Description

MSC Cruises is a leader in the Mediterranean cruise market, with cruises departing all year round, as well as offering a wide range of seasonal itineraries in Northern Europe, including Norwegian Fjords and Baltic Capitals, the Caribbean, South America, South and West Africa, Red Sea, The United Arab Emirates and Grand Voyages.

MSC Cruises, a privately owned company with a longstanding history on the seas headed by captain Gianluigi Aponte, entered the cruise industry in 1988.

MSC Cruises combines a deep heritage at sea with an enthusiastic, young and motivated management team to present a company philosophy of "Innovation = Tradition". MSC Cruises uniquely blends maritime traditions, culture and famous Mediterranean cuisine to deliver the ultimate cruise experience while displaying a real commitment to the finest hospitality afloat. In essence, MSC Cruises has made true Italian service the heart of its business and its key point of differentiation in the cruise industry:

Ships

	MSC Armonia As her name implies, MSC Armonia is a sociable ship with a real fun loving atmostphere. She’s been carefully designed to put passengers first and, make no mistake, she was built for good times! And, best of all, these good times take place against some spectacular backdrops. MSC Armonia operates some of the most interesting and fun loving itineraries of any ship in our fleet. Whether you’re cruising the clement Canary Islands in the winter months, or slipping serenely out of Venice into the Adriatic heading for the best of the Eastern Med’ in the summer, you’re always bound for enjoyment. MSC Armonia is a great ship to enjoy the company of friends and family whilst enjoying the sunshine at the external spa and swimming pool complex. And, should you find yourself over doing the fine Italian and international cuisine on offer, then you can always make redress at the gym, the Armonia Spa or why not simply dance the night away in the Starlight Disco? Aside from being thoroughly convivial, MSC Armonia is also a most comfortable ship. She offers a selection of spacious suites with private balconies and splendid views. But, the usual caveat applies: once you’ve cruised in a balcony cabin aboard MSC Armonia you’ll want to keep doing so again and again! British cruisers especially appreciate the White Lion pub where friendly service and an easy-going charm will quickly turn everyone into a ‘local’. Later on, as you leave the setting sun and another port of call in your wake it’s time to explore the many bars, lounges and, perhaps, a special evening at the Teatro La Fenice? Whatever you do and wherever you go aboard MSC Armonia, a happy and harmonious cruise comes as standard!	Launched: 1st April 2001 Tonnage: 65,542 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 721 Occupancy: 2,679 Rating: stars

	MSC Divina MSC Divina now cruises twelve months of the year around the paradise islands of the Caribbean. Good news indeed, but why else book a Caribbean cruise aboard MSC Divina? Well, consider this: she was designed to take our acclaimed Fantasia Class of ships to a new level with added inspiration from screen legend, Sophia Loren. Therefore, it’s no surprise to learn that MSC Divina simply oozes a rather special kind of glamour, a little extra something that will enhance your Caribbean cruise experience no end. From her West End-sized theatre to the sweeping grace of her Swarovski crystal staircases and the exquisite illusion created by her Infinity Pool, MSC Divina possesses a stylish and sophisticated ambience that few ships can match. Little touches like the adults-only sanctuary, Top 18, where you can soak up the glorious Caribbean sunshine whilst enjoying truly stunning sea views, a dedicated spa service, bar menu and complimentary fruit skewers help create one of the most impressive and relaxing cruise experiences you’ll find anywhere. An MSC Caribbean cruise means you’ll get to explore paradise islands most days of the week leaving plenty of time to discover MSC Divina, Perhaps you’ll stroll through the 150 fountains of the Aqua Park and stop off at the poolside gelato bar? How about a suitably exotic drink with a light meal at the new Galaxy Club restaurant or simply letting the conversation ebb and flow as you enjoy the music in the Italian piazza prior to a spot of shopping? And, if you’ve had a long or stressful year, why not allow us to sooth away your aches and pains with a Balinese massage at the acclaimed Aurea Spa?If, on the other hand, you’re after excitement then how about a circuit or two on the F1 simulator or a long and hair-raising ride on the water slide? You can go bowling in the Sports Bar or take your chances at cards or the roulette wheel in the poker room. Night owls can enjoy smooth sounds in the Jazz Bar or dance until dawn in the disco. If you’re looking for the ultimate accommodation how about the only luxury suite at sea designed by Ms Loren herself, the Sophia Loren Royal Suite? Located within MSC Divina’s exclusive enclave, the MSC Yacht Club those lucky enough to stay here will be able to relax amongst rich, red upholstery, specially designed lamps and a wild heather and deep red carpet especially chosen by the lady herself. The walls are adorned with photographs of her most famous screen roles, whilst those wishing to get ready for a really special evening can do so at a replica of Ms Loren’s dressing table – a proper film star experience! But, whether you choose a luxury suite in the Yacht Club, a Balcony Cabin, a Super Family cabin or an Inside Cabin we like to think of each MSC Divina Caribbean cruise as paradise found!	Launched: 1st May 2012 Tonnage: 139,072 Length: 1094 feet Total Crew: 1,388 Occupancy: 3,502 Rating: stars

