msc cruise work from home

Can You Work Remotely from a Cruise Ship?

With more people than ever enjoying the flexibility of remote work, and broadband technology improving, much of the world can be your office.  What about cruise ships though?  Working from cruise ships may be possible for some, but it’s critical to understand whether it’s possible for you, before setting sail.

Is The WiFi Good Enough to Work Remotely on a Cruise Ship?

Connectivity at sea is the 500lb gorilla in the room – and we’ve written about it before .  If you’re a remote worker, you almost certainly depend on a reliable internet connection.  While delivering fast and reliable internet to ships is tricky, involving complex satellite and other systems, the technology has improved in the past few years.  Whether or not it’s sufficient however, largely depends on what ship you’re sailing, and where.

The location is the easy part to work out, because there are some simple factors that are likely disqualifiers here.  If cruising north of the 49 th parallel, so Alaska, Norway, or even most of the British Isles, then don’t expect service to be very fast or reliable on any ship.  This has to do with where the majority of satellite coverage is today, thought that is something that is changing quickly.  Other geographic considerations are being in fjords or other areas where there are many obstructions a lot higher than the horizon.  If you’re cruising the Caribbean however, this shouldn’t be a factor at all.

Figuring out if the ship you’re sailing has a fast connection is trickier to work out.  This doesn’t only vary by cruise line, but the individual ship.  For example, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises tout their VOOM and Xcelerate services, and on some of their ships the service works well, but other ships lag on system upgrades.  Even two ships from the same line, both with newer backhaul (such as Starlink), can provide very different experiences.  Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Apex , Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships, Freedom of the Seas, and Odyssey of the Seas, among others, all seem to work well.  Princess Cruises also has fast connections on their fleet, which they even advertise as being suitable for remote work - though we found some quirks on our Sky Princess sailing in Nov '21.  Virgin Voyages ' Scarlet Lady , in our experience, has provided a very stable and consistent connection, free off filters or blocks that might keep you from getting work done.

Finally, if you have special applications, such as VPNs, that are required for you to do your job, know that some guests have reported issues using things like this.  While we’ve had good luck with corporate VPNs, and some have reported having the onboard team workout their issues, the need for this is something to consider.

Will My Employer be Okay with Me Working from a Ship?

While some companies have long embraced remote work, and are content as long as quality work is done – regardless of where the keyboard strokes were made - others are still skeptical about productivity outside of an office building.  Your boss may be just fine with you working from home, or even a coffee shop, because they’re comfortable with you doing your job in that environment.  If you sign onto a Zoom call and there is a pool in the background, or some other setting that looks a lot more like vacation than work, how will they feel? 

This isn’t a question we can answer for you of course, and it could be worth broaching the subject with your boss before committing to working from a cruise ship.  Others may choose to keep this decision quiet as to not ruffle feathers or risk being told it’s not permitted - even for those with the discipline to be productive during work hours.  Keeping it a secret may not be easy though, as not only might someone notice a different background on a teleconference, but if you or your family will be sharing parts of your trip on social media – or telling any other co-workers, it’s safe to assume your employer will find out you’re on a ship. 

Is Working from a Ship Mentally Difficult?

It sure can be.  We’ve done this several times, and it’s fantastic knowing that when work is done, you’re on a cruise!  It’s also great knowing that you can head up to the café and work from there for a bit or sit out on deck and be productive while enjoying the views.  There is, however, massive temptation, and fear of missing out (FOMO, as people hipper than I might say).  Knowing that there are so many great options for entertainment and relaxation just steps away, but that you’re stuck working can be mentally taxing and a bit torturous - especially while you know others are enjoying those options on the ship. 

Honestly, each time I work from a ship I question if it’s more of a tease than it’s worth.  For me, I conclude it is worth it, because I get to cruise more and not fall behind on work.  If I was only taking a cruise every year or two as a big vacation, I’d not at all want to compromise my experience by putting work into the mix.

Redundancy and Contingency Plans for Remote Work from a Cruise Ship

If I’m at home any my computer has an issue, or my headset breaks, I have options.  Maybe I have an extra laptop, or a second headset in my closet.  At worst, in a real pinch, I could go to a local retailer and buy a replacement without losing much work time.  On a ship, that’s not generally an option.  I tend to being two of everything when working away from home, or at least have a “what if” plan.  While I don’t hope to buy any replacement gear at sea, I should note on Celebrity Cruises' ships, they have iLounges, which are “Value Added” Apple retailers.  This means in a pinch, I could replace any number of devices while onboard, and it makes me slightly less fearful of a situation where I might find out that my laptop isn’t margarita-resistant.

Obviously a fast and reliable internet connection, as discussed previously, is also critical.  You don’t have a fallback option for connectivity while on a ship – but you do while in port.  Depending on your itinerary, there’s a good chance that mobile internet works very well - at least near the port.  Becoming familiar with your cellular data roaming options (speed and cost) is a good idea.  In fact, you could even turn this into a hybrid approach, and only commit to work some days, when you’re in a port that you’re okay not exploring.  You can also ask crew members what locations near the port have good, cheap (or free) internet access , in case you want to work from a café or other spot near the ship.  We've got tips for staying connected while cruising .

Don’t Forget to Enjoy Your Time

If you decide to work from a cruise ship, make sure you do everything possible to not overwork and enjoy your time.  You don’t want to pay money and pack up so that you get just a couple hours a day to enjoy.  Additionally, enjoy the time you are working.  Remember that you can take your lunch hour in a nice restaurant onboard, or maybe get a quick bite at the buffet and then lounge by the pool for 40 minutes!  Don’t get stuck working from your stateroom.  Every cruise ship I’ve sailed on has many quiet spaces where you could easily set up a portable office space so that you can enjoy a change of scenery. 

If you need to plug in for power, ask crew members – you might be surprised that there are outlets handy which you’ve not noticed.  It’s worth packing a European power adapter though, since many of the outlets in public spaces are 220 volt European plugs, and one of these adapters will give you additional plugs in your stateroom.

At the end of the day, you want to spend as little time working from the ship as possible while still being productive, and if you do it right, you might just find that this is a great method of getting away a bit more frequently, and really embracing the possibilities of remote work.

View the discussion thread.

I got what I paid for: My cheap family cruise on MSC Seashore

Disney Cruise Line's new ship Disney Wish is getting a lot of attention this summer. But with fares that start at $1,000 per day for a family of four, even a three- or four-night sailing might not be in most families' budgets.

In search of cheap family cruises myself, I followed the deals to a major but more under-the-radar cruise line, MSC Cruises .

MSC offers affordable Caribbean cruises thanks to free kids fares and onboard credits that passengers can put toward things like activities and non-included meals.

I ended up paying less for a balcony cabin on a seven-night cruise to the Caribbean on MSC's newest ship, MSC Seashore, than I would for a three-night Disney Wish cruise in a windowless inside cabin.

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

Itinerary in hand, I thought I had found the secret to affordable family cruising and that I'd come home bragging to my friends that I had scored an amazing vacation for a fraction of the price folks would pay for other cruises.

The truth is, I got what I paid for and encountered more logistical hassles and nickel-and-diming than I've experienced on most of the 50-plus cruises I've been on.

Can you have a wonderful family vacation on a budget on an MSC Cruises ship? Of course. But for smoother sailing and fewer hassles, you will either need to shell out more money on your MSC voyage — or consider a different cruise line.

About MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a Europe-based cruise line, with a large presence in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Africa. Within the last five years, though, the line has made an effort to build and deploy ships with amenities and itineraries that are more targeted at American travelers.

Although it has been offering Caribbean cruises for about a decade now, MSC Cruises recently deployed more of its ships on itineraries out of Florida, many with stops at the line's new private island, Ocean Cay, for a relaxing beach day. The line is known to attract a diverse crowd, including a high percentage of international guests plus a mix of English and Spanish speakers from Florida. The combination of cultures and languages makes the line's onboard vibe a bit different than on other cruise lines that sail from mainland U.S. ports.

Because the line is not as well known among U.S. cruisers as Europeans, MSC Cruises' Florida fares have always been competitively priced and it routinely offers kids-sail-free deals. I paid $2,658 total for four people to share a balcony cabin on a weeklong Western Caribbean cruise in July on the line's newest cruise ship, MSC Seashore.

Contrast that with Disney Wish: The cheapest cruise you can currently book is $2,975 for a three-night cruise in a windowless inside cabin for four people. A seven-night Western Caribbean cruise on Royal Caribbean's new Wonder of the Seas next July is close to $6,000 for four people; the cheapest balcony cabin I could find on that ship for a weeklong Caribbean cruise was $3,300 in February 2023. (Of course, older ships on these lines will be priced lower.)

In my mind, MSC Cruises' lower fares and mass appeal make it a direct competitor with Carnival Cruise Line. The cheapest balcony cabin I could find for that line's newest ship, Mardi Gras, was $2,475 for four people on a weeklong Western Caribbean cruise in November 2023.

Going into this trip, I knew I wasn't going to find all the bells and whistles of a Royal Caribbean megaship or the service levels and entertainment expertise of a Disney ship. I was simply hoping that getting to experience a brand-new ship at a low price would give a line like Carnival or perhaps the older ships of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line a serious run for their money. Unfortunately, that wasn't quite the case.

MSC Seashore was indeed a beautiful ship with plenty to entertain the whole family. But the logistical operations, dining options and family-friendly amenities were simply not up to par with those offered on other lines. Here's what I took away from my experience.

MSC offers limited free or affordable dining choices

Let's start with my biggest gripe about MSC Seashore as an affordable family vacation — the dearth of complimentary dining options. If you want to stick to the food venues where meals are included in your fare and not pay extra for fancy seafood or steak dinners, you have only two options on MSC: the buffet and the main dining room.

