-foot (51sqm) Senses Spa, emblazoned with gold leaf, and multiple pool areas. The stylish Whisky Bar has a floor-to-ceiling translucent quartz display case with 110 varieties of the spirit, while a sculpture of a gown – consisting of 5,400 spoons – marks the entrance to French Champagne bar Lumière.

Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line’s imagineers have once again created a world of enchantment, this time aboard the Disney Wish . The ship welcomed her first guests in summer 2022 and has a distinctly Disney design concept inspired by timeless tales. The motif of 'enchantment' manifests throughout the ship, from the magical forest setting of the Walt Disney Theatre and storybook-inspired staterooms to the fairy-tale-castle Grand Hall, where a dazzling wishing star descends from the shimmering chandelier above.

The Wish Tower Suite, set high in the forward funnel of the ship (which displays the cruise line’s Micky Mouse logo), is a 1,966-square-foot (183sqm) penthouse in the sky and the most unique Disney Cruise Line accommodation yet. Another of the ship's magical features is Disney’s first Frozen -themed theatrical dining experience, which brings the world of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment and world-class cuisine infused with Nordic influences.

Regatta, Oceania Cruises

Regatta is the flagship vessel of Oceania Cruises' fleet and a shining example of the OceaniaNEXT rebuild of the brand’s four 684-guest Regatta Class ships. Her 342 lavish suites and staterooms showcase designer furnishings, while the reimagined public spaces feature Tuscan marble, a revamped color palette of soft sea and sky tones, works of art and a tasteful renewal of fabrics, furnishings and light fixtures.

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Regatta has four restaurants including the iconic Grand Dining Room, which has been decked out with new bejeweled chandeliers. Other beautifully refreshed spaces include Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, eight lounges and bars and a casino. Her decks are made from the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms have luxurious Neoclassical furnishings.

Royal Clipper, Star Clippers

Royal Clipper is one of Star Clippers’ three tall ships and officially the largest square rigger in service. The elegant vessel cuts through the water gracefully, just like the legendary clippers from a bygone era. The five-masted, fully rigged tall ship, which has 42 sails, is beautiful to look at. Her Clipper heritage is reflected in polished brass and gleaming brightwork, expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, a convivial tropical bar and a comfortable piano bar.

The balance of maritime nostalgia and modern cruising is spot-on. Passengers can recline in the bowsprit net suspended above the sea or climb the mast to the Crow's Nest for stunning panoramic views as they sail. The 18,944 square feet (1,760sqm) of open deck and three swimming pools create an expansive outdoor environment. Another notable feature is the Captain Nemo Lounge, the ship's spa and health club, with underwater glass portholes.

Seabourn Encore, Seabourn

Seabourn Encore is the newest striking ship in the cruise line's ultra-luxury fleet. Modeled on the trio of ships introduced with Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Encore represents another stage in the evolution of small ship cruising. There are 300 suites in total, including 16 penthouse suites and five penthouse spa suites, all with verandas facing the ocean.

Seabourn Square, designed to be an innovative concierge lounge, invites guests to access every shipboard service in a relaxed, living-room atmosphere. The Square's thoughtful layout includes a library, upscale shops, an outdoor terrace and a coffee bar, all arranged across a light-filled space with dark-wood accents, a subtle color palette and striking blue velvet armchairs.

Le Ponant, Ponant

Le Ponant  is the flagship vessel of French cruise company Ponant. The three-mast cruise yacht, which relaunched in summer 2022, has undergone a complete refit and refurbishment. Designed by French studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, her common areas have refined, clean lines with an elegant finish. The color palette – consisting of off-white, taupe and caviar gray – reflect the classic, sophisticated style, with no need for embellishments or bling.

The accommodation is equally streamlined and elevated, with the number of staterooms and suites halved to just 16, housing a maximum of 32 guests. These are spread over three decks, each benefiting from large windows, and include a particularly lovely and spacious Owner Suite. The company has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant, giving guests the sense of being on their own private yacht.

MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises

MSC Virtuosa was named in homage to the skill and expertise of the architects and shipyard partners who designed and built it. The ship carries all the signature features of an MSC Cruises’ ship. At its heart are glamorous, gleaming mirrored surfaces in the atrium, centered around a sparkly Swarovski-studded staircase linking all three decks of the ship.

The beautifully designed indoor promenade has the longest LED dome at sea and images on the high ceiling can change from an underwater adventure to a space exploration scene. The ship has 21 bars and lounges all with their own style and unique decor, from the futuristic white and blue of the Starship club featuring Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, to the earthy colors of traditional pub Masters of the Sea.

Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Apex is part of Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series. The ship showcases the talents of British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE, American designer Nate Berkus, Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku and British architect Tom Wright. Hoppen’s inspiration for the accommodation was to create an outward-facing design emphasizing the outdoor scenery. Each of the ship's two Iconic Suites, positioned high above the bridge, have more than 2,500 square feet (232sqm) of opulent indoor and outdoor space, complete with private terrace and hot tub.

The Grand Plaza is one of the ship's most interesting spaces, inspired by the piazzas of Italy. Its chandelier transforms the atmosphere from day to night, with the lighting changing from warm and inviting to bright and dramatic. Other beautifully imagined areas are the Rooftop Garden and the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered, floating platform set 13 floors above sea level.

Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Cunard’s flagship  Queen Mary 2 exudes classic style and elegance. Designed by a team of British naval architects, the traditional ocean liner has a long, sleek bow that makes her ideal for transatlantic crossings. Its black hull, red stripe, distinctive red-and-black funnel crown and bright white decks evoke the appearance of ocean liners of a bygone era.

The lavish accommodation includes beautiful duplex suites, each with a spiral staircase, walk-in closet, marble bath and private balcony. A daily afternoon tea is served by white-gloved waiters in the Queens Room restaurant, while Godiva at Sir Samuel’s has a decadent display of pralines and truffles. Elsewhere, the planetarium 3D cinema sends guests on an epic voyage across the solar system.

Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas

An art collection worth around $5 million is displayed throughout the  Seven Seas Splendor . The impressive floating gallery includes more than 500 crystal chandeliers and more than an acre of Italian marble which fits in well with the ship's sophisticated style. Other standout aspects are the mythical dragon that greets diners at Pacific Rim restaurant and the alcoves that jut over the ocean at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Each of the beautifully appointed suites has a private balcony, while the palatial Regent Suite – perched on the 14th deck – has a wraparound veranda over the ship’s bow. Its custom-made Treesse mini-pool spa is situated on the front balcony, while the king-sized Vividus bed was handcrafted by upscale Swedish brand, Hästens.

Viking Octantis, Viking Cruises

The new Polar Class  Viking Octantis  is imagined by the same interior designers, nautical architects and engineers who designed the cruise line’s longships and ocean ships. An integrated bow creates a longer waterline for the ship, featuring the company’s signature Scandinavian influence. Each stateroom has a Nordic-style balcony and a sunroom, while floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass allows guests to take in the views and keep the elements out. The top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout.

The stunning Explorers’ Lounge, pictured, has two decks at the bow of the ship with double-height windows to take in the scenery. Other cleverly laid-out areas include the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area just above sea level with has recessed couches and lava rock fire pits, and the Aquavit Terrace and pools, set under a retractable glass dome. The design of the spa and fitness center is in keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, featuring a thermal suite with traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub).

Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises’ first-ever luxury superyacht, Emerald Azzurra , launched in March 2022. She stretches to 361 feet (110m) in length and carries just 100 guests across 50 deluxe suites and staterooms. The yacht's sleek design enables her to venture to ports and harbors many other, bigger cruise ships are unable to access. Onboard, the infinity-edge pool offers incredible views of passing scenery.