	MSC Fantasia The first in an exceptional class of cruise ships, MSC Fantasia is everything a modern cruise ship should be – but with a little extra Italian style added for good measure! She offers her passengers extraordinary levels of comfort, entertainment and safety whilst employing cutting-edge technology to safeguard the environment. Keynote features include the MSC Aurea Spa, 5 restaurants (one of which is exclusive to MSC Yacht Club passengers), 4 swimming pools, 12 hydro-massage pools, coffee bars, shops, a children’s area, a Formula 1 simulator and an interactive 4 D cinema. The MSC Aurea Spa features a thermal cave with treatments to enhance both beauty and health: therapeutic mud packs, perfumed vapours, aesthetic massages and much, much more. MSC Fantasia has an exclusive VIP area: the MSC Yacht Club with 71 spacious suites, a bar, solarium, 2 hydro-massage pools, a swimming pool, an exclusive a la carte French restaurant and observation lounge with bar, Concierge and a forward Observation Lounge where huge glass windows enable guests to make the most of the amazing views. A butler service will operate throughout the VIP area: offering assistance at check-in, overseeing the transport of luggage, unpacking and serving traditional English high tea. In addition the butler will arrange for cigars and wine, liquors and champagne and pre-book tables at the restaurants, spa treatments in the Aurea Spa, ad hoc excursions as chosen by the guest and even arrange a private party in cabins. For the very first time on board a cruise ship guests will walk on a Swarovski crystal floor. A transparent ceiling also permits the guests to experience all the magic of sailing as they gaze at the starlit skies. MSC Fantasia's Mediterranean Cruises take place throughout the summer and into the winter too.	Launched: 1st December 2008 Tonnage: 137,936 Length: 1092 feet Total Crew: 1,370 Occupancy: 3,274 Rating: stars

	MSC Lirica These days when vast and impossibly glitzy cruise ships seem to appear every year, it is something of a comfort to know that there are cruise ships that maintain a certain restrained style. MSC Lirica is one such vessel, owing nothing to the ‘biggest and brashest is best’ school of cruise ship design. Instead MSC Lirica delivers a high quality cruise experience to those looking for comfort and hospitality of the highest order. Her restrained sense of style comes courtesy of Giuseppe de Jorio whose skills have graced a number of MSC Cruises’ fleet. Passengers will discover tastefully decorated public areas with lots of brass and marble and intimate spaces like the Lord Nelson pub where nautical prints adorn the walls and easy-going, efficient service make it the perfect place for a pre-theatre drink. Tradition gives way to modernity and super clean design in the Aurea Spa where you can enjoy amazing sea views as well as some of the finest spa treatments afloat – our spas are award winning, and it shows!	Launched: 1st March 2003 Tonnage: 59,058 Length: 251 feet Total Crew: 732 Occupancy: 1,560 Rating: stars

