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MSC UpGrade | MSC Cruises

take your cruise to the next level

Bid for a cabin upgrade in a few clicks.

Our  MSC UPGRADE PROGRAM  elevates your cruise in few simple steps. Imagine being upgraded from an  O cean View  cabin to our most  elegant Suites , with our  cabin upgrade program  you could win the  most breathtaking views  on board in a few simple clicks.

Let us tell you how to do it:  just   make your bid  on the cabins available and  get a chance to the cabin of your dreams!

How does msc Upgrade PROGRAM Work?

1. find out if you are eligible for a cabin upgrade.

If you already have a booking number and have paid for your cruise, we will contact you by email to propose a cabin upgrade . 

Please be assured that your agent can guide you through the upgrade process, if  you booked your voyage through a travel agent.

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2. CHECK THE CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE AND MAKE YOUR BID

If you're eligible, you can discover the best cabins available for an upgrade and enter the amount you are willing to pay. Each bid is per person and will automatically be doubled for the second guest in your cabin. The 3rd and 4th guests will receive the category upgrade free of charge. Bidding on multiple rooms will increase your chances of getting an upgrade, but you will only be charged for one upgrade.

Remember to provide us with a valid credit card, even though you will not be charged during this phase

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3. KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR EMAILS AND ENJOY YOUR CRUISE

We will inform you of the outcome of your bid by e-mail , so keep an eye on it!

If your bid is accepted, your credit card will automatically be charged the corresponding amount. Otherwise, you will keep the cabin you originally booked without paying any additional amount.

emails

How much do I bid through MSC UpGrade if my reservation includes more than two guests?

How will i be charged for msc upgrade if i travel alone.

You will be charged based on double occupancy. For example, if you originally booked a single occupancy cabin and bid $ 100 for an MSC UpGrade cabin upgrade, you will be charged $ 200 if the upgrade is accepted.

How do MSC UpGrade offer work if I’m part of a group or travelling with another reservation?

If i’m travelling with another cabin, can i bid only once through msc upgrade and, if accepted, cancel the second reservation and move the guests into the upgraded cabin, can i modify or cancel the msc upgrade offer after it has been submitted.

You may modify or cancel the offer up until 48 hours prior to the closing of the bidding window, as long as the offer has not already been accepted by MSC or your credit card has not been already charged.

Can I cancel the MSC UpGrade offer after it has been accepted?

What will happen with the promotions i already have if i’m upgraded through msc upgrade.

You get to keep the promotions you already have based on the cabin category initially booked. However, will add no additional promotions to your reservation.

What will happen with my cabin experience in case I win an MSC UpGrade?

If i win an upgrade to an aurea experience or msc yacht club cabin, do i get all the related benefits.

Yes, if a guest wins an upgrade to an Aurea experience or MSC Yacht Club cabin, the originally booked Bella or Fantastica experience will be changed to the new Aurea or MSC Yacht Club cabin experience. We will guarantee all the related benefits associated with the upgraded experience.

Can I choose the location or specific features of the cabin?

What will happen if the upgrade category includes a higher amount of hotel service charge, when will i know if my msc upgrade offer got accepted, why did i or someone “travelling with” not receive an invite to bid on an msc upgrade, terms & conditions, msc upgrade program, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program – enhance your cruise

Enhance your cruise experience with the MSC Cruises upgrade bid program

Are you considering an upgrade on your next MSC Cruises vacation? You may land the stateroom of your dreams in just a few simple steps at a fraction of the cost. Let’s dive into MSC Cruises’ upgrade program, a bid-based upgrade system designed to enhance your cruising experience.

The bidding program allows eligible passengers to place bids on stateroom upgrades. From ocean views and balcony staterooms to the most luxurious suites at sea, this program offers the opportunity to score a fantastic upgrade and elevate your cruise experience.

So, how does the MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program work?

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you may receive an invitation to participate in the program. Submit your bid, sit back, and wait for the results. As its name suggests, the program operates on a bidding system—that means the higher your bid, the better your chances of scoring an upgrade.

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Understanding the MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program

The MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program allows you to submit bids to upgrade your existing stateroom.

To participate, you’ll receive an invitation via email from MSC Cruises if your booking is eligible. The email will contain instructions and an invitation to submit an offer. After submitting your bid, you’ll patiently wait to find out if your bid was successful. If your bid wins, you’ll be notified, and your stateroom will be upgraded accordingly.

It’s essential to remember that submitting a bid does not guarantee an upgrade. Upgrades depend on availability, your offer’s competitiveness, and other factors MSC Cruises determines.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all MSC Cruise bookings are eligible for the Upgrade Bid Program. To qualify for the program, your booking must meet specific criteria. Some eligibility factors include:

  • Your booking must be made directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner.
  • You must have a confirmed reservation and have already paid the total fare.

If you meet these criteria and MSC still hasn’t sent you an email invitation, don’t hesitate to contact MSC directly to inquire about your booking’s eligibility. Not all bookings will be eligible.

How to participate in the MSC Upgrade Bid Program

To participate in the MSC Upgrade Bid Program, you must first book a cruise with MSC Cruises. After booking, you may receive an offer to upgrade your stateroom through the program. If you receive an upgrade offer, follow these steps:

  • Review the available upgrade options : MSC Cruises will present various stateroom options for you to bid on. These options may range from Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to more luxurious suites.
  • Decide on your bid amount : Each available upgrade will have a minimum bid amount, which you can increase to improve your chances of getting the upgrade. Remember that the bidding range varies depending on the type of stateroom you want to upgrade to.
  • Submit your bid : Once you have decided on your bid amount, submit your bid through the Plusgrade Program platform. Make sure to double-check the details of your bid before confirming.

Bid Evaluation and Notification

After submitting your bid, MSC Cruises will evaluate all received bids for the available stateroom upgrades. The evaluation process considers various factors, such as:

  • Your bid amount
  • The number of bids received for the same stateroom
  • The availability of the desired staterooms

While your bid is being evaluated, you may be able to view your bid status, which often indicates your chances of winning the upgrade.

Once the evaluation process is complete, MSC Cruises will notify you via email about the outcome of your bid.

What are the benefits of the Upgrade Bid Program?

Upgrading your cabin can provide several benefits, such as enhanced room features, exclusive amenities, and dining options.

Enhanced Room Features

You’ll enjoy more spacious and well-appointed staterooms when you upgrade your cabin. Upgraded cabins often have better views, larger balconies, and more comfortable seating areas. You may also find bigger bathrooms and additional storage space for your belongings.

