MSC is the world’s third-largest cruise brand and a known leader when it comes to European, South American, and Caribbean cruises. The careful planning that’s gone into each ship in MSC’s fleet is truly remarkable, appealing to those with an artistic eye and a gourmet palate. Even with all that, MSC is also known to feature favorable price points, opening the door to a host of opportunities to explore the world in style.
With so many claims to fame, we’ve taken the time to see what’s on board every ship in the fleet. Then, we ranked them in order, from smallest to largest, giving you the option to enjoy a smaller, more intimate setting or the feel of a full-blown party boat. As we progress, you’ll see that even the ships that are half the size of some of the others in the fleet still pack a major punch.
MSC Armonia
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Total Number of Passengers: 2,620
MSC Armonia is one of the first ships to set the stage for MSC’s Mediterranean designs. Amidst such a beautiful setting, there are plenty of ways for parents and children to spend time during the at-sea days. For the adults, there’s the MSC Aurea Spa, known for its Balinese massages. There’s also a lavish theater that puts on Broadway-caliber shows. As for the kiddos, they’ll be delighted by the partnership MSC forged with Lego to craft the most colorful play areas, including an open-air spray park. With five gourmet eateries and an extensive buffet, there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy a decadent meal or two. And, when you’re ready for a cocktail, you can savor any number of themed lounge bars, including an English pub and an Italian cafe.
Sample Itineraries:
- Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina
- Italy, Montenegro, Croatia
- Tangier, Barcelona, Malta
MSC Sinfonia
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Total Number of Passengers: 2,646
MSC Sinfonia has a wonderful theme. It pays homage to the great composers of the past. You’ll notice these nods to musical greats all throughout the ship. You’ll also find similar spa services and another sprawling theater to take in a show or two. You can also try your luck in the casino or spend your day by the pool with an umbrella drink in hand. The kiddos will love the Lego theme in their play areas here, as well. Another favorite is the Pinocchio Playroom. There’s also a teen area for those who have outgrown certain childhood amenities. Restaurants on board the ship serve all kinds of international dishes, including Italian and Mediterranean, which makes sense given this ship’s focus on Mediterranean journeys, including Turkey, Greece, and Italy.
MSC Lirica
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Total Number of Passengers: 2,648
Here, the focus is on panoramic views of the sea everywhere you turn. The most obvious example of this is the lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows. Even the gym was designed with full views of the sea, making for an easy workout. Aboard MSC Lirica, the kiddos will enjoy the Lego-themed splash area when you’re not enjoying the pool as a family. All the theaters and lounges, again, focus on those sweeping views of the sea. Each of the restaurants takes on a Mediterranean twist, given the ship’s main itineraries. But you’ll also find an award-winning sushi restaurant when you’re ready to change things up a bit!
Sample Itineraries:
- Italy, France, Spain
- Italy, Greece, Croatia
- Rio de Janeiro, Santos, Ilha Grande
MSC Magnifica
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Total Number of Passengers: 3,223
Things are starting to expand now, with room for nearly a thousand more people. Many of the same amenities exist on board MSC Magnifica but on a much larger scale. The theater where you’ll enjoy a show or two is much larger, with a ceiling designed to make it look like you’re nestled under the stars. There’s a kids club with plenty of daytime activities for kids of all ages. One thing they’ll instantly be drawn to is the arcade. When Mom and Dad are ready to relax, they typically head straight to the spa for its open-air pool complex with a retractable roof. When everyone’s together again, you can indulge in a round of mini golf or bowling before enjoying a meal at one of the five gourmet restaurants serving dishes from all around the world.
Sample Itineraries:
- Spain, Italy
- Italy, France, Spain
- Italy, France
MSC Musica
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Total Number of Passengers: 3,223
MSC Musica is in the same class as Magnifica, so many of the same offerings exist on board this beauty. However, the focus when creating this ship was an eco-friendly design filled with natural materials. Two of the most notable features can be found in the central foyer: a three-tier waterfall and a see-through piano on a crystal floor atop a pool of shimmering water. The on-deck pool is equally spectacular, with plenty of seating for those who just want some vitamin D. Like most ships, there’s also a casino and expansive theater to take in a show at night. It is no surprise that the restaurants won’t let you down either, with delicious Italian and Japanese options for every appetite.
