MSC Cruises: The Complete Guide

MSC Cruises may have started as a humble cargo company, but in 2025, it’s one of the most ambitious cruise lines at sea. With roots in the Mediterranean and a distinctly European flair, MSC has grown into a global cruise powerhouse. Today, its fleet of more than 20 ships sail to nearly every corner of the world — and more are on the way.

Although MSC’s heart remains in Europe, the cruise line has expanded aggressively into the North American market. In 2025, MSC World America — the line’s newest, biggest and most buzzworthy ship set sail from Miami. That marked MSC’s strongest move yet to appeal to U.S. travelers, offering familiar favorites like burgers and Broadway-style shows alongside elegant European-style design (and weights in the gym listed in kilos).

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Here’s everything you need to know before you book your MSC cruise, whether you’re dreaming of a two-night tropical escape or a four-month voyage across continents.

MSC offers three main experience tiers:

• Bella: The most budget-friendly option with access to the ship’s core offerings.

• Fantastica: Adds flexibility in cabin selection, plus perks like breakfast delivered to your room.

• Aurea: The premium tier, with spa access, welcome drinks, flexible dining times and priority boarding.

All guests enjoy entertainment, access to pools and included meals in the main dining rooms and buffet.

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MSC ships feature the usual cabin categories:

• Interior: No windows, but perfect for budget travelers.

• Oceanview: A window to the sea.

• Balcony: Private outdoor space.

• Suites: Varying levels of luxury, some with hot tubs or access to private areas.

For the most upscale experience, consider MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive “ship within a ship” concept with private lounges, butler service and a dedicated restaurant.

MSC Cruises sails to destinations across every continent (yes, including Antarctica on special sailings). You’ll find routes in:

• The Caribbean and Bahamas (from Miami, New York and Port Canaveral).

• Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

• South America and South Africa.

• Asia and the Middle East.

• Canada and New England.

• World Cruises (these span multiple months).

The shortest cruises last just two nights, while the 2025 MSC World Cruise spans 121 days and visits more than 50 destinations — a bucket list come to life.

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MSC is often priced lower than other major cruise lines, especially for sailings in Europe. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect in 2025:

• 2-night Bahamas cruise: from $149 per person.

• 7-night Mediterranean cruise: from $329 per person.

• 121-night World Cruise: from $22,000 per person for an interior cabin.

Prices fluctuate based on travel season, cabin category and ship. MSC often runs promos with “kids sail free” offers, so families can save.

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Launched in April 2025, MSC World America is the latest and flashiest addition to the fleet. Sailing year-round from Miami, this next-gen ship is a sister to MSC World Europa — and it’s fully tailored for American tastes.

Expect thrills like:

• A multi-story dry slide called The Jaw Drop.

• Multiple waterslides.

• The world's first Eataly at Sea.

• .

While “best” is subjective, the MSC Bellissima continues to rank highly thanks to its immersive experiences, shows from Cirque du Soleil at Sea (on select sailings), bowling alleys, and diverse dining.

For American cruisers, MSC World America is shaping up to be the fan favorite — blending MSC’s Euro style with homegrown comforts.

Included in every fare:

• Main dining rooms and buffet meals.

• Live entertainment (think acrobatic shows and concerts).

• Pools, hot tubs, and kids' clubs.

Not included:

• Wi-Fi (available in packages).

• Alcohol and soda (buy a drink package to save).

• Specialty dining like sushi bars and steakhouses.

• Gratuities, which vary by region but are typically added to your onboard account.

If you purchase a higher-end package, you’ll enjoy more amenities. The Fantastica experience, for example, includes free room service delivery for breakfast. The top-tier Aurea package includes complimentary room service for all meals.

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Voyager’s Club is the loyalty program for frequent MSC cruise passengers. There are four levels in the program, and each has its own benefits.

Voyagers Club levels

The Voyager Clubs levels are Classic, Silver, Gold and Diamond.

Classic

• How to earn: Classic membership is earned by going on at least one MSC cruise or having a confirmed booking on an upcoming cruise. This tier is for members who have between 1 and 2,199 points.

• Best benefits: 5% discount on future cruises, discounts on packages.

Silver

• How to earn: Earn 2,200 to 4,299 points. 

• Best benefits: $50 onboard credit per person on cruises booked at least nine months before departure, double points for cruises booked more than 12 months in advance.

Gold

• How to earn: Earn 4,300 to 9,999 points.

• Best benefits: One hour of complimentary thermal area access, priority disembarkation, complimentary photos. 

Diamond

• How to earn: Earn 10,000+ points.

• Best benefits: Complimentary tasting dinner, one free dance lesson, complimentary slippers and bathrobe, priority embarkation and disembarkation.

How to earn Voyager Club points

There are two ways to earn Voyager Club points. First, you’ll earn a set amount of points for taking a cruise — the specific amount will depend on the length of the cruise and the experience level you choose. Second, you’ll earn points for the activities you pre-purchase and for any onboard expenses that you incur.

(Top photo courtesy of MSC)