Exclusive Amenities

Upgraded cabins often come with exclusive amenities you wouldn’t have access to in a standard cabin. For example, you might gain access to a private pool area, exclusive lounges, or priority embarkation and disembarkation services. Some upgrades include Butler Service or a personalized Concierge Service to help you book reservations and arrange special requests during your cruise.

Dining Options

A cabin upgrade can also provide you with additional dining options. Upgrading to a suite or a cabin that is part of a specific “class” or “experience” might grant you access to exclusive restaurants or dining areas unavailable to all passengers. These dining venues usually offer a more upscale ambiance and a higher cuisine level, making your cruise dining experience even more enjoyable.

Tips for a Successful Upgrade Bid

When participating in the MSC Cruises upgrade bid program, think about the following:

Your bid amount plays an essential role in securing an upgrade. If you bid too low, your chances of being selected will likely be slim, while bidding too high may not be cost-effective and may not be in line with your budget. Remember that all bids are per person, based on double occupancy. Consider how much you are willing to spend, and try to find a middle ground between the minimum and maximum bid.

Be mindful of the bidding range specified by MSC Cruises, and contact them for advice if you are unsure. Check if you are bidding a per-person price or for all cabin occupants.

Although there’s no definitive “best time” to submit your upgrade bid, be aware of the time frame given by MSC Cruises and submit your bid as soon as possible.

Monitor your email for any updates or notifications on the upgrade process. MSC Cruises may provide additional information on available upgrades and specific time frames to submit your bids. Staying informed and actively engaged with the upgrade process will be key to maximizing your chances of success.

Finally, remember that the upgrade program’s primary goal is to enhance your MSC Cruises experience and sell more available cabins in the higher price category. Approach the process with a clear understanding of what you want, your budget, and the potential value of the upgrade.

Common questions about MSC’s bidding program:

How can i participate in the msc cruises bidding program.

Sign up for an MSC account via the cruise line’s web page. You must agree that they can send you MSC offers and marketing promotions to receive an email about possible upgrades and the bidding program.

Can I participate in the bidding program if I have booked through a travel agent?

Yes, you should be able to participate if you have booked directly with the cruise or via a travel agent or supplier. Be sure to confirm this when booking and ask your agent to verify that your email address is in the booking so that you can receive emails directly from MSC Cruises.

You can also sign up to receive emails from MSC Cruises directly on their website and link this to your booking number. You must allow MSC Cruises to send you offers and marketing promotions to be able to receive emails about the bidding program for your particular cruise.

How do I know how much to bid to be in with a chance of an upgrade?

MSC Cruises sets a minimum bid amount for the upgrade you can participate in. You can bid the minimum amount or increase it to an amount you feel comfortable paying should you win the bid.

Can I cancel my bid after I win an upgrade if I change my mind?

If your bid is successful and you win an upgrade based on your bid amount, you must pay the bid amount, and you cannot cancel your bid.

How can I find out if my bid is successful?

MSC Cruises will not contact you if your bid is not successful. Remember that you can receive notification of a successful bid very close to your sailing date, so keep an eye on your email. It may also be possible to find out by clicking on the link in the original email sent to you, and it will tell you if you have a successful bid.

Is there a chance I will receive an offer to make a bid?

The upgrade system and the opportunity to bid on a cabin in a higher price category are based on the availability of your particular sailing date at a given time before the sail date.

Most often, customers who book the Bella or Fantastica experience will receive an offer if cabins are available, and sometimes, if you have booked the Aurea experience, you may be able to bid on an upgrade to the Yacht Club category.

Again, it all depends on the availability of cabins at a given time when MSC decides to send out a bulk email offering upgrades via their bidding system.

What should I look out for when participating in the bidding program?

As with everything you need to pay for, make sure you read all the terms and conditions of the bidding program before you decide to participate and bid. If you are unsure of any information, we recommend contacting MSC Cruises directly and asking them before placing a bid.

msc cruise upgrade bid

Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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10 thoughts on “MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program – enhance your cruise”

Can I cancel my upgrade bid before the cruise made a decision ???

Hello David! If your bid is successful and you win an upgrade based on your bid amount, you must pay the bid amount, and you cannot cancel your bid. If you have made a bid but have not received an answer and would like to withdraw, you must contact MSC Cruises and ask them if it’s possible to remove your bid. However, we recommend asking for written confirmation from them if they say they can do this.

We received an invite to bid on our upcoming cruise but when I put info in it says you are unable to bid and to check back.

Hi Linda Thank you for contacting us at CruiseTrail! As you were unable to make the bid, it could be that all available cabins are now filled. However, I recommend contacting MSC Cruises directly to check that there is no technical problem with the upgrade system that prohibits you from placing a bid, so you don’t miss out. If a bid is still possible, request a new offer to be sent to you by email and try again. Good Luck!

How do I bid for a yacht club upgrade I’m in a balcony cabin now with premium drinks package

Hello Diane

Thank you for your enquiry! Be sure to sign up for an MSC account via the cruise line’s web page. You must agree that they can send you MSC offers and marketing promotions to receive an email about possible upgrades and the bidding program. If you do not receive an offer to upgrade your stateroom, I recommend calling the cruise line (or your travel agent if you have booked through a 3rd party) and ask if they know when offers to upgrade are planned to be sent out.

Sarah, we are booked in a lower level category that does not include the drinks package. If I am offered an upgrade to the Yacht Club, would I then have the benefit of free drinks for YC guests?

Thanks Cliff Davidson

Thank you for contacting us. Firstly I must apologize for the very late reply, your enquiry has slipped right by us and I have only just spotted it. The latest information we have from MSC Cruises is that you would NOT get the all the benefits of the Yacht Club category, you would only receive the actual cabin upgrade to Yacht Club category.

We would also add that policy can change at any time, so do double check this information at the time of booking.

We hope you enjoy a wonderful experience with MSC Cruises.

Hi I am trying to find on MSC Website where I say I will receive marketing materials and advertising so I can then register? for a bid for a future upgrade. I do not know where it is to tick the box. What section? Thanks so much

Hi Julie-anne, Thank you for contacting us! Unfortunately, navigating MSC Cruises’ website is not that easy. You should be able to register your email address when booking. Alternatively, I recommend contacting MSC Cruises; your region’s telephone will appear at the top of their website homepage. Give them your booking number, and they can insert your email address. I hope this helps, this is how I used to register my customers when they wanted to participate in the MSC Bid program.

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Unlocking the Best: Your Guide to the MSC Upgrade Bid Program

The article provides an overview of the MSC Upgrade Program, including how it operates on a bidding system, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of participating, along with tips for successfully participating and key considerations for passengers. It also explores the benefits of cabin upgrades, passenger experiences with the program, and tips and recommendations for those looking to upgrade their cabin for a better experience on MSC cruises.

