MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is owned by the Aponte family, a renowned Italian family with a long history in the shipping industry. The company was founded by Gianluigi Aponte in 1989 and remains a family-run business to this day. As a privately owned company, MSC Cruises is part of the larger Mediterranean Shipping Company Group, which also operates container shipping and logistics services globally. This ownership structure allows MSC Cruises to maintain its core values of providing exceptional service, luxury experiences, and a strong commitment to innovation. With the Aponte family at the helm, MSC Cruises continues to lead the way in offering memorable voyages across the world.

MSC stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company, a name that reflects the company’s roots in the Mediterranean region. Originally focused on container shipping, MSC has grown to become a global powerhouse in both logistics and cruise industries. The cruise line, MSC Cruises, takes the Mediterranean spirit across the world, offering passengers a unique blend of European elegance, world-class service, and innovative onboard experiences. The MSC brand has always been synonymous with high-quality service, both at sea and on land, with its diverse fleet and commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences.

MSC Cruises offers a fantastic range of inclusions, ensuring you enjoy a seamless and memorable holiday at sea. When you book with MSC, you can expect:

1. Accommodation – Stay in stylish, well-equipped staterooms, ranging from interior cabins to luxurious suites, all designed with comfort and convenience in mind.
2. Dining – Enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual buffet meals to fine dining restaurants, all offering high-quality cuisine.
3. Entertainment – MSC Cruises provides a wide range of onboard entertainment, including live shows, themed events, and activities for all ages.
4. Kids’ Clubs – For families, MSC offers supervised kids’ clubs and family-friendly activities, ensuring children have a fun and safe environment to enjoy.
5. Fitness and Recreation – Keep active with a range of fitness facilities, including gyms, pools, and sports courts, plus wellness options like spas and wellness centres.
6. Onboard Activities – Whether you’re into dancing, cooking classes, or relaxing in a quiet lounge, MSC Cruises offers a variety of activities to suit every guest.

Additionally, depending on your cruise package, MSC offers various premium inclusions, such as beverages, excursions, and Wi-Fi, for an even more indulgent experience.

The cost of drinks on MSC Cruises can vary depending on the type of beverage and where it’s served. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Soft drinks – Around £2.50 to £3.50 per can or glass.
• Beer – Around £4 to £5 for a regular beer.
• Wine – Glasses of house wine generally range from £5 to £8, with bottles priced from £20 upwards, depending on the selection.
• Cocktails – Cocktails typically cost between £6 and £12, depending on the ingredients and complexity.
• Specialty Coffees – Around £2 to £4 for a coffee from a café onboard.

Drink Packages

MSC Cruises offers various drink packages, which can provide better value for guests who plan to enjoy a variety of drinks. Here are some examples:

• Premium Extra Package: Approximately £70 per person per day. This package includes premium-brand spirits, liqueurs, wine, cocktails, soft drinks, juices, and specialty coffees, along with a 25% discount on bottled wine and Champagne purchased onboard. Beverage gratuities are included.
• Alcohol-Free Package: Approximately £45 per person per day. Includes signature non-alcoholic cocktails, mocktails, soft drinks, energy drinks, and hot beverages, with gratuities included.
• Minors Package: Approximately £30 per child per day. This package includes non-alcoholic drinks, mocktails, fruit juices, and soft drinks, as well as still and sparkling water.

Complimentary Beverages

Certain beverages are included in the cruise fare, such as water, hot drinks (milk, coffee, and tea), and fruit juices at no extra charge, typically available in the buffet and main restaurants. These are generally dispensed from machines and may be of standard quality. Freshly squeezed juices or specialty coffees may be available for an additional charge or as part of a drink package.

Specialty Venues

Some specialty venues and experiences may have additional charges:

• MSC Starship Club: Drinks made by the robot bartender, Rob, are priced at around £18 for alcoholic drinks and £10 for non-alcoholic drinks. These drinks come in a souvenir cup and are not included in the standard drink packages.
• Minibar: Drinks from the minibar in your cabin are generally not included in the standard drink packages and may incur additional charges.