Sample Itineraries:
- South Africa, Mozambique
- South Africa, Mauritius, Reunion, Mozambique
- Italy, France, Spain, Gibraltar
MSC Divina
Total Number of Passengers: 4,345
Stepping up to another class, we meet MSC Divina, a decadent ship inspired by screen legend Sophia Loren. All the decor gives a nod to the glamour of the Golden Age, creating a luxe setting. Even the staircases sparkle and shine. There’s a Royal Suite on deck 16 that was designed with the help of Mrs. Loren herself. Every detail was discussed, down to the inclusion of a replica of her dressing table. To no surprise, the onsite restaurants are a feast for the eyes – and the appetite. The fusion cuisine found in the Galaxy restaurant is a fan favorite. With a host of bars and lounges like Caffé Italia, you’ll find glamour and rest can easily co-exist.
Sample Itineraries:
- Bahamas, Baja
- Jamaica, Aruba, Curaçao
- Italy, Greece, Turkey
MSC Preziosa
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Total Number of Passengers: 4,345
Here comes another beauty in the same class as MSC Divina. MSC Preziosa sparkles in its own right with a real stone piazza, sweeping staircases bedazzled with Swarovski crystal, and an enamoring infinity pool. As for the little ones, they’ll be more enticed by the Doremi Castle Kids’ Park, complete with one of the world’s longest water slides at sea. The teens in your group will love the arcade and teens-only disco. As for Mom and Dad, they often find themselves luxuriating in the MSC Aurea Spe, the swank bars and lounges, or the on-deck pool. Come mealtime, Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steak house, is overflowing with tantalizing treats.
Sample Itineraries:
- Belgium, France, UK, Germany
- France, UK, Germany, Netherlands
- Germany, Norway
MSC Fantasia
Total Number of Passengers: 4,363
In a fleet of ships that pays attention to every last detail, you’ll spot even more ingenuity in MSC Fantasia’s design. There’s the opulent Casinò delle Palme, a disco room with panoramic views of the sea, a Formula Racers simulator, and a 4D cinema. When you’re ready for some fresh sea air, you’ll want to snag a lounger on the Top 18 sun deck before or after indulging in a massage from the MSC Aurea Spa. Indeed, all your cares will melt away on board Fantasia, whether you’re dining in delight or savoring the beautifully designed pool.
Sample Itineraries:
- Italy, Tunisia, Spain, France
- France, Italy, Greece, Turkey
MSC Splendida
Total Number of Passengers: 4,363
Rounding out this class of ships, we come to MSC Splendida. With a range of pools, an offering of themed parties, and an array of amazing restaurants, you’ll love exploring South America or Europe aboard Splendida. For the health-conscious, you’ll find a jogging track, a modern gym, and even a squash court. As for the kiddos, there’s a range of facilities and clubs for every age. When it’s time to eat, Sea Pavilion, with its expansive views, often receives top billing thanks to its contemporary Asian creations.
Sample Itineraries:
- Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay
- Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Spain
- Brazil, Spain, Portugal, France
MSC Seaside
Total Number of Passengers: 5,079
Ready to step it up another notch? The goal here was to create a ship that was magnificent and could combine indoor and outdoor areas to connect passengers with the sea, no matter where they were. Evidence of this exists in the opulent glass-floored catwalks, so you never miss an opportunity to savor the sea. The Waterfront Boardwalk is another perfect opportunity for a soul-healing stroll when you’re ready for a treat, cozy up to any one of the bars and restaurants along the boardwalk. The Miami Beach pool is also not to be missed,d with innovative sun loungers that place you right at the edge of the pool. With a massive theater, water park, and zip line course, you’ll be just as happy when you’re at sea as when you’re strolling through the streets of Tunisia.