Understanding the MSC Upgrade Program

The MSC upgrade bid program provides passengers with the opportunity to bid for upgrades to higher-category cabins, enhancing their cruise experience. This operates on a bidding system, where higher bids increase the chances of winning an upgrade. Participating in the program can offer passengers exclusive benefits and amenities, making it an appealing option for those seeking an enhanced cruise experience.

Passengers who successfully win an upgrade bid through the program can enjoy a range of benefits such as access to exclusive lounges, priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary specialty dining options, and more spacious and luxurious accommodations. These enhancements can significantly elevate the overall cruise experience, allowing passengers to indulge in added comfort and luxury during their voyage.

Eligibility criteria for participating in the MSC upgrade bid program include booking directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner and having a confirmed reservation with the total fare already paid. This ensures that passengers who have committed to their cruise booking are allowed to potentially elevate their experience through the bid program.

msc upgrade program hallway

How to Participate in the MSC Upgrade Program

Participating in the MSC upgrade bid program is an exciting opportunity for passengers to enhance their cruise experience. To be eligible, passengers must have a confirmed reservation with the total fare already paid, whether they booked directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner. Once invited, passengers can review the available upgrade options and decide on a bid amount that aligns with their preferences and budget. The bid is then submitted through the user-friendly Plusgrade Program platform, which simplifies the process and allows passengers to track their bids easily.

For example, let’s consider a scenario where a couple, Guga and Rob, are preparing for their MSC Meraviglia cruise. Initially, they booked an ocean-view cabin for their upcoming trip and were eager to participate in the MSC Bid Upgrade Program to elevate their onboard experience. After receiving an email invitation, they carefully reviewed the available upgrade options and decided to place a bid for a balcony room. Their active engagement with the upgrade process involved considering the timing and availability of cabins, leading them to make a well-informed bid. This proactive approach significantly increased their chances of securing an upgrade, ultimately resulting in an enhanced cruise experience for Guga and Rob.

Passengers are encouraged to actively engage with the program, carefully considering the bid amount and timing to maximize their chances of success. By understanding the process and being proactive, passengers can increase their likelihood of winning an upgrade bid and enjoying an elevated cruise experience.

msc upgrade program suite

Key Considerations for Passengers

When participating in the bid program on MSC cruises, passengers may encounter various common issues and challenges that are important to consider. One of the key factors to keep in mind is the minimum bid amounts set by MSC Cruises for cabin upgrades. These minimum bid amounts can vary depending on the specific cruise, cabin category, and other relevant factors. Passengers need to be aware of these minimum bid amounts as they prepare their bids, ensuring that their offers align with the cruise line’s requirements.

Furthermore, understanding the notification process for successful and unsuccessful upgrade bids is vital. Passengers should be aware of how and when they will be notified about the status of their bids. It’s important to note that MSC Cruises will not contact passengers if their bid is unsuccessful, and successful bidders may be notified close to the sailing date. This knowledge can help passengers manage their expectations and make alternative arrangements if their bids are unsuccessful.

In addition, the availability of cabins and timing considerations play a crucial role in the bidding process. The opportunity to bid on a higher price category cabin depends on the availability of cabins at a given time. Passengers should carefully assess the availability of cabins before submitting their bids, considering factors such as the popularity of the cruise, the number of competing bids, and the likelihood of securing an upgrade based on the current bookings. Timing considerations also come into play, as submitting bids earlier or closer to the sailing date can impact the chances of winning an upgrade. Being mindful of these considerations can significantly influence the success of a bid and enhance the overall experience of participating in the MSC upgrade bid program.

Benefits of Cabin Upgrades

Participating in the MSC upgrade bid program and winning an upgrade bid can provide passengers with a range of benefits, including enhanced room features, exclusive amenities, and additional dining options offered with upgraded cabins and even MSC Yacht Club.

For example, passengers who win an upgrade bid may enjoy enhanced room features such as larger living spaces, private balconies, or luxurious bathroom amenities. These upgrades can significantly enhance the overall comfort and experience during the cruise, allowing passengers to relax and indulge in a more spacious and well-appointed cabin environment. Additionally, upgraded cabins often come with exclusive amenities, which may include priority embarkation and disembarkation, access to private lounges or facilities, and personalized concierge services, making the cruise experience even more convenient and enjoyable. Moreover, passengers who secure a cabin upgrade through the bidding program may have access to additional dining options, such as specialty restaurants or exclusive dining venues, providing them with more culinary choices and an opportunity to savor a wider range of delectable dishes and cuisines during their voyage.

In addition to the physical and experiential enhancements, cabin upgrades can also elevate the overall ambiance and luxury of the cruise, allowing passengers to make the most of their time at sea and create lasting memories. Therefore, by participating in the MSC upgrade bid program, passengers have the opportunity to elevate their cruise experience and enjoy a host of exclusive benefits and amenities that come with winning an upgrade bid.

msc upgrade program

Passenger Experiences with the MSC Upgrade Program

Passengers who have participated in the MSC upgrade bid program have shared diverse experiences that offer valuable insights into the process of upgrading cabins for a better cruise experience. For instance, one passenger shared on a forum how they eagerly anticipated a response regarding a potential upgrade on the new MSC World Europa, hoping for an exciting notification before their upcoming travel in 20 days. This highlights the anticipation and excitement passengers feel when participating in the bid program, adding an element of thrill to the upgrade process.

Additionally, another passenger recounted their experience of being upgraded to a balcony room on an MSC cruise after participating in the bidding program. They initially encountered confusion and frustration with shoreside customer service but were pleasantly surprised by the onboard customer service, which quickly resolved the upgrade issue and even accommodated their dietary needs. This illustrates the importance of effective customer service both shoreside and onboard, showcasing how the cruise line’s handling of upgrade-related issues can significantly impact passenger experiences.

Tips and Recommendations

When considering an upgrade to their cabin on MSC cruises, passengers are advised to thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the bidding program before participating. This includes understanding the minimum bid amounts set by MSC Cruises for cabin upgrades, as well as the notification process for successful and unsuccessful upgrade bids. By being well-informed about these aspects, passengers can make more strategic decisions when submitting their bids, thereby increasing their chances of a successful upgrade.

It’s also crucial for passengers to be proactive and engaged in the bidding process. This means carefully considering the bid amount and timing, as well as actively participating in the upgrade bid program. To enhance their chances of winning an upgrade, passengers should monitor the availability of cabins and carefully evaluate the options before submitting their bids. By paying close attention to these details and being actively involved in the bidding process, passengers can optimize their chances of securing a cabin upgrade for an enhanced cruise experience.

