Choosing Cruising On MSC Cruises Fantasia Class

In a cruising world awash with megaships and floating cities that dazzle with robotic bartenders, virtual balconies, and rollercoasters at sea, it’s easy to overlook the quiet elegance of MSC Cruises Fantasia Class. But don’t be fooled by their slightly older build dates, these ships offer a classic cruise experience with just enough sparkle and style to make them truly stand out in today’s sea of steel giants.

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between booking the latest floating resort of the ocean or something a touch more refined, then the Fantasia Class, composed of MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina, and MSC Preziosa, might just be your perfect match. And with the delightful news that MSC Preziosa is making her way back to the UK for Winter 2026/27, there’s no better time to get acquainted with this fabulous fleet.

What Is Fantasia Class?

Let’s start at the beginning. The Fantasia Class ships were launched between 2008 and 2013, each one refining and building upon the last. Designed during a time when cruise lines were transitioning from traditional layouts to more resort-style experiences, Fantasia Class strikes a balance between grandeur and comfort.

These aren’t the biggest ships in MSC’s arsenal, that title belongs to the World Class and Meraviglia Plus Class ships, but they’re far from small. Ranging from approximately 137,000 to 139,000 gross tons, these ships carry around 4,000 passengers, making them large enough to have plenty of bells and whistles without becoming overwhelming.

The Fantasia Four: Meet the Fleet

MSC Fantasia (2008)

As the first in the class, MSC Fantasia set the tone with her sleek design and Italian flair. Highlights include an elegant Swarovski crystal staircase, a grand theatre, and ample lounge space that leans more towards luxury than gimmickry.

MSC Splendida (2009)

Splendida followed Fantasia with a slightly updated layout and decor. She’s especially popular for her wellness options, including an expansive MSC Aurea Spa and upgraded pool areas.

MSC Divina (2012)

Named in honour of screen legend Sophia Loren, Divina upped the ante with more sophisticated features and a chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere. She’s also the first Fantasia Class ship to homeport in North America, where she made quite the splash.

MSC Preziosa (2013)

The baby of the bunch and often considered the most refined of the four, Preziosa combines all the best bits of her sisters with even more polish. And yes, she’s the one we’ll be welcoming back to the UK shores in winter 2026/27. More on that later!

What Sets Fantasia Class Apart?

In the age of skydiving simulators and go-kart tracks at sea, you might wonder: what makes the Fantasia Class ships stand out?
Well, it’s all about timeless luxury, smart design, and a more relaxed, European style of cruising.

1. Yacht Club: A Ship Within a Ship

Possibly the most compelling reason to choose a Fantasia Class ship is the MSC Yacht Club, MSC’s “ship within a ship” concept. While this private enclave exists on other MSC ships too, it truly shines on the Fantasia Class where the scale of the ship allows it to feel more exclusive and personalised.

Yacht Club guests enjoy:

• A private lounge with premium drinks
• A dedicated restaurant
• A secluded sun deck with pool and hot tubs
• 24/7 butler and concierge service
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation

It’s like sailing on a luxury cruise line, while still enjoying the amenities of a larger ship. Ideal for those who like a bit of pampering but also want the buzz of Broadway-style shows and onboard activities.

2. A More Elegant Pace

Fantasia Class ships are less frantic than the mega-liners. There’s no need to elbow your way into a trampoline park or queue for an hour to ride a ten-storey slide. Instead, you’ll find sun loungers actually available, piano music drifting through lounges, and dinner served with white-gloved finesse.

It’s cruising the way it used to be, only better.

3. Refurbishments and Enhancements

These ladies aren’t resting on their laurels either. Over the years, MSC has given them various upgrades to keep them feeling fresh. Examples include:

• Enhanced kids and teens’ areas with LEGO and Chicco partnerships
• Upgraded spa facilities and gym equipment
• New dining options added, like Eataly on Divina
• Technological improvements like MSC for Me on some ships (a digital assistant and smart navigation app)

They might not have robotic mixologists, but they do have mixologists who smile and remember your favourite cocktail.

World Class vs Fantasia Class

Let’s be honest, World Class ships like MSC World Europa are jaw-dropping. They’re new, massive, and positively packed with features. But sometimes, bigger isn’t always better. While the World Class vessels can carry around 6,700 passengers and weigh in at an impressive 215,000 gross tons, Fantasia Class ships are slightly more modest in size, accommodating approximately 4,000 guests and measuring around 137,000 gross tons.

This difference in scale translates to a more relaxed, less crowded experience aboard the Fantasia Class, without sacrificing the variety and vibrancy of larger ships. The Yacht Club, for example, though available on both classes, feels more intimate and refined on the Fantasia ships, with fewer guests and a quieter ambiance. Dining on Fantasia Class ships tends to lean toward traditional elegance, offering a more curated culinary journey compared to the sprawling, diverse options found on the mega ships. So, while the World Class is ideal for families, thrill-seekers, and those after cutting-edge innovation, the Fantasia Class appeals more to classic cruisers, couples, and those looking for a sophisticated escape with a more personal touch.

MSC Preziosa Returns to the UK!

Now for the headline news: MSC Preziosa is returning to the UK for Winter 2026/27! She’ll be homeporting in Southampton, offering British cruisers an easy and luxurious getaway without the hassle of flying.

This is a particularly savvy move by MSC, as it ties into the growing demand for no-fly cruising among UK travellers. Preziosa’s itineraries are expected to include Northern Europe, the Canary Islands, and perhaps even some winter Mediterranean gems.
For British cruisers used to the likes of P&O or Cunard, Preziosa offers a slightly different flavour, continental elegance, multilingual service, and a ship that feels like a floating five-star hotel with an Italian soul.

And of course, she’ll be bringing her Yacht Club along too. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the allure of the Italian Riviera in winter without leaving Blighty, this is your chance.

Who Should Choose Fantasia Class?

If you’re reading this and nodding along, chances are Fantasia Class is calling your name.

But to break it down:

• First-time cruisers: Great introduction without being overwhelmed.
• Couples & honeymooners: Romantic, elegant, and stylish.
• Solo travellers: Less chaotic, with more intimate spaces.
• Experienced cruisers: A classic twist on modern cruising.
• Luxury lovers on a budget: The Yacht Club is unbeatable value compared to luxury only lines.
• Multigenerational families: Enough for kids and teens, with grown up quiet zones.

Why Fantasia Still Fantasies Us

In a world where cruise ships are racing to outdo each other in sheer spectacle, Fantasia Class reminds us of the magic of classic cruising. It’s where elegance meets modern convenience, where you can retreat to the privacy of the Yacht Club or dive into an energetic Latin dance class in the evening.

With Preziosa heading back to the UK, it’s a golden opportunity for British cruisers to sample the best of this class, right on their doorstep. So if you’re browsing itineraries and weighing up the glitz of the giants against the glamour of something a bit more grown-up, don’t overlook the ships that helped redefine modern cruising in the first place.