MSC operates a large fleet that’s particularly appealing to budget-conscious travelers hoping to explore the world by sea. From smaller, older ships to large, modern ones, MSC’s portfolio has something for nearly every kind of cruiser, whether you prioritize top-notch entertainment or laid-back lounging.
However, with so many ships under its umbrella, not every MSC ship offers the same level of satisfaction. Some ships earn praise for their ambiance, staff, and overall experience, while others fall short in key areas like dining quality and onboard activities.
Before you decide on your next trip, it’s important to know which MSC ships are worth considering and which ones are worth avoiding altogether.
How I Ranked MSC’s Ships
To get a well-rounded view of MSC’s ships, I dug deep into popular cruise forums like CruiseLine.com and CruiseCritic. These sites are filled with firsthand stories from people who’ve been on these ships, giving me real insights into what works and what doesn’t. I also looked at TripAdvisor to read a wide range of passenger experiences, both good and bad.
Beyond these traveler reviews, I explored expert opinions from travel writers who regularly review cruises. I then expanded my research to social media, checking Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook posts to see what everyday cruisers were sharing. This mix of sources helped me form a balanced picture of each ship.
MSC Sinfonia
Class: Lirica-Class
Launched: 2002 (Refurbished 2015)
Capacity: 2,163 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)
Looking for a cozy cruising experience with a classic touch? MSC Sinfonia is a perfect choice. Launched in 2002, it is one of MSC’s older ships, though it underwent a 2015 refurbishment. It may lack the flashy amenities found on newer ships but makes up for it with charming décor, attentive service, and affordable, carefully curated itineraries.
The ship is particularly popular for Mediterranean itineraries, offering breathtaking views and easy embarkation at various ports of call. Sinfonia also features rotational dining, a mix of fine and casual options, and cozy cabins, though space might feel limited for some passengers.
Common Praises:
- Clean, well-Maintained ship: One guest shared, “The whole ship kept very clean. Room service was very good. The room was cleaned twice per day.”
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Affordable pricing and value-for-money itineraries
Common Critiques:
- Food quality is not up to standard, with one review mentioning: “The buffet was well below standard. Stale bread, rubbery eggs, undercooked pasta.”
- Cramped spaces, especially at buffet/public areas
- Long embarkation and disembarkation wait times
MSC Musica
Class: Musica-Class
Launched: 2006
Capacity: 2,550 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.7/5)
MSC Musica is a mid-sized cruise ship known for its relaxed ambiance and beautiful European décor. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate scenic destinations, with itineraries often focusing on the stunning Mediterranean and beyond. The ship features elegant interiors, spacious cabins, and a variety of dining options, including Italian-inspired cuisine.
While it lacks the flashy attractions of newer ships, its more traditional cruising atmosphere is perfect if you’re seeking a simple and relaxed cruise. Musica is particularly known for its well-organized shore excursions, giving passengers a chance to explore historical landmarks and scenic locales with ease.
Common Praises:
- Beautiful and elegant interiors
- Classic cruise vibe
- Excellent shore excursions, well-planned itineraries
- Friendly and attentive staff
Common Critiques:
- Certain areas suffer from overcrowding
- Long embarkation and disembarkation processes
- Inconsistent food quality and limited options in buffet
MSC Divina
Class: Fantasia-Class
Launched: 2012
Capacity: 4,345 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)
MSC Divina brings Italian elegance to the high seas with its stylish decor and impressive amenities. The ship offers both modern luxury and classic charm, featuring a Swarovski crystal staircase, expansive pools, and diverse entertainment options.
Designed for both families and couples, the ship caters to a wide range of passengers with activities ranging from fitness classes to live shows. The ship’s private island, Ocean Cay, is a standout highlight for many, providing a relaxing escape with pristine beaches and clear waters.
Common Praises:
- Elegant decor and stylish design,
- Affordable pricing/value-packed itineraries
Common Critiques:
- Signs of wear and tear: A passenger stated, “The ship is old and needs to be remodeled. It felt outdated compared to newer cruise ships I’ve been on.”