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The Ultimate Guide to Bidding for Upgrades on Your Cruise

Everyone likes the idea of getting a good deal on an upgraded cabin, and a lot of cruise lines now offer this opportunity through a bidding process.  There are a lot of mysteries about how this works and what the secret to winning an upgrade bid is, so we’re going to help clear this up.  We’ll explain the bidding process, share some reasons cruise lines like this system (and they’re not all the reasons you’ll expect), and tell you what to do and what not to do in order to maximize your chances of winning an upgrade on your next cruise.

the ultimate guide on bidding for cruise upgrades

Bidding for Cabin Upgrades: The Background

Not long ago the way to get an upgrade was to either call your travel agent or cruise line and ask for the price, or hope for some magical upgrade surprise.  This wasn’t ideal for cruise lines, because it meant that there was a chance they were leaving money on the table when people didn’t know to ask about upgrades.  

A few years ago, however, most cruise lines switched to a bidding system.  In fact, most of them use the same system - a product called Premium Upgrade from a company called Plusgrade.  They provide the website (branded to look like the cruise line) and logic that ties into the cruise lines and helps drive this.  In fact, if you’ve ever bid for an upgrade on a flight, train ticket, or hotel room, you’ve probably used Plusgrade’s product before.  

plusgrade logo on virgin voyages site

Which Cruise Lines Let Guests Bid for Upgrades?

Most, but not all of the big name cruise lines in North America offer this as an option now.  This includes Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Virgin Voyages , and others.  One big name that’s missing?  Carnival.  Carnival Cruise Line actually has their own process where, weeks or days before a cruise, they email guests with a link to a special upgrade offer for them.  Guests can take it or leave it.

After you’ve booked a cruise, you may see references to upgrade programs on the website, in an email, or in the cruise line’s app.  While many cruise lines have their own names for this, such as Level Upgrade, MoveUp, or Royal Up, it’s all the same idea, and it’s all driven by Plusgrade.

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How to Bid for Cabin Upgrades

Some time before your cruise you’ll have the opportunity to go onto a website and see a list of stateroom types that you can bid on.  There’s usually a short description of the room, some photographs, and a slider that lets you adjust your bid.  The minimum bid varies on the sailing, the room type, and what you’ve already paid (or your existing room type). Once you decide how much you’d like to bid, you put in your credit card or other payment information.  Prices are usually per stateroom - not per person (but check the fine print).  

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Sometime before your cruise, maybe weeks, maybe just minutes, the cruise line will pick the winners.  They may not all happen at once, and you can usually go back to the website to check the status.  If your bid says ‘expired’ or something similar, then you didn’t get that upgrade.  If it’s ‘pending’ then there is a chance you could still win.  You can bid on as many types of rooms as are presented - they won’t let you win more than one type.  Also, you’ll only pay if you do win.  Usually, cruise lines email you if you’ve won a bid (some also notify you if you don’t), but many guests find they notice a credit card charge for their win even before they’re otherwise notified.  

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Mistakes When Bidding for Upgrades

Paying more than necessary.

Humans are kinda funny (I’ve yet to have AI write an article on CruiseHabit, you can tell by my typos).  We sometimes get so caught up in a process we forget there are better ways.  For example, I’ve seen guests bid more than they could pay for the room outright.  If you’ve paid $2000 for your inside cabin, and now you’re thinking of trying your luck at getting upgraded to a balcony room, think about what it’s worth to you, but make sure you can’t get it for less!  The cruise line or travel agent may have balcony rooms available for purchase.  If the prevailing rate is $2700, then you’ll just pay the $700 - no bidding needed!  Do keep in mind that anytime you adjust your rate, you’re actually adjusting your fare, so other parts of the promotion, such as how much onboard credit you get, may change.  A good travel agent can help you navigate these waters.  Read more about the importance of using a good travel agent.

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Letting the Excitement of a Bid Get to You

Auctions, even asynchronous ones like this, can be exciting.  Anytime something is gamified we can get so excited that we lose sight of the goal.  Don’t forget to stick with what you are comfortable spending.  You may think your bid is a longshot, but if you do get it, that money is being charged to your credit card right away, and there is no going back (you can’t get a refund and go back to your previously booked room). This also means not getting tricked by the gauges showing how likely your bid is to get accepted.  They serve absolutely no function beyond trying to get you to put out more money.  

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Bidding for an Upgrade is Like Getting a Guarantee Room

Cruise lines often let you book a guarantee room, where you pay to get not a specific room, but a type of room - and you don’t get to choose the exact room number or location.  You can learn more about that in this video about cabin types .  One of the downsides of guarantees is also a downside to bidding for upgrades, in that, unless there is only one of the room type you’re bidding on, you could get ANY of those rooms, so if you’re worried about being next to a loud club, or too far forward or aft (which can be hard for those prone to motion discomfort), then bidding for a room may not be for you.   

Common Misconceptions about Bidding for Cruise Cabin Upgrades

What’s included with your upgrade.

Generally, if you win a bid for a new room category, it’s just like you booked that room to begin with - you get all the benefits that come along with it.  There can be exceptions.  For example, on Celebrity, booking a suite generally comes with a premium beverage package.  If, however, you booked a standard stateroom and don’t have a drink package, or have only a classic drink package, you’ll not receive the deluxe package if you win an upgrade to a suite.  While this is somewhat of an exception, you should always check to be sure that anything you expect to get, beyond the room itself, is actually included in the price when bidding for an upgrade.

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Whoever Bids the Most Will Win the Stateroom Upgrade

This seems logical, but there are at least two reasons that it’s wrong (maybe more - we don’t always know all of the factors cruise lines may be considering).  First, if I paid $1000 for an inside room, and you paid $3000 for a balcony, it’s generally the case that these differences are taken into account when bidding.  If I bid $500 for a suite, but you, having paid three time what I did for the cruise fare, bid $400 for the same suite, you’re probably at an advantage - which makes sense, as you’d potentially get that suite for $3400, instead of my winning it for $1500.  

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Another reason the highest bidder doesn’t always win is because no one has to win.  In fact, this comes up as a question frequently, when guests see that a sailing is sold out, or is out of a certain type of room, but then they’re able to bid for upgrades on that cruise, or for that sold out type of room on the cruise.  Is this a mistake?  Not at all!  Things happen, people cancel cruises at the last minute sometimes, and when that happens, the cruise line will want to put someone in that room, and they want that someone to pay for it, so they’ll take someone who bid the most (or who is willing to pay the highest net cost between their fare and their bid).  I’ve twice won bids for upgrades where just days before, the room type I bid on was completely sold out - and this is a common situation.  It also relates to why cruise lines love this bidding system…

How Cruise Lines Win When People Bid for Upgrades

Cruise lines are businesses, so of course, they’re happy to have guests offer money for nice rooms, where they then get to pick if they accept that money.  That, however, is just one step in the process for the cruise line.  Let’s say, for the sake of simplicity, that there is one guest in an inside room who bid for an ocean view, one in an ocean view who bid for a verandah, and one in a verandah who bid for a suite.  Should a suite become available, the verandah guest moves up, and now, a verandah is available.  That means they can then award the ocean view guest their bid to a verandah, and award the inside room guest their upgrade to the ocean view.  That’s pretty great for the cruise line - but it goes even further.