	MSC Magnifica There’s never a dull moment aboard MSC Magnifica, though there’s ample deck space to find somewhere quiet to read a book or watch the waves go by if that’s your preference. For sunny days there’s a solarium to make the most of those precious rays, whilst one of her 3 swimming pools features an ingenious ‘Magrodome’ (retractable roof) that’s just the ticket for those days that are less than perfect. When it comes to fine dining and entertainment MSC Magnifica doesn’t disappoint; there are 5 restaurants, numerous bars, an internet café, cigar lounge and a beautiful state-of-the-art theatre. Elsewhere a cinema, casino and disco all compete for your attention whilst MSC Magnifica makes her way to the next port of call. And, just in case you’re worried by the effect that those 5 restaurants might have on your waistline then don’t forget the fully equipped gym, the sauna, the tennis, basketball and the spacious wrap-around decks that are perfect for a spot of jogging! However, if pampering is more your cup of tea then our award-winning Aurea Spa can turn the art of well-being into and all together more leisurely, more pleasurable pursuit.	Launched: 6th March 2010 Tonnage: 95,128 Length: Unknown Total Crew: 1,038 Occupancy: 2,518 Rating: stars

	MSC Musica In 2014 MSC Musica will be operating a series of classic summer cruises in the Mediterranean. From Genoa she encompasses ports and resorts as diverse as Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, the ancient city of Tunis and the lively holiday island of Palma. You don’t have to be a cruise aficionado to realise MSC Musica is a stylish and beautifully appointed vessel. In her central foyer area you’ll discover a three-tier waterfall whilst a semi-transparent grand piano appears suspended above a pool of luminous water. Elsewhere on board the lavish La Scala theatre would put many land-locked theatres to shame whilst the Sushi Bar offer authentic Japanese cuisine that would not be out of place in Kyoto or Tokyo. Naturally there’s all sorts of culinary variety to be found when you opt for the a la carte dining, whilst a cigar bar and an extensively stocked wine bar help enhance the sheer stylishness of your cruise. From the moment you step aboard MSC Musica to the moment you disembark you'll notice that there always seems to have been music and a little magic in the air! Why not join MSC Musica and share our vision of the Mediterranean Way of Life?	Launched: 1st May 2006 Tonnage: 92,409 Length: 961 feet Total Crew: 1,014 Occupancy: 2,550 Rating: stars

	MSC Opera MSC Opera offers a traditional take on cruising for those looking for a comfortable and unpretentious cruise in an easy-going, fun-loving atmosphere. Although the vast majority of passengers on her Southampton cruises will be British the famous mix of fine Italian and international cuisine is always appreciated! Moreover, 2014 is your last chance to experience MSC Opera’s unique ambience on cruises from Southampton as she will be re-deployed in 2015. So, if you're looking to cruise from the UK in 2014, make sure MSC Opera is on your shortlist. From May through to September 2014 MSC Opera's cruises from Southampton will take her from Amsterdam along the coast of France to La Coruna in Spain, to the Baltic Capitals and to the stunningly lovely scenery of the Norwegian Fjords. Those looking for the best value for money from their UK cruise will be pleased to know that free car parking and free coach transfers apply to these departures* as, of course, does MSC Cruises' Kids Cruise FREE policy. With so many great itineraries on these cruises from Southampton, it’s fortunate that MSC Opera has plenty of open deck space and lots of spacious public rooms that help elevate watching the world go by into something rather special. On board you’ll find that things have been done exceedingly well: MSC Opera features plenty of real wood and marble and rich, traditional fabrics and trimmings abound. Her public areas boast a sweeping marble reception area and lovely open spaces with huge glass walls overlooking the sea. Indeed wherever you go, inside or on deck, you’ll find that a true sense of operatic grandeur and spaciousness prevails. You’ll quickly find that MSC Opera has the all important ingredient that turns a good cruise ship into a great one: she has atmosphere. Sumptuous décor and fine facilities come as standard but above all, a cruise aboard MSC Opera is sociable and fun. All ages are generally represented and the crew, the officers, the entertainers and musicians work together to generate a fantastic atmosphere.	Launched: 1st April 2004 Tonnage: 59,058 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 728 Occupancy: 1,712 Rating: stars