- Overcrowded buffet and dining areas
- Inconsistent service, particularly in bars and lounges
MSC Splendida
Class: Fantasia-Class
Launched: 2009
Capacity: 4,363 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
MSC Splendida is a popular ship known for its sleek Italian design and comfortable onboard amenities. Cruisers frequently highlight the numerous dining venues, stylish bars, spacious pools, and engaging entertainment options.
With a focus on providing an affordable cruising experience, the ship is great for families, couples, and solo travelers. Its spacious Yacht Club offers a more exclusive experience for those looking for premium service and amenities. Destinations like the Mediterranean, Africa, and beyond make Splendida a top choice for exploring the world.
Common Praises:
- Stylish design and elegant public spaces
- Affordable pricing and good value for money
- Friendly and hardworking staff, especially in Yacht Club
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded pools, elevators, and buffets
- Limited dining options with restricted hours
- Signs of aging in cabins and public areas
MSC Seaside
Class: Seaside-Class
Launched: 2017
Capacity: 5,119 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
MSC Seaside features a sleek, modern design and plenty of outdoor space. A highlight of the ship is its wraparound decks and glass-bottom bridges that give stunning views of the ocean. With diverse dining options, plenty of pools, and exciting entertainment, the ship promises a vibrant atmosphere for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
The ship is popular for its Caribbean itineraries, with a private island stop at Ocean Cay that is particularly appealing to those seeking sunny escapes. For travelers seeking a budget-friendly cruise with excellent outdoor spaces and a lively vibe, the Seaside often delivers a memorable vacation experience.
Common Praises:
- Excellent outdoor spaces: One guest remarked, “We spent a lot of time at Top19. It was nice and quiet, with great views and access to the bar.”
- Stylish and modern design
- Budget-friendly pricing
Common Critiques:
- Customer service problems: One cruiser shared, “Rude customer service. Inappropriate! Beds in the cabin weren’t safe for kids less than 6 years old.”
- Overcrowding in public spaces
- Inconsistent food quality and limited dining options
MSC Lirica
Class: Lirica-Class
Launched: 2003
Capacity: 1,984 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
MSC Lirica is a charming, mid-sized cruise ship offering a more intimate experience compared to its larger counterparts. Known for its beautiful Mediterranean-inspired design, it focuses on providing a relaxed vibe.
The ship is perfect for cruisers looking to explore unique destinations in a less crowded environment. On board, you’ll find everything from cozy staterooms, a variety of dining options, and engaging entertainment, making it a solid choice for first-time cruisers or if you’re seeking a budget-friendly voyage.
Common Praises:
- Intimate atmosphere and easy navigation of the ship
- Unique itineraries featuring less-visited ports
- Friendly and attentive staff
Common Critiques:
- Dated interiors and limited modern amenities: A reviewer noted, “The ship is old and in bad shape. My room had a green carpet, and I saw people working to repair some dome during the cruise.”
- Mediocre food quality and limited variety
- Inconsistent service at embarkation and excursions
MSC Euribia
Class: Meraviglia-Plus
Launched: 2023
Capacity: 6,327 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
MSC Euribia is a modern ship, renowned for its sleek design and vibrant promenade adorned with LED displays. The ship features an impressive array of amenities, including multiple pools, a sprawling water park, and a variety of dining venues, from specialty restaurants to a vast buffet.
The ship is particularly family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids and teens. Overall, it is a good fit for those seeking an affordable cruise on a new, stylish ship. Keep in mind that it might not meet your expectations if you’re looking for top-tier service.
Common Praises:
- Stunning and modern ship design
- Beautiful promenade area
- Family-friendly with kids’ facilities and activities
- Smooth and efficient embarkation process
- Great value for money
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded public areas
- Long waits at bars and restaurants
- Food quality/variety is average
- Noise complaints in cabins
- Inconsistent service
MSC Fantasia
Class: Fantasia
Launched: 2008
Capacity: 4,363 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.4/5)
MSC Fantasia is a mid-sized cruise ship that strikes a balance between classic elegance and modern amenities. Known for its elegant décor, spacious lounges, and a variety of dining options, it appeals to both families and budget-conscious travelers.