In the scenario above, there is now an empty inside room - and if you’re a cruise line trying to fill a ship with only a couple weeks or even days to go, you want a good lead price.  A lead price is the lowest price you can advertise for a cruise and that the cruise line is willing to accept at the time an ad runs. “Cruise the Caribbean for just $399!”  That’s a lead price.  If they can move guests up (while charging them money for it), and end up with a lower lead price (since the inside rooms would generally be the most affordable), that helps fill those final spaces on the ship.

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Tips for Winning a Bid for Your Cruise

Let me start by telling you that none of these tips guarantee you’ll get upgraded - because as I mentioned previously, above all else, there has to be a room to be awarded.  If there is space, however, these tips may help you, as they’ve helped me.

Cruise lines can decide to award a bid at any time.  While often, they wait until the last minute, this isn’t always the case.  You can’t win if you don’t bid, so if the option is worth it to you, don’t delay.  Someone else may be the top bidder today and win a bid, simply because you hadn’t taken the two minutes to offer a bid yet.  So, as soon as you get an email telling you that you can bid, go for it.  In fact, some lines don't even make you wait, and there may be upgrade links available when you log into the website.  In the case of Virgin Voyages , you can go right to their upgrade page .

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You’re Most Likely to Win Bids for Balcony Rooms

On most modern cruise ships, 70-90% of rooms have verandahs, or balconies.  Because they’re by far the most abundant type of room, they’re also the most likely to free up - either because the cruise line didn’t sell them all as quickly as expected, or because someone cancels.  Think about it this way, if 850 out of 1000 cabins are balconies, and someone cancels, which type of room most likely just freed up?

Bid on Multiple Room Types You Like

This tip is especially true for suites, and relates to our tip above.  Let’s say I’m in a standard room on Scarlet Lady , and I’d like to stay in a suite.  Those Cheeky Corner Suites look cool (seriously, watch this tour! ), so I’m going to bid on one, and I see the option to bid on a “Cheeky Corner Suite - Even Bigger Terrace”.  Well, there are only two of those - so while possible, it’s not likely I’ll get one of them.  Keep looking and you might see you can bid on a “Cheeky Corner Suite- Biggest Terrace”, at the same time.  If those are neat, but just having any suite is really what’d be neat, then bid on a Seriously Suite, too - there are dozens of those, and thus, a better chance one may become available.  Bidding on all three of those types, if you’d be happy with them, greatly increases your chances of success.

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Don’t Bid a Round Number

This one is purely conjecture on my part, I’ll admit, but it’s easy, and seems logical.  Most of us have a budget, and I’m not saying to pay more than what it’s worth to you - but, well, maybe $5 or $10 more.  If two people bid on a suite, and they both paid $3000 for their current room, and they see the minimum bid for a suite is $750, maybe they’ll both bid that, or maybe they’ll think, “I’ll bid just more than the minimum - $800.”  A lot of people will stop at big round numbers like that.  Me, if I’m comfortable with $800, then I’ll be fine with $805 or $810, in hopes I might beat out someone with a similar budget, even though I’m not spending materially more.  

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The Most Important Tip When Bidding

Remember, you paid a price for your cruise that was worth it to you.  Don’t let the hype of bidding, or the gamification make you lose sight of that.  I hate seeing folks upset they didn’t get an upgrade when, before they knew it was an option, they were perfectly happy with the room they initially booked!  

You chose your vacation, and odds are, you’re going to have a pretty great time.  If you don’t win an upgrade bid, you’ll have a pretty great time for even less money than you were willing to part with.  

View the discussion thread.

msc cruise upgrade bid

Mon - Fri 9 - 19 | Sat 9 - 18 | Sun 10 - 16

MSC UpGrade | MSC Cruises

TAKE your cruise to the next level

Bid for a cabin upgrade in a few clicks, how does the msc upgrades programme work, 1. find out if you are eligible for a cabin upgrade.

If you already have a booking number and have paid for your cruise, we will contact you by email to propose a cabin upgrade. If you don’t receive our e-mail, you can still check if you are eligible for this offer by filling out the eligibility form, and then making a bid to upgrade your cabin to a higher category. If you booked through a travel agent, they will be able to guide you through the process if necessary.

GO TO THE FORM

cabina_2

2. CHECK THE CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE AND MAKE YOUR BID

If you're eligible, discover the best cabins available for an upgrade and insert the amount you are willing to pay. Each bid is per person and will automatically be replicated for the second guest in the cabin with you (3rd and 4th guests will benefit from the category upgrade free of charge). Remember to provide us with a valid credit card, even though in this phase you will not be charged.

Bidding on multiple rooms will increase your chances of getting an upgrade, but you will only be charged for one upgrade. Remember to provide us with a valid credit card, even though you will not be charged at this point.

cabina_1

3. KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR EMAILS AND ENJOY YOUR CRUISE

We will inform you of the outcome of your bid by e-mail , so keep an eye on it!

If your bid is accepted, your credit card will automatically be charged the corresponding amount. Otherwise, you will keep the cabin you originally booked without paying any additional amount.

emails

How much do I bid through MSC UpGrade if my reservation includes more than two guests?

How will i be charged for msc upgrade if i travel alone.

You will be charged based on double occupancy. For example, if you originally booked a single occupancy cabin and bid £  100 for an MSC UpGrade, you will be charged £   200 should the upgrade be accepted.

How do MSC UpGrade offers work if I’m part of a group or if my bookings is linked with another reservation?

If i’m travelling with another cabin, can i bid only once through msc upgrade and, if accepted, cancel the second reservation and move the guests into the upgraded cabin, can i modify or cancel the msc upgrade offer after it has been submitted.

You may modify or cancel the offer up until 48 hours prior to the closing of the bidding window, as long as the offer has not already been accepted by MSC or your credit card has not already been charged.

Can I cancel the MSC UpGrade offer after it has been accepted?

What will happen with the promotions i already have if i’m upgraded through msc upgrade.

You get to keep the promotions you already have based on the cabin category initially booked. However,  no additional promotions will be added to your reservation.

What will happen with my cabin experience if I win an MSC UpGrade?

