msc cruise for travel agents

The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

MSC Cruises may be the biggest cruise line you've never heard of — assuming you're an American.

While the Switzerland-based company is the third-biggest cruise line in the world, it has far less name recognition among Americans than big U.S.-based lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . That's because, until recently, MSC Cruises mostly catered to Europeans. A large percentage of its customers came from countries such as Italy, Germany, France and Spain.

That's all changing now — and in a big way.

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As it expands its fleet at a rapid pace , MSC Cruises is massively building its footprint in North America in an effort to woo more Americans. As recently as 2017, the line only had a single vessel based in North America. Now it's up to three ships sailing out of U.S. ports, and by the end of 2023, that number will have shot up to five.

All the North America-based ships are marketed heavily to Americans, and the line has tailored some of the features and activities on the vessels to a North American crowd.

Like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises has been building big resortlike vessels that offer every sort of amusement known to humans, from giant water parks to race car simulators. It currently operates eight of the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world — one of which (MSC Meraviglia) now calls North America home with year-round sailings out of New York City.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

3 things TPG loves about MSC Cruises

• Its affordability
• The incredible array of activities on its ships
• The status match it offers with its loyalty program

What we could do without

• Onboard announcements in five languages (on overseas sailings)

The MSC Cruises fleet

MSC Cruises has grown enormously in recent years. As recently as early 2017, the line had just 12 ships in operation. But it's added new ships at a rapid pace over the past six years and now operates 22 vessels, more than any other major line besides Royal Caribbean and Carnival. It also has three more giant new ships on the way in the next few years.

If that sounds like too many ships to get your head around, note that all 22 of the vessels in operation, as well as the three on order, fall into six distinct classes . The ships within each of the classes have similar sizes and onboard attractions. If you know one ship in the class, you know them all.

Related: MSC Cruises ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

As a result of its rapid growth, MSC Cruises recently passed Norwegian to become the world's third-biggest cruise brand when measured by passenger capacity. Only Royal Caribbean and Carnival are bigger.

Not including pulldown bunks and pullout sofas, MSC Cruises' 22 ships have 77,832 berths — about 21,000 more than Norwegian's fleet. At its current pace of growth, MSC Cruises could soon pass Carnival to become the world's second-biggest line.

As noted above, the MSC Cruises fleet includes eight of the world's 20 biggest cruise vessels — MSC World Europa , MSC Euribia , MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape . Built in the last six years, these eight ships aren't quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class vessels (the world's biggest cruise ships), but they're right up there when it comes to amenities and passenger capacity.

The grande dame of the MSC Cruises fleet is its recently unveiled MSC World Europa. At 215,863 tons, it's the biggest MSC Cruises ship ever built and the first of a new series of so-called World Class vessels that are nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships.

The next-biggest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet are its recently unveiled Meraviglia Class vessels: MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia. Similar in design, these five ships aren't quite as big as MSC World Europa, but they're right up there when it comes to size, amenities and passenger capacity.

MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia, which debuted in 2019, 2021 and 2023, respectively, are a tad longer than MSC Bellissima and MSC Meraviglia and are considered a subset of the class known as Meraviglia Plus. Each can hold 4,842 passengers at double occupancy (or 6,334 passengers if every last pulldown bunk and pullout sofa is filled).

The other two Meraviglia Class ships, which date to 2019 and 2017, can carry more than 5,600 passengers with every berth filled.

In addition to these five giants, MSC Cruises also operates four large Seaside Class ships. Each has a total capacity of 5,336 to 5,632 passengers.

Add those in, and MSC Cruises operates 10 of the world's 35 biggest cruise ships, plus four somewhat smaller Fantasia Class vessels that can each hold around 4,400 passengers at maximum occupancy.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Together, the 14 World, Meraviglia, Seaside and Fantasia Class vessels make up MSC Cruises' big-ship fleet. The line's remaining eight vessels, split among two classes, are considerably smaller, with maximum occupancy topping out at 2,700 to 3,200 passengers.

The eight smaller ships, which in general are the line's older ships, allow MSC Cruises to offer itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of the World Class or Meraviglia Class vessels, although even the biggest MSC Cruises ships are still designed to be able to call at most ports around the world.

The smaller ships also appeal to a subset of MSC Cruises fans who are willing to give up some onboard amenities in exchange for intimacy. They're usually less expensive on a per-day basis, too.

In addition to all the above, MSC Group — the line's parent company — has announced plans for yet another class of big ships to start arriving later this decade, though few details have been released. MSC Group is also developing a series of small luxury vessels that'll operate under a separate brand called Explora Journeys.

Destinations and itineraries

MSC Cruises sails almost everywhere in the world, but its heaviest presence is in Europe, where it's the biggest cruise operator.

In a typical summer, the line will deploy the vast majority of its ships in the Mediterranean or northern Europe. In recent years, the line has also kept at least a couple of ships in Florida in summer for voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. This year, the line had two ships based in Florida for summer sailings to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, plus one ship sailing out of New York City for the summer.

During winter, MSC Cruises typically will add more ships to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. (For winter 2023-2024, it expects to have six in the region.) It'll also typically send four or five ships to South America in winter and often deploys vessels in winter to South Africa and the Middle East.

For winter 2023-2024, it'll have one ship in South Africa. The line's Middle East deployment this year has been cut back due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Additionally, MSC Cruises often offers an around-the-world cruise in winter on a single ship.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an MSC Cruises ship

In North America, MSC Cruises ships have generally sailed out of Miami , but the line recently added Port Canaveral and New York City as home ports, too. The line also offers cruises from the Caribbean islands of Barbados, Martinique and Guadeloupe, and in a major development, the line opened its first private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve , in the Bahamas in 2019. It's a major stop for many MSC Cruises itineraries in the region.

In Europe, major MSC Cruises hubs include Southampton, England; Copenhagen; Kiel and Hamburg in Germany; Ancona, Venice, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, Bari and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) in Italy; Barcelona, Valencia and Palma de Mallorca in Spain; and Marseille, France.

Who sails MSC Cruises?

MSC Cruises is increasingly known for having big, bustling megaships that'll appeal to people who like a megaresort experience. In other words, if you're the kind of person who loves staying on property at Disney World or at a giant Las Vegas resort , this could be the line for you.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships offer vacationers a ton of options for dining (some vessels have more than a dozen distinct places to eat dinner or at least grab a quick bite) or entertainment. They're lively and fun.

They also have an inordinate amount of teen- and tween-friendly attractions — everything from some of the largest waterslides at sea to sprawling amusement areas with race car simulators, flight simulators and XD cinemas (more on all this below). That makes them particularly appealing to families, including multigenerational groups. Families are a big part of MSC Cruises' business.

But it's not just families that flock to MSC Cruises.

The line's ships are designed to offer something for everyone, and they thus appeal to a wide demographic, including couples of all ages and even solo travelers (the line has added solo cabins on its newer ships and occasionally runs promotions for solo travelers). They also draw customers from a wide range of the income spectrum.

At one level, MSC Cruises ships have a for-the-masses feel. However, overlaid across many of the line's ships are high-end suites, upscale restaurants and luxury services — most notably the suites and amenities in the exclusive, upscale MSC Yacht Club areas found on some vessels (more on that later). As a result, the line draws a good number of luxury-seeking travelers.

The demographic profile of MSC Cruises ships can be markedly different depending on where the vessels are based. On Caribbean sailings out of Florida, you'll find that a large percentage of passengers are English-speaking North Americans.

MSC Cruises voyages in Europe are often heavily filled with Europeans speaking Italian, German, Spanish and French, as well as some English speakers. In Europe, the line offers onboard programming in all five of these languages (all crew members speak English no matter where the ships are sailing).

Reality check: Due to the diverse origins of passengers on European sailings, the line typically makes announcements in all five of the aforementioned languages. This can result in extraordinarily long announcements at times, which can be a distraction to some cruisers. The good news is that on sailings out of U.S. ports, only safety announcements are made in all five languages. Other announcements are in English only.

Cabins and suites

MSC Cruises offers a wide range of accommodations on its ships. On its newest vessels, you'll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless "interior" cabins that measure as little as 172 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to suites more than five times that size that sprawl across two decks.

Still, MSC Cruises doesn't offer the sort of truly giant suites (more than 1,000 to 2,000 square feet) you'll find on some Norwegian and Royal Caribbean ships.

At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at affluent travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to being on a luxury ship, and they can be quite impressive.

The biggest suites on MSC Grandiosa, which launched in 2019, span two levels and offer around 635 square feet of interior space, plus another 237 square feet of outdoor balcony space.

On more than half of MSC Cruises' ships, many of the top suites are part of an exclusive, keycard-accessed area called the MSC Yacht Club . Billed as an upscale "ship within a ship" and aimed at luxury travelers, the MSC Yacht Club is at the very top of vessels and comes with a private lounge, a pool, sunning areas and even its own restaurant.

Related: Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

MSC Yacht Club accommodations also come with 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge.

Solo cabins (called interior studios) measuring just 127 square feet can be found on the line's seven newest vessels.

Insider tip: Passengers can use the interactive TVs in cabins to browse information, find out about daily events and activities, check bills and book services. On some ships, MSC for Me interactive wristbands can open your cabin door and also allow you to book services or make contactless payments for items on board.

Restaurants and dining

While a few of MSC Cruises' smallest ships have relatively limited dining venues, many of the line's vessels offer a wide range of choices.

On the line's recently unveiled MSC Euribia, for instance, there are nearly a dozen distinct eateries, as well as a number of bars and lounges that serve at least small bites. MSC Seashore has five specialty restaurants that feature waterfront, outdoor seating on the ship's boardwalk.

Every vessel has at least one or more main dining rooms and a casual buffet where meals are included in the fare.

For dinner in a main dining room, you must either have My Choice dining with the Aurea experience (a flexible dining option where you dine whenever you want) or classic dining (where you have a fixed table and time for dinner).

Nearly every ship also has at least one — and sometimes quite a few — extra-charge venues. Among the most common across the fleet is the American-style steakhouse Butcher's Cut, which is found on more than half the line's vessels. There also are sushi bars on more than half the line's ships, with varying names like Kaito Sushi and Galaxy Sushi.

The line's newest ships have teppanyaki restaurants, too, and passengers on MSC Cruises' Seaside Class ships, as well as MSC Meraviglia and MSC Splendida, can dine at a Mediterranean-style seafood restaurant.

Several of the line's newest vessels, including MSC Grandiosa and MSC Bellissima, also have the French cuisine-serving L'Atelier Bistrot.

Entertainment and activities

MSC Cruises offers a broad range of entertainment and activities on its ships. As noted above, the line's biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from Broadway-style theaters to spaces for circus-like performances; all manner of deck-top attractions; large casinos; and full-service spas. Plus, you'll find multiple bars, lounges and nightlife spots.

Theaters and shows

Like other megaship lines, MSC Cruises is known for big, glitzy theater productions performed in onboard theaters that are as state-of-the-art as anything you'll find on Broadway.

On the line's newer ships, such as MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Grandiosa, there are main theaters that hold nearly 1,000 people. They offer as many as six different full-scale theatrical productions during a typical voyage, with multiple showtimes for each production and a range of styles. You'll find original Broadway-style musicals, piano concerts and even operas.

Some MSC Cruises ships have high-tech, multipurpose entertainment spaces that serve as comedy clubs and karaoke bars but can also transform into music venues. Dubbed the TV Studio & Bar on some ships, these spaces also house radio and TV broadcasting equipment, and they can host games, quizzes and talent contests aired live on TV sets in cabins.

Other interior attractions and activities

In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of MSC Cruises ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a seemingly endless array of bars, lounges and nightspots.

Every MSC Cruises ship has a casino, and on the line's larger vessels, they are big operations. Le Grand Casino on MSC Grandiosa, for instance, has 164 slot machines, 12 table games (including blackjack, roulette and poker) and its own bar.

The five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels also have soaring interior mall-like spaces called Gallerias with bars, restaurants and retail shops, as does the new MSC World Europa.

Many of the Gallerias, for example, are home to an innovative chocolate bar and boutique created by well-known French patissier and chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury.

The Gallerias on the five Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus Class vessels — MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima — are topped with one of the most stunning features found at sea: a dazzling "digital sky" made with curving LED screens that offer regular light shows during the day and evening. There's something similar on MSC World Europa.

The bigger MSC Cruises ships also have interactive game zones with such attractions as Formula One racing simulators, immersive XD cinemas, arcade games and even full-size bowling alleys.

For something more soothing, all MSC Cruises ships include spas. These can be quite big on the larger vessels, with expansive thermal areas and a wide choice of treatments and services.

Insider tip: Passengers can get information about onboard entertainment and restaurants (and make reservations) on the interactive screens found around MSC Cruises vessels.

Top-deck attractions

The top decks of MSC Cruises ships offer pools, hot tubs and plenty of lounge space, plus some spectacular family-focused fun zones — on the line's newest ships, at least.

On the line's Meraviglia and Seaside Class ships, top-deck amenities include sprawling back-of-the-ship water parks with multiple waterslides, ropes courses and watery play areas for the little ones.

Some ships even have zip lines — the longest at sea.

Additionally, the main pool areas on the newest MSC Cruises ships are among the biggest and most stunning at sea. Some of the line's ships also have adults-only pools topped with glass ceilings that can be opened on warm days.

Children's programs

MSC Cruises has some of the most extensive children's programs at sea, with dedicated clubs and activities for children as young as a couple of months old through the age of 17.

On most ships, the line offers programming for five distinct age groups.

For the very youngest cruisers, there's Baby Club, a program for babies and toddlers up to the age of 3. The line partnered with baby care brand Chicco to develop dedicated Baby Club play areas on every ship with toys, games and music and rhythm activities. You can leave your toddlers at the clubs, which have dedicated staff, or stay and play with them.

MSC Cruises ships also have a dedicated Mini Club (ages 3 to 6) and Junior Club (ages 7 to 11) with age-appropriate activities. Designed in partnership with the Lego Group, the Mini Clubs offer games, events and activities such as arts and crafts. Junior Clubs have a Masterchef at Sea Juniors competition, plus acting, dancing and singing activities.

Related: New MSC Cruises ship in New York is bigger than the city's biggest hotel

MSC Cruises ships also have Young Club, a tween program (ages 12 to 14) that includes sports tournaments, high-tech games and other activities.

Then there's Teen Club (ages 15 to 17), which hosts disco parties, karaoke parties and Wii, Xbox and PlayStation 4 tournaments. On MSC Grandiosa, teens even get the chance to pilot a drone through an obstacle course during an activity called the Drone Academy, and the ship holds a teen dance competition designed in partnership with the company behind "The X Factor."

Kids and teens clubs on newer MSC Cruises ships can also access cutting-edge equipment like 3D printing machines, virtual reality devices and 3D product scanning, all of which are used in activities.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

If you're a U.S. citizen on a cruise that starts and ends in a U.S. port, you'll need either a current passport or an official copy of your birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification to sail. Passports must be valid for at least six months.

For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. It's important that the name on your reservation is listed exactly as it appears on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

MSC Cruises adds an automatic service charge of $16 per person to final bills on sailings out of U.S. ports. Sailings with pricing in euros have a 12 euro charge ($13.13 at current exchange rates). Children 2 to 11 pay half the adult rate on most cruises. Children under 2 are not charged for service.

Also, a 15% gratuity is added to bills at bars for cruisers who do not have a drinks package. If you buy a drinks package, the gratuity charges for drinks is folded into the package price when you book it. A 15% service charge is also added to items in minibars, salons and spas.

Related: Tipping on a cruise ship: Everything you need to know

MSC Cruises has been rolling out Wi-Fi with speeds so fast that you'll be able to watch Netflix from your room on your mobile device. Unlike some lines, though, MSC Cruises doesn't offer flat-fee pricing for Wi-Fi. Instead, MSC Cruises charges by the number of devices you use and how you want to use the internet (think: browsing, texting, sending emails or video streaming).

Basic packages for browsing start around $72 for one device with unlimited data. A two-device plan with unlimited data for browsing costs about $109. There's also a four-device browsing plan for about $223. If you're looking to stream video along with other internet uses, you'll need a streaming plan. These start around $100 for one device and can be as high as $313 for a four-device plan.

Unlike other cruise lines, MSC Cruises does not let passengers switch their internet plan from one device to another during the cruise, even if they're only using one device at a time. Make sure you sign up for the Wi-Fi plan on the device you intend to use it with. If you'll want access on both your phone and your tablet, you will need a two-device plan.

Passengers can chat with friends and family on board ships even if they don't have an internet package by downloading the MSC for Me app to a smart device. The app also lets you book services on board.

Carry-on drinks policy

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises doesn't allow passengers to bring their own alcohol on board.

Smoking policy

Smoking (including electronic cigarette smoking) is allowed in a limited number of designated areas on ships, with the primary smoking area on ships being an outdoor pool area that varies by ship and is indicated by signage. Smoking is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 fee.

Unlike some lines, MSC Cruises does not build self-service launderettes onto its ships. Vessels offer extra-charge laundry and dry-cleaning services.

Electrical outlets

All vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets in rooms, as well as European-style, 220-volt outlets. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins.

For cruises in the Caribbean, South America and South Africa, as well as on MSC Grand Voyages going to Europe and to Australia, the onboard currency is the U.S. dollar.

On cruises in other parts of the world, the onboard currency is the euro. All vessels operate on a cashless system with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a Cruise Card (or, on the newer ships, an MSC for Me wristband) that you can use to make purchases.

Drinking age

You must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol on sailings in the U.S. and the Caribbean. The drinking age on sailings everywhere else in the world is 18.

During the day, there's no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination and you're bound for the top deck, that means dressing for the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to put on when you go inside) are just fine.

On most evenings, the line recommends "smart casual" dress, meaning summery dresses for women and a lightweight jacket for men. On select days, the line also holds Gala evenings on its ships where the dress code can be more formal. For Gala evenings, if dining in a main dining room, the line suggests a tuxedo, dinner jacket or dark suit and tie for men and a dressy outfit, formal gown or cocktail dress for women.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

MSC Cruises loyalty program

MSC Cruises has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the MSC Voyagers Club , that has four tiers ranging from Classic (requiring 1 point) to Diamond (10,000 points).

Members earn points based on the length of the cruises they take and which "experience" they book on those sailings. There are four different "experiences" you can book on an MSC Cruises sailing, each with different inclusions and price points. The most basic "Bella" experience will get you fewer points than the top "MSC Yacht Club" experience.

For a sailing of under five nights, for instance, your earnings would range from 200 to 800 points depending on the experience you book. For cruises that are five to nine nights in length, you'd earn from 500 to 1,500 points depending on the experience.

Every person in your stateroom will earn points for the cruise. You can also earn points with onboard spending and any bookings you made before embarkation. You'll earn 100 points for every $150 in prepaid and onboard expenses.

Know, though, that there are a couple of key caveats. Only the Voyagers Club member who makes the final payment for the onboard expenses will receive those points. For prepaid expenses, points will be equally distributed among the cabin occupants.

Say, for example, the total amount of prepaid onboard services that apply to all cabin occupants before the cruise is $600. If there are four cabin occupants, the spending for the points calculation of each member will be $150, which is equal to 100 points.

As is typical for cruise line loyalty programs, the entry-level tier (Classic) doesn't bring all that many truly valuable rewards. By far the most alluring benefit at this level is the 5% discount that members get when booking future sailings (note that this discount is not valid on Tandem and MSC Grand Tours). That's real savings every time you book a cruise.

The real perks begin at Diamond status, which brings a free dinner in an extra-charge restaurant, priority embarkation at the start of a cruise and priority disembarkation at the end of a cruise.

Unlike with most cruise line loyalty programs, you won't automatically keep your status forever with MSC Cruises. Once achieved, your status is good as long as you take a cruise at least once every 36 months. If you don't, not only will your points disappear, but your entire account will be erased, requiring you to re-enroll and start all over again.

That's the downside of the MSC Voyagers Club. However, the program also comes with one very big upside: MSC Cruises will let you status match your way to top-tier Diamond status based on your status level with any of more than two dozen other loyalty programs — not just those run by competing cruise lines but also those operated by Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton. It's very rare in the cruise world.

How much does an MSC Cruises voyage cost?

MSC Cruises is known for some of the most affordable ships at sea. It's not uncommon to find MSC Cruises voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from under $75 per person, per night, including all taxes and fees — at least in the offseason.

For instance, at the time of publication, four-night sailings from Miami to the Bahamas in September 2024 start at just $249 per person, not including taxes and fees of $100. That works out to just $87.25 per person, per night, with taxes and fees, for a package that includes your lodging, transportation and meals.

As you might expect, pricing for ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September, October and parts of November.

The timing of when you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance also gives you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board an MSC Cruises ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet and a few other amenities — unless you've paid up for a more inclusive package.

When pricing cabins, MSC Cruises offers one of four main "experiences," each of which comes with different inclusions and varying price tags. The basic "Bella" experience includes your room, dining in the main restaurants and buffet, and access to all the included features of the ship, such as kids programs and theater shows.

Note that if you book the Bella experience, you cannot select a specific cabin. You can only choose between the broad categories of inside, ocean-view or balcony cabin, and a cabin is later assigned to you.

One step up is the more expensive "Fantastica" experience, which adds room service and breakfast delivered to your cabin, priority choice of dinner sittings, access to additional kids activities and classes, and more. At this level and above, you can pick a specific cabin when booking.

With the even pricier "Aurea" experience, you'll get complimentary access to the spa's thermal area, priority boarding and other perks. The Aurea experience also comes with access to My Choice dining and an exclusive sun deck area that on many ships features an exclusive bar and hot tubs.

Then there's the MSC Yacht Club experience, mentioned above, which is the ultimate in onboard living. Even with its higher price tag, the MSC Yacht Club still provides great value for its wide range of perks, such as unlimited drinks in all MSC Yacht Club areas, including premium spirits and minibar items.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their 1st cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to the MSC Cruises website to book directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise (there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process: trust us) we recommend you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. A good travel agent will quiz you about your interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They also can help if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure MSC Cruises is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who knows all about the line's various cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see them firsthand.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your purchase when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which earns 2 points per dollar spent on travel (and dining).

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Bottom line

Long a major player in Europe, MSC Cruises is growing fast in North America with a lineup of big, new, amenity-filled ships.

If you're a megaresort lover, you'll feel right at home on MSC Cruises' new World, Meraviglia and Seaside Class vessels, which rival the biggest vessels of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian for their array of onboard amusements.

You'll also love their affordability. Among the world's biggest ships, they offer some of the lowest pricing. You'll be sharing your vacation with hordes of other people, of course — as many as 6,000 on some MSC Cruises vessels. However, even the biggest MSC Cruises ships have quiet nooks where you can escape the crowds.

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Why Travel Advisors Might Want to Take Another Look at MSC Cruises

MSC Seascape sails year-round from PortMiami. 

Ask most travel advisors if they sell MSC Cruises and the answer is most likely no. Advisors Travel Market Report has spoken to have offered several reasons for avoiding the cruise line.

Most commonly, we hear that MSC is too difficult to work with. There’s no support for advisors who need help. Only slightly less common is a fear that their clients will have a terrible time onboard. Outside of the Yacht Club, the line’s onboard customer service reputation isn’t great.

Other advisors tell us there’s not enough name recognition, making selling an MSC cruise harder.

What isn’t often mentioned, but is equally as important, is the price point. As MSC Cruises has rapidly expanded its presence in the United States, the line has relied on low pricing (outside of the Yacht Club) to fill its ships, keeping the commission earning potential for advisors low.

But with five ships scheduled to be sailing year-round in the U.S. by 2024, MSC knows it needs the trade to be successful. This past summer, MSC hired industry veteran Koreen McNutt as senior vice president and commercial sales officer. She has experience on both the cruise and retail side, having spent 13 years at Holland America Line and Windstar Cruises, as well as 16 years at Expedia Group. She has also served on several cruise line Travel Agent Advisory boards, including at MSC Cruises.

At last week’s MSC Seascape naming ceremony, Travel Market Report had the chance to sit down with McNutt to ask what MSC Cruises is doing to face the uphill challenges it faces, considering its reputation among the travel advisor community.

Committed to the Trade “At MSC, we will raise our hand and say right away, we know we cannot do it without the trade, no question,” McNutt said right off the bat. “The trade is extremely important.”

McNutt didn’t try to deflect any of the questions TMR asked and, in fact, acknowledged the issues of the past, but insisted they are in the past.

“I’m never going to deny it. I was on the advisory board… I understand those challenges. But let’s be honest, would I have moved myself, my husband and my dog completely across the country if I didn’t believe in it? No, I’m not crazy.”

McNutt said she made it very clear that to accept the job she needed assurances that the line was going to be trade friendly.

“That was assured to me without question,” she said. “Yes, there were problems. But this is MSC today.”

Scaling Up According to McNutt, there are several things a cruise line needs to do in order to be successful with the travel agency community. One is being easy to work with.

“We need to be easy to do business with and this is something we are working on every day,” she said.

To start with, MSC Cruises plans to grow its trade-focused sales team by leaps and bounds.

“I’m hiring aggressively,” McNutt emphasized.

Already hired is a vice president of field sales, and among the hires planned are a director of trade engagement and another regional director for field sales. McNutt also plans to double the number of business development managers and add more sales support positions by the end of Q2 2023.

Under her watch, McNutt said, a travel advisor will never be unable to find help.

“I am very clear on my goals for the team and we will be accessible. We will be approachable and we will respond… We need to make sure that we are helping them understand and not just saying, look at the website. That’s not a good answer.”

McNutt said she’s looking to hire BDMs and sales staff with cruise experience. Just as importantly, she wants people who are excited about helping advisors grow their business.

“I don’t want people that are just going to drop off a brochure and say, I’ll see you next month. I want people that are going to sit down and do a marketing plan with them and reach back out.”

Event & Incentives Budget McNutt also told TMR she’s been given a sizeable budget for incentives, overrides and events.

“What I think is really important is events. We will be at all of the trade events. We’ll be at regional events. Before we had to really limit that and could only be at the big national events.”

MSC will also be at consumer events, particularly as partners with travel advisors.

“There might be a regional event in Boston or Detroit or wherever, and I might not know about that event. But to an agency that’s heavily involved, they’re like this is the event. If I’m not at this event… But they don’t always have the funds and we need to be there. We need to support them by investing in that and putting money in the BDMs hands.”

Technology Upgrades & Training MSC is also investing in its trade tools. In early January, McNutt is off to Switzerland to work on MSC Book, the line’s B2B tool.

While some of the changes will be technological, she also said the line plans to work on its training, both for the MSC sales team and travel advisors.