The ship features many facilities, including pools, a spa, and the exclusive Yacht Club, offering a more premium cruising experience. Despite its age, Fantasia has been well-maintained, with reviews often mentioning its clean cabins and tasteful decor.
Common Praises:
- Beautiful and clean ship: One reviewer remarked, “The MSC Fantasia is a nice ship and the crew couldn’t have been nicer. The food was decent in the main dining room and the buffet food was quite good.”
- Good variety of itineraries: Another passenger noted, “We booked this cruise because it was affordable, and the itinerary included Venice and Dubai—two destinations we always wanted to visit.”
- Affordable pricing, often with discounts for families and groups
- Friendly and hardworking crew
Common Critiques:
- Mixed food quality: A reviewer stated, “Food-wise, the buffet was just meh—always busy. Food was usually cold, and the selection was not impressive.”
- Noise issues in some cabins: A passenger complained, “We were in a balcony room on the 8th deck, right above the Manhattan Club. This place is so noisy at night. It was worse than I expected.”
- Crowded buffet areas
- Long wait times during peak hours
- Limited onboard activities for teens/young adults
MSC Poesia
Class: Musica
Launched: 2008
Capacity: 2,550 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.4/5)
MSC Poesia is a mid-sized ship with a focus on stylish design and European elegance. Highlights include a Zen garden, a lush waterfall in the atrium, and a vibrant array of lounges and entertainment spaces.
Poesia offers a family-friendly atmosphere with kids’ clubs, a variety of pools, and a mix of dining experiences. The ship is well-suited for itineraries across the Mediterranean, Baltic, and transatlantic routes, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking value and scenic journeys.
Common Praises:
- Clean and well-maintained ship
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Affordable pricing
- Scenic itineraries with a variety of destinations
Common Critiques:
- Areas can be crowded at times
- Food quality and variety not the best
- Limited entertainment options
- Issues with itinerary changes/lack of compensation
MSC Preziosa
Class: Fantasia
Launched: 2013
Capacity: 4,345 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
MSC Preziosa is a relatively modern ship that combines Italian flair with a range of amenities catering to families and couples. The ship is known for its spacious public areas, including features like the Vertigo waterslide, an infinity pool, and the Yacht Club.
With a mix of dining options, theaters, and kids’ clubs, Preziosa aims to offer something for everyone, especially on routes across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Baltic Sea.
Common Praises:
- Affordable pricing for varied itineraries: A passenger noted, “It was good and more affordable than other lines. Our cabin was spacious, and the itinerary was exactly what we wanted.”
- Beautiful ship with elegant design
- Friendly and hardworking staff, particularly in dining and housekeeping
- Family-friendly amenities
Common Critiques:
- Challenges with embarkation/disembarkation: A passenger complained, “Embarking and disembarking were chaotic. People were coming and going at each port, making it feel disorganized.”
- Overcrowded dining areas and bars
- Inconsistent food quality, with some dishes served cold
- Limited entertainment
MSC Bellissima
Class: Meraviglia
Launched: 2019
Capacity: 4,500 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
MSC Bellissima is a modern, eye-catching ship that is part of the Meraviglia class. A standout feature is the Galleria Bellissima, a stunning two-deck promenade with LED dome shows. It also offers a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.
The ship caters to families and couples alike with water parks, kids’ clubs, and thrilling evening performances, including Cirque du Soleil at Sea. With its sleek design and emphasis on style, Bellissima aims to create memorable experiences for travelers exploring Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Common Praises:
- Beautiful, modern design: One passenger remarked, “What a stupendous ship – such an exciting design, with friendly and attentive staff. The facilities were excellent (especially for kids) and were kept very clean.”
- Wide variety of activities for all ages: A cruiser shared, “Food was excellent, service second to none. Loved the water park – no queues at all, and there were plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.”
- High-quality entertainment
- Friendly and hardworking staff
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowding in dining areas and public spaces: One reviewer stated, “This ship takes 5,700 guests, but lucky there were only 1,700 on this cruise; otherwise, it would have been bedlam.”
