Description

Mediterranean Shipping Company, a privately owned company with a longstanding history on the seas headed by captain Gianluigi Aponte, entered the cruise industry in 1988. After acquiring the Starlauro, a prestigious shipping company, and executing a total renewal and re-launch, MSC Cruises was officially born.

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

Ships

	MSC Armonia The luxury cruise ship MSC Armonia reflects her Italian name – this ship is a wonderful example of how space and intimacy can marry together in perfect harmony. One of MSC Cruises’ smaller ships, the lovely MSC Armonia oozes Italian style and caters for just over 3,000 guests, making it one of the best travel choices for a family cruise. Offering a selection of marvellous suites with private balconies, MSC Armonia offers the panoramic ocean views. Passengers desire together with spacious meeting areas ideal for gathering with friends and family as you embark on a voyage of a lifetime. Enjoy good times together and sunbathe at one of the 2 outdoor swimming pools, work out at the gym, relax at the wellness centre, dance the night away in the glittering discotheque, sample culture and entertainment in the onboard theatre or try your luck in the ritzy casino! Children will love the kids’ club and can even take in a round of mini-golf onboard! Enjoy a taste of ‘la bella vita’ and in the 2 restaurants or cosy pizzeria grills. MSC Cruises has completely restored MSC Armonia, one of MSC's early cruise liners. Now fitted out with modern amenities, you can get down to the serious business of relaxation amidst fine, elegant surroundings that are carefully designed with Italian panache and flair right down to the last important detail. MSC Armonia is a dream comes true – an extraordinary floating universe designed for one purpose only – so you can get the most enjoyment from your magical holiday cruise!	Launched: 1st April 2001 Tonnage: 58,625 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 700 Occupancy: 1,554 Rating: stars

	MSC Divina Prepare to meet the new star of the MSC fleet. Created with De Jorio Design International to take the acclaimed standards of MSC's Fantasia class to an entirely new level. Inspired by Sophia Loren herself, MSC Divina brings you all the elegance and glamour of the golden age of sea travel in a new vision. A spacious, ultramodern interpretation that pampers you with sumptuous comfort and an immense variety of sports and leisure facilities, plus world-class entertainment. Let your eyes drink in the sheer scale, style and attention to detail. From MSC Divina’s real stone piazza to her Broadway-size theatre. From the sweeping grace of her Swarovski crystal staircases to the calm of her Infinity Pool, extending seamlessly out to sea and the horizon beyond. Discover the opulent enhancements to the MSC Aurea Spa wellness centre on board, and the even more spacious and exclusive MSC Yacht Club, with its specially-commissioned works of art. Discover Sophia Loren Royal Suite. Lucky guests staying in suite number 16007 on deck 16 can revel in the glamour and style of a suite designed for and with the help of Ms Loren. Rich reds, specially designed lamps and a wild heather and red carpet have been chosen by her, while stunning photographs of her most memorable roles decorate the walls. A replica of the dressing table Ms Loren uses in her room has been fitted, allowing guests to get ready like a film star. Discover a cruise like no other on the spectacular floating city that is MSC Divina - a superb holiday destination in her own right, offering something for everyone at all times. So you can explore the Mediterranean as she has never been experienced before, from the beauty of a ship that’s simply divine.	Launched: 1st May 2012 Tonnage: 139,400 Length: 1094 feet Total Crew: 1,410 Occupancy: 3,478 Rating: stars

	MSC Fantasia MSC Fantasia is the largest cruise ship ever built for a European ship owner. The flagship from MSC Cruises is a masterpiece of Italian style: a perfect mix of advanced technology, elegance and exclusive services. Built with the environment in mind, the MSC Fantasia cruise liner is constructed in a modern spirit, as we help preserve the environment without sacrificing guests’ comfort. MSC Fantasia is not only a voyage of pleasure, but one of discovery. For the very first time on a ship, guests will walk on Swarovski crystal stairs. A transparent ceiling allows passengers to experience all the magic of sailing as they gaze at the starlit skies. With 27,000 m2 of public space, including the luxury MSC AUREA SPA, 5 restaurants, 4 swimming pools, 12 hydro-massage pools, coffee bars, shops, a children’s area, a Formula 1 simulator and an interactive 4-D cinema, you can truly rediscover yourself as you relax into your holiday. The MSC AREA SPA offers ultra-modern treatments such as therapeutic mud packs, perfumed vapours, aesthetic massages and much more. MSC Fantasia boasts an exclusive area: privileged passengers can sojourn in the MSC Yacht Club with 71 suites, a bar, solarium, 2 hydro-massage pools, 1 skydome swimming pool, concierge and glass-walled Observation Lounge where guests can enjoy amazing ocean views. A butler service will offer assistance at check-in, transport luggage, unpack, serve traditional English afternoon tea as well as arranging cigars and beverages, booking tables at restaurants, treatments in the MSC AUREA SPA, ad hoc excursions and even arranging a private party! MSC Fantasia takes luxury cruising to spectacular new heights – where all your holiday cruise fantasies come true.	Launched: 1st December 2008 Tonnage: 137,936 Length: 1092 feet Total Crew: 1,332 Occupancy: 3,274 Rating: stars