	MSC Orchestra Life onboard MSC Orchestra revolves around you and, given the facilities on offer, life can be pretty much what you want it to be. If relaxation is your cruise goal then you’ll have no trouble escaping from the pressures of everyday life. If you prefer your cruise to be a little more active then you can get fit on the jogging track, in the Sports Centre and the Body and Mind Spa. If you take a more leisurely approach to fitness then you may find a Turkish bath, sauna or a programme of massage will get you feeling toned up and feeling on top of the world. And, for those that really prefer a low impact attitude to life, then the simple pleasure of watching the world literally go by from the jacuzzi takes some beating! Like all our ships MSC Orchestra is well equipped to take you on an exciting culinary journey. Why not begin that journey at the Shanghai Chinese restaurant or try the Four Seasons for an authentic a la carte experience? And, rest assured, you’ll find that every meal in the L’Ibiscus and Villa Borghese restaurants are occasions in themselves. If you're in the mood for something lighter try La Piazzetta and discover the best pizza outside Naples! You’ll find the décor aboard MSC Orchestra is simply thrilling. You can soak up the ambience in the leopard-style Savannah Bar, try your luck at the Palm Beach Casino or catch a spectacular show at the equally spectacular Covent Garden Theatre.	Launched: 14th May 2007 Tonnage: 92,409 Length: 964 feet Total Crew: 1,054 Occupancy: 2,550 Rating: stars

	MSC Poesia Christened in Dover in April 2008 by MSC Cruises (UK), MSC Poesia is our very own poem to the sea. She is such a lovely ship that it's easy to wax lyrical about a cruise aboard MSC Poesia, just as it's easy to imagine yourself on a private balcony - there are 809 cabins with balcony to choose from - overlooking the ocean under a star-filled sky. During the summer months MSC Poesia cruises European waters taking in the majesty of the Norwegian fjords and the history and culture of the Baltic states. As summertime packs its bags and leaves Europe, MSC Poesia heads south for the perpetual carnival that is South America. If you're lucky enough to enjoy a cruise aboard MSC Poesia you'll discover luxury cruising at its best. Like her sisters, MSC Poesia is designed with an eye for the spectacular. On board you'll find a waterfall with bridges in the foyer, a zen garden in the sushi bar and a serene 13,000 square foot spa. And as well as looking after you, MSC Poesia, our third Musica class ship, also looks after the environment with the latest eco-technology.Suites and staterooms are spacious and elegant and most have private balconies. When you're out and about you can enjoy a glass of something with a certain vintage from the well stocked cellars of Il Grappolo d'Oro, or perhaps you'd prefer the casual ambience of the outdoor Mojito Bar? From casino to theatre and spa to cigar room, MSC Poesia has something for everyone. Naturally we look after the kids too, with all manner of activities and a delightful Stone Age dinosaur-themed play area! For all MSC Poesia departure dates, click here. Just as poetry brings lasting pleasure, the magnificent MSC Poesia cruise ship introduces a new dimension of enjoyment to the art of travelling by ship.	Launched: 1st April 2008 Tonnage: 92,627 Length: 964 feet Total Crew: 1,039 Occupancy: 2,550 Rating: stars

	MSC Preziosa Unveiled in the celebratory style that has become MSC’s hallmark, MSC Preziosa was launched in Genoa on 23rd March 2013. Naturally, being an MSC cruise ship, she is more than just another run-of-the-mill, ‘designed by focus groups’ kind of vessel – perish the thought! Instead she is a unique ship delivering her own individual interpretation on the fine art of Mediterranean cruising. Not exclusively for the young, but aimed squarely at the young and adventurous at heart, Vertigo is the longest single-rider water slide afloat. This twisted 120 metre monster takes riders on a thrilling ride from Deck 18 out over the sea and back for happy landings on the decks below. Vertigo was awarded the 'Best Innovation' by Cruise International in 2013. For more serene aquatic pleasures there’s a dreamy infinity pool and, just so that the odd spot of inclement weather cannot spoil your fun, there’s even a retractable roof on one of the main pools. For sun-worshippers looking for peace and tranquillity the Top 18 area dedicates premium deck space and stunning sea views to adults who’ll appreciate its dedicated spa service, bar menu and complimentary fruit skewers. Below decks the award-winning MSC Aurea Spa offers beauty and wellness treatments that will sooth away the tensions of everyday life, whilst the high end luxury of MSC Yacht Club’s exclusive suites, butler service, dedicated facilities and private decks remain the toast of luxury cruising. Naturally MSC Cruises could tell you more about the bars and lounges, about the Sports Bar and Diner with its bowling alley and F1 simulator, about the restaurants like Eataly where the best of Italian cuisine can be sampled in a sophisticated, minimalist environment or the exclusive Ristorante Italia, where a seriously upscale menu is available every night.	Launched: 1st March 2013 Tonnage: 139,072 Length: 1093 feet Total Crew: 1,388 Occupancy: 3,502 Rating: stars