“It’s not just the product, it’s training. We need to make sure that we put our best foot forward with our product and make sure the agents are able to use it,” she said.

To start with, MSC needs to empathize with advisors who work with multiple suppliers all of whom have their own system. “They’re all different. We need to make sure we appreciate that fact.”

“We have a really good product,” she added, referring to MSC Book, something she’s sure of because earlier this year, the line put 3,000 travel advisors on MSC ships, but required those advisors to book themselves using the tool.

“Our usage of MSC Book to say hockey sticked up is putting it mildly... and we’ve seen it stay steady. The people that booked themselves are now the people that we have booking guests.”

Not Yesterday’s Customer Service McNutt says the reputation MSC has for poor customer service is a vestige of the past.

“It’s not true anymore. That’s an old stigma,” she said, adding its hard to have a crew that’s adequately trained to meet North American customer service expectations when you don’t have ships that sail year-round from the States.

With ships stationed here full-time, the line, she said, has invested more in the training of the crew and the “upscaling” of the crew to ensure North American expectations are met.

“There is a distinct difference between what a European or South American guest wants the crew to be like versus U.S. In the U.S., they want to be touched more. They want, you didn’t offer me water for five minutes. If I do that in Italy, they’re like, you just offered me water. It’s a difference.”

The difference between then and now is already clear she said, adding that the vast majority of the 3,000 advisors that sailed on MSC this past year had nothing but rave reviews for their experiences. And none stayed in the Yacht Club.

To help advisors see today’s MSC customer service for themselves, the line will continue to offer travel agent rates, as well as seminars at sea.

“I have a hundred percent faith that it’s just a matter of getting enough people on board,” she said.

Higher Price Points “We know that our price point is too low,” McNutt said when asked about pricing, adding that the advisors who sailed with MSC Cruises this year all said pricing should be much higher for what the experience is onboard.

“We’re going to continue to bring up prices to be what they deserve to be.”

Part of being able to bring up pricing is getting the trade onboard with sharing MSC Cruises’ value proposition with their clients.

“We need the trade to help with that message. We need the trade saying, this product is worth this.”

National Marketing MSC is acutely aware it’s not a household name, McNutt said. The line is actively marketing throughout the Eastern and Southern U.S.

“We’re on TV. I love the music that we’re playing because you need that. You have to have marketing where when they hear the song, it triggers, oh, it’s that cruise line.”

And, as mentioned above, the line is investing heavily in attending events, including consumer events.

Even with all the marketing planned, McNutt emphasized MSC can’t do it without the trade.

“We can’t do it on our own. We have to invest in events and promotions and incentives and getting them onboard so they can share it. We can only do so much with marketing on TV.”

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Secrets to Selling Multi-Stop European Travel This Season

"It’s become much more common for a two-week European trip to have five or six different stops, sometimes in multiple countries.”

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Here are five spaces onboard the all-new Sun Princess that we believe your clients will love.

It's the largest newbuild order in NCL Holdings' history, representing nearly 25,000 additional berths.

While most TMR readers agreed that NCL was in the right to leave these stragglers behind, not all did. 

The two companies are also launching a luggage express service to make transfering easier. 

The cruise line intends to lists its shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "VIK."

Content is available on and off Holland America Line's ships.

MSC Cruises

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Originating in Europe with a blend of Italian elegance and European charm

MSC is the world’s third-largest cruise brand and the leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region, and southern Africa, with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America, and the Far East. They are the fastest-growing global cruise brand with over 300 years of maritime heritage. It sounds to us like they probably know what they’re doing!

MSC offers engaging and immersive cruise experiences, which include international cuisine, top-notch entertainment, and accolade-winning family programs. In addition, they have aqua parks, ropes courses, bowling alleys, 4-D theaters, simulated Formula 1 racing, and more on select ships.

They sail to ports worldwide, including Northern Europe, South America, southern Africa, Asia, North America, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the Red Sea. MSC also sails year-round in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Additionally, for itineraries sailing to the Caribbean, an exciting day at the cruise line’s exclusive Ocean Cay Marine Reserve can make any sailing memorable.

The MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate ultra-luxury experience

If you are looking for luxury, the MSC Yacht Club offers a ship-within-a-ship neighborhood loaded with additional amenities. This intimate area features private butler service, a 24-hour concierge, a private restaurant and lounge, a private pool and pool deck, complimentary wines and spirits, and included Wi-Fi. Yacht Club guests also receive priority embarkation and debarkation, as well as complimentary access to the Thermal Suite at the MSC Aurea Spa.

MSC, the world’s largest privately owned cruise company, has genuinely unique offerings on remarkably modern ships fully equipped to provide maximal delight while remaining committed to the environment and the safe enjoyment of their guests.

Do you think cutting-edge cruise ships with a European flare are the right fit for you? Find out by calling the MSC Cruises experts at Extraordinary Adventures today!

Take a peak at what it's like to sail with MSC Cruises

What’s Included In Your Cruise Package

Your extraordinary cruise adventure comes with many included amenities from the cruise line. In addition, Extraordinary Adventures offers our clients extra complimentary benefits as well as popular upgrades to create a seamless door-to-door experience – all the more reason to select Extraordinary Adventures as your travel agency!

Included in Every MSC Cruises Cruise

• Ship accommodations
• A variety of dining options
• Select non-alcoholic beverages onboard, including but not limited to non-bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, non-specialty coffees, and tea
• Most entertainment onboard
• The use of many onboard facilities, including pools and recreation

Upgrade to The Yacht Club

• Premium drink package
• Premium Wi-Fi package
• Exclusive lounge
• Private pool deck
• Private restaurant
• Butler service
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the Aurea Spa
• 24-hour room service
• Skip the lines – be personally escorted on and off the ship

Your Extraordinary Adventures Cruise Also Includes

• Expert guidance choosing your itinerary, ship, and stateroom
• Recommendations on shore excursions
• Advice on cruise and travel policies and procedures
• Emergency assistance while on your trip
• Recommendations on travel insurance

Add Extraordinary Adventures White Glove Service to Receive

• We arrange car service and transfers
• We book flights*
• We reserve hotel stays
• Pre-cruise and post-cruise travel planning assistance

$250 Planning Fee per stateroom *Terms and conditions apply

Not sure if this is the best cruise for you?

Popular Destinations

Mediterranean

What Our Clients Say

“Helped us book our cruise. Great video content on what to expect on our ship. Leads on wonderful private excursion options . Laura was so helpful! ”

(Check out this 5-star review on Google: https://g.co/kgs/mW5cXQm )

“Laura and Scott are awesome! Highly recommend! We had a trip delayed several years by Covid. They took care of everything with cancelling, holding travel credits, and re-researching/rebooking when the time came. Two or three times during our trip (which was very complicated travel-wise), we were just thinking of a question (i.e. Did we ever get the code to get into tonight’s rental?) and before we could even ask, Laura was texting US! Laura was also VERY communicative and prompt during the planning phase. And while on our trip, it was so nice to have all the details taken care of so we could simply enjoy! Our trip was not a cruise (planned before they got into that business more exclusively), but I have no doubt they bring the same level of detail to cruises-perhaps even more since they have taken many of those trips themselves!”

(Check out this 5-star review on Google: https://g.co/kgs/dD1pScf )

“ We were referred to Laura and Scott by some cruise friends who have used them for years . A pleasure to work with, and they offer just great service ! Quick to reply , better rates than you can get directly from the cruise sites plus they offer trips other than cruises. I have referred them to MY friends and have had nothing but positive responses from them as well.”

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MSC Cruises: Experience Luxury and Adventure on The Newest Ships

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with MSC Cruises, where luxury meets adventure.

Popular Cruise Lines

Cruise styles.

MSC Cruises are a great option for those looking for a luxurious and memorable vacation experience. As a travel agency specializing in MSC Cruises, Culture Discovery Cruises is here to help you plan the perfect getaway. Whether you’re looking for a romantic trip for two or a fun-filled family adventure, MSC Cruises have something for everyone.

On this page, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about MSC Cruises, such as whether they are high-end, the newest MSC ships, and the cost of an MSC cruise. We will also share some tips on what to expect on an MSC Cruise, including the food, the best age to take a cruise, and more.

Are MSC Cruises High End?

MSC Cruises are considered to be in the mid-range of the cruise industry, offering luxurious amenities and a high-end experience at a reasonable price point. With stylish décor, elegant staterooms, and first-class entertainment options, MSC Cruises provide a great value for those looking for a luxurious vacation without breaking the bank.

What are the Newest MSC Ships?

The newest MSC ships include the MSC Virtuosa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Seashore, and MSC Seaview. Each of these ships offers unique features and amenities, such as the first-ever humanoid robot bartender on the MSC Virtuosa or the two-deck promenade on the MSC Grandiosa. The MSC Seashore and MSC Seaview both offer beautiful outdoor spaces, including a stunning infinity pool and a beach club.

Is MSC an Expensive Cruise Line?