Technically, based on the fare class we purchased, we were entitled to free continental breakfast via room service. But since there was no table on our balcony, and only a cluttered desk surface where you could put down dishes, we'd likely be eating in our beds, so we ended up skipping in-cabin food service.

The dining room was my favorite place to eat on board

The main onboard dining room was very good for a mass-market ship. My mom eats gluten-free and I gravitate mostly toward vegetarian options, and the restaurant was able to accommodate our diets well. The kids menu had a lot of great choices for younger sailors (pasta, grilled chicken, hot dogs, etc.) and both my kids ordered from both the junior and regular menus.

The servers worked quickly and were pleasant though not overly friendly. That said, the dining room manager assisted my mother with her food allergies and was amazingly helpful. He would periodically stop by our table to chat or ask if he could help us whenever he saw us around the ship.

As most parents know, formal sit-down dining is not always your best option for three meals a day with kids — especially when dinner lasts 1 1/2 to 2 hours after a long day out in the sun, and breakfast and lunch aren't as quick as the grab-and-go buffet. My kids (and I) needed alternatives, as they would on any line. That left the buffet.

The buffet was crowded and uninspiring

Unlike on most big-ship cruise lines I've sailed — including Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean — the buffet menu aboard MSC Seashore rarely changed and the venue in which the buffet was set out was both crowded and confusing to navigate.

While having a standard list of menu items for breakfast was fine, every lunch service simply included pizza, a pasta station, grab-and-go burgers and hot dogs, a meat-carving station, a small salad bar and a display of deli meat. Some days there was a Mexican station, though it was hard to find in the enormous venue.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

One buffet counter somewhere had a rotating selection of hot lunch dishes, but when I finally found my way there, none of the dishes were labeled. In fact, nothing was labeled anywhere on the buffet, so you just had to guess what you were serving yourself. Hopefully, it's something MSC will rectify, especially for passengers who might have even more stringent dietary requirements than my family.

Only one area of the entire buffet had all the options laid out. That section was, quite frankly, a nightmare. The few times I dared navigate my way there, I found people pushing each other out of the way and cutting in line, which did not result in much friendly feeling among the would-be diners.

Your kids might love having pizza, french fries and burgers every day for lunch (mine certainly did), but after my third lunch of salad and cheese pizza, I was desperate for an alternative. They exist on other lines. Carnival Cruise Line, in addition to a buffet menu that changes daily, offers complimentary Guy Fieri burgers, a deli counter with a variety of options, a Mexican station serving tacos and burritos, 24/7 pizza (that gives the Italian MSC a run for its money) and a sea-day brunch with innovative options. You can even find additional free dining venues on select ships, including Guy Fieri's barbecue restaurant, Shaquille O'Neal's fried chicken restaurant, Mongolian Wok and other Asian or Indian eateries.

TPG tip: If you need an alternative lunch option on MSC Seashore, you can pay extra for a meal in one of the ship's five specialty restaurants, though they're only occasionally open midday. Head to Hola Tacos (a la carte or all you can eat for $17.99 per person), Kaito Sushi Bar (conveyor belt sushi and other Japanese dishes priced a la carte) or Butcher's Cut for its sea day brunch ($12 per person). The prices aren't terrible, but they can quickly add up for family of four — plus, you're looking at another sit-down, waiter-served meal with possibly squirmy kids.

There was no free soft-serve ice cream on MSC

One last food gripe: A highlight of every family cruise I've been on is the free soft-serve ice cream on the pool deck. Your kids should be able to get themselves cones when it's hot outside. It's the quintessential vacation experience.

And every family-friendly line I've ever been on has this option. On Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , the center of the pool deck is a multimachine soft-serve ice cream station where you can help yourself to as much free ice cream as you'd like. Heck, even my very grown-up cruise on Windstar's Star Pride had free soft-serve by the pool and alfresco grill restaurant.

That is, every family-friendly line except MSC.

MSC Cruises does have exceptional gelato at nearly every poolside bar as well as at the Venchi chocolate store/bar/gelateria. However, it costs $4 for a baby size and $6 for a regular size. The same pool deck bars also have a soft-serve machine, which is located behind the bar. The chocolate and vanilla are complimentary, but only if you purchase a pricy beverage package . If you're on a budget, as we were, and don't upgrade to the package, that soft-serve will cost the same as the gelato. No freebies for the kiddos, either.

There are only two ways to get free ice cream on MSC Seashore. Either you order it for dessert in the main dining room and get whatever flavor they're serving that day (there's no choice), or you head to the one buffet counter that offers snacks for one hour from 4 to 5 p.m. every day, and you get in line with scores of other hot and hungry cruisers to ask for one of two flavors (usually vanilla, chocolate or strawberry) being doled out by one extremely overworked server.

It may seem like a small thing, and I probably thought it was before this particular sailing, but having free ice cream in the afternoon each day has made other cruises feel like truly special vacations, and my kids and I missed that feeling aboard MSC Seashore.

TPG tip: Only the Alcohol-Free and Minors drinks packages include soft-serve ice cream. Book your drinks package online in advance to save 15% off package prices. Or, book a cabin in the Yacht Club or Aurea fare class and a drinks package is included.

Our cabin was great — with 1 exception

Our standard balcony cabin was nice, and my family of four survived remarkably well in one room for a week , which is reason enough to thank MSC Cruises for a successful vacation.

The 172-square-foot cabin was not large, but it had more usable storage space than I anticipated. The sofa that converted into bunk beds meant that my kids weren't sleeping right above my head, and being able to separate the king-size bed into two twins was handy since I was traveling with my mother instead of my husband. Our balcony was a reasonable size and had two chairs and an ottoman, so you could put your feet up.

I had a few minor quibbles (as you do in compact cruise ship cabins) about the shower size and the lack of a balcony table, but one design element did bother me — especially with four people in the room.

It was the closet. In our cabin, the closet was located by my mom's side of the bed, with only minimal space between it and the mattress, which meant that it was difficult for me to get stuff out of the closet, especially if she was actually sitting or lying on the bed. My kids are still small, so I was able to store most of their stuff in the drawers across from their bunks. But if you have older kids who require more closet space, it might be a pain to have to squeeze by the bed to get anything from the closet.

Many other cruise lines solve this problem by putting the closets in the cabin hallway across from the bathroom. That makes them a lot easier to get at — even if your cabinmates might not be able to walk down the hallway while you're debating the day's fashion choices.

TPG tip: Some MSC Seashore cabins swap the position of the bed and the seating area, so the closet is next to the couch. This would be preferable for a couple or a family with one child, but not for a family where you'll have to squeeze by the bunk bed to access the closet. To avoid this layout entirely, you'll either want to upgrade to a suite or downgrade to an inside cabin, where the closet is next to an easy chair. (Though think twice before squeezing four people into a 150-square-foot room where the kids will be in bunks above the adults' twin beds.)

Related: Which cruise ship cabin should your family book?

The kids club had video games and Legos, but 1 kid still wouldn't go

As an adult, I'm not allowed into any kids club activities. Personally, I was intrigued by MSC's MasterChef at Sea event and the Fire and Ice live video game, but my kids weren't interested in those activities, so I can't report back on how fun they are.

What I can tell you is that my daughter, who loved the kids clubs on Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises , was not a fan of MSC Seashore's club and refused to go most of the time. It's hard to say how much this was a fault of the kids club versus my daughter's capricious personality.

On paper, MSC Seashore's kids club looks pretty good. It offers free babysitting for 3-and-unders, which is rare in the industry. The rest of the kids club is divided into groups for ages 3 to 6 and 7 to 11 (both my kids fell into that latter group), and tweens and teens are technically separate but shared a hangout space. When I toured the Junior Club where my kids would be on the first day, I saw a bright play space with large windows, two foosball tables and cool electronics like a virtual piano.

My daughter's report was that, unlike on Royal Caribbean, the youth staff didn't set time limits on video game use, so certain kids would "hog" the Nintendo Switches and she could never play the games. (One of these video game hogs was likely her older brother ....) MSC Cruises' promotional material boasts about its partnership with Lego, and she reported that there were always Legos available for free play and she enjoyed that.

She also gave a thumbs-down to the arts and crafts projects, compared to other lines, because it was just "lame coloring" versus an actual craft, such as beading necklaces or making origami. She didn't like any of the organized games as much as on other cruises, especially as they were often mandatory for everyone in the club instead of one of several activity choices.

One interesting takeaway from our experience was that, because MSC attracts a diverse, international crowd, many of the kids my daughter's age at the Junior Club didn't speak English. This made making friends difficult. On past cruises, she's made little buddies on board and played together with them at the kids club, but that didn't happen this time.

My son, on the other hand, only was interested in the video games and not in making friends or participating in group games, so he liked the club just fine.

TPG tip: After eight cruises with kids, I can say that, despite cruise line advertising, your child may not love the kids club for any number of reasons and choose not to go. Be prepared to be flexible with your onboard plans.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

The water park was awesome, but I would have liked additional family-friendly activities

MSC Seashore has a super-fun, pirate-themed water park with waterslides and a splash area . It's got one slide that you ride in an inner tube while wearing a virtual reality headset, and you feel like you're swinging around a pirate ship dodging a giant sea monster, as well as a fast tube slide that's cantilevered off the side of the ship. The kiddie pool has spray guns, a dump bucket and baby slides, with some rope bridges above for the adventurous.

That gives the ship major points in my book.

However, on every other cruise ship I've been on with a water park, you just walk up and get in line for a slide. On MSC, I had to stand in line for 20 minutes just to sign a waiver and get bracelets for the whole family showing we were allowed to slide and that we had to wear for the rest of the cruise.

TPG tip: If you want to ride the slides (and you definitely do, kids and grown-ups both), aim to show up at the beginning of the session before the waiver line gets too long.

As for other family-friendly activities, MSC Seashore's pingpong and foosball tables were always in high demand. The ship has two regular pools welcoming kids, a sports court for basketball and other athletic competitions and an arcade with extra-fee attractions, such as virtual sports, video games and an XD cinema (where the seats move and shake, to simulate a theme park ride).

There was no miniature golf, which is a fun, free family activity found on a lot of other big ships. If there was shuffleboard on Seashore, I never found it; my kids are oddly fond of that game.

For evening entertainment, MSC had a nightly show that was a mix of singing, dancing and acrobatics that were entertaining but also unremarkable. My kids' favorite was a comedy magician who performed one afternoon.

But there were no family-friendly movies on the pool deck LED screen (just one 10:30 p.m. screening of "Wonder Woman"), no obvious activities meant for families to play together (like Carnival's "Family Feud Live") and certainly nothing like Royal Caribbean's kid-wowing high-diving or ice skating shows.

We did find and attend one event meant for the entire family — a cupcake-decorating deck party. It ended up being chaotic, with long lines for the frosting bags (which were more for decoration than for taste, as we discovered), plus a raffle for which we had no idea how to get tickets. I'd take a little more organization over poor-tasting fanciful confections any day.

If my kids didn't want to go to the kids club or get wet, it was difficult to figure out what to do with them on board. They spent a lot of time watching TV in the room, which was not my first choice for a cruise vacation.

Related: Which cruise ship activities should you book ahead of time?

MSC Seashore does not have cruise logistics down yet

I have never said, "No other cruise line does it like this," as much as I did on our first day on board MSC Seashore. And it wasn't a good thing.

For instance, every other line I've ever sailed asks you to attach a credit card to your cruise account before you set sail. Once you get on board, you're already set up to make purchases with your cruise card.

MSC Cruises does not have an option to add your credit card online or in the terminal before embarkation. Instead, you must stand in line to use a kiosk to fund your cruise account after you board. I didn't want to give my kids permission to spend my money on soda and arcade games, and it wasn't clear how I should set limitations at the kiosk, so I had to ask guest services to help me with the confusing credit situation. The front desk queue was so long it snaked beyond the roped-off lanes, nearly out of the atrium lobby.

The cruise industry has mostly moved to virtual muster drills; most other lines ask passengers to watch the safety instructions in their cabin or on the cruise line's app and then check in at your muster station at your leisure.

But on MSC Seashore, we had to watch a video on our TV at an appointed time, then call a specific number from our cabin phone and then proceed in groups to our muster station to get our cards scanned. At which time the entire guest capacity of the ship was in the stairwells, either going down to their muster stations or returning to their cabins. Aside from the inconvenience, it also made social distancing impossible.

When it comes to dining, most cruise lines give you the option of early, late or anytime dining. Some, like Norwegian, skip assigned dining altogether. My favorite is anytime, so I don't have to commit to a set time and can show up at the dining room when I'm hungry. On MSC, anytime dining is only an option for those who book the most expensive fare classes.

Instead, I selected early dining for my family, but it turns out there were three early dining times: 5:15, 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. You couldn't choose among those options, and we were assigned the 5:15 slot, which is unreasonably early. We managed to switch to the 6:15 time, but only after waiting in two additional lines. It would have been nice to be able to designate our specific choice during the initial booking process rather than spending even more time in a line.

And all that was just on embarkation day.

On our first port day, the shore excursions team had no idea how to handle all the people reporting to the theater at their assigned times to get group numbers for their tours. To make matters worse, rain prevented the first tours from departing on time. That led to total chaos in the theater as dozens of people were going down the aisles to present their tickets and collect their group number stickers while dozens more were pushing past to get out the bottom door to head to the gangway.

It took us half an hour to get from inside the theater to outside the ship, including a long stretch squished into a narrow, windowless hallway, barely moving.

Am I complaining too much? I know from personal experience that you'll wait in queues on all big-ship cruise lines, especially on embarkation day if you haven't pre-booked shore excursions or you want to change your dining time. I definitely experienced a terrible muster drill on one of the first sailings of Carnival Sunrise, when the crew was new and working out the passenger flow of the upgraded ship.

But on MSC Seashore — a brand-new cruise ship from a longstanding line that's been sailing from the U.S. since 2013 — the logistical snafus and numerous lines for everything from payment plans to waterslides were more frequent than I expect on your average cruise.

TPG tip: Forget spontaneity: If you want to avoid lines, book your shore excursions, beverage and dining packages and Wi-Fi plans online before your cruise. Not only can you skip lines, but you'll get a discounted rate. Or, upgrade to a room in the exclusive Yacht Club section of the ship, so you can get access to a personal concierge, who can make arrangements for you.

Bottom line

Money can't buy happiness, but it can solve many of your problems on MSC.

Book a suite in the line's ship-within-a-ship Yacht Club, and you have access to more cabin space, exclusive no-fee restaurants and designated sun decks to avoid the crowds, and a butler and concierge to take care of logistics for you. Pay for a drinks package or a fare class that includes one, and your kids get all the free ice cream they desire. Enjoy brunch or lunch at the extra-fee specialty restaurants, and you'll get variety in your lunch menu.

But doing so means your vacation is no longer a budget one, which was my main reason for choosing MSC Cruises. Once you're spending that kind of money, you could look into a costlier cruise line, such as Royal Caribbean or even Disney Cruise Line. With a larger vacation budget comes more choice, too, including a larger variety of ships, U.S. embarkation ports and cruise destinations to consider.

To me, the ship seemed better suited to couples and groups of adult friends traveling together, who are content to spend time in the pools and hot tubs, who will enjoy the onboard nightlife, who will get more value out of a drinks package and the extra-fee restaurants, and who are cruising just two to a cabin.

If you are looking for a cheap family cruise, you can certainly have a great time on MSC Cruises, but it won't be paradise. My kids had a blast; my son will tell you that he loved the video games and the waterslides, and my daughter will say she liked eating french fries and chocolate croissants in the main dining room. We all loved our time in port, river tubing in Jamaica and swimming with turtles in Grand Cayman, but we paid extra for those tours.

At the end of the day, cruising on a budget on this specific cruise line came with more logistical hassles and a lack of dining and activity choices that added stress to my vacation as the adult in charge. I put up with more queues, hassles and TV time than I prefer to on a family cruise. Had I known, perhaps I could have thrown money at the problem, but at that point, I could have a better experience for a similar price on another line.

I'd consider another cruise with MSC with my husband or a girlfriend, now that I'm savvy on how to better work the system. But I'm still on the hunt for that cheap family cruise that offers outsize value for the price. I'll let you know when I find it.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Can You Work Remotely While Taking a Cruise? Here’s Everything to Know…

Working while on a cruise? Is it possible, even if it may not be what you had in mind on your vacation? And what about the logistics of actually getting things done while at sea or in port?

While Internet connectivity has allowed us the ability to work from everywhere — including the middle of the ocean — it has also made us seemingly “on call” around the clock. That can mean that even when we are supposed to be relaxing on a vacation, we can still be bothered by meetings, email, and phone calls.

But for some people, that connectivity isn’t a bad thing. For many, it’s an absolute necessity. From the high-ranking manager to the self-employed entrepreneur, being able to work from a cruise means the ability to go on vacation and still keep things running instead of having to give up any vacation at all.

So what is it like to work from a cruise ship? Can you be productive and actually get things done? Or is just too difficult given the limitations of being at sea?

In This Article...

Internet Connectivity at Sea

First and foremost, if you plan to work at sea then the Internet connection on the ship is vital. On this front there is good news: Any major cruise ship you sail will have wi-fi available across the ship . Internet has gone from a luxury on a cruise to a necessity.

To get access, you’ll need to sign up for a package. There are usually multiple options available, with basic packages that allow access to just social media all the way to the fastest packages that allow streaming services.

Prices will vary, but you should expect to pay at least $15-20 per day for basic access. The highest-end packages that offer the fastest connection can be upwards of $25-30. Obviously, access is expensive, but for those that have to work, it can be a relatively small price to pay.

Most cruise lines have now moved on from per-minute packages to unlimited access, so you don’t have to worry about how long you are connected or how much you use.

Streaming Services/Video Chats May Be Limited One thing that you should know is that cruise lines are moving toward allowing streaming services, but not all lines or ships allow it just yet. Some lines or packages just allow things like email and web browsing. That means some work tools such as video calling (Zoom, Teams, etc.), may not be allowed.

Keep in mind as well that cruise lines don’t lay out every single app or service that works on their wi-fi. Sometimes you simply have to try it and see. However, if a line offers streaming service, then it should allow you to connect with video calls/meetings.

Below, we’ve covered which lines offer streaming services, according to their websites:

Carnival: Premium Wi-Fi package offers Skype calling, but the cruise line says it does not support streaming services. In our experience, streaming is possible

Royal Caribbean: VOOM Surf + Stream offers access to streaming services

Norwegian: Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi package offers access to streaming services

Princess: Offers MedallionNet, which allows you to stream while at sea

Celebrity: Xcelerate Stream offers streaming from the ship while cruising

Disney: Offers pricing based on data used, so streaming can be expensive  

Connection Speeds Even if your cruise ship does offer streaming, however, doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Put simply, providing wi-fi access on a ship at sea is difficult. The connection can be spotty at times, depending on weather, location, and network traffic. It could work perfectly well at one time and be slow the next.

In our opinion, depending on the Internet on the ship for an important video call would be dicey. That said, the speed and connectivity should be plenty to allow you to get basic work done. It may not be the same speed you are used to at home or the office (it’s often around 3-5 Mbps), but it is workable.

If you are doing things like sending emails or using the web, the speed is sufficient to work while on the cruise. If you need to do a video call in a pinch, it should work. But if you need absolute crystal-clear video calling? That’s not going to be the case. 

One tip: If you know for sure that you will be connecting to wi-fi to work on the cruise, then book an Internet package ahead of time via your online account. Cruise lines discount the cost for those who order before they get on the ship.

For more on using Internet on a cruise, see our article here .

Making Work Calls While Cruising

Need to take a call on the cruise? Yes, your cell phone will work, but it’s a good idea not to make regular calls while on the ship as you would at home. Every ship will have cellular service, but it can be extremely expensive to use, often charging by the minute.

To save money, there are a couple of things you can do.

First, most cellular providers offer international and/or cruise ship plans. These plans give you cell service for cheaper than the rates charged on the ship. As well, they can provide you with service while in ports so you can use your phone using the local towers at lower rates than the normal international roaming charges. Call your cell provider for details.

Second, you can connect your phone to the ship’s wi-fi and use apps like WhatsApp (or enable wi-fi calling) to make calls. This means you’ll need to be on the ship to make/receive calls, but the vast majority of your time is spent on the ship anyway.

For more on using your cell phone on a cruise, see our article here .

One final note: Internet access is normally sold based on the number of connected devices. So if you have a phone and a computer, you can only connect one at a time unless you upgrade to multiple devices for your account. It’s much cheaper to make due with one connection, simply switching back and forth as needed. But if you do need a phone and computer connected at the same time, then be ready for a higher cost.

Where to Work on the Ship

Of course, it’s one thing to be able to connect and work, but you also need a place to be productive.

For most people, the easiest place to work will be the cabin. Each room comes with a small desk that is big enough for a laptop and includes a power outlet. The cabin offers you the privacy to work, but you might have to share the space with your travel partners or family. Of course there is always something going on around the ship, so it should be easy for others to leave and find something to do, giving you a chance to work in peace.

Can’t work in the cabin? It can be difficult if people are using it at the same time you want to be productive.

In that case, there are plenty of places around the ship to get a little work done. The ship’s library is quiet and usually has few people in it most of the day. As well, if you prefer to work outdoors, there is plenty of deck space around the ship. Promenade decks that wrap around the ship have plenty of chairs available and lots of space allowing you to work without others being nearby.

Another hidden spot? Check out the ship’s theater during the day when it’s largely not used. It provides plenty of comfortable seating and will be empty for many hours. Bars and lounges during the day also have lots of space and tables, allowing you to stretch out and get things done when they aren’t operating.

Finding Time to Work on a Cruise

If you have a work schedule or meeting that dictates when you need to work, then it’s easy to schedule your day. However, if you simply need to get things done on your own terms, then when can you work?

It may seem that on a cruise there isn’t much time to get anything done. Between ports of call, meals, shows in the evening, and activities all through the day, there can be a lot to see and do. Still, if you make it a priority, then there isn’t an issue in finding time to get some work completed.

We highly recommend working in the morning hours. During this time there is less going on around the ship, so you miss out on hardly anything at all. In fact, prior to lunch the ship is much quieter than later in the day and into the evening.

Working in the morning also means you can get things done before heading out to port on days where the ship is docked, still giving you the majority of the day to enjoy. Just keep in mind that some excursions leave early in the day, so you might have to plan around that departure time.

Finally, if you have work you need to do, then having it done in the morning means you can enjoy the rest of the day without having the office weighing on your mind.

Our Personal Experience Working Remotely at Sea

As part of operating this website, we regularly work while on cruise ships. So what’s our personal opinion of it? To us, it’s definitely possible, but not ideal.

Part of that is simply having to work on a laptop. For this website there is photo editing, writing, and web posting involved. Normally this work is done on a full-sized desktop, so there is an adjustment to working on a smaller screen.

Meanwhile, the Internet on the ship is considerably slower than what’s used at home. So, for example, uploading an image to a post that might take five seconds normally can take 20-30 seconds. Multiply that times all the little elements that go into researching, writing, posting, and updating an article, and it takes considerably longer than on land.

At the same time, there is often something else going on around the ship that we’d rather be enjoying than having to finish up work. It can feel like being a kid and having to finish your homework before you go play outside.

So yes, it’s able to be done, but certainly it’s not ideal. Doing it for a week if fine, but we couldn’t ever see being “digital nomads” that operate solely from a cruise.

Bottom Line: Can You Work Remotely From a Cruise Ship?

Of course, no one wants to work while on vacation, but in modern times it’s simply a fact of life for some of us. So is it feasible to actually be productive on the ship?

We say yes. Whether you need to check in back at the office here and there or have a lot to get done even though you are on vacation, cruises allow you the ability to work if you need to do so.

Internet access is widely available, and you can connect on phone calls if needed. As well, there are plenty of spaces for you to get work done without interruption, and early in the day lends itself to being able to be productive without missing much.

So if you have work that needs to be done, rest assured that you can tackle it on the ship. Just try to have some time to relax. It is vacation, after all.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, complete guide to using your phone on a cruise (carnival, royal caribbean & more), 12+ questions & answers about food on a cruise ship (is it good), explained: duty-free shopping on a cruise (is it worth it), carnival gratuities (tips): full guide to cost & how they work, everything about cruise ship gratuities for 2024 (amounts, etiquette, and more), 12 things expert cruisers do differently on their trip, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cruise Anxiety? These Facts May Calm Your Biggest Fears

Revealed: the most expensive carnival cruise you can buy (and cheapest, too), ‘be on time’: cruisers show little sympathy for ncl passengers who missed ship, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• Tour Operators
• Destinations
• Hotels & Resorts
• Agent Feedback
• Deals & Incentives
• On Location
• Industry Experts
• Sphere – HomeBased
• Digital Editions
• Subscribe today!

• Hotels and Resorts
• Types of Travel
• Subscribe Now

“There will be no slowing down”: MSC Cruises wants more home-based agent business

Post date: Aug 15 2017

Date: Aug 15 2017

By: Travelweek Group

Plenty of travel suppliers say they value home-based agents but do they put their money where their mouth is?

MSC Cruises is investing heavily in the home-based agent channel, and with all the host agency expansion in this market, the cruise line sees a lot of opportunity here, says MSC’s newest hire Holly Sievers, Manager of Host and Home-Based Accounts, in this edition of Sphere’s Insider Interview.

Holly Sievers, Manager of Host and Home-Based Accounts, MSC Cruises

Sphere: MSC Cruises’ Senior VP of Sales, Joe Jiffo, says the home-based channel is becoming extremely important and a rapidly growing sector for MSC Cruises. What’s your take?

Sievers: “Home-based travel agents are an extremely important entity for us to work with. Home-based agents make up a rapidly growing part of our business, which is why MSC Cruises felt strongly about expanding sales support in this particular area. At MSC Cruises, our goal is to be the easiest and most profitable brand for these agents to partner with, and we continuously look for new and exciting ways to create strong partnerships, provide tools and education and help agents grow their business.”

Sphere: You joined MSC Cruises in July 2017 as Manager of Host and Home-Based Accounts, MSC Cruises USA, responsible for the marketing, sales and training and education of the cruise line’s host agency/home-based agency accounts as well as its interline accounts. What can you tell us about MSC’s training and education opportunities for home-based agencies?

Sievers: “We believe in fostering strong relationships with our home-based partners to be mutually successful by listening to their needs and providing the necessary resources. Today’s technology has fuelled a shift in business model, and more and more agencies are adjusting their operations to allow their agents to work remotely. With this in mind, it’s paramount that we adapt communication, training and education in order to continue to reach, connect and engage with these agents no matter where they are.

“The home-based business model often requires agents to work hours that exceed the typical 9-to-5 work day, so we provide resources like webinars that they can complete at their leisure.

“Earlier this year we launched MSC Academy, our learning module to help agents successfully sell our brand and increase their earning potential. The learning module, through Travel Agent University, takes agents through multiple courses, quizzes and checkpoints to learn MSC Cruises’ history, fleet and onboard experiences. Once the module is completed, agents can earn a variety of prizes and rewards. The Academy allows us to educate all travel agents on MSC Cruises’ offerings and teach them how to effectively merchandise the brand.

“Personal one-on-one time is also key, especially for those working remote, so we frequently meet for coffee and host lunch and learns in their area, while always trying to coordinate around their busy schedules.

“We also provide marketing tools like co-branded flyers and customized videos that they can create and access at no cost.

“Considering the majority of home-based agents have partnered with a host agency, we work closely with the host at the corporate level with strategic advertising and marketing efforts to help drive brand awareness and trickle down business to the home-based agents.

“Ultimately, our goal is to support our partners’ great ideas and entrepreneurial spirit, while offering them concrete tools to effectively grow their business.”

Sphere: What makes cruising such a great fit for home-based agents to sell?

Sievers: “Cruises are a great fit for home-based agents for a number of reasons, namely when it comes to groups.

“Cruises offer simplicity and ease for groups large or small looking to travel together, and agents can capitalize on those benefits and drive profitable bookings in that segment. MSC Cruises has something for every group, no matter how diverse. Through a range of experiences, activities for every type of traveller and unique destinations, there are options suit every vacation vision, desire and budget.

“With a nearly US$10 billion investment in place, and a plan to introduce 10 more new ships to the market by 2026, there will be no slowing down for MSC Cruises over the next several years. 2017 has already been a banner year since we have introduced the new MSC Meraviglia, christened in June, and will continue rapid growth this year with MSC Seaside arriving to Miami in December.

“This incredible growth presents such an exciting opportunity for our agents to grow their business alongside MSC Cruises, and I’m eager to work with our dedicated partners to make this coming year the most mutually profitable yet.”

Sphere: Is there anything tailored specifically for Canadian home-based agents anywhere in MSC’s trade program?

Sievers: “MSC Cruises has a dedicated team in Canada allowing us to easily and directly reach our home-based agents to the north.

“We are also working with several host agencies that are actively expanding into the Canadian market. As those new accounts grow, we will continue to provide extensive support and training to all members, including those based in Canada.

“To streamline communication across the border, my plan is to work very closely with the Business Development Managers (BDMs) in Canada to assist with training and educational sessions throughout major markets. We understand and appreciate that travel agents are the individual owners and drivers of their business, so we want to lend support at a local level and give revenue recognition to both them and the local BDM.

“We want to be as accessible to the agent as possible, and provide them with all of the tools that they need to grow.”

Tags: MSC Cruises, Sphere

Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm EST Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm EST

CRUISES FROM PORT CANAVERAL

7-Night Cruises From $349

CRUISES FROM MIAMI

7-Night Cruises From $299

SHORT CRUISES

CRUISES FROM NEW YORK CITY

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

MEET OUR NEWEST SHIP

MSC WORLD AMERICA

Ocean cay MSC marine reserve

OCEAN CAY MSC MARINE RESERVE

Welcome to Your Own Private Island

MSC Yacht Club

Step into the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive private sanctuary available to you on MSC Cruises. Here, you can discover elegance with luxury suites offering a 24/7 butler service. Enjoy curated menus in a private restaurant and unwind on the secluded pool deck. An elevated experience awaits you on a vacation that’s a step above.  Learn More.  

24-HOUR SERVICE

EXCLUSIVE VENUES

ALL-INCLUSIVE

19 Essential MSC Cruise Tips That I Use Everytime (Freebies, Money Saving & More)

I’ve cruised with MSC 5 times and in this post, I will share with you my top tips. These tips will help you to save money, maximise your time onboard and even get a few freebies.

This article is based on my experience cruising on the MSC Meraviglia, Virtuosa, Preziosa, Seaview and World Europa.

I took my first cruise with MSC in 2012, my most recent was last month.

Match Your Loyalty Status For Freebies!

If you have a loyalty status with another cruise line or some hotels, MSC will match it. This means that you’ll be bumped up their loyalty program and will receive perks as if you had cruised with MSC before.

I matched my Norwegian Cruise Line status before my first MSC cruise and ever since I have received perks like free speciality meals and chocolates.

It’s well worth doing and isn’t difficult, all you have to do is fill in a form.

To see the full list of which programs MSC match and how to apply, check out this post: MSC Status Match – What Is it And is it Worth Doing? A Step-by-Step Guide

Book Theatre Shows as Soon As Possible

If the ship that you are sailing on requires theatre shows to be booked, book them on embarkation day on the mobile app or touch screens around the ship.

Not all MSC ships require theatre shows to be booked.

Most shows are shown a couple of days each but even still on the big ships, there isn’t capacity for everybody to go to see every show.

On my last cruise on the MSC World Europa, there was one show that I wasn’t able to see because it was sold out.

If you don’t manage to get a booking you can still show up to the theatre shows but you will be let in after everybody who has booked, this means that you might not get a very good seat and if you are in a big group you wouldn’t be able to sit together.

You are always able to cancel the theatre shows if you decide later that you don’t want to go.

Have an Open Mind About The Food – Try What MSC Is Good At!

I do feel that MSC get some unfair complaints about their food. That said the quality has improved a lot since my first MSC cruise in 2012 so perhaps some of the reviews I’ve seen are out of date.

You can’t go on an MSC cruise and expect the food to be the same as an American and British cruise line, personally I quite like that. It is different, but to me that doesn’t mean worse.

MSC are a Mediterranean cruise line and the things that they are best at are pasta, pizza and CHEESE. They also serve a lot of seafood and they make their own pizzas every day and mozzarella too.

To see the food that I’ve eaten on past MSC cruises, including menus, check out this post: Everything I Ate on my MSC Cruise (Photos and Menus) – Food Review

On every ship, there will be at least a buffet and a main dining room where your food is included and on some ships there are lots of other options like grab-and-go burgers, poolside food etc.

Be Prepared to Be Asked About Speciality Dining and Drinks Packages!

MSC are a budget cruise line and because of that they sell their cruises cheaply and rely on onboard spend. This means that you will be asked a lot if you want to buy speciality dining packages or drinks packages.

Just a polite no thank you will do but you may have to say it multiple times per day.

On most other cruise lines they would only do this on embarkation day, but on MSC cruises it does happen every day and can get annoying.

The same happens with the photographers and you’ll be asked if you want photos a lot, again just politely say no and keep walking.

I do feel bad for the crew, but I really don’t want any photos taken!

Learn to Ignore Extra Safety Drills (Yes Really)

MSC are unlike other cruise lines in that they have guests that embark and disembark most days, what this means is that there are likely to be multiple safety drills.

On some cruises, for example, those out of the US this doesn’t happen, but in most of Europe, it does.

The safety drill, or muster drill is a legal requirement for everybody boarding a cruise but do be aware that you only have to do it once. If you hear announcements about a drill later in your cruise that is for other guests who have embarked.

To learn what happens at a safety drill, check out this post: What is a Muster Drill on a Cruise? Everything You Need to Know (REVIEW of Traditional and Virtual Muster Drills)

The same goes for disembarkation day, you’ll see luggage in the corridors on many days of your cruise.

If The Dates Don’t Work, Move It!

If you’re looking to book an MSC cruise but can’t get a certain day off work, or the flights to a place are expensive consider moving it a day forward or back.

You’ll embark in a different port but it doesn’t matter on an MSC cruise.

My personal favourite port to board MSC cruises at in Europe is Barcelona as it’s not far from the airport and I like staying in Barcelona pre-cruise.

MSC cruises don’t usually include flights or transfers as standard but if you book through a travel agent they’ll be able to sort this out for you, the agents I recommend can be contacted here .

Book Your Excursions Independently To Save Money

When I visited Genoa on my last cruise MSC were selling a trip to the Aquarium for €50 per person. The aquarium is within walking distance so I booked my tickets myself and they were around €30 each.

I don’t enjoy cruise line excursions anyway because you are grouped together with 20 or 30 other people.

If we had visited the aquarium on the excursion we would have had a set amount of time in there but because we went by ourselves we could leave whenever we wanted.

I usually use websites like Viator to find and book independent excursions:

Free cancellation.

300,000+ experiences.

Make memories around the world.

Reserve now, pay later.

The risk of booking your own excursions is that you do have to get yourself back to the ship on time but I have been on excursions where guests have wandered off and got lost.

Even booking with the cruise line isn’t a guarantee that you’ll get back to the ship on time.

Just make sure that you leave yourself lots of time, I’m always onboard an hour or two before sail away.

Download MSC’s App

If you are on an MSC cruise ship that uses the MSC for me the app I’d recommend downloading it from your phone’s app store as soon as possible.

It is free to download and use, all you need is an internet connection to download it.

In the app, you will find the daily schedule and lots of other useful things like the days menus. Most menus are viewable through QR codes and having the app just makes everything easier.

MSC’s app also has a free chat feature so you can chat to the other people in your cruise group.

Check Your Onboard Spend as You Go

When you spend money on a cruise it’ll be added to what is called your onboard account. You can check this on the cruise lines app and it is well worth keeping an eye on this as you cruise.

It will stop you from having any nasty surprises at the end of the trip and if there are any problems, for example, if you had been charged for something by mistake, you can sort that out while onboard.

I’ve been on cruises in the past where I’ve been charged for drinks despite having a drinks package and because I noticed I was able to get it fixed quickly.

Bring a White Dress/White Outfit

On most MSC cruises there will be a white night at some point. The white dress code isn’t enforced at all but it is good fun and a good percentage of the passengers do take part.

GRACE KARIN Women’s Sleeveless V-Neck A-line Dress

This one is from Amazon and I love it because: – It has two layers so it isn’t see through. – It’s very comfy and perfect for ‘white night’ which most cruise lines have!

I have seen other themes on MSC cruises like 60s 70 and 80s-themed parties.

It’s a little more tricky to pack for these, and they don’t always happen but if you have space in your suitcase, why not bring something along?

Change Your Dining Time if You Don’t Like it

MSC mostly have fixed dining where you will be assigned either early or late. If you book the cheapest ticket called a Bella cruise fare you have the lowest priority when it comes to dining times.

They’ll assign the people who paid more first then you’ll get the time you asked for if it is left.

That said, I have been given late dining on multiple MSC cruises and have always been able to change it to early dining without any problem.

If this is the case just head to the main dining room on the first day and there will usually be someone there who can change it.

Normally, they will change it from the next day, so we would eat in the buffet or another restaurant on the first day.

MSC do have some flexible dining for guests paying the highest cruise fare.

I changed my dining time on this cruise:

Don’t Expect Other Guests to Understand You

If you are taking a cruise with MSC there is a high chance that the other guests will speak Italian, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, you name it.

English is the main language onboard and if you speak English only that is no problem, all of the crew speak English and all of the menus/paperwork is in English, that said that doesn’t mean that other guests will understand English.

It is amazing how much you can communicate without language though, it’s easy to tell if somebody is saying ‘thank you’ or ‘after you’ just with gestures, if in doubt just smile.

I like hearing everybody speaking other languages, it reminds me that I am far from home.

Make Sure You Get Your Loyalty Perks

As mentioned earlier I matched my Norwegian status to MSC and as a result, I get a free speciality meal. Nobody ever tells me that when I cruise though!

Make sure if you do have a loyalty status with MSC that you get what you are due, sometimes the gifts/freebies will arrive throughout the cruise so don’t be alarmed if they aren’t there on the first day but for things like the free speciality meal you will need to go there and book it yourself.