	MSC Sinfonia Given some of the cruise leviathans currently plying the oceans, MSC Sinfonia is not a large ship; yet her 9 passengers decks and 250 metre length accommodate an awful lot of comfort and quality for her guests. More important than sheer scale is good design and MSC Sinfonia manages to provide many different and sympathetic moods throughout her public spaces. If you’re looking for relaxation, then make your way to Le Terme where a cleansing sauna and soothing massage await. Or, for something more active, the same facility on Debussy deck boasts a fully equipped gym too. And, whilst you’re away, why not perfect that golf swing with a state-of-the-art Virtual Golf Simulator that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned professionals too. But, if this is all too serious for you, why not enjoy a spot of mini-golf or traditional deck games – a great way to get all the family involved and meet new friends! Whether you’re cruising in the Med’ or South Africa the sea air tends to stimulate the appetite and therefore, aside from the fine cuisine that you’ll find in the restaurants, you’ll find plenty to keep body and soul together in the plush Café Le Baroque and from the bright, modern La Terrazza Buffet. Of course there are plenty of excellent bars whilst the Irish Pub, Shelagh’s House, will make British cruisers feel right at home!	Launched: 3rd March 2005 Tonnage: 58,625 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 765 Occupancy: 1,554 Rating: stars

	MSC Splendida MSC Splendida was the second of ‘Fantasia class’ of cruise ships and the acclaim that greeted the launch of her sister would bode well for MSC Splendida. Indeed, the fact that we now have four ‘Fantasia class’ vessels says an awful lot about the quality of the original design. Like her sisters MSC Splendida is a thoroughly modern yet decidedly stylish lady. She may bristle with features and facilities like squash courts, a 4D cinema and an F1 simulator but there is nothing ‘gimmicky’ about the on board experience on offer. Nothing exemplifies this quality like the MSC Yacht Club, a VIP ‘ship within a ship’ area featuring 71 spacious suites and 24 hour butler service. Similarly the quality on offer at the MSC AUREA Spa has already garnered awards from the international cruise community. This class leading spa is run by highly-trained staff and combines the magic of Balinese massage with the most modern and exclusive treatments. Specialities include: traditional water treatments (a legacy from Roman times), saunas, Turkish bath, solarium, relaxation room, thalassotherapy, massage room and whirlpool baths. And, for those seeking more 'high impact' activities, there is an exercise room filled with the latest gym equipment. Those looking to exercise outdoors will appreciate the jogging track, whilst those looking to cool off will appreciate MSC Splendida’s spectacular main pool complex (there are four pools onboard in total) where 150 fountains and water jets provide fun and a great antidote to the Mediterranean sunshine! Want to sunbathe in peace and privacy? Soak up the sun in style in this adults-only sanctuary of serenity. Top 18 boasts premium deck space and stunning sea views, not forgetting its own dedicated spa service, bar menu and complimentary fruit skewers. For groups of friends, couples looking for a romantic hideaway or parents looking for some quiet time, Top 18 is the perfect place to relax, unwind and watch the waves go by. MSC Cruises has always been sensitive to environmental issues and MSC Splendida is at the cutting edge ecologically. She is equipped with the most innovative technological systems to guarantee energy savings and to help protect the environment.	Launched: 1st June 2009 Tonnage: 137,936 Length: 1016 feet Total Crew: 1,370 Occupancy: 3,274 Rating: stars

Further Information

Cruise the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean gave birth to the Renaissance, the great cultural, intellectual, artistic, scientific and spiritual explosion whose energy lit all Europe and ended a thousand years of dark ages.
Whether you are dreaming of unwinding on sun-baked beaches or contemplating art in Museums, our Mediterranean itineraries will transport you to the hidden corners of history, culture and nature. Sprawling beaches, rustic villages, ancient ruins and sophisticated cities are just some of the infinite possibilities revealed.
MSC cruises offers a choice of excursions to satisfy both your Body & Mind. Optional half day and full day trips may include a walking tour through Capri, a cable car ride over Funchal, shopping in Barcelona, catamarans in Palma de Mallarco or a theatrical show in Odessa. Remote beaches and opulent palaces, modest fishing towns and glamorous international jetsetters are just some of the possibilities available to you during an MSC cruise.