Southampton Cruise Centre Top Tips

• Currency: Prices on MSC Cruises are typically listed in USD or EUR. It's advisable to check the current exchange rates and consider any foreign transaction fees that may apply when making purchases onboard.
• Booking Packages: Purchasing drink packages in advance, either at the time of booking or through your MyMSC account, can offer savings compared to onboard prices. Promotions may also be available, such as discounts for early bookings.

Gratuities on MSC Cruises are typically not included in the cruise fare and are charged on a per-person, per-day basis. The amount for gratuities can vary depending on the ship and itinerary, but here are the general rates:

• Adults: Approximately £9 to £11 per person, per day.
• Children: Around £4.50 to £5.50 per person, per day (depending on the cruise).

These gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account, but you can choose to adjust the amount or pay in advance. MSC also offers the option to pre-pay gratuities as part of your booking for added convenience.

Can Gratuities be Removed?

Yes, gratuities can be adjusted or removed entirely if you prefer. If you choose to remove or modify the gratuities, you can do so by visiting the guest services desk onboard. MSC Cruises understands that not everyone may want to include gratuities in their onboard account, and they allow passengers to opt out or modify the amount based on their preferences.

However, it’s important to note that the gratuities are meant to cover the service charges for your cabin steward, dining staff, and other crew members. If you choose to remove or reduce the gratuities, it’s a good idea to consider tipping crew members directly for exceptional service.

MSC Cruises primarily uses Ocean Cruise Terminal in Southampton for their sailings. This terminal is part of the city's vibrant cruise port and is known for its modern facilities, providing passengers with a smooth embarkation experience. Located near the heart of Southampton's cruise port, it offers easy access to transport links, shops, and amenities.

Additionally, MSC may occasionally use Mayflower Cruise Terminal depending on the size of the ship and specific cruise schedules. Both terminals offer excellent services, ensuring your departure from Southampton is as seamless as possible.

It is advisable to check your tickets and booking documentation for the exact terminal.

MSC Cruises maintains a relaxed yet elegant dress code onboard, catering to a variety of guests and occasions. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Casual Attire

For most days onboard, the dress code is casual, making it easy to enjoy your cruise in comfort. During the day, casual wear such as t-shirts, shorts, dresses, and swimwear is appropriate. However, swimwear should be worn only in designated pool areas and not inside restaurants or indoor spaces.

Evening Attire

In the evenings, MSC Cruises offers two main types of dining experiences:

• Casual Nights – On most evenings, casual attire is fine for dining in the buffet or casual restaurants. Smart-casual is recommended, such as collared shirts for men and dresses or smart trousers for women.
• Formal Nights – On select evenings (usually 1-2 per week), MSC hosts "Gala Nights" where guests are encouraged to dress more formally. Men typically wear a suit or dinner jacket, and women can wear elegant dresses or smart evening wear. This is a wonderful opportunity to dress up for a special evening onboard.

Theme Nights

MSC Cruises also hosts theme nights or parties where guests are encouraged to dress according to the theme, such as "White Night" or "Tropical Night." These are optional but a fun way to get involved and enhance the experience.

MSC Cruises provides a relaxed atmosphere while still offering opportunities for elegance, making it easy for all guests to enjoy their time at sea.

Yes, all MSC Cruise ships are equipped with hair dryers in the cabins. These are standard features in the staterooms and are provided for the convenience of guests. Whether you're in an interior cabin, oceanview, balcony, or suite, you can expect to find a hair dryer ready for use during your cruise.

However, if you prefer a higher-powered dryer or need a specific type, it’s always a good idea to bring your own. For those staying in higher-category suites, you may find upgraded hair dryer options as well.

Yes, MSC Cruises continues to host formal nights, known as Gala Nights or Elegant Nights, on most of their sailings in 2025. These special evenings offer guests the opportunity to dress up and enjoