Summary
The Aponte family of Italy privately owns MSC Cruises. The cruise line primarily attracts Europeans but also markets extensively to mainstream North American cruise travelers. The MSC Divina sails to the Caribbean year-round from Miami, with most passengers coming from North America. In December 2017, the new MSC Seaside arrived in Miami from the shipyard, joining the Divina in offering year-round sailings from Miami.
MSC features large resort-style ships, sailing over 1,000 routes around the world — covering the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, South Africa, and South America. The days and nights on the ships are filled with excitement and non-stop action. Moreover, due to the many nationalities and languages represented onboard, the ships usually do not have enrichment lecturers, focusing instead on family and adult entertainment activities.
MSC Cruises Overview
MSC Cruises is among the world’s youngest cruise lines. Currently, it operates 13 ships, most of which were added in the last decade. Additionally, the company will introduce three new ships over the next two years: MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, and MSC Bellissima. Consequently, the cruise line aims to maintain the world’s youngest fleet and provide over one million berths for travel each year.
This modern and sophisticated fleet is known for having some of the cleanest ships at sea. Innovations aboard the newest MSC ships include the MSC Yacht Club, a remarkable “ship within a ship” area for passengers in the Yacht Club cabins.
History and Background of MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises stands as the largest privately-owned cruise line in Europe, with its main office located in Geneva, Switzerland, and many additional offices worldwide, including a North American marketing office in Fort Lauderdale. The parent company, Mediterranean Shipping Company, is the world’s second-largest container shipping company, having ventured into the cruise business in 1987. They officially adopted the name MSC Cruises in 2004, and since then, they have expanded rapidly, investing over 5.5 billion Euros to grow their fleet.
Passenger Profile
MSC cruise ships provide a distinctly European and cosmopolitan atmosphere, appealing particularly to couples and families with children. Notably, children under 17 sharing a cabin with two adults sail for free on all MSC itineraries, which results in many children traveling during school holidays. Moreover, MSC markets to diverse nationalities, and the rich mix of cultures and languages can be both exciting and a unique experience for some travelers. However, this may not suit those accustomed to North American cruise experiences, as more services (such as room service) are offered a la carte, and smoking levels may be higher.
Cruise Cabins
Most cabins onboard MSC ships are externally located, with many featuring balconies. MSC introduced a unique concept on the MSC Fantasia class ships – the MSC Yacht Club Suites. These suites are situated in a private area over two decks, offering full butler service, a pool, an observation lounge, and additional amenities. The two private deck areas in the MSC Yacht Club are elegantly connected by a crystal glass Swarovski staircase, creating an ideal setting for a memorable getaway cruise.
Cuisine and Dining
The dining experience aboard MSC ships includes either one or two main dining rooms with two seatings for dinner. Passengers can also enjoy open seating for breakfast and lunch in the dining rooms, making for an interesting dining atmosphere regardless of language barriers. In addition, all ships feature a delightful Italian-themed specialty restaurant, with some newer vessels offering additional specialty dining options for an extra charge. Like most cruise ships, MSC also provides casual options in a buffet-style restaurant.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
Similar to other large cruise lines, MSC Cruises offers vibrant production shows showcasing colorful performances and talented dancers. Additionally, small musical groups provide live entertainment across various lounges. Each ship features a grand theater equipped with modern facilities and equipment comparable to many venues on land.
Common Areas
With relatively new ships, MSC Cruises boasts modern decor characterized by understated elegance and high-quality furnishings, heavily influenced by Italian design. The overall decor effectively appeals to a diverse range of cruiser tastes.
Spa, Gym, and Fitness
The spas aboard MSC ships provide a broad range of exciting treatments, including massages, wellness body treatments, aromatherapy, and thalassotherapy. Fitness centers onboard are well-equipped with the latest exercise equipment and offer various classes, such as Pilates, Tae-bo, aerobics, and Latin dancing.
Contact Information for MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises – USA Headquarters
6750 North Andrews Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Phone: 954-772-6262; 800-666-9333
Web: https://www.msccruisesusa.com