	MSC Lirica The MSC Lirica from MSC Cruises is the cruise ship that offers cosy comforts in a traditional yet elegant setting. If you are looking for a more casual resort ambience, decorated in an opulent yet relaxed style, the delightful MSC Lirica cruise liner is your ideal choice. MSC warm Mediterranean hospitality will put you right at ease and the modern array of amenities will ensure your every wish is catered for! Take a trip in style as you travel elegantly to your chosen destination. MSC Cruises’ fleet of luxury liners are renowned the world over for their fabulous attention to detail and quintessential Italian elegance. And on MSC Lirica you will soon see that the ship is as much a part of your voyage as the destination. MSC Lirica has a very cosmopolitan itinerary and this is reflected in two of her popular meeting places onboard: the American-style Beverly Hills bar and the welcoming English-style Lord Nelson pub. Take advantage of the best of world cuisines served at each restaurant. Take time out at the Lirica Health Centre: indulge in beauty and spa treatments as you look out though floor-to-ceiling picture windows and magnificent ocean views. Cruising is one of the best ways to see the sights and sounds of the world. MSC Lirica is an ideal choice for families and first-time cruise passengers thanks to its smaller size and welcoming atmosphere. Opt for one of MSC Cruises’ unique cruise itineraries and choose MSC Lirica for your next unforgettable cruise!	Launched: 1st March 2003 Tonnage: 59,058 Length: 251 feet Total Crew: 700 Occupancy: 1,560 Rating: stars

	MSC Magnifica Opulent and magnificent – get ready for a new class of luxury liner unlike any other. MSC Magnifica is the latest ‘Musica-class’ luxury cruise ship from MSC Cruises. After a stunning christening ceremony in Hamburg, the stunning MSC Magnifica cruise ship came into service in March 2010, offering a whole host of exciting travel destinations. A revolutionary and groundbreaking cruise ship, MSC Magnifica marries extraordinary comfort with pioneering design and technology to offer outstanding energy efficiency and environmental performance. The MSC Magnifica ship carries 2,500 passengers and most can enjoy the luxury of a sea-facing cabin with balcony. Lucky guests on MSC Magnifica are expertly looked after by a 1,000-strong crew, enjoying the best of modern Italian style as they embark on their chosen voyage. At the heart of MSC Magnifica is a lush haven of tranquillity, the luxurious MSC AUREA Spa. This sumptuous wellness centre offers a myriad of relaxation options from saunas and Turkish baths to a fitness centre, beauty salon, Thalassotherapy room, relaxation area and massage rooms. Why not give in to the magic of an authentic Balinese massage from professional masseurs? Recreation options onboard MSC Magnifica are endless. Soak up the sun in the solarium or choose from 3 swimming pools, one under the ingenious ‘Magrodome’ retractable roof – perfect for winter cruising. Anyone for tennis… or basketball for that matter, not to mention jogging! MSC Magnifica boasts all the fine dining and entertainment amenities you would expect on a superior luxury liner, and much more besides. With a choice of 5 restaurants, numerous bars, an internet café and cigar lounge - not forgetting the plush 1,200-seat theatre, cinema, casino and disco – the MSC Magnifica truly lives up to her Italian name – magnificent!	Launched: 6th March 2010 Tonnage: 95,128 Length: Unknown Total Crew: 1,027 Occupancy: 2,518 Rating: stars