If i win an upgrade to an aurea experience or msc yacht club cabin, do i get all the related benefits.

Yes, if a guest wins an upgrade to an Aurea experience or MSC Yacht Club cabin, the originally booked Bella or Fantastica experience will be changed to the new Aurea or MSC Yacht Club cabin experience. We will guarantee all the related benefits associated with the upgraded experience. In case of an upgrade to MSC Yacht Club, there will be no refund for pre-purchased drinks packages.

Can I choose the location or specific features of the cabin?

What will happen if the upgrade category includes a higher amount of hotel service charge, when will i know if my msc upgrade offer got accepted, why did i or someone “travelling with” me not receive an invite to bid for an msc upgrade, terms & conditions, msc upgrade programme, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

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How to get a free or cheap cruise ship cabin upgrade

Fran Golden

A real score for cruise passengers is a free or cheap cabin upgrade. Just like with airline seats, you can't count on an upgrade — but it sure feels great when it happens. Several methods will help improve your chances of landing in better cruise ship accommodations.

Before I get into details, let's start with some facts: On a typical ship, the basic categories of cruise rooms are inside (no view), outside (with window or porthole), balcony, minisuite and suite. It's rare to get more than a one-category upgrade, so don't think you can book an inside cabin and wind up in a fancy suite. More common is that you might find an upgrade to a better inside cabin . Make sure you have realistic expectations.

Your best course is always to book the nicest cabin you can afford. Here are some tricks to scoring a free or discounted cruise ship cabin upgrade and landing better cruise rooms without breaking the bank.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Look for an upgrade sale

Cruise line sales are the easiest way to score cheap or free upgraded accommodations. Various mass-market brands will run periodic promotions, especially during the fall and winter "wave season" sale periods. You might also see discounted upgrades offered on cruises during shoulder seasons, such as immediately after children return to school in the fall.

msc cruise upgrade bid

Free or discounted promotions encourage upgrades from inside cabins to ocean views and from ocean views to balconies. One tactic during these sales is to list outside and balcony cabins at the same price. If you can't find a deal on moving up a category, you might see a free upgrade to a bigger or better-located cabin within the category you originally planned to book. (Even within categories, the sizes and prices of cabins vary.)

Book a 'guarantee' cabin

When you book a cruise, you typically choose a cabin in your desired location. With a "guarantee" cabin , you leave it up to the cruise line to assign you accommodations either in the category you booked or a better one. The bet is that your category will sell out, and the cruise line will have to move you up for free — say, from an outside to a balcony cabin.

In the worst-case scenario, you end up in the category you booked; in the best case, you get your dream cabin. There is a catch, though. Since you still can't choose your specific cabin, you could end up in a noisy or otherwise undesirable area of the ship — even if the room is technically an upgrade from what you booked. For example, that great view you think you snagged may end up being blocked by lifeboats.

Related: Why it pays to upgrade your cabin

Join a loyalty program

Cruise lines naturally give upgrade preferences to frequent cruisers who are members of their loyalty programs . It's easy to join. In fact, you might be a member without even knowing it if your name was added to a cruise line's email and mailing list after your first cruise with the brand.

As a loyalty program member, look out for promotional deals you'll receive. Targeted emails and newsletters will alert you to members-only discounts or offers or inform you about upgrades before nonmembers get word. The cruise line might also send you invitations to bid for upgrades or offer discounted upgrades on cruises you've already booked.

Additionally, you can rack up points for perks that might eventually include free or discounted upgrades. For instance, if you reach the top Diamond status with Carnival Cruise Line's Very Important Fun Person loyalty program , you get a one-time free cabin upgrade.

Work with an experienced cruise travel agent

Travel agents, especially those who do a lot of business with a particular cruise line, have a certain amount of pull. Your agent might be able to snag you an upgrade by contacting the cruise line and asking for a favor. You might not know you have been upgraded until you get to the ship, as it will be based on whether or not cabins are available at the last minute.

Related: 5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade

Your travel adviser can also steer you toward specific cruise lines or sailings where you stand a better chance of an upgrade. Also, your agency could have access to special group rates, meaning you'll pay a discounted price for that upgraded cabin you desire.

Bid for an upgrade

A few years ago, Norwegian Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises were among the cruise lines that took a page from international airlines (such as Qantas and Aer Lingus) and began offering bidding programs for upgrades. Luxury river cruise line Uniworld also offers bidding.

msc cruise upgrade bid

These online programs are basically silent auctions that only select cruisers (preference is given to loyalty club members) are invited to join. The cruise line sets a minimum bid, and you can go up in price from there.

Your chance of an upgrade might be based on luck, skill or both. The advice from successful bidders is to go up from the minimum, but how much is a personal choice. Some people snag better accommodations for less than $20, some for $100 or more. You don't pay anything unless your bid is accepted.

Ask once on board

The hotel director on any cruise ship has a certain amount of discretion in moving guests to different cabins. Being bold enough to ask for an upgrade once you are on the ship could pay off.

To try your luck, you'll want to ask about an upgrade at guest services. Since the crew there will spend embarkation day fielding many questions and complaints from grumpy, travel-weary cruisers, your best bet may be to head to your assigned cabin. Then, wait until the second day of your cruise to ask for an upgrade.

Put on a big smile, be super friendly and ask if there is any chance a better cabin is available. If they don't offer you an upgrade for free, you might suggest you are willing to pay a small fee.

Related: 6 reasons you'll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Mention your special occasion

If you're celebrating a special occasion — such as a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon — on board, the cruise line or your travel agent can find ways to fete you, including by upgrading your cabin.

When you book your cruise, note in your reservation (or remind your travel agent to note) that you're celebrating a special event in your life. Whether you are a loyal customer or a first-timer that the cruise line hopes will become a repeat cruiser, you might be rewarded with an upgrade.

This sort of upgrade would typically be a "surprise" that occurs when you check in at the pier, so you can't plan for it in advance. It never hurts to remind the staff how excited you are to be celebrating on the ship and ask if there is any chance for an upgrade.

Which cruise cabin should you choose? Learn more here:

  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • 5 best cruise ship suites
  • Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?
  • Why you should splurge for a suite on your next cruise
  • Advantages to booking an inside cruise cabin
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • MSC Cruises

Upgrade bid accepted!

DCGuy64

By DCGuy64 , November 20, 2019 in MSC Cruises

Recommended Posts

5,000+ Club

Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted. So not only will we be in the Yacht Club (for the very first time), we'll be in a nice room, to boot. Yay! 😁

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Happy Cruiser 6143

Happy Cruiser 6143

1 minute ago, DCGuy64 said: Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted. So not only will we be in the Yacht Club (for the very first time), we'll be in a nice room, to boot. Yay! 😁

Congratulations!  Enjoy.