MSC Cruises offer a range of prices, depending on the itinerary, season, and stateroom category. However, in general, MSC Cruises are considered to be a great value for the money, offering a high-end experience without the hefty price tag of some other luxury cruise lines. Culture Discovery Cruises can help you find the best deals and promotions to make your MSC Cruise affordable.

Is MSC Cruises Good for Groups?

MSC Cruises offer a range of activities and amenities that are perfect for groups of all ages. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a night out at the theater, relax by the pool, or explore a new destination, MSC Cruises have something for everyone. With flexible dining options, customized shore excursions, and spacious staterooms, MSC Cruises are an excellent choice for groups of all sizes.

Are MSC Cruises Luxury?

MSC Cruises offer a luxurious experience, with elegant décor, stylish staterooms, and gourmet dining options. With top-rated amenities, such as the Aurea Spa and the MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises provide an elevated vacation experience. However, they are still considered to be in the mid-range of the cruise industry, offering a luxurious experience at a reasonable price point.

How is the Food on MSC Cruises?

The food on MSC Cruises is exceptional, with a range of options to suit every taste and dietary need. From gourmet restaurants to casual dining options, MSC Cruises offer delicious cuisine that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With the MSC Aurea Experience, guests can enjoy exclusive access to healthy dining options, including fresh juices and smoothies.

What is the Best Age to Take an MSC Cruise?

MSC Cruises are a great option for travelers of all ages, with activities and amenities that are suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers. However, the best age to take an MSC Cruise may depend on the itinerary and the specific ship. For families, the summer months and school holidays are a great time to take a cruise, while couples may prefer a more relaxed vacation in Spring and Fall.

Is MSC Considered a Good Cruise Line?

MSC Cruises is a top-rated cruise line, and it’s no wonder why. They offer amazing onboard experiences, from dining and entertainment to relaxation and adventure. As a travel agency that specializes in MSC Cruises, we are excited to share our expertise and passion for this cruise line with you.

MSC Cruises is a fantastic option for travelers looking for a luxurious and memorable cruising experience. At Culture Discovery Cruises, we are proud to specialize in MSC Cruises and offer our guests exclusive incentives and benefits when booking through us. Book today to start planning your dream vacation with MSC Cruises.

Why Always Book with CDV:

Book cruises with CDV and you can get a credit of up to $10,000 for each cruise to use toward any CDV land vacation!  Click here for more info.

The special and exclusive CDV offers can almost always be combined all with current qualifying national promotions offered by the cruise line, as well as full credit toward cruise line status.

We believe in the concept of Luxury of experience.  This means that our guests are not just looking for bucket list places, but life-changing experiences.  Our passion is making that happen, and to do so, we need to think of each person we deal with as friends and family.  We are not just planning a trip or event or you, but rather a life experience you will talk about long into the future.

Our secret sauce is a mixture of people that truly care about you above the “product,” leading-edge technology, and our carefully cultivated relationships with vendors that have become dear friends.  For us, it is always personal.  Click here to learn more about us and why we are in no way a typical travel agency.

Culture Discovery Reviews:

CDV Culinary Tours We directly operate the highest-rated culinary, cooking, wine, and experiential small-group tours in Europe! And any cruise booking you do with us gives you credit toward our tours.

Get up to $10,000 credit or more when you book with cdv.

Book cruises with CDV and you can get credit of up to $10,000 for each cruise to use toward any CDV land vacation!

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We specialize in the MSC Brand. Our highly accredited team will walk you through the process of booking your dream vacation .

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Explora I Doesn't Disappoint Say Advisors on First Sailing

After years of anticipation and a delayed launch, several travel advisors finally made it onto the inaugural sailing of Explora Journeys' first luxury ship, Explora I. After so much waiting, expectations have been a mix of very high and wait and see. Travel Market Report reached out to a number of advisors who were onboard to find out their initial impressions.

Without exception, everyone we heard from had nothing but great things to say.

"There is nothing like it at sea," said Eric Goldring, owner of Goldring Travel, an Ensemble member agency. "You truly feel like you are in a luxury resort; not a cruise ship. There is an elegance and design that is truly unique."

Lisa Moss Yates, ECC, owner of YC Travel, agreed.

"The ship and décor were breathtaking and beyond our imaginations of what she would be. Specifically, the design, color schemes, and layout made us feel as though we just stepped inside a luxury hotel at sea."

"When I stepped onboard Explora I, I felt like I was walking into a welcoming picture of elegance and refined spaces," said Tina Robinson-Quirke, owner of TRQ Travel. "Explora I lounges have endless views of the ocean… suites create a sense of staying in a home at sea with luxurious amenities and enrichment experiences that stimulate the mind and body…

Yates, an Explora Journeys Pioneer, currently has 40 clients booked for an ocean journey on Explora I, and Goldring said he's completely comfortable recommending the ship to his clients.

"Explora Journeys has far exceeded my expectations…" he told TMR

. What will luxury cruisers love? According to all three advisors, Explora I achieves its goal of providing a top-notch luxury experience.

When asked what one or two things they think their luxury clients will love about Explora I, the three were hard-pressed to keep it to two.

"Impossible to limit it to that," said Goldring. "Spacious and well-designed suites, culinary experiences at a level higher than another ship, sophisticated and varied entertainment, superlative retail shops, five unique pools, beautiful public spaces, an amazing amount of personal space, and the list goes on."

"The things we believe luxury cruisers will love about Explora Journeys is the beauty and style of the ship, along with the itineraries available. Secondly, the variety of culinary options and experiences," Yates said.  

Goldring also emphasized dining, telling TMR the five main restaurants – including Emporium, which he called "so much more than a buffet" – and 10 lounges "impresses immediately and continues throughout one's journey."

Robinson-Quirke echoed Yates and Goldring on the culinary options, but also said she believes luxury clients will love the crew.

"The crew was also something that stood out to me," she said. "Everyone was, of course, excited for the Maiden Voyage, but the genuineness and congeniality of the entire crew really shone through in exceptional service and care."

Even better, Yates said, the experience begins before your clients even step onboard.

"It's a concierge service that helps clients from conception of their booking to the completion of their journey."

Does Explora Journeys compare to MSC Cruises' Yacht Club? All three advisors told TMR you can't compare Explora Journeys to MSC Cruises' ship-within-a-ship Yacht Club concept.

"Explora is truly independent of MSC and any effort to tie the two together is a horrible disservice to Explora," said Goldring. "There is simply no comparison between the two from hardware to software to amenities to cuisine."

Who is the "right" client for Explora Journeys?

According to Yates, the right clients to target for an Explora Journeys cruise are experienced travelers that seek out luxury, but are also independent minded.

Goldring, on the other hand, told TMR it's more about who is not a good fit.

"If a guest is looking for a Carnival or Royal Caribbean high-energy experience, this is not the ship. But a Royal Caribbean guest that loves the suite experience, may well love Explora.

As for whether current luxury cruise clients will love Explora, he said that depends on the client.

"Some guests may love Silversea and find Explora to be a great fit, while others may not. As for the luxury brands, I truly believe it competes at – or above – the levels of Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent."

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Best of Florida 2023

My blog and recent news, msc yacht club digital brochure, msc world america digital brochure/miami florida 2025, frequently asked questions.

Please reach us at [email protected]  if you cannot find an answer to your question.

We offer a wide variety of travel packages including luxury travel that includes The Yacht Club Experience and. a variety of itineraries on the all-inclusive EXPLORA  JOURNEYS, ships..

Yes, we offer travel insurance for all of our travel packages. We are certified  partnered with Allianz Global Travel  Co-. use YC Travel ACCAM# F213064 for renewals or contact us at [email protected] to request a customized quote to fit your needs and travel life’sTyler.

Absolutely! We offer customizable travel packages so that you can tailor your trip to your specific needs and preferences.

Explore the World with us!

Discover hidden gems, savor the flavors of unique culinary styles.

Contact one of our experience travel partners and uncover the lesser-known attractions from quaint cobblestone streets to hidden art galleries, we'll show you the best of what each destination has to offer.

Experience   Caviar from Madiagascar  to local cuisines we'll take you on a culinary journey.

Relax and Unwind

Experience the unknown.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to the picturesque countryside in your favorite destination.. Enjoy the stunning views, fresh air, and tranquil atmosphere as you  explore the charming villages and rolling hills of the region.

Adventures in the Great Outdoors

Get off the beaten path and discover the authentic side of  the destination of your choice.  Meet locals, learn about their traditions and customs, and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating journey.

Experience the natural beauty of ann adventure tour. From hiking and biking to kayaking and rock climbing, we'll take you on an unforgettable journey through the rugged landscapes of the region.

Create Your Dream Vacation

Let us help you plan your perfect  getaway. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo journey of self-discovery, our travel experts will customize an itinerary that suits your needs.

Travel Partners

Our partners, our background, satisfaction guaranteed.

YC Travel Voted Best of Florida Travel Agency  2023 and Winner of the 2023 Travel Weekly  MAGELLAN Gold  Award  Recipient  2023.