- Inconsistent food quality, especially in buffet selections
- Embarkation and disembarkation process can be chaotic
- Pushy upselling for extras like drink packages and excursions
MSC Magnifica
Class: Musica
Launched: 2010
Capacity: 2,550 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
MSC Magnifica is a mid-sized cruise ship that offers both classic elegance with a variety of modern amenities. Guests are welcomed by spacious public areas, stylish interiors, and a wide selection of dining and entertainment options.
The ship features standout highlights like the serene MSC Aurea Spa, a 4D cinema, and many outdoor spaces, including a retractable pool area ideal for all-weather cruising. Magnifica’s size makes it easy to navigate while still offering a good mix of activities and venues to suit diverse tastes.
Common Praises:
- Well-maintained interiors
- Excellent service from staff
- Family-friendly amenities, including pools and kids’ activities
- Good value for money
Common Critiques:
- Inconsistent food quality
- Some cabins reported as dated or not well-maintained
- Overcrowding at peak times in certain areas
- Upselling for drink packages and other extras
MSC Armonia
Class: Lirica
Launched: 2001
Capacity: 2,679 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
MSC Armonia is a classic mid-sized ship offering a more intimate cruising experience. While it lacks the modern flash of newer ships, it has a cozy charm that appeals to those seeking a laid-back voyage.
The ship features many dining options, comfortable cabins, and an entertainment program that shines with its theater shows. Overall, it’s a solid budget-friendly choice for exploring popular itineraries such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
Common Praises:
- Excellent theater shows with impressive talent
- Affordable pricing for budget-conscious travelers
- Great itineraries with scenic and culturally rich destinations
Common Critiques:
- Small, dated cabins and bathrooms
- Inconsistent food quality in buffet and main dining
- Overcrowding during peak times in public areas
- Long queues for drinks and other services
MSC Opera
Class: Lirica
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 2,679 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
For those who prefer a smaller, more traditional cruise ship, MSC Opera is a great option. Its size makes it easier to navigate, and many guests appreciate its clean interiors and friendly staff. The ship offers a mix of entertainment, dining options, and social spaces, though its older age means fewer flashy amenities.
Popular with those seeking budget-friendly itineraries, the Opera shines with well-planned routes to scenic destinations like the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
Common Praises:
- Friendly and hardworking crew
- Clean and well-maintained public spaces
- Scenic itineraries with interesting ports of call
Common Critiques:
- Small cabins and outdated facilities: One passenger stated, “The ship is older, and you can tell in places. Fixtures are worn, and the cabins feel quite small compared to newer ships.”
- Limited dining options with inconsistent quality
- Overcrowded buffet areas during peak times
- Service delays at bars and restaurants
MSC Seaview
Class: Seaside
Launched: 2018
Capacity: 5,119 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.1/5)
MSC Seaview is a modern, stylish cruise ship designed to offer a vibrant and lively onboard experience. Its sleek design emphasizes outdoor spaces, with plenty of open decks, a glass-bottom skywalk, and panoramic elevators.
Seaview is particularly popular for Mediterranean and South American itineraries, offering great opportunities to enjoy scenic destinations. The ship features many dining options, entertainment venues, and family-friendly attractions, making it a great choice for families and groups.
Common Praises:
- Modern and visually stunning ship design
- Plenty of outdoor spaces
- Family-friendly amenities, such as water parks and slides
- Varied Mediterranean and South American itineraries
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowding in pools, buffets, and public areas
- Inconsistent food quality
- Limited dining options
- Long wait times for elevators and bar service
- Issues with customer service
MSC Orchestra
Class: Musica
Launched: 2007
Capacity: 2,550 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
MSC Orchestra is a mid-sized cruise ship that offers a variety of onboard experiences to suit different tastes. With spacious lounges, multiple dining venues, and entertainment options ranging from live shows to themed parties, the ship caters to families, couples, and solo travelers.
Orchestra’s Mediterranean and African itineraries are popular for exploring beautiful destinations at a budget-friendly price point. Other highlights include the live entertainment, friendly crew, and cozy cabins, making it a decent choice for travelers seeking affordability over luxury.