There are six suite and stateroom categories on the Emerald Azzurra, each wonderfully luxurious (though some a little more so). The oversized Owner’s Suites are the most opulent, with separate bedroom and lounge areas. Best of all, guests can soak up the sun from the large private curved terrace with uninterrupted views. Designer wing chairs and footstools are a fixture in the Observation Lounge, and can be taken outside on clear days and for cinema evenings.

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Now take a look at more exciting new cruise ships coming soon

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After nearly collapsing during COVID, it’s now an amenities arms race for the cruise industry

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The world’s largest cruise company, Carnival, announces its quarterly earnings Tuesday.

Four years ago, the pandemic all but shut down the cruise industry , and operators incurred huge debt just to maintain their mothballed fleets. But the industry has bounced back and then some; passenger numbers last year exceeded pre-pandemic levels.  

When it comes to vacationers, you’ve got your national park people, you’ve got your museum lovers. And then, said Cornell’s Rob Kwortnik, you’ve got your cruisers.

“Cruise fanatics are — they’re a breed unto themselves. They absolutely love the experience,” he said.

And they’re reliable customers who helped the industry set sail after the COVID shutdowns. But it’s not the diehards who are driving the near-record growth today, Kwortnik noted.

“The new-to-cruise is the lifeblood of the industry, and so there’s always efforts to try to persuade someone who’s a land-based vacationer to take a cruise,” he said.

If you’re into rock climbing, ice skating or riding roller coasters, you can do all those things on a boat. And this arms race of amenities is even spilling over onto land, according to Assia Georgieva of Infinity Research.

“In addition to the actual ships, private islands have been really important,” she said.

That’s right: private islands. Georgieva said that cruise companies are investing more and more in their own ports of call. So, instead of docking in a city to soak up local culture and food, “you can experience a beach club. You can go jet skiing, water slides that I just absolutely love,” she said. “I’m probably the oldest person that goes up there with all the kids.”

These all-inclusive experiences seem to be attracting extended families. “So now we’re having three generations going on a cruise ship,” said Georgieva.

Including some who may have never cruised before.

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Put your cruise on silent mode, please: Why ships need to curb noise pollution

When Carnival Corp. ships sail into Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , a protected area teeming with wildlife and striking landscapes, they go into quiet mode.

The vessels don't make any announcements on outside weather decks, and they also slow down from between 14 and 18 knots – between roughly 16 and 21 mph – to often less than 10 knots.

That way, passengers can see animals like seals lounging on bergy bits, while the ship minimizes disruptions to the marine environment.

“Most often, the ship can transit in a place like Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm or Glacier Bay, and typically, we don't see any of the seals move at all,” said Patrick McGuire, vice president of environmental operations and policy for the company’s Holland America Group, which is comprised of Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn and P&O Cruises Australia. “So, that's certainly our objective is to not have any noisy interference with marine mammals because that's what everyone comes to see.”

Those kinds of measures are among a number of steps cruise lines have taken to reduce noise pollution from their ships, which has become a point of increased focus in recent years for many cruise lines.

How do cruise ships create noise pollution?

Sound is a common sensory modality for animals underwater, according to Leila Hatch, Research Ecologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, specializing in underwater sound monitoring and management.

“As light degrades, sound travels really efficiently over really large distances, and particularly sounds that are ... low tones on the piano or lower frequency,” she said. A wide range of creatures, from invertebrates to whales, use sounds to communicate with one another and pick up other cues, such as when predators or prey are close by.

Can we have eco-friendly cruising? What to know about zero-emission ships

Large commercial ships, meanwhile, are the dominant human-generated contributors to low-frequency noise across ocean basins, which can interfere with animals’ ability to hear signals they need to detect. Oceangoing traffic can also add to coastal noise from smaller regional and local vessels in areas like traffic lanes approaching ports.

A ship’s propulsion system is the main culprit in emitting underwater noise, though other machinery can create a vibration that can transmit noise beneath the surface too.

Are cruise ships the main source of noise pollution?

Passenger cruise ships represent significantly less than 1% of all oceangoing vessels, according to Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group. However, Hatch noted that in popular cruise destinations, those ships may make up a larger portion of ships in the area.