 We are  a team oriented group who are well-versed in the fun and rigors of traveling. Our travel agency came together to help other people plan and book their dream vacations. We have over 20  years of travel pl

 We are  a team oriented group who are well-versed in the fun and rigors of traveling. Our travel agency came together to help other people plan and book their dream vacations. We have over 20  years of travel planning between us! Specializing in MSC Group is our passion and the best value for the money you spend . Come and experience the elegance only MSC can provide!

Our Services

Looking for a cruise,  we have you covered. Simply tell one of our specialists where you want to go, and we'll help you figure out the rest. We work directly with MSC and  Explora  Journeys  to get the best deals  and  experiences  for our  clients..

OUR  CONCIERGE SERVICE extends  to helping  protect  our  clients travel  with  travel ins

OUR  CONCIERGE SERVICE extends  to helping  protect  our  clients travel  with  travel insurance  Allianz  Global Assistance

YC  TRAVEL

ACCAM  #F213064

While working with us, we want you to be completely satisfied  with the experience. If you have questions about us, our services, contact  one  of  our trusted travel  partners. We only choose the  very  best!,  to  represent YC  Travel  in  a  professional manner.

With a  business growth of  over  400%  in  2023  our reputation speaks  fo

With a  business growth of  over  400%  in  2023  our reputation speaks  for itself. We  have earned  the  trust  from our clients  and  as  cruisers  ourselves we understand the importance of  customer  satisfaction. 

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.”

Meet the yc travel team, lead travel specialist, senior travel consultant.

Lisa Moss Yates 

CLIA  ECC, MCC ,TAE certified , IATA/IATAN accredited 

Team leader who oversees all YC Travel clients and bookings !

Lisa has spent many hours perfecting the art of booking once in lifetime experiences for our clients. Her specialties are the Yacht Club experience with MSC and the luxury brand Explora Journeys and she knows 

Lisa has spent many hours perfecting the art of booking once in lifetime experiences for our clients. Her specialties are the Yacht Club experience with MSC and the luxury brand Explora Journeys and she knows these products better than anyone. The Yacht Club is a luxury experience that is referred to as “a ship within the ship “ experience,complete with butler services and first class amenities ! 

Please contact Lisa directly with any questions or concerns !

[email protected]

Ricardo Del Papa

Ricardo has been in the travel business for many years in different positions serving clients and guest shoreside as well as on board.

he has a very outgoing personality and very knowledgeable when it comes to cruise experiences.

very distinguished and outstanding knowledge of guest satisfaction standards, with a passion for

very distinguished and outstanding knowledge of guest satisfaction standards, with a passion for exceeding them.

please contact :

Ricardo (Rick) Del Papa

[email protected]

954-240-6232

Norm is an avid traveler with years of cruising experiences, on board as well as shoreside concierge services.

please contact norm today to book your journey:

[email protected]

727-424-5143

Travel Consultant

Kellie Atkins

New to the team , Kellie brings a very enthusiastic energy and passion when it comes to cruising ! She has first Hand knowledge being on board and the unique family atmosphere that MSC has to offer .

please contact her today :

[email protected]

336-312-0397

Tim Wagoner

Tim has a passion for cruising , and it shows with his attention to details when it comes to new clients and especially those new to MSC . He is devoted to introducing clients to YCTRAVEL and the family values that are instilled in everything MSC has to offer .

please contact Tim today and get your future memories started:

[email protected]

336-452-4468

Marie Phillips

Marie is an avid MSC cruiser and is very passionate about the family values that YC Travel & MSC cruises provides to guest That book their vacations with us.

She has extensive insight into being a guest and a client on board . Very knowledgeable of the ships and itineraries offered by MSC cruises .

please contact her today to 

please contact her today to get your vacation plans booked.

  [email protected]    386-478-9101

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Travel Documents & Visas

It is the sole responsibility of the Guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents for the entire cruise vacation and have them available when necessary. Please check with your travel agent, government agency, Embassy or Consulate to ensure that you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries on your cruise. Guests without proper traveling documentation will be denied boarding. Travel restrictions for each destination country may vary according to a Guest's citizenship. No refunds will be given to individuals who fail to bring proper documentation.

IMPORTANT FOR USA CITIZENS, U.S. RESIDENTS AND CANADIAN CITIZENS

International and Transatlantic Sailings to or from the USA:

For all nationalities, passports are required with at least 6 months validity along with relevant visas (if applicable).

Domestic Cruises Only for United States Citizens:

U.S. Citizens need either a valid passport, Passport Card, or Proof of US Citizenship (in the form of an original or certified copy of a US birth Certificate* or an original naturalization certificate) along with an original, valid, unexpired, government issued photo ID**

Please more detailed travel requirements below

Domestic Cruises Only for United States Citizens, U.S. Residents and Canadian Citizens:

U.S. Citizens sailing on cruises departing and returning to the same U.S. port will be able to enter or depart the country with proof of citizenship such as a passport, US birth certificate or US naturalization certificate, along with a valid, un-expired government issued ID. Traveling with a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the cruise ends, is preferred. This travel document will provide the best embarkation and disembarkation experience, while also providing guests the ability to travel by air to or from the United States, if needed.

We recommend contacting your travel agent or department agency for detailed travel documentation requirements. Without the proper documentation, you may be denied boarding and no refund will be issued. MSC Cruises USA is not responsible for advising guests of documentation required for travel.

As required by Customs Border Patrol (CBP), please note that U.S. and Canadian Citizens sailing on ANY Caribbean Sailings within the Western Hemisphere can travel with any of the below mentioned Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) complaint documents.

Adult U.S. Citizens (16 years and over):

• Required for itineraries visiting Martinique or Bermuda, include air travel to Canada or begin and end in different U.S. Ports
• American Passport Card
• Original or Certified Copy of Birth Certificate* along with a valid, unexpired, government issued photo ID**
• Original Certificate of Naturalization along with a valid, unexpired, government issued photo ID (copies will not be accepted)

Adult Canadian Citizens (16 years and over): 

• Valid Canadian Passport

US Permanent Residents:

• Valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Additionally, a passport from your home country is strongly recommended.

US and Canadian Citizen Children (under 16 years):

• Government Issued Birth Certificate*
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad

* Baptismal papers and hospital birth certificates are not acceptable. Puerto Rican birth certificates issued prior to July 1, 2010 are not acceptable

**Voter registration cards or Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship.

We look forward to welcoming you on board MSC Cruises!

VISITING QATAR IMPORTANT TRAVEL REQUIREMENT

Important information for guests visiting sokhna (egypt).

The Port of Sokhna serves as the gateway to Cairo. Please, note that as a commercial port, local regulations prohibit cruise guests from walking independently within the port premises. As no taxis are available within the port area, you will only be able to disembark if you purchase a shore excursion. MSC Cruises offers a wide range of excursions from Sokhna that will take you to Cairo and other exciting destinations in the area. You can book your excursions on our website to secure a seat in your favorite tour while saving up to 20%. In case you choose to book an excursion with a third-party operator, we kindly ask you to ensure that they have obtained the necessary permit from local authorities to access the port. Without this permit, they will not be able to enter the port premises.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CRUISES CALLING IN THE UK

• Please note Guests must present  only valid passport with at least residual validity 3 months  at their arrival in the UK.
• EU ID Card is not accepted , even in case willing to remain on board during the call in the UK.
• Please check before embarking on Northern Europe cruises any visa requirements for UK.

IMPORTANT NOTE : Starting from 15th November 2023, Qatar Nationals must apply for an UK ETA. Starting from 22th Februrary 2024 also Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE and Jordan Nationals must apply for the UK ETA visiting the webstite: https://www.etauk.uk/

For all the other nationalities further information will be following.

SAUDI ARABIA TRANSIT E-VISA APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Please click here  for instructions on how to submit a request for the Transit e-visa by Sea

Important :   the  https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/  website is in Arabic, to access the English version please click on the letter E in the top left-hand corner. 

PASSENGERS BOARDING US CRUISES WHO HAVE VISITED CUBA SINCE 12th JANUARY 2021 SPECIFICATION

Please select your cruise destination to verify all the required documents WINTER 2023-2024

Please select your cruise destination to verify all the required documents SUMMER 2024

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MSC Cruises

• MSC Cruises

MSC and Travel Agents?

By jkgourmet , June 5, 2019 in MSC Cruises

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We cruised on the Divina several years ago and enjoyed ourselves.  My husband heard an advertisement with some excellent sales prices that included alcohol for the Caribbean.  So I contacted our regular BIG online TA, who says they do not book MSC.

Then I looked at the online site for the big box store.  Their cruise department does not list MSC either.  Then I looked at another large TA site, and it does not list MSC either.

Has MSC stopped participating with agents? 

(We are US Based)

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MSC  does  work  with agents.

8 minutes ago, Ljoy said: MSC  does  work  with agents.

Thanks.  I just found one of the big online agencies that still does. 

BermudaBound2014

MSC will work with agents, but several of the US agencies refuse to work with MSC. MSC has more than the norm issues with lack of consistent policies, long wait times on the phone, low customer service rankings, a website that operates below industry standards (and that bar is low), etc.. All things which make dealing with MSC less profitable as a time investment is often required.