500+ Club

cruiser man 60

We don't have the upgrade system in UK yet but I have seen on Facebook recently that a few lucky cruisers have had free upgrades to YC from standard cabins.

20,000+ Club

Congrats what cruise are you on

1,000+ Club

Dr. Cocktail

1 hour ago, DCGuy64 said: Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted. So not only will we be in the Yacht Club (for the very first time), we'll be in a nice room, to boot. Yay! 😁

Congratulations!

While I like the "concept" of a balcony, I spend most of my time at The One Pool with one big exception:

The balcony is just fantastic to have your morning cappuccino/espresso/latte with a couple of pastries. They're sooooo fast in bringing it to your room after you order it!

1 hour ago, George C said: Congrats what cruise are you on

Meraviglia, December 8, 2019.

58 minutes ago, Dr. Cocktail said: Congratulations!   While I like the "concept" of a balcony, I spend most of my time at The One Pool with one big exception:   The balcony is just fantastic to have your morning cappuccino/espresso/latte with a couple of pastries. They're sooooo fast in bringing it to your room after you order it!

We always get a balcony, but the initial price was too $$ and we were just so thrilled to find a YIN so we figured that would be fine. I like the fact that the Deluxe Suite has a real bathtub and not just a shower. The extra space lets us spread out a little more, too. And thumbs up on the balcony as a place to have food/beverage, definitely a plus.

Host Jazzbeau

Host Jazzbeau

1 hour ago, Dr. Cocktail said: Congratulations!   While I like the "concept" of a balcony, I spend most of my time at The One Pool with one big exception:   The balcony is just fantastic to have your morning cappuccino/espresso/latte with a couple of pastries. They're sooooo fast in bringing it to your room after you order it!

This is true.  But we also like balconies even in bad weather because of the huge 'window' that lets us see out and lets so much light in.  In port we may have to close the scrim, but still get most of those benefits.

50+ Club

bigblue1952

Congratulations.  I'm sure the balcony will be worth it.

3,000+ Club

Toofarfromthesea

5 hours ago, DCGuy64 said: Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted. So not only will we be in the Yacht Club (for the very first time), we'll be in a nice room, to boot. Yay! 😁

Nice!  I hope I do as well next November if we get a chance to bid on upgrading our YC room.

3 hours ago, DCGuy64 said: We always get a balcony, but the initial price was too $$ and we were just so thrilled to find a YIN so we figured that would be fine. I like the fact that the Deluxe Suite has a real bathtub and not just a shower. The extra space lets us spread out a little more, too. And thumbs up on the balcony as a place to have food/beverage, definitely a plus.

Hi we were just on Meraviglia and in a YC balcony  sorry to tell you it’s a shower not bathtub. It was a disappointment to me , but enjoy your cruise 

Oooops .... just saw emmas gran post  which made me realize you responded a few hours ago!

Yes - just a shower but they were very nice on Seaside.

And with the extra storage, you can adequately store all of the stuff that you'll take  *giggle*  from the minibar! (I just had to get some people riled up!)

16 hours ago, DCGuy64 said: ....I like the fact that the Deluxe Suite has a real bathtub and not just a shower....

Not on Meraviglia, it is definitely a shower....but a fantastic cabin, and bathroom....enjoy!

8 hours ago, hamrag said: Not on Meraviglia, it is definitely a shower....but a fantastic cabin, and bathroom....enjoy!

Well that sucks, it's not a big deal to me, actually, but it's a HUGE deal to my wife. Now I look like a liar. 😔 But I will say that CruiseMapper deck plan photos make it look like a bathtub. Well, that's too bad.

Cruzlover7

On 11/20/2019 at 11:14 AM, DCGuy64 said: Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted. So not only will we be in the Yacht Club (for the very first time), we'll be in a nice room, to boot. Yay! 😁

Did you happen to get your updated Embarkation form and luggage tags?  I bid for the YC and got it as well. I have been on hold with customer service for quite some time and not only once but four times and I still do not have the correct embarkation form or luggage tags. 

12 hours ago, Cruzlover7 said: Did you happen to get your updated Embarkation form and luggage tags?  I bid for the YC and got it as well. I have been on hold with customer service for quite some time and not only once but four times and I still do not have the correct embarkation form or luggage tags. 

The shoreside butlers will tag your bags at the Yacht Club tent, so you don't need to worry about luggage tags.  They have a list of everyone in YC.  And I would not hold more than 5 minutes to sort out the boarding form.  They can sort that out in the boarding lounge.  Just take the paperwork showing your new cabin.  MSC''s customer service sucks.  My TA has told me I'm on my own if I book with them again.  She refuses to waste any more of her life on hold with them.  Many TAs will not work with MSC because of this.

Regardless of all this pre-cruise hassle, you will enjoy Yacht Club!

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msc cruise upgrade bid

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Bid for upgrade

By JUSRN , July 4, 2021 in MSC Cruises

Recommended Posts

250+ Club

Does MSC offer the opportunity to bid for an upgrade shorty before sailing? Or does one have to pursue the upgrade with a travel agent? when is a good time to do this? Plenty of yacht club Rooms are available on my cruise in November and I’m hoping for a reasonably priced upgrade.

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50+ Club

yes, msc will email you with a chance to uograde your room. The only big downside is that you don't get to choose the location of your new cabin but if you are not bothered about location then go for it.

10,000+ Club

There was another post floating around here the other day with some info.  Apparently they use the same third party as NCL but not much talk here about bidding.

NCL is the one I’m familiar with.

kernow

2 hours ago, JUSRN said: Does MSC offer the opportunity to bid for an upgrade shorty before sailing? Or does one have to pursue the upgrade with a travel agent? when is a good time to do this? Plenty of yacht club Rooms are available on my cruise in November and I’m hoping for a reasonably priced upgrade.

Make sure you are signed up for MSC emails or you won't be sent it. It came direct even though we booked with a TA. We were successful a few weeks ago on Virtuosa.

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mscdivina2016

On 7/4/2021 at 12:52 PM, kernow said: Make sure you are signed up for MSC emails or you won't be sent it. It came direct even though we booked with a TA. We were successful a few weeks ago on Virtuosa.

How do you make sure you are signed up?

1 hour ago, mscdivina2016 said: How do you make sure you are signed up? Steve

You need to log in to your account on the MSC website, go to 'account settings' and then 'privacy settings' and tick the box to register for special offers and news. You can probably do it somewhere on the app too.

5 hours ago, kernow said: You need to log in to your account on the MSC website, go to 'account settings' and then 'privacy settings' and tick the box to register for special offers and news. You can probably do it somewhere on the app too.