	MSC Musica Cruises on the MSC Musica ship embody Italian sophistication and elegance. This wonderful liner offers guests a host of magnificent meeting areas and a glittering array of facilities. Be dazzled by the central foyer on MSC Musica, aglow with a three-tier waterfall and piano suspended over a crystal floor above a pool of luminous water. Further chances to shine abound in the Crystal Lounge, the fine Havana Club cigar lounge, stylish Kaito Sushi Bar and restful Zen garden, not to mention the superb Italian dining facilities. And with MSC Musica journeying to exotic cruise destinations such as Greece, Croatia and Brazil, you will soon feel in true harmony on whichever cruise you choose! MSC Musica is the first of MSC Cruises’ ‘Musica-class’ vessels. She became the belle of the ball in Venice on 29 June 2006, where a display of lights and colours celebrated the inauguration of MSC Musica. With Sophia Loren - the ambassador of Italian elegance worldwide - as her godmother, MSC Cruises’ MSC Musica is one of the best examples of sophistication and luxury yet. Give in to the temptation that is MSC Musica and enjoy one of the most relaxing yet modern modes of travel. Renowned for the hallmark Italian style, exceptional hospitality and elegant surroundings, MSC Cruises invites you to indulge in a true symphony of experiences on your next cruise! Visit the deck plan of MSC Musica and be inspired to take a voyage of discovery with MSC!	Launched: 1st May 2006 Tonnage: 89,600 Length: 961 feet Total Crew: 987 Occupancy: 2,550 Rating: stars

	MSC Opera The MSC Opera cruise ship certainly lives up to her name - classic, grand, opulent - and really is a luxury liner with something to sing about! A true sense of grandeur and spaciousness prevails on MSC Opera, one of MSC Cruises’ most welcoming cruise liners. Many of the staterooms on MSC Opera feature private balconies and all are roomy and comfortable. Displaying the hallmark Italian style found on all of MSC Cruises’ stately ships, the public areas are enhanced by a sweeping marble reception area and magnificent open spaces with glass walls in order to best exploit the fabulous ocean views. To travel on MSC Opera is to experience the best of old-fashioned elegance with the best of modern home comforts. Once onboard MSC Opera you can look forward to a truly authentic Italian experience: enjoy an espresso at the coffee bar or indulge in a typical handmade Italian treat at the ice cream bar. Take Italian lessons, stop by the Internet Café or catch up on news back home and make use of MSC Wi-Fi spots in select areas of the ship. Spend quality time with the kids in a round of mini-golf or take classes at the health club. And when evening falls, join us for an elegant seven-course dinner followed by outstanding entertainment in the splendid Teatro dell' Opera. On your next vacation, we invite you to embark on a magical voyage with MSC Opera as we venture to breathtaking destinations, for the best in classic cruising.	Launched: 1st April 2004 Tonnage: 58,600 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 750 Occupancy: 1,756 Rating: stars

	MSC Orchestra Launched on 14 May 2007, the spectacular MSC Orchestra is one of MSC Cruises' newest ships. The second of the ‘Musica-class’ line of cruise ships, MSC Orchestra offers the perfect blend of design, comfort and safety. Airy open spaces and MSC Cruises’ signature Italian style make MSC Orchestra a stylish pioneer for future cruise ship projects and designs. Onboard the luxury MSC Orchestra cruise ship you will be enthralled by the wide spectrum of entertainment facilities - jog on a dedicated track, indulge in a rejuvenating Turkish bath, dine at the Shanghai Chinese restaurant, relax in the exotic animal-print Savannah Bar, sumptuous Purple Bar or enjoy Hollywood-style glamour in the chic Zaffiro Bar. Try your luck at the Palm Beach Casino, dance the night away in the disco or take in a show at the Covent Garden Theatre, with a programme packed with entertaining shows with music. MSC Orchestra boasts a total of 16 decks, with sauna and whirlpool facilities, a wide choice of restaurants and cosy family pizzerias. Kids can go wild in the Jungle Adventure playroom whilst teens will quickly feel at home in the Teen’s Club.	Launched: 14th May 2007 Tonnage: 89,000 Length: 964 feet Total Crew: 987 Occupancy: 3,013 Rating: stars

	MSC Poesia Just as poetry brings lasting pleasure, the magnificent MSC Poesia cruise ship introduces a new dimension of enjoyment to the art of travelling by ship. Onboard our elegant cruise ship you will discover luxury cruising at its best - a spectacular waterfall with bridges in the foyer, a Zen garden in the sushi bar and a serene 12,000 square foot spa. Then imagine yourself on a private balcony overlooking the ocean and a star-filled sky and remember that this is the only way to voyage in style. The MSC Poesia, our third ‘Musica class’ ship was inaugurated in 2008. As you would expect with such a new cruise liner, our beautiful ship is built to the highest and most demanding ecological standards, resulting in a truly modern liner. Designed with the hallmark Italian flair and elegance that guests associate with the MSC Cruises, suites onboard MSC Poesia are spacious and elegant and most have private balconies. Staterooms are elegantly decorated and passengers will appreciate the attention to detail and craftsmanship throughout the whole ship. Guests can stimulate the palate in a wine-tasting bar or relax in the casual Mojito bar. Why not enjoy an open air cinema experience under the stars on an immense screen by the pool. Children will go crazy for the Stone Age dinosaur-themed play area and even teens are catered for in the Teen’s Club. Whether a luxury family holiday, a romantic break away or simply to rediscover your sense of self, the enchanting MSC Poesia offers an unparalleled cruise vacation that is sure to inspire.	Launched: 1st April 2008 Tonnage: 93,300 Length: 964 feet Total Crew: 987 Occupancy: 2,550 Rating: stars