On my last cruise, I just walked up to one of the restaurants and said:

“Hello, can I use my free speciality meal here?”

The waitress was lovely, she said yes, explained what we could have on the menu and that the bill would be €0.

At the end of the meal, I had to sign to say that I agreed to the charge which does always amuse me. I love paying that price for a speciality meal!

Avoid The Casino if You Don’t Like Smoke

On MSC cruise ships there is usually an area in the casino where guests can smoke and most ships also have a smoking bar or other areas where guests will be smoking.

I’m sure it’s something to do with the demographic of the passengers but MSC do have more smoking areas than most British or American cruise lines. I don’t mind it, but know many who do.

On some ships, there may be a lounge that is only accessible through the casino.

Even If It’s Cold – Go Swimming!

Don’t be put off if the temperature outside is cool, MSC heat their outside swimming pools.

The worst part is getting undressed and walking to the pool but I always find it nice when I am in there, then of course you do have to get back out.

MSC have lifeguards stationed at all of their pools when they are open and I’ve always found they are much quieter if it is cold, on my last MSC cruise I had a pool to myself and my own personal lifeguard!

The pools are usual open into the evenings and this can be a good time for a swim as most people head off for dinner.

Get Travel Insurance With Missed Port Cover

On my last MSC cruise, we missed a port because of bad weather and I didn’t mind because I had travel insurance with missed port cover. This means I get a cash lump sum for every port I miss.

Cruise-specific travel insurance is essential for any cruise, if you just listen to one tip please make it this one. It isn’t worth the risk.

Never ever ever ever cruise without travel insurance! Even if you are just cruising to the Caribbean from the USA, you NEED insurance. Compare quotes (for free) here: – USA – UK

Assign Your Credit Card and Check in Pre-Cruise

MSC’s website has an online check-in function which makes embarkation much faster. On my last cruise, I went from entering the terminal to boarding the ship in 8 minutes, all thanks to the fact that I had checked in online.

During the check-in process, you provide information about your passport and can add a credit card to your account which your onboard spend will be charged to.

You are also able to assign a card on the ship at one of the machines and you can load physical cash onto your card if you’d prefer that.

Print Your Luggage Tags at Home

When checking in you’ll also be given your luggage tags, printing these saves time.

If you can’t it isn’t a problem but the first thing you’ll have to do when you get to the cruise port is queue up to get your tags, attach them and hand them to the right person.

If you’re on a big MSC cruise ship there can be 5000+ people boarding so these lines can get long!

I always print my tags at home and I put them in these plastic luggage label holders, I find that stops them from breaking which means that they make it to my cabin.

In the past, before I used these I had one suitcase get so wet all the ink melted on the tag which wasn’t ideal!

Prebook Drinks Packages if You Want One

When you take a cruise there are two options, you can either pay as you go with the drinks like you would a bar on land or you can buy a drinks package.

The drinks package means you pay a certain amount per day and then are allowed drinks up to a certain cost.

It’s always cheaper to prebook the package than to buy it on the ship.

On my last cruise, the alcohol package pre-cruise was the same price as the non-alcoholic onboard!

Before You Go

I recently took a cruise on one of the older ships the MSC Preziosa, to find out how that was check out this article next:

MSC Cruise Review – in Europe (Food, Service, Entertainment and More)

Wondering how MSC compare to the big American cruise lines? Check out this post:

We Took The Same Cruise With MSC and Royal Caribbean: Differences and Comparison

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Enter your email address below:

Fly & Cruise

From sky to sea: cruise and flight packages.

Flights, transfers  and  cruise  included  in one unique package.  Designed to provide you with a seamless and stress-free travel experience, Fly Cruises remove the hassle of multiple bookings and planning, offering an effortless, all-in-one solution. From easy booking to perfect flight schedule, transfers included and expert travel assistance, we are committed to ensuring that your cruise holiday starts and ends on the right note.

Combining flights and transfers  with your cruise is extremely smooth. When making your booking, simply select the cruise itinerary that suits you best and choose the Fly&Cruise fare. Additionally, you can pick the airport that is most convenient for you. Before the payment is completed, you will have access to all the flight information, including the option to upgrade your class if it is available. Draw inspiration from the finest destinations that are easily within reach and book your Fly & Cruise holidays in 2024 or 2025!

Please refer to the  FAQ  for additional information.

Why should you choose the Fly & Cruise package?

Fly & cruise guarantees effortless organization and hassle-free travel.

Leave the organization to MSC Cruises! With our Flight and Cruise packages, we handle all the arrangements , guaranteeing a seamless holiday planning for you. Even if you should experience delays or encounter any problems during your journey, MSC Cruises will be there to support you , ensuring you reach the ship without any inconvenience.  Our dedicated telephone helpdesk is available anytime  from three hours before your flight to provide complete assistance .

Fly & Cruise offers personalized flight options tailored to your needs

Maximize your time with our Fly Cruise packages. While booking your cruise, we will help you find the best flight schedule that aligns with your cruise embarkation and disembarkation. Say goodbye to wasted hours searching for flight options and waiting for it at the airport - we have got it covered!

Flight Excellence for unbeatable value

Experience exceptional value for your money with our Fly & Cruise Package. Enjoy the convenience and quality of our trusted airline partners , ensuring a comfortable and memorable flight experience. We prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, from takeoff to landing. You can also treat yourself to Premium, Business, or First-Class upgrade. 

Seamless transfers for stress-free travel

Leave the airport navigation to us. All Fly & Cruise Packages includes transfers from the airport directly to the ship, and vice versa. Enjoy peace of mind as MSC Cruises handle all the organization, allowing you to fully embrace and enjoy your cruise holiday.

Luggage peace of mind

With MSC Fly & Cruise your luggage is well cared for. In the rare event of a mishap during air travel, our dedicated team will swiftly recover your belongings . We work closely with airport Lost & Found offices to ensure your luggage is promptly delivered to your cabin , so you can focus on enjoying your holiday and making memories.

FLY & CRUISE FAQ

What is included in the fly and cruise package.

• Direct flights to and from your embarkation port
• Comfortable transfers from the airport to the ship and back again 
• Checked luggage and luggage recovery 
• Assistance at airports
• Airport taxes
• Rearrangement of your travel in case of flight delay

What are Fly Cruises?

How can i book a fly cruise.

You can simply book your Fly&Cruise package directly on MSC Cruises website. During your cruise booking you can add a convenient flight for a safe and guaranteed boarding on the cruise. We will offer a list of best flight schedules that aligns with the cruise embarkation and disembarkation.

What happens to the luggage with Fly & Cruise?

The luggage follows the same flow as on a usual flight. In case of delays or losses, our  dedicated staff will support you to ensure a smooth trip.

What happens if the flight company loses my luggage?

What is the luggage allowance.

It differs according to the destination, flying companies and the type of flight classes selected. 

What if the flight is delayed or the departure time changes?

Will i receive assistance at the airport, where do i find my flight details, where should i do the online flight check-in, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

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

Keyword / Category

Location Select Dallas Manila Miami

Work Style Select Hybrid Onsite Remote

Your Voyage Starts Here

At Carnival we understand the significance of building lasting memories. But what if you could also build a career that's just as unforgettable? Embrace the opportunity to create memories for others and to embark on a journey of your own. 

Land-Based Roles

As the global parent company of our nine unique brands, the Carnival Corporate team contributes essential support and offers strategic guidance to each brand across an array of departments.

Ship Operations

From Marine and Technical Operations, to Entertainment and Hotel Operations, these roles keeps our ships safe and our guest experience fun and memorable.

Commercial Operations

The Revenue Management, Marketing, Trade Partnerships, and Communications teams collaborate to shape strategies that drive the business forward.

Business Operations

This team is the hub of financial guardianship and strategic navigation. Our HR, Legal, Finance, Accounting, and Supply Chain teams all work together to fuel our journey and power our people.

Information Technology (IT)

From software, to infrastructure, to mobile and cybersecurity, this team is the driving force behind innovation, working tirelessly to provide top-notch technology for both our guests and employees.

Sales and Service

Our dynamic Personal Vacation Planners and Casino Sales teams start the fun, while our Guest Service teams ensure the fun never stops. These teams connect with millions of guests each year.

My journey at Carnival Cruise Line began in 2014 as an onboard officer. Carnival's unwavering values and clear mission have made this company my second family and an enduring source of inspiration.

Piervalerio Fleet Operations Center and Nautical Technologies Director Pizza Lover

In the past few years, Carnival has been an unwavering pillar of support, nurturing my personal and professional growth with equal fervor. Their consistent guidance and opportunities have shaped me from an entry level analyst into the manager I am today.

Abraham Guest Technology Delivery Support Manager Super Dad

Having the liberty to be trusted helps me be passionate and care about what I do to strive for continuous growth.

Perla HR Technology Analyst Movie Buff

Carnival's consistent recognition of my contributions and the opportunities for professional growth make me feel truly valued as a team member.

Stefan Fleet Accounting Systems Manager Alpine Adventurer

Jobs for You

• Senior Project Manager South Florida Save Job
• Application Developer South Florida Save Job
• Refund/Customer Service Clerk South Florida Save Job
• Travel & Crew Specialist (Philippines) South Florida Save Job

Please browse jobs .

Then you'll be able to see your recently viewed jobs here.

Please browse jobs and click the 'Save' button for the jobs you are interested in.

Then you will be able to see your saved jobs here.

Follow us on social media

Be the first to know.

Get the latest job openings right in your inbox.

Email Address

How did you hear about us? Please select Career Fair Carnival Career Site Email Employee Referral Glassdoor Google Jobs Indeed Instagram LinkedIn ZipRecruiter Other

Job Category Select a Job Category Application Development Casino CRP Compliance Ecommerce Entertainment Executive Offices Executive Offices CRP Finance Finance & Accounting Global Finance & Accounting CRP Global Legal CRP Health Services CRP Hotel HR Human Resources Information Security CISO CRP Information Systems Information Technology Loyalty Marine and Technical Marketing Payroll Revenue Management Risk Advisory CRP Sales Ship New Builds Ship Operations Sourcing & Supply_Chain Vacation Planner

Location Select One South Florida Remote

Upload Your Resume By uploading your resume you are not submitting an application for employment. Remove

Confirm Email

By submitting your information, you acknowledge that you have read our privacy policy (opens in new window) and consent to receive email communication from CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE.

Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

A relative newcomer in the North American market, MSC Cruises is equal parts elegant and kitschy. The line tends to appeal to a wide swath of cruisers, from Europeans who like to party into the wee hours of the morning to American families who book because of affordable fares and "kids sail free" pricing.

To satisfy its diverse passenger base, MSC offers accommodations to fit all types of travelers. Rooms include inexpensive inside cabins that sleep two people, midlevel staterooms with windows and balconies, and high-end suites that offer cruisers with larger budgets a private oasis in the form of the MSC Yacht Club .

A variety of connecting rooms and cabins with extra bunks accommodate larger groups and families who wish to share space.

Because your cruise cabin will be your home away from home for several days, it's important to book one that fits your needs. That's especially true if you're sharing it with several people.

Whether you're looking at an inside cabin for a cruise with friends, balcony accommodations for you and your significant other or a suite for your family, here TPG breaks down what you can expect when you book a room on one of MSC's ships.

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

MSC Cruises cabin primer

MSC Cruises has become one of the fastest-growing lines in the cruise industry, with about two dozen ships in its fleet. The vessels fall into six classes : Lirica, Musica, Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World.

Although cabin offerings can vary from ship to ship and class to class, the standard types remain the same: inside, outside, balcony and suite.

Additionally, you'll find the same basic amenities in each room, unless otherwise noted below. They include two twin beds that can be joined to form a queen- or king-size bed; an in-cabin bathroom with a shower, a sink, a toilet and basic soap, shower gel and shampoo; a couple of nightstands; a chair or sofa; a desk/vanity; a closet; a safe; a hair dryer; a minifridge; a phone; USB outlets and a selection of both North American and European outlets.

On all ships except MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia, you'll also find an interactive TV that allows you to view the daily schedule, check your onboard account and choose from a selection of live TV programs and movies.

Twice-daily room tidying is provided by a room steward assigned to each cabin, and room service is available throughout the day for an added fee.

One confusing aspect of MSC's bookings is that you'll have to select an experience package in addition to a cabin type. Package tiers determine things like your ability to choose a specific cabin and preferred dining time and whether you'll receive welcome amenities in your room. Certain cabin types are only available in conjunction with certain package experiences and vice versa. Those are noted in each respective section below.

Accessible cabins , including accommodations for wheelchair users, are available on every ship in MSC's fleet. In addition to more space, they feature wider doorways and lowered sinks and toilets in the bathrooms, as well as grab bars.

MSC Cruises' experience packages

Here's what you get when you book each of MSC's three experience packages, which determine the perks you'll receive on your sailing.

• Accommodations
• Complimentary food in the dining room and buffet
• Broadway-style theater entertainment
• Access to the onboard gym, pool and kids club
• MSC Voyagers Club points
• One for-fee change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Drink package discount at time of booking
• All Bella perks
• Choice of specific cabin and location
• One free change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Ability to choose between early and late seating for dinner
• Room service (complimentary for breakfast, but fees apply for other meals)
• Discount on pre-cruise specialty dining package
• All Fantastica and Bella perks
• Flexible My Choice dining, which lets you eat at any time you choose between set hours
• Free 24-hour room service delivery
• Pillow menu
• A welcome package, including Prosecco and chocolates
• Complimentary access to your ship's solarium and thermal area
• A 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board
• Special Balinese massage offer when booked pre-cruise
• Complimentary use of bathrobe and slippers
• Priority boarding and luggage drop-off

Inside cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Inside cabins — rooms with no windows — are available on all ships in the MSC fleet. Ranging from 140 to 301 square feet (depending on the ship), they make for great sleeping because they're so dark. They're also ideal for passengers who are on a budget.

In addition to the standard amenities mentioned above, they provide room for anywhere from two to four passengers to sleep. (Rooms that sleep more than two feature bunks that pull down from the ceiling.)

These cabins are available with the line's Bella and Fantastica experiences.

If you're sailing solo, some MSC vessels offer cabins for one outfitted with a twin bed that converts into a couch. These interior studio accommodations are only available with the Bella package on MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima and the line's World Class ships.

Ocean-view cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Ocean-view rooms are similar to insides in that they provide basic amenities — but with a view.

Offering 129 to 269 square feet of space (depending on the specific ship and ocean-view category), these staterooms allow you to see outside through a porthole or a window that doesn't open.

MSC's outside cabins are available to passengers who book Bella and Fantastica packages.

Additionally, if you're traveling with your family or another group, several of MSC Cruises' ships — particularly those in the Meraviglia and Seaside classes — feature space for as many as 10 passengers via a series of connecting rooms. Options are available at the ocean-view and balcony levels.

Balcony cabins on MSC Cruises ships

You might be surprised to discover that most of MSC Cruises' balcony cabins provide less interior square footage than what's available in inside or ocean-view staterooms.

Balcony rooms run anywhere from 129 to 205 square feet, but their key feature is, of course, a private balcony, which does add an extra 32 to 129 square feet, depending on the vessel and specific type of balcony room booked. These cabins are bookable in conjunction with MSC's Bella, Fantastica and Aurea experiences.

Although balcony cabins offer upgraded amenities, including MSC's brand of hand lotion and toiletries, they are largely the same as inside and ocean-view accommodations.

MSC's newest ships — including those in the Meraviglia, Seaside and World Classes — house connecting balcony rooms that can sleep up to 10 in the same group traveling together.

Additionally, on its World Class ships, the line has introduced inward-facing balconies, similar to the ones Royal Caribbean pioneered in 2009 with the debut of its Oasis Class vessels . On World Europa, for example, they overlook the ship's promenade, offering views of the activity below, rather than the ocean.

MSC Cruises suites

All ships in MSC's fleet have suites that can be booked as part of the Fantastica and Aurea packages, but it's Aurea that offers the largest number of perks, as outlined above.

The several types of suites vary by ship in terms of size and amenities. Some come with balconies, while others only offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.

Junior Suites

Although this room type is listed as a suite, it's essentially a balcony cabin with a bit more space — 183 square feet of interior accommodation with a balcony that ranges from 140 to 183 square feet.

Standard suites include rooms with huge balconies larger than the cabin's interior space and ones with private whirlpool tubs. They run from 269 to 355 square feet, with balconies measuring 32 to 409 square feet.

Grand Suites

Coming in between 377 and 420 square feet, with balconies spanning from 32 to 495 square feet, Grand Suites — found on Seaside and World Class ships — come in two types. They include standard one-bedroom Grand Suites, as well as two-bedroom varieties.

The latter has one bedroom with a queen-size bed and another with two twins. It sleeps up to five passengers and offers two bathrooms — one with a shower and the other with a bathtub.

While most suites are designed for double occupancy, some suite accommodations on MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Magnifica can sleep up to five people.

MSC Yacht Club suites on MSC ships

All cabins located in the MSC Yacht Club — an exclusive, gated area on select ships — are called suites, even the smallest and least expensive, which don't have windows or balconies.

Yacht Club suite types range from insides to two-deck duplexes, all of which come with butler and concierge services, luxuriously appointed furnishings (such as real marble finishes, memory foam mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets) and access to members-only restaurants, bars (alcohol is free there), lounges, pools and sun decks.

The Yacht Club features seven different types of rooms. Ships that have the MSC Yacht Club on board include MSC Bellissima, MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, MSC Splendida, MSC Virtuosa and MSC World Europa.

Note: Not all Yacht Clubs have the same suite types available.

MSC Yacht Club Interior Suites

Although these 161- to 226-square-foot cabins don't offer a view or fresh air, they are elegantly decorated and include all the Yacht Club benefits mentioned above.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suites

These Yacht Club digs are the equivalent of a balcony cabin — but in a dedicated area that includes all the exclusive perks. They run 236 to 366 square feet and have balconies ranging from 54 to 86 square feet, so they also come with a bit more space, both inside and outdoors.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suites

Similarly, Deluxe Grand Suites are like the Yacht Club equivalent of booking a Grand Suite with more perks. Depending on the ship, they offer anywhere from 269 to 463 square feet of space, plus 65- to 129-square-foot balconies. Some Grand Suites also have two bedrooms instead of one. Further, these rooms on Seaside Class ships include bathrooms with bathtubs, as well as separate living areas.

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites

Rising two decks, MSC's duplex staterooms measure 495 to 635 square feet and come with 65- to 334-square-foot balconies. They feature living rooms with two-person sofa beds downstairs and master bedrooms upstairs, which also sleep two passengers.

Each of these accommodations comes complete with two walk-in closets and two bathrooms — one with a bathtub and one with a shower. Most duplexes on Meraviglia and World Class ships also have their own private whirlpool tubs.

MSC Yacht Club Executive and Family Suites

The line's Executive and Family Suites, available only on Fantasia Class vessels, are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay in the Yacht Club with a family or other group of more than two people.

This option, which is one type of suite (despite its confusing name), has space for up to five cruisers via a combination of bunk beds, sofa beds and beds that pull down from the ceiling, depending on the ship. The suites clock in at around 431 to 549 square feet, depending on the vessel.