Obviously there are still US based agencies that will work with MSC and, as you discovered, it just takes a bit of digging. I like the MSC product as long as it is priced appropriately, but US consumers would be wise to know what they are getting. 

This isn't a slam on MSC, just the facts which are something to be aware of. 

I'm from north America :).

5 minutes ago, BermudaBound2014 said: MSC will work with agents, but several of the US agencies refuse to work with MSC. MSC has more than the norm issues with lack of consistent policies, long wait times on the phone, low customer service rankings, a website that operates below industry standards (and that bar is low), etc.. All things which make dealing with MSC less profitable as a time investment is often required.   Obviously there are still US based agencies that will work with MSC and, as you discovered, it just takes a bit of digging. I like the MSC product as long as it is priced appropriately, but US consumers would be wise to know what they are getting.    This isn't a slam on MSC, just the facts which are something to be aware of.    I'm from north America :).

thanks for the explanation.  Mind sharing what more detail about what I highlighted above?  (As I said, it's been 5-6 years since we did the Divina.)

Nothing more than you read in the reviews on a daily basis. You've sailed Divina so you have a very good handle on things. The most typical complaints seem to center around MSC's inability to resolve conflict, inconsistent policies, lack of customer service, and some from NA seem to think it's too "european".

Personally, I enjoy MSC very much and had two good experiences. I would sail on them again as long as they are priced less than the nearest competition.  All dollars being equal, MSC would not be my choice. I consider MSC's best asset is it's value. 

Happy Cruiser 6143

My TA has booked me with MSC twice and says I'm on my own after this.  She says they are an absolute nightmare to deal with and the amount of time it takes is unreal.  I imagine other agents feel the same way.

Our 4th MSC cruise coming up.  We've always booked through a specific agent.  She has said repeatedly that they are the WORSE line to deal with.  Long phone wait, inconsistent information, etc. 

Sancho_proudfoot

Even over this side of the pond in the UK, our cruise-specialist TA told me she would have to call me back once she "eventually" got things sorted with MSC.

My very large on line agency does book MSC.

My travel agent has told me at the time of our first MSC cruise that there can be problems dealing with MSC ahead of time, but the on board experience is top notched.

He was right and we have been repeat customers of the line.

Of course, we seem to the somewhere rare US cruiser who understand there is a whole world outside Nowhere, USA with different customs, languages, and food.

3 hours ago, Homosassa said: Of course, we seem to the somewhere rare US cruiser who understand there is a whole world outside Nowhere, USA with different customs, languages, and food.

You can't seriously believe that the primary reason  US travel agencies refuse to sell MSC has to do with NA client expectations?  I honestly don't know of any other cruise line that TA's refuse to work with. 

I certainly can't speak for all TA's but I can speak for my favorite (who refuses to sell anymore MSC even if she loses commission): Her rational revolves around  excessive wait times, inconsistent information, and a high frustration levels trying to resolve issues. I believe the final straw for her was the issue when her client got the "compromised passport documentation' letter.  

In addition, MSC's the only cruise line I am aware of with a F rating at the BBB which should cause pause to even the most loyal fan. 

Please understand, I'm not a MSC hater. At the right price point, it's a lovely option.  But I'm not one to turn a blind eye to some of the potential pitfalls.

40 minutes ago, BermudaBound2014 said:   You can't seriously believe that the primary reason  US travel agencies refuse to sell MSC has to do with NA client expectations?  I honestly don't know of any other cruise line that TA's refuse to work with.     

Nowhere in my post did I say this.

I just said that we might be happy as MSC cruisers because we know that customs, languages, and food can be different than in the USA.

17 minutes ago, Homosassa said: Nowhere in my post did I say this.   I just said that we might be happy as MSC cruisers because we know that customs, languages, and food can be different than in the USA.

In that case, please accept my apologies for misreading. 

GOLDENBONNY

16 hours ago, BermudaBound2014 said:   You can't seriously believe that the primary reason  US travel agencies refuse to sell MSC has to do with NA client expectations?  I honestly don't know of any other cruise line that TA's refuse to work with.    I certainly can't speak for all TA's but I can speak for my favorite (who refuses to sell anymore MSC even if she loses commission): Her rational revolves around  excessive wait times, inconsistent information, and a high frustration levels trying to resolve issues. I believe the final straw for her was the issue when her client got the "compromised passport documentation' letter.     In addition, MSC's the only cruise line I am aware of with a F rating at the BBB which should cause pause to even the most loyal fan.    Please understand, I'm not a MSC hater. At the right price point, it's a lovely option.  But I'm not one to turn a blind eye to some of the potential pitfalls.

I would love to know about F rating with BBB . Plus I work with huge USA agency and they have no problem to book MSC .

Linda the Book Lover

Our travel agent had no issue booking our last cruise with MSC except for long phone wait times. Being a professional she did not gripe about it just stated she would call me back when she reached them rather than my holding online. We had a great cruise and plan to book another one with MSC.

I did look at BBB and saw many complaints which were resolved and not shared online. It could be anything and may not be a large issue. Some people use BBB as a resource for issues that they may handle on their own but prefer having a larger known entity take care of it for them.

There are agents who will assist you both online and in person. No, I am not a travel agent nor have I wanted to be one. 

1 hour ago, Linda the Book Lover said: Our travel agent had no issue booking our last cruise with MSC except for long phone wait times. Being a professional she did not gripe about it just stated she would call me back when she reached them rather than my holding online. We had a great cruise and plan to book another one with MSC.   I did look at BBB and saw many complaints which were resolved and not shared online. It could be anything and may not be a large issue. Some people use BBB as a resource for issues that they may handle on their own but prefer having a larger known entity take care of it for them.   There are agents who will assist you both online and in person. No, I am not a travel agent nor have I wanted to be one. 

OMG I just had a pleasure to read those complaints. LOL it's amazing how many idiots on Earth.  😅

5 hours ago, GOLDENBONNY said: OMG I just had a pleasure to read those complaints. LOL it's amazing how many idiots on Earth.  😅

I started reading the BBB reports months ago and can say without a doubt that all the mainstream cruise lines get similar complaints. I also agree that they are quite comical to read.

However; that begs the question I am left pondering: "Why is it that MSC is the only cruise line with a failing BBB rating?"   Certainly they don't have more idiots sailing with them than the other lines! 

Carnival = A+

PRincess = A

Celebrity = A-

Oceana = A-

Holland = C

While BBB ratings probably mean very little to the average cruiser, my understanding is that a BBB rating is based on how a company is willing to resolve issues.  If so, it's relevant information to share with cruisers.

To tie the BBB discussion back to the tenets of this particular thread: If MSC is the only cruise line with a failing BBB rating and they are also are (or appear to be) the only cruise line that some travel agents refuse to sell, what relationship exists between the two variables~ Correlation or Causal?  

No harm intended to those who remain loyal to MSC, but I would hope other cruise enthusiasts also find the discussion interesting at the very least. 

As with sports cars, thoroughbreds, and opera, Italy has a cruise line that combines extreme enjoyment with disappointment. Fortunately, our Orlando-based TA has the intestinal fortitude to obtain our requested cabins and provide advance notice of MSC product changes such as the offerings on the repeatedly-delayed opening of Ocean Cay.

I wrote an earlier post called MSC Comedy of Errors, which you can search for here or Google, that details many of the frustrating experiences I went through in dealing with MSC customer service.  I can't tell you how many calls I had to make or how much time I spent on the phone trying to resolve many, many issues. Granted, I'm not a travel agent and this was a direct booking.  But I am an experienced cruiser, and I found the whole experience very, very time consuming and frustrating. I can certainly understand why a travel agent wouldn't want to deal with this sort of thing.  The compensation may not make up for the time spent sorting things out in some instances.

      10 hours ago, BermudaBound2014 said: No harm intended to those who remain loyal to MSC, but I would hope other cruise enthusiasts also find the discussion interesting at the very least.   

I find discussions on the boards filled with information and also sometimes not. I take all I read with a grain of salt and make up my own mind. Over the years I have found that no one cruise line has earned my total loyalty per se but I sail a ship for the itinerary or something I wish to try out on a certain trip. I do know initially there were many complaints about MSC, and I remind myself that they are based primarily in Europe and recently branching out. No worries and certainly no harm is done when one expresses their own opinion. 

1 hour ago, Fogfog said: Under which BBB is this found?   Any updates on Ocean Cay? I did some sleuthing recently and found he history of this man made island (formerly a mining operation) fascinating  

Better Business Report profiles are found under the location that the company is headquartered in the United States. I thought that the BBB was a United States watchdog organization and as far as I know, they only have one primary location for each company.

A general search including "_____ cruises BBB report" will take you to the placeholder for each line. 

RCL = A+ (Miami)

NCL = A + (Miami)

Carnival = A+ (Miami)

Costa = A (Hollywood, Fl)

Princess = A (Los Angeles)

Celebrity = A- (Miami)

Oceana = A- (Miami)

Holland = C  (Seattle)

MCS = F (Fort Lauderdale)

Certainly the BBB shouldn't be the only factor in deciding which cruise line to sail.  I find it interesting that MSC is in the bottom of the pack. Even Costa has managed an "A" rating. 