Sample Itineraries:
- Miami, Bahamas, Puerto Rico
- Miami, Mexico, Honduras
- France, Spain, Tunisia, Italy
MSC Seaview
Total Number of Passengers: 5,079
MSC Seaview is just as eye-catching as Seaside. One of the main attractions here is the Sunset Beach Pool, which is connected to the top deck by two panoramic lifts. The views over the back of the ship out to the sea are absolutely breathtaking, as are the ones served up at the Panorama Pool. With a similar Waterfront Boardwalk and a four-deck atrium filled with more glass catwalks, every twist and turn on board will stop you in your tracks. As for onsite eateries, Ocean Cay Restaurant is happy to serve up some of the freshest fish and shellfish. While all the ship’s bars and lounges are decadent, with a wide range of drink selections, the Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar might be the one that makes you swoon.
Sample Itineraries:
- Santos, Salvador, Ilheus, Rio de Janeiro
- Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina
- Brazil, Spain, France, Italy
MSC Meraviglia
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Total Number of Passengers: 5,642
Here, we have another ship whose designers know a thing or two about eye-catching interior design. One of the first things passengers notice is Galleria Meraviglia, a central promenade beneath sparkling stained glass windows that features an array of boutiques, restaurants, and tranquil spots for relaxing. The Horizon Pool is another show-stopper with its glorious sea views during the day and dance floor at night. The ship’s Broadway Theater delivers exactly that – each show is better than the last. Then, there’s the Carousel Productions at Sea, an all-new entertainment concept that blends live music, dance, and acrobatics, creating a real feast for the eyes.
Sample Itineraries:
- Nassau, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten
- New York, Bermuda
MSC Bellissima
Total Number of Passengers: 5,655
The beautiful MSC Bellissima is your ticket to the splendors of Asia. Here, too, the main promenade, or Galleria Bellissima, will make you feel like you’re strolling the streets of Milan. At night, The London Theater is happy to entertain you in between the Carousel Productions at Sea. The little ones will love spending time in the play center with a Lego movie maker and having a Nintendo experience. As for the top decks, the Atmosphere Pool is where you’ll find everybody throughout the day. It’s one of the largest at sea, with a giant screen that entertains during the day and at night. With a whopping 12 onsite eateries, there’s something here for everyone in terms of taste buds, especially the HOLA! Tapas Bar.
Sample Itineraries:
- Japan, Taiwan
- China, Japan
- Tokyo, Osaka, Yatsushiro/Kumamoto
MSC Seascape
Total Number of Passengers: 5,877
MSC Seascape was also designed with eco-friendliness at the forefront of everybody’s mind. Some unique features include a hybrid exhaust cleaning system with smart heating, LED lighting, and high-efficiency appliances to reduce the impact on the environment. As for design features, the ship pays homage to one of the brightest cities in the world: New York. Many of the public areas are inspired by the bustling metropolis. You’ll even find a huge replica of the Statue of Liberty herself. One of the prettiest outdoor designs is the glass-floored Bridge of Sighs located above the glistening infinity pool. Here, too, the loungers dip into the edges of the pool, putting you immediately at ease the moment you sit down.
Sample Itineraries:
- Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico
- Miami, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico
- Galveston, Mexico, Honduras
MSC Seashore
Total Number of Passengers: 5,877
You’ll feel pretty good about the eco-friendliness of MSC Seashore, as well. It focuses on energy efficiency while protecting marine life with advanced wastewater treatment systems. This beauty also pays tribute to the streets of New York, with Lady Liberty towering over the casino. As the longest ship in its fleet, there’s plenty to enjoy here, including a large infinity pool and another glass-floored Bridge of Sighs to keep you deeply connected to the sea. Up on Deck 18, the Long Island Pool is the place to be. Its 360-degree water fountain is the centerpiece of the peaceful space. With 11 restaurants, especially the outdoor seating at Butcher’s Cut, there are plenty of ways to savor your days aboard this massive, environmentally-friendly ship.
Sample Itineraries:
- Port Canaveral, Bahamas, Mexico
- Port Canaveral, Bahamas, Honduras
MSC Euribia
Total Number of Passengers: 6,334
Things continue to get grander and grander, especially as we make our way to MSC’s largest fleet of ships. MSC Euribia is named after the ancient Greek goddess, Eurybia, who had control over the winds, weather, and seas. Every inch of this majestic ship is filled with entertaining options. You can spread out at any one of the five pools or take the kiddos to the massive waterpark. The promenade is a great gathering point, as well, with its variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. After a dose of retail therapy, it’ll be time to head to the Balinese spa to take advantage of its sauna, steam bath, and whirlpool. They even have a hair and nail salon, as well as an onsite barber. The suites here are bigger and better, some with a private whirlpool bath. With amusement parks, 10 dining options, and 21 bars, there are plenty of ways to fill your days in this floating replica of paradise.