Dining

From breakfast in the morning to the midnight buffet, there are several dining options available on board. Have brunch delivered to the privacy of your stateroom, enjoy a casual outdoor lunch by the pool from the grill or pizzeria and sample a variety of snacks during the afternoon and evening.

Dinner is always a special occasion, the Italian meal itself is an art form! Traditional Italian cuisine is home cooking, la cucina casalinga, amateur cooking, from amare, cooking with love. Like our warm service, the spirit of our cuisine is always hospitable.

During our renowned seven-course dinner menu, experience the zest of flavours and gaiety of colours from an authentic Mediterranean cucina garlic, olives, basil, red pepper and tomatoes in our traditional family recipes. Our well-trained dining staff serves regional specialties creatively prepared from scratch by our chefs as well as classic favourites.

Wine connoisseurs will savour the selections or cap dinner off with a cappuccino or espresso. Afterwards, dessert! From Italian treats of tiramisu and cannolis to your favourite cakes, pastries and tarts! If you are celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, retirement, honeymoon or anniversary, do it with classic operatic drama: a cake, some bubbly and an Italian serenade.

Leisure & Entertainment

What to do, what to do? Each day brings different activities. Sleep in or wake up early. Stroll around the deck or run on the jogging track. Get refreshed with a swim or relaxed in the whirlpool. Work out at the gym or try out one of the aerobic and step classes offered on board. Join in a game of cards, table tennis or shuffleboard or play a game of tennis or volleyball. The library is stocked with books for your perusal. Our cinema features recently released and classic movies. There is the Internet Cafe to email friends and family with updates throughout your journey, duty-free shopping boutiques, a video arcade and a card room or you can enjoy the simple pleasure of lounging on a deck chair under the warmth of the sun sipping tropical drinks.

After dinner, let MSC Cruises entertain you. The lounges have bands playing music for all tastes from pianists and string quartets to pop, rock and oldies. Many of our nightly shows have an accent of the Mediterranean, vivid Flamenco dancers from Spain or historical glances back to Old Europe.

Next, it's time for Vegas. We'll keep your glass filled as you test your luck with poker, roulette or blackjack in the casino. After a visit to the midnight buffet for a late-night snack, have one more dance or slip away to the privacy of your stateroom with the promise of another perfect day ahead.

Life on Board - Pampering

Pampering is all about choices. Have a healthy or hearty breakfast. Lounge around the deck leisurely or hit the courts competitively. Take advantage of our spa services to get completely revitalized, restored and refreshed.

For the body...
Maintain your regular fitness program. Our fitness coordinators will gladly show you around the jogging track, the swimming pools and guide you through the workout room’s free weights, treadmills, stationary bikes and other strength and endurance equipment. Our fitness programs, led by certified instructors, have a daily schedule of classes such as aerobics, stretch and yoga as well as toning classes that zone in on specific spots including the mind.

Get the full beauty treatment with a haircut or manicure & pedicure from our salon. Dig a little deeper with muscle and mind-melting massages to relax from top to bottom. Purify and balance your skin with intensive complexion-cleansing facials that exfoliate, extract and hydrate. Sink into the jacuzzi or slip into the sauna or step into the steam room for a few minutes to help dissolve any tension that remains.

For the mind.
Stimulate your intellect with our enrichment-at-sea programs. You do not need to be on land to make discoveries and learn something new on a cruise. From Italian language lessons to guest lectures on a variety of topics, computer program or Internet lessons to cooking classes, we offer a host of educational and informational seminars and classes. We have guest lecturers on board every cruise, experts in various industries, respected historians, academics, artists, writers and musicians. The discussion might be on foreign films, art history, architecture, design, literature, health, current events or food and wine. Our educational programs are challenging, instructive and take place in any student's dream classroom setting.

Cruises