Common Praises:
- Spacious public areas and lounges
- Affordable pricing
- Excellent live entertainment and shows
- Friendly and hardworking crew
Common Critiques:
- Inconsistent food quality and limited dining options
- Embarkation and disembarkation delays
- Older ship design showing signs of wear
MSC Grandiosa
Class: Meraviglia Plus
Launched: 2019
Capacity: 6,334 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
MSC Grandiosa is one of the largest and most modern ships in the MSC fleet, designed to wow passengers with its luxurious décor, high-tech features, and a vast array of onboard amenities. Highlights include the impressive LED dome over the indoor promenade, which creates a stunning visual experience, and numerous specialty dining options, such as French bistros and sushi bars.
With itineraries primarily focused on the Mediterranean, the Grandiosa offers travelers a chance to visit iconic destinations while enjoying a resort-like experience at sea. Overall, the ship is a solid choice, though the service and overall dining quality may not meet certain expectations.
Common Praises:
- Scenic itineraries with interesting ports of call: One guest remarked, “We chose this cruise due to the itinerary, which had a lot of ports we wanted to visit, and it did not disappoint.”
- Modern and visually stunning design
- The LED dome in the promenade area
- Wide range of activities and entertainment
- Excellent service in the Yacht Club
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded buffet areas during peak times: One passenger stated, “The big buffet restaurant was overcrowded all day long. Each day, going for a meal felt like a battle for seating and service.”
- Food quality and variety inconsistent
- Pushy upselling of drinks and packages
- Noise levels and thin cabin walls
MSC Meraviglia
Class: Meraviglia
Launched: 2017
Capacity: Around 4,500 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
MSC Meraviglia is a modern, family-friendly cruise ship with impressive entertainment, and vibrant onboard activities. At the heart of the ship is the stunning Galleria, a two-deck indoor promenade with a massive LED ceiling. It’s a vibrant hub for light shows, dining, shopping, and entertainment.
The ship’s Aqua Park and multiple pools make it a hit for families, while adults can enjoy sophisticated nightlife, specialty restaurants, and relaxing spa treatments.
Despite its grandeur, the MSC Meraviglia has received mixed reviews, with common complaints about overcrowding, uneven service, and food quality. While some travelers enjoy its design and standout features, these issues might be worth considering before booking.
Common Praises:
- Clean and well-maintained public spaces: A reviewer remarked, “The ship itself was impressive, with a typical Crystal staircase in the main atrium and a large two-level digital ceiling arcade that was beautifully maintained.”
- Spectacular LED-lit Galleria promenade
- Affordable pricing for families and groups
- Wide variety of dining options
- Entertainment, especially Cirque du Soleil at Sea
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded buffet and public spaces
- Long embarkation and disembarkation times
- Inconsistent service quality and cleanliness
- Internet packages and drink inclusions often cause frustration
MSC World Europa
Class: World Class
Launched: 2022
Capacity: 6,762 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
MSC World Europa is a strikingly modern mega-ship, designed to offer a mix of futuristic innovation and luxurious comfort. The ship’s cutting-edge design and expansive spaces are a standout feature, including its unique Y-shaped stern and a 341 ft. (104-meter)-long outdoor promenade.
It features everything from the longest dry slide at sea to a variety of specialty dining options, offering plenty of activities for passengers of all ages.
However, while the ship’s grand design and diverse facilities receive much praise, reviews highlight mixed experiences with service and dining. Some have found the food and service quality inconsistent. Additionally, the ship can feel crowded at times, particularly in popular dining and recreational areas.
Common Praises:
- Stunning and modern design
- Plenty of public spaces
- Impressive amenities, such as the dry slide and promenade views
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- Wide variety of dining options
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded buffets and public areas
- Inconsistent food quality, particularly in main dining rooms
- Service can feel impersonal and rushed due to the ship’s size
- Complaints of noise in cabins near busy areas
MSC Seashore
Class: Seaside EVO Class
Launched: 2021
Capacity: 5,632 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
The MSC Seashore is a modern and stylish ship designed for sun-seekers and entertainment lovers. With its extended design, the Seashore offers an abundance of outdoor spaces, including the stunning Infinity Aft Pool and the longest bridge at sea for breathtaking ocean views.