Animals in more remote places may also be at higher risk of complications from noise pollution, but that doesn’t mean those living in urbanized environments are accustomed to it.

“Marine animals that depend on habitats where vessel noise levels are persistently high are documented to show higher stress rates, elevated predation risk and lower foraging success,” Hatch said. “These are chronic conditions that become particularly concerning if animals are already vulnerable or endangered. In areas where vessel noise levels have historically been low but traffic is increasing, such as a warming Arctic, animals have the potential for heightened disturbance as they encounter more commonly what has until now been rare noisy events.”

How are cruise ships reducing noise pollution?

Carnival Corp. and Holland America Group have developed protocols for sensitive areas, McGuire said.

Before operating in Glacier Bay, which already limits cruise ship entry to two per day, they conduct underwater sound profiling for the first vessel in each new class by sailing at different speeds, as part of a concession agreement with the National Park Service.

The process is done under the auspices of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, which sends the results to both Carnival Corp. and the park service, and ships are tested at various speeds.

When ships go at higher speeds of around 18 knots, McGuire said propeller cavitation – when vapor bubbles form and dissolve, inhibiting performance and creating noise – is the predominant audible sound source. At lower speeds, the rotation of diesel generators or motors powering functions like air conditioning shows up more clearly. That information allows the operator to evaluate the noise coming from a ship and adjust plans as needed.

Holland America Group cruise lines have measured ship noise in other ways too.

Seabourn Venture, an expedition ship optimized for sailing in polar regions, marked its first class to have its underwater noise level certified by a classification society when the vessel launched in 2022. The voluntary process provides operators with notations that a ship operates within a given sound range.

“So … because these vessels are designed to operate in sensitive areas, we've taken particular attention to have that noise profile measured as well,” McGuire said. Venture’s underwater sound levels came in under the relevant standard, he added.

MSC Cruises has also received “underwater radiated noise” notations for its MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC World Europa, and MSC Euribia ships, according to Linden Coppell, MSC Cruises’ vice president of sustainability & ESG.

Down the coast from Glacier Bay, Holland America Group ships also cooperate with the Enhancing Cetacean Habitat and Observation Program led by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, which includes several voluntary initiatives to reduce underwater noise from large commercial vessels.

In the waters around northern Washington and southern British Columbia, ships turn off their ultrasonic anti-fouling systems, McGuire said, which help prevent unwanted organisms from attaching to a ship’s exterior, Hatch noted that ultrasonic anti-fouling systems have become increasingly prevalent on cruise ships and other kinds of vessels over the last two or three years, and are “causing some concern in the scientific community” as they emit sounds at a frequency that disturbs some toothed whale species.

“The ECHO Program is aware some ships are equipped with ultrasonic anti-fouling systems and has discussed with some operators the benefits of disabling the technology when transiting through southern resident killer whale critical habitat to further reduce underwater noise,” a spokesperson for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority said in an email.

Other initiatives aimed at reaching sustainability goals, such as plugging into shore power in port so ships can turn off their engines, have the added benefit of reducing noise, though they may be limited in scale.

Less than 2% of cruise ports worldwide have on-shore power capabilities, though that number is expected to increase to 3% by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association’s 2023 State of the Cruise Industry report. Among its member ships, more than half will be equipped to plug into shore power where available by the end of this year.

Coppell said MSC also works closely with shipyards to identify opportunities to further reduce inefficiencies, which she said are often associated with noise. “(With) every ship, there's going to be potentially incremental improvements,” she said.

Those advances may be increasingly important.

“With a larger human population and the globalization of goods, the projectile for how much sound from vessels is in the world's oceans is sort of ever-growing,” Hatch said.

NOAA works to highlight the circumstances that may pose risks to marine life, Hatch said.

"(Noise) has increasingly well-understood physiological consequences for animals, and if they are already having a hard time making a living in the ocean, then that is a stressor we have to address," she said. "We have to figure out ways to improve the quality of that habitat."

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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