Sample Itineraries:
- Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar
- United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain
- Germany, Denmark, Norway
MSC Grandiosa
Total Number of Passengers: 6,334
MSC Grandiosa builds upon her sister ships’ success with even more public spaces, fine dining options, and eclectic cafes and lounges. The promenade takes things to new heights, too, making you feel like you’re strolling under the stars as you fill your basket with goodies. At night, it’s also the place to be for concerts, discos, and themed parties. Grandiosa is happy to delight your senses with their version of HOLA! Tapas Bar, along with 10 other dining venues. The new French restaurant, l’Atelier Bistrot, is equally tantalizing. Whether you lay out at the pool all day, take the kiddos to the theme park, or savor an afternoon in the spa, Grandiosa is sure to leave a mark on your memory.
Sample Itineraries:
- Santos, Buzios, Salvador
- Brazil, Spain, Morocco, France
- Bahamas, Baja, Dominica Republic
MSC Virtuosa
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Total Number of Passengers: 6,334
MSC Virtuosa has a very literal name. It pays homage to the virtuosos, or highly skilled designers, who brought the MSC fleet to life. This is plain to see throughout the five sprawling pools and large water park. The spa, too, is expansive, with a thermal area and panoramic gym. When it’s time to eat, you simply have to try Indochine, a beautifully decorated restaurant featuring French-Vietnamese dishes. There are over 20 bars, but one of the most unique ones is the Starship Club. There, you’ll meet the first humanoid robotic bartender who’s happy to serve you your favorite drink.
Sample Itineraries:
- Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten
- St. Vincent & The Grenadines, Barbados, Grenada
- UK, Belgium, France
MSC World America
Total Number of Passengers: 6,672
As one of the newest ships in the fleet, MSC World America is happy to escort you to the sunny shorelines of the Caribbean. Here, elegant European design meets American comfort in an array of options when it comes to rooms and suites, restaurants, and onboard activities. One of the most exhilarating is the Cliffhanger, an over-the-water swing ride for everyone to enjoy. The World Promenade is also packed to the gills with shops, restaurants, bars, and lounges. Speaking of which, there’s an astounding 30 bars, lounges, and dining venues on board – talk about a floating city. As for the kiddos, they’re sure to enjoy a go on the go-carts or the rollerskating rink when they’re not enjoying the thrills of the waterpark.
Sample Itineraries:
- Miami, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico
- Miami, Mexico, Honduras
- Puerto Rico, Baja, Honduras, Cozumel
MSC World Europa
Total Number of Passengers: 7,662
Ready for the crown jewel in the entire fleet? With the capacity to host this many people, you’ll find everything you need – and desire – on board MSC World Europa. The focus of this ship is the Western Mediterranean. There are seven swimming pools spread throughout, meaning there’s always a corner to tuck into if you’re seeking some solace from the crowds. Of course, the MSC Aurea Spa is also happy to indulge on that front, with a thermal area and beauty salon. When it’s time to eat, one of the most interesting restaurants in this floating metropolis is Chef’s Garden Kitchen, focusing on a fresh farm-to-ocean ethos. The Masters of the Sea pub is another fan-favorite, given its fabulous decor and a massive menu of drink options when it’s five o’clock somewhere.
Sample Itineraries:
- Spain, France, Italy, Malta
- Italy, Malta
Ready to Set Sail?
Where would you like to go first – Malta or Mexico? Whichever corner of the world you have your heart set on, MSC can take you there. Nestled into the lap of luxury, you’ll enjoy every moment of your time at sea and on dry land.
Before you go, come on over and visit our library of travel tips. We love to see the world on board a cruise ship and have a host of helpful guides to help you pack smart, save some money, and see the world in style.