Thanks kernow,

Perfect instructions

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msc cruise upgrade bid

COMMENTS

  1. MSC Cabin Upgrade Program

    MSC Upgrade Program lets you bid for a better cabin category on your cruise. Find out if you are eligible, check the available cabins, and enter your bid online.

  2. MSC Upgrade Bid Program

    On 3/16/2022 at 5:03 AM, 48169 said: WOW! Ok, so this is my experience with the upgrade! On Monday, 3/14/2022, we booked the Seashore 7 day Deluxe Balcony (standard balcony room) for $1322 including taxes for both of us (used Health Care Heros discount). On Tuesday, MSC gave us various upgrade offers to bid on.

  3. Any Bids for Upgrade been accepted?

    Guests whose upgrade bid is accepted will receive the experience level included with their original reservation. The exceptions will be in the case of a Winning Bid in "Aurea" or "Yacht Club" Experience. In these cases, the Guests will also be guaranteed all the benefits relative to the new experience.

  4. MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program

    Learn how to bid on stateroom upgrades for your MSC Cruises vacation and enhance your cruising experience. Find out the eligibility criteria, bidding process, benefits, and tips for a successful upgrade bid.

  5. Bidding for Cruise Cabin Upgrades: Tips and Tricks

    Bidding for Cruise Cabin Upgrades: Tips and Tricks

  6. Unlocking the Best: Your Guide to the MSC Upgrade Bid Program

    The MSC upgrade bid program provides passengers with the opportunity to bid for upgrades to higher-category cabins, enhancing their cruise experience. This operates on a bidding system, where higher bids increase the chances of winning an upgrade. Participating in the program can offer passengers exclusive benefits and amenities, making it an ...

  7. The Upgrade bidding

    These were the upgrade prices at booking (I am a nerd who makes and keeps excel tables) and minimum and maximum bidding prices per person (up to 2 person): Ocean View. Upgrade price at booking: £240. Minimum bid: £120. Maximum bid: £305. Balcony. Upgrade price at booking: £440. Minimum bid: £485. Maximum bid: £670.

  8. The Ultimate Guide to Bidding for Upgrades on Your Cruise

    The Ultimate Guide to Bidding for Upgrades on Your Cruise

  9. Cruise Tips & Tricks: Bid For MSC Cruises Cabin Upgrade

    What is MSC Cruises Bid For An Upgrade Programme? Watch our detailed guide tohelp you decide, if bidding to upgrade your cabin is right for you plus some han...

  10. MSC Upgrade Program Bidding Question

    MSC Cruises. Hi All! I received an upgrade program email with 3 options, any of which I would take as an improvement on our current room. 1. YC Deluxe Suite $$$$ 2. Aurea Suite with Terrace and Whirlpool $$$ 3. Premium Aurea Suite $ I bid the max on the YC (which is the experience we would really like to have...

  11. MSC Cabin Upgrade Programme

    MSC Cabin Upgrade Programme

  12. The Secret Cabin Bidding Process Most Cruisers Don't Know About

    Now, several cruise lines have introduced a cabin "bidding" process instead, where travelers are given the chance to bid against each other for an upgrade. This monetized upgrade process benefits the lines, but it gives cruisers a bit more power in the upgrade process rather than relying on lady luck, though it does come at a cost.

  13. MSC upgrade advice for YC bidding

    Expand. Not everyone receives an upgrade email and when you do there is certainly a consideration for the "original price paid" and the minimum bid to upgrade. For example, if you paid $2K for your cabin your minimum bid might be $500 per person whereas if you had paid $750 it might be $1200.

  14. Timing of Upgrade offer

    Author. #8. Posted March 13, 2023. On 3/12/2023 at 9:59 AM, Beamafar said: Only bid what you feel the upgrade would be worth to you. In our case I wasn't very optimistic - the cost to upgrade would have cost an extra $5000 - we bid $1000 total cos that's all the value we saw for the extras we were gaining.

  15. How to get a free or cheap cruise ship cabin upgrade

    Bid for an upgrade. A few years ago, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises were among the cruise lines that took a page from international airlines (such as Qantas and Aer Lingus) and began offering bidding programs for upgrades. Luxury river cruise line Uniworld also offers bidding.

  16. Upgrade bid accepted!

    June 8, 2012. Burke, VA. #1. Posted November 20, 2019. Back in September, MSC sent us an email asking if we wanted to bid on an upgrade from our current stateroom (YIN) to a YC Deluxe Suite. I bid a modest amount just above the recommended minimum, and to my pleasant surprise, I received an email earlier this morning saying that it was accepted.

  17. Another upgrade bid question

    Hi, we are on Seaview for an 8 day cruise over Christmas and have this morning received an invitaton to bid for an upgrade. We are currently in a BR3 cabins but one of the upgrade offers is an interior Yacht Club for £240pp. ... MSC Cruises ; Another upgrade bid question Another upgrade bid question. By rool, November 29, 2023 in MSC Cruises ...

  18. Beware of the MSC Upgrade bid program

    With the $115pp minimum bid and already being in an "Escape" rate Fantastica balcony of currently about $1730 that seems way overpriced vs. just booking the cabin outright to get the perks. The YC Deluxe at $2120 + $1730 = $3950 (minimum) without the valuable benefits is equally bad. Expand.

  19. Any strategies for bidding on upgrades?

    Karkies25. Currently booked for Fantastica (B2) balcony on Belissima in December. In September, was offered $550 pp (minimum bid) to upgrade to Yacht Club Deluxe Suite. So I bid $555 pp ( $5 over, just to not put us at the bottom against other minimum bidders) LOL.

  20. Upgrade bid Accepted

    Categories. Cruise Lines "A - O". MSC Cruises. Upgrade bid Accepted - What Now. Hi, I noticed that my bid was accepted yesterday as MSC took the upgrade amount out yesterday. I have had no other contact from them and our state number on the MSC app remains the same. When do they email the new docs. Cruise starts in 4 days Thanks all.

  21. Upgrade Bid

    June 4, 2017. Ireland. #1. Posted 5 hours ago. We are booked in Yacht Club on MSC World Europa first week in July on B2B cruises. We have a Yacht Club balcony booked for both cruises, we received our upgrade bid email last week and we have put in a bid slightly over the minimum for the Duplex Balcony with whirlpool.

  22. Bid for upgrade

    MSC Cruises ; Bid for upgrade Bid for upgrade. By JUSRN, July 4, 2021 in MSC Cruises. Share More sharing options... Followers 0. Recommended Posts. JUSRN. Posted July 4, 2021. JUSRN. Members; 402 July 2, 2000; NJ #1 Share; Posted July 4, 2021.