The ship features a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, along with state-of-the-art technology for a smoother passenger experience. It also includes family-friendly amenities and dedicated Yacht Club spaces for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
Unfortunately, the MSC Seashore has received mixed reviews. There have been serious concerns with food quality, customer service, and crowd management. The ship’s focus on maximizing staterooms has led to critiques about limited open-concept spaces and occasional congestion in common areas.
Common Praises:
- Family-friendly amenities
- Quick and efficient embarkation process
- Dedicated Yacht Club for a more luxurious experience
Common Critiques:
- Inconsistent food quality
- Customer service can feel impersonal at times
- Crowded elevators and limited open spaces
- Disappointing entertainment quality
MSC Virtuosa
Class: Meraviglia-Plus Class
Launched: 2021
Capacity: 6,334 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.8/5)
The MSC Virtuosa is a large, tech-focused ship, offering a range of dining options, family activities, and a state-of-the-art promenade. On board, you’ll also find multiple pools, a variety of entertainment venues, and a popular Yacht Club for those seeking a more exclusive cruising experience.
Virtuosa is a ship built to impress visually, with stunning decor and modern amenities, but it has faced challenges balancing its size with delivering consistent service quality.
While the Virtuosa has received positive reviews for its design, dining spaces, and overall atmosphere, many reviews point out struggles with overcrowding, inconsistent food quality, and service issues. The ship’s high passenger count often leads to congestion in public areas, difficulty finding seats in restaurants or lounges, and long waits for bar service.
Common Praises:
- Beautiful and modern design
- Excellent onboard technology
- Variety of dining options
- Popular Yacht Club offering a more luxurious experience
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded spaces, particularly in dining and entertainment areas
- Inconsistent food quality, especially in buffets
- Service issues, with long wait times at bars and unresponsive staff
- Noise levels and lack of quiet spaces
MSC Seascape
Class: Seaside EVO Class
Launched: 2022
Capacity: 5,877 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2.2/5)
The MSC Seascape is a modern ship with panoramic views, glass-floored skywalks, and expansive outdoor areas. Its modern design and stylish decor are a plus, while its layout aims to offer something for every type of traveler, from families to couples.
Despite its sleek design, reviews for this ship are overwhelmingly negative. Common complaints include service inconsistencies and food quality issues. Some guests feel the ship’s high passenger count can lead to overcrowding in public areas like the buffet and pools.
Unfortunately, this is MSC’s worst rated ship and is best avoided for most cruisers.
Common Praises:
- Modern design
- Family-friendly amenities: A guest remarked, “Just to get started, everything about this place was mind-blowing! Beautiful ship, lots of things to do, a waterpark for the kids and so much more.”
- Clean and well-maintained common areas
Common Critiques:
- Overcrowded pools and buffet areas:
One passenger commented, “The buffet was so crowded, especially on embarkation, that it was impossible to find a table and the plates were disappearing.” - Inconsistent food quality and limited variety in buffet options:
A reviewer shared, “The food was absolutely awful, only decent bit of food was the pizza, and even at that, it wasn’t great.” - Service issues, including unresponsive staff in some areas:
Another guest stated, “Customer service was a letdown; staff at the reception were just incompetent. Three times I tried to get help, and they did nothing to resolve my issues.” - Cabin bathrooms reportedly small and cramped
Which MSC Ship Should You Choose?
If you’re simply looking for an affordable cruise experience without all the flashy amenities found on other lines, MSC could be a solid choice. Most of their ships provide a basic but decent vacation at a lower cost, which suits travelers who aren’t expecting top-of-the-line features or gourmet dining.
That said, to avoid a potentially disappointing trip, it’s best to stay away from ships rated 3 stars or under. Frequent complaints on these ships include subpar food, service issues, severe overcrowding, long lines, and high noise levels. In particular, MSC Seascape, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Seashore, MSC World Europa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Grandiosa, and MSC Orchestra have all drawn such concerns.
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