	MSC Preziosa MSC is delighted to announce the forthcoming arrival of MSC Preziosa, an elegant new masterpiece in cruise ship design. Offering the utmost in comfort, service and advanced, environmentally-friendly technology, the 13th addition to the MSC Cruises fleet completes our flagship MSC Fantasia class. She shares many sophisticated features with her sister ships, from the exclusive designer suites of the MSC Yacht Club to the lavish wellbeing facilities of the MSC Aurea Spa. And like every ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, she is designed to offer all her guests the ultimate cruise experience.	Launched: 1st March 2013 Tonnage: 139,400 Length: 1093 feet Total Crew: 1,388 Occupancy: 3,502 Rating: stars

	MSC Sinfonia To step aboard MSC Cruises luxury ship MSC Sinfonia is to embark on a voyage back in time as you travel in elegant Italian style to ancient Mediterranean cruise destinations such as Venice, Capri and Athens or to beautiful South Africa. MSC Sinfonia is a ship distinctive in both design and comfort, marrying the best of continental style with world-class service and attention to detail. The welcoming, professional crew aboard this elegant liner are on hand to offer round-the-clock hospitality and quality service. MSC Sinfonia is named in homage to the rousing symphonies of Europe's great classical composers: from Beethoven's romantic masterpieces to Mozart's lively works, paired with the contemporary tones of Debussy, Tchaikovsky and Brahms. We are sure your cruise holiday will be one of perfect harmony whether you are a first-time cruise passenger or seasoned ocean traveller! And for the very first time onboard one of the MSC Cruises liners the MSC Sinfonia ship boasts a state-of-the art Virtual Golf Simulator that allows players, especially beginners, to practice their swing while sailing. Other state-of-the art amenities are found in the video games room and Teen Area. Don’t forget to recount your travels to envious friends back home from the well-equipped internet café! But there's more. Treat yourself in the hair salon, beauty centre or gym. With an array of shows, music, discotheques, casinos, and more, MSC Sinfonia offers a ‘symphony’ of sumptuous activities to do. Sun, sea and heaps of fun, a cruise holiday onboard MSC Sinfonia will truly be music to your ears.	Launched: 3rd March 2005 Tonnage: 58,625 Length: 824 feet Total Crew: 700 Occupancy: 1,554 Rating: stars

	MSC Splendida MSC Cruises continue to astound with its ‘Fantasia’ class of cruise ships. MSC Cruises welcomes MSC Splendida, a luxury cruise liner where the best of cutting-edge technology and exceptional comfort are splendidly combined. Futuristic, yet retaining Italian style and elegance, MSC Splendida is one of our most stunning ships yet. She is a cruise ship that acts as a blissful haven for her guests, enabling lucky passengers to ‘voyage’ rather than simply ‘travel’! MSC Cruises has laid out a 5-star service for demanding guests in the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive area complete with 71 spacious suites and 24-hour butler service. In the Top Sail Lounge complete with Skydome, guests can delight their palate under a dome of sparkling stars. For their well-being, guests may partake in the MSC AUREA Spa. Here, the magic of Balinese massage meets holistic water treatments, a legacy of Roman times. Saunas, Turkish bath, solarium, relaxation room, Thalassotherapy, massage room, whirlpool - guests can enjoy all the facilities in a relaxing, luxurious surroundings. Entertainment on-board the luxury MSC Splendida ship leaves guests spoilt for choice: 4 swimming pools, an exercise room, squash court, the chance to simulate the thrill of Formula 1, and more...	Launched: 1st June 2009 Tonnage: 137,936 Length: 1016 feet Total Crew: 1,332 Occupancy: 3,274 Rating: stars

Further Information

Cruise the Mediterranean

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

Dining

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

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

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

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

Leisure & Entertainment

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

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

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

Life on Board - Pampering

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

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

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

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

Cruises