1 minute ago, BermudaBound2014 said:   Better Business Report profiles are found under the location that the company is headquartered in the United States. I thought that the BBB was a United States watchdog organization and as far as I know, they only have one primary location for each company.   A general search including "_____ cruises BBB report" will take you to the placeholder for each line.    RCL = A+ (Miami) NCL = A + (Miami) Carnival = A+ (Miami) Costa = A (Hollywood, Fl) Princess = A (Los Angeles) Celebrity = A- (Miami) Oceana = A- (Miami) Holland = C  (Seattle) MCS = F (Fort Lauderdale)   Certainly the BBB shouldn't be the only factor in deciding which cruise line to sail.   

Aren't cruise lines are flagged outside US... ?

Not certain what maritime laws provide nor do I claim to understand the  contract of carriage etc. It would never occur to me to complain to the BBB about a cruise issue

I highly doubt the A+ ratings as much as I doubt the F,  Spent too much time here on CC !

18 minutes ago, Fogfog said: Aren't cruise lines are flagged outside US... ? Not certain what maritime laws provide nor do I claim to understand the  contract of carriage etc. It would never occur to me to complain to the BBB about a cruise issue I highly doubt the A+ ratings as much as I doubt the F,  Spent too much time here on CC !  

Mainstream cruise lines are all flagged outside the US, but they each have a US addressed headquarter. I'm by no means an expert on the BBB, but remember, the ratings aren't based solely on consumer reviews.  

From the BBB..... "The grades represent BBB’s degree of confidence that the business is operating in a trustworthy manner and will make a good faith effort to resolve any customer concerns filed with the BBB." So in this case, an A+ does not mean that RCL is the best cruise line, it just means that the BBB believes the company holds high integrity and will work to resolve customer complaints. I suspect MSC's failure rating is related to unwillingness to resolve customer conflicts (which we read about here rather frequently).

I am more intrigued in understanding WHY MSC is the only line with a failure rating. A comparison among peers. I thought perhaps it was because they were "Italian", but the Costa data throws that theory to the wind. 

BBB ratings represent the BBB's opinion of how the business is likely to interact with its customers. The BBB rating is based on information BBB is able to obtain about the business, including complaints received from the public. ... BBB assigns ratings from A+ (highest) to F (lowest).

The organization says that trustworthy companies can become BBB "accredited," which can cost anywhere from hundreds to more than $10,000 in membership fees each year. ... While many people view the BBB as a consumer watchdog or even a government agency, the BBB itself says this is a misconception.

https://money.cnn.com/2015/09/30/news/better-business-bureau/index.html Tells another story with no date about BBB, dated September 2015. I am not a fan of CNN but I found the article interesting.

BBB Accreditation Cost: Each BBB has its own fee structure for businesses in their area. Those fees range from a few hundred dollars per year to thousands of dollars depending on the number of locations and employees a business has. Mar 22, 2019

To get an A+ rating, you need to get 97 points or more. The grade you ge t  from the BBB represents the BBB's degree of confidence that your business is operating in a trustworthy manner and will make a good faith effort to resolve any customer complaints. Nov 1, 2018

The BBB rating is based on information BBB is able to obtain about the business, including complaints received from the public. ... BBB assigns ratings from A+ (highest) to F (lowest).

If you're dissatisfied with a business transaction, whether the company is accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or not, you can file a complaint through your local BBB. ... But if that fails, the BBB promises to do its best to help both sides come to a quick and fair resolution.

The BBB helps many solve issues they felt they could not resolve on their own. They have also been helpful in putting out information to warn consumers about scams. I do not deny I have read various stories about what has happened to them when sailing MSC. I have also read stories speaking of highlights and great service. I feel MSC has tried to achieve a better experience by changing many of the things in the American market that Americans prefer when sailing.

MSC gets an A rating when it comes to cruise price. 

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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.

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• MSC Cruises temporarily closes Ocean Cay for renovation and...

MSC Cruises temporarily closes Ocean Cay for renovation and expansion

MSC Cruises has announced the temporary closure of Ocean Cay , its private island in the Bahamas, for extensive renovation and expansion from April 7 to May 22, 2024.

During this period, no ship calls will be scheduled. The temporary closure necessitates adjustments to 30+ cruises, with alternative destinations such as Nassau and Freeport . However, anticipation is building for the end of May 2024 when Ocean Cay will resume its role as a key destination for the MSC Magnifica , MSC Meraviglia , MSC Seascape , and MSC Seashore .

The last ship to call before the renovation was the MSC Divina on April 6, 2024, making the final docking before the island's temporary hiatus. This period will facilitate ambitious upgrades aimed at enhancing guest experience while reinforcing the island's environmental conservation efforts. The grand reopening is scheduled for May 23, 2024, with the MSC Meraviglia being the first to set sail to the revamped island.

Upon completion, visitors to Ocean Cay can expect a host of new features, including excursion centers for water sports activities and island tours, a dedicated diving and snorkeling center, and a variety of new dining options.

Beyond guest amenities, MSC Cruises is committed to creating a sustainable future for the island, which was transformed from an industrial sand mining site into a marine protected area since its opening in 2019. Key initiatives include the establishment of an MSC Foundation marine conservation center, serving as a hub for marine biologists, coral reef experts, and students. The center will feature interactive pavilions, a lecture hall, and coral display tanks aimed at educating visitors about the significance of marine ecosystems.

In line with its eco-friendly vision, MSC Cruises will introduce a third solar farm and an advanced wastewater treatment plant on Ocean Cay, significantly reducing the island's greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, a comprehensive landscape plan will be implemented to enrich the island's biodiversity with native and adaptable flora, further contributing to its sustainable environment.

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1,500 passengers trapped on cruise ship at port because of visa debacle.

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A cruise ship at a port in Spain has been forced to hold all 1,500 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 traveled 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.

Some family members of the Bolivian travelers 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.

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Cruise carrying 1,500 passengers stuck in Barcelona port over Bolivian visa dispute

The ship had sailed from Brazil and was on course for Croatia before the incident involving Bolivian passengers.

Wednesday 3 April 2024 16:30, UK

A cruise ship carrying hundreds of passengers is stuck in the port of Barcelona after a group of Bolivian passengers were found to have visa issues, according to officials.

Authorities said 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to leave the liner as they do not have valid documents to enter the EU's border-free Schengen area.

There are some 1,500 passengers on board the luxury MSC Armonia, which had set sail from Brazil and was to continue through the Mediterranean Sea to Croatia.

Spanish government officials in Barcelona said they were in contact with Bolivian authorities and MSC Cruises to resolve the situation.

The Bolivians on board included families and children, MSC Cruises said in a statement.

It said: "The passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil.

"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."

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'Treated like a criminal'

The ship remained in port while it works with authorities to rectify the incident, the company said.

A statement from the Bolivian Foreign Ministry said the Bolivian embassy in Spain and the country's consulate general in Barcelona "are carrying out the pertinent steps to address this case".

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Catalan newspaper Ara reported a Bolivian woman felt she was treated like "a criminal [in a] prison" despite claiming she paid for a visa from an agency which told her it was valid.

The newspaper also reported passengers claiming they had been allowed to leave the cruise in Tenerife without impediment, before being blocked in Malaga and eventually stopped in Barcelona.

The Schengen area is an ID check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries, most from the European Union.

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Cruise ship carrying 1,500 passengers stuck in Spain port due to Bolivian passengers’ visa problems

A view of the cruise ship MSC Armony moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

A passenger is photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Passengers are photographed on the cruise ship MSC Armony, moored in the port of Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Authorities said Wednesday that a group of 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona because they lack valid documents to enter the European Union’s Schengen area. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

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BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — A cruise ship reportedly carrying 1,500 passengers was stuck Wednesday in the Spanish northeastern port of Barcelona due to the visa problems of a group of Bolivian passengers who were due to disembark there, officials said.

Authorities say 69 Bolivians were not being allowed to leave the ship because they lacked valid documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area. Solange Duarte, a Bolivian diplomat in Barcelona, told The Associated Press she received reports 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, adding she heard it was possible the Bolivians would be transferred to a different ship.

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

Spanish state news agency Efe and other media said some 1,500 passengers were on board the MSC Armony hoping to continue the cruise to Croatia.

Bolivia’s deputy foreign affairs minister, Fernando Pérez, said the country was waiting “to see what the Spanish authorities decide what to do.”

A statement from the Bolivian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said the Bolivian Embassy in Spain and the country’s Consulate General in Barcelona “are carrying out the pertinent steps to address this case,” coordinating with Spanish authorities, as well as with the MSC Cruises Company.

MSC Cruises said in a statement the Bolivians included families and children.

It said the “passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil. 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.”

The company said the ship remained in port while it works with authorities to facilitate the process.

The Schengen area is an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries, most from the European Union.

This story was corrected to show that the Schengen zone is a European rather than European Union creation and comprises 29 countries.