The only drawback is that these staterooms have no balconies and no in-room dining areas, but they do include all the perks you'd find in Yacht Club cabins.

MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites

Although they only occupy one level, at 388 to 667 square feet, MSC's Yacht Club Royal Suites are right up there with the Duplex Suites in terms of space. They offer the second-largest amount of square footage after the Owner's Suites. They come with huge balconies comprising 355 to 753 square feet of outdoor area.

Additionally, bathrooms in these suites offer bathtubs on Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World Class ships, and the latter three have private whirlpool tubs, as well. All four classes' Royal Suites also include separate living room areas.

MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suites

The largest and most impressive of all MSC's cabins are the Owner's Suites found in the Yacht Club. Offering an impressive 840 to 1,119 square feet — larger than some land-based apartments — plus 269- to 670-square-foot balconies, they're some of the most luxurious rooms afloat.

Specific amenities vary by ship, but as an example, Owner's Suites on MSC World Europa offer floor-to-ceiling windows and walk-in closets. These accommodations on both the line's Seaside and World Class vessels also feature bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs, as well as private whirlpool tubs and separate living room areas.

Bottom line

Although MSC Cruises' cabin types are straightforward, the line's add-on experiences can complicate things a bit.

Overall, what's key to remember is that MSC Cruises offers a wide variety of rooms and pricing to meet just about any budget or style of cruising. Each ship will offer accommodation choices from the least expensive, bare-bones interior rooms to the priciest suites, which come with butler and concierge services.

When you sail with MSC Cruises, you can expect function, style and comfort, regardless of the cabin type you book.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Cruise passenger, 23, fell overboard and vanished after complaining he felt seasick

• A tourist, 23, fell overboard from the MSC Euribia cruise ship, say reports.
• The recently-wed student had just texted his wife that he felt seasick. 
• Liam Jones vanished during a seven-day Northern Europe tour cruise

A 23-year-old tourist is presumed dead after falling from the MSC Euribia cruise ship in the North Sea, reports say.

Liam Jones disappeared during a seven-day Northern Europe tour cruise from Southampton to Amsterdam with his family to celebrate his mother's birthday.

The social work student from Scotland was last seen on board by his sister on March 16, shortly after texting his wife, Sophia Mcphee, about feeling seasick, reports said.

Business Insider contacted MSC Cruises for comment outside office hours.

MSC confirmed a passenger went missing during the cruise, prompting an investigation by Hampshire Constabulary upon the ship's return to the UK, per The Telegraph.

Related stories

His wife told the Daily Record," He's just gone. I'm never going to see him again."

"I'm devastated. I have so many questions, and I'm not getting any answers to what's happened," said Mcphee, 20.

McPhee says Jones' sister told her the news. "She said there had been an accident and Liam 'wasn't coming back.' She then said she had seen CCTV and he'd gone overboard."

A spokesperson for MSC Cruises said, "We are deeply saddened by this news, and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time," per The Telegraph.

The chances of you falling overboard off a cruise ship are extremely low .

In 2023, at least 10 people fell off a major cruise line ship, turning dream vacations into disaster situations — and only two survived the fall into the ocean.

The MSC Euribia can accommodate 6,327 passengers and has a wide range of bars and restaurants, five swimming pools, a wellness spa, a theater, a casino, and a very extensive children's club.

The price of the seven-night Nothern Europe tour on the MSC Euribia start at $950 per person, according to MSC's website .

Watch: One of Europe's deadliest shipwrecks leaves hundreds missing

• Main content

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Human Interest

Cruise Ship Passenger Who Fell Overboard Texted Wife About Feeling Seasick Before Going Missing

Liam Jones, 23, was last seen on March 16 as his cruise ship headed for Germany, and Hampshire police are now investigating

Charlotte Phillipp is a Weekend Writer-Reporter at PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since 2024, and was previously an entertainment reporter at The Messenger.

A British man who has gone missing from a cruise ship in Europe texted his wife just moments before falling overboard, she said.

Liam Jones, 23, of Scotland, was on a weeklong Northern European cruise with his family aboard the MSC Euribia when he fell overboard on March 16, MSC Cruises told Metro .

According to Jones' wife, 20-year-old Sophia Mcphee, the social work student had just texted her that he was feeling seasick prior to his disappearance.

"He's just gone. I'm never going to see him again," Mcphee told the Daily Record . "I'm devastated. I have so many questions, and I'm not getting any answers to what's happened."

Mcphee said that Jones' sister — who called her to break the news of her husband's disappearance — told her that security camera footage showed Jones falling overboard, However, McPhee said she hadn't been updated on the investigation since.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

"[Jones' sister] said there had been an accident, and Liam 'wasn't coming back,' " Mcphee told the Daily Record . "She then said she had seen CCTV and he'd gone overboard."

Mcphee had last seen her husband on March 14, when he departed their Dundee, Scotland, home to meet his family in Glasgow before they boarded the cruise in Southampton the following day, she said. The family was taking the cruise to celebrate Jones' mother's birthday.

"I've been trying to get in contact with the MSC since Monday, but it's been a headache," Mcphee told the Daily Record . "They're not getting back to me."

The MSC Euribia was set to travel from Southampton to Amsterdam over the course of several days, with stops in Denmark, Norway and Germany, according to the ship's itinerary. The international cruise line said the ship was headed to Germany at the time Jones fell overboard.

"A passenger on board MSC Euribia went overboard on March 16 as the ship was sailing to Hamburg. This was reported to the authorities," a spokesperson from MSC Cruises told The Telegraph .

"The police in Southampton boarded the vessel today and investigated on behalf of the coroner," the statement continued, per the outlet. "We are deeply saddened by this news and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will refrain from disclosing any additional information."

The incident prompted a response from the Hampshire Constabulary, the outlet reported, and a spokesperson confirmed that investigators have begun looking into Jones' case.

"Officers boarded the vessel today following a report that a man had gone overboard," a Constabulary spokesperson told The Telegraph. "The man’s family are aware, and police are investigating this on behalf of the coroner."

Related Articles

• Travel Updates

1500 passengers trapped on cruise ship amid visa debacle

A cruise ship carrying 1500 passengers is stuck in Barcelona, after a portion of the travellers forgot to bring one crucial document on board.

Woman loses it as she’s dragged off flight

‘People were weeping’: Tourist ferry on fire

Family ‘horrified’ as son jumps off cruise

A cruise ship at a port in Spain has been forced to hold all 1500 passengers on board, after a group from Bolivia failed to obtain the correct visa documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area.

According to reports, cruise ship MSC Armonia remains detained in Barcelona, with authorities scrambling to sort the situation. The debacle, involving 69 Bolivian passengers, is preventing the ship from continuing its journey until the situation is resolved.

The voyage has travelled from Brazil to cover a route in the Mediterranean Sea, with the 69 Bolivians in question including families and children.

In a statement, MSC Cruises initially thought the visa documentation was correct and appeared to comply with the necessary requirements for travel. However, upon further inspection, the visas were “not valid” for entry.

“The passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil,” the statement read.

“We have been informed by the authorities that the visas are not valid for entry into the Schengen area. As a result, passengers have not been able to disembark in Barcelona, which was their final destination.”

One Bolivian passenger, who spoke to local media under anonymity, said she was being treated like “a criminal [in a] prison” despite being assured by a travel agency her visa was correct and valid for travel.

More Coverage

Some family members of the Bolivian travellers on board the cruise ship told Spanish media that the 69 passengers had been victims of a scam.

According to the claim, as published in Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, an agency in South America had offered the visas online and charged up to $10,000 per person.

It is understood the ship will remain in port while it works with authorities while the investigation continues.

Viral footage shows the moment a woman was arrested in the US after an over-the-top meltdown on a plane.

Terrifying footage shows the moment a fire broke out on a ferry in Thailand – forcing tourists to jump into the sea.

A cruise turned into a nightmare for people aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise when a young man jumped overboard with reports of “a lot of yelling”.

Cruise ship stuck in Spain will resume sailing after Bolivian passengers with visa problems removed

MADRID — A cruise ship stuck in the northeastern Spanish port of Barcelona will be able to resume its route after a group of Bolivian passengers with visa problems were taken off the vessel on Thursday, authorities said.

The Spanish government said in a statement it had reached an agreement with MSC Cruises Company in which 69 Bolivian passengers were removed from the boat and taken to a transit zone in the port, but were not granted permission to enter Spanish territory.

The ship got stranded in Barcelona this week after the Bolivian passengers were not allowed to disembark because they lacked valid documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area, an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries that Spain is part of.

Barcelona was meant to be the final destination for the Bolivian passengers, but the boat was scheduled to travel onward to other countries.

The cruise company agreed to provide another boat from Livorno, Italy, for the Bolivian passengers later Thursday, the government statement said. It was not clear if that boat would remain in Barcelona until the situation is resolved or take the Bolivian passengers elsewhere.

Under the agreement, MSC Cruises will also provide food and health care for the impacted Bolivians and immigration officials will work to resolve the passengers’ visa problems as quickly as possible, it added.

The MSC Armonia, with more than 1,000 passengers reportedly on board, plans to sail to Italy on Thursday, the cruise company said.

Solange Duarte, a Bolivian diplomat in Barcelona, told The Associated Press on Wednesday she had received reports that some of the stranded Bolivians had been duped into obtaining fake visas but had no further information.

“We have asked the families to indicate who has processed this visa and we have not gotten answers,” she said.

Spain’s national police were looking into the possibility of a fake visa scam, Duarte said.

MSC Cruises said in a statement Wednesday the Bolivian “passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil” but Spanish authorities later said the visas were not valid for entry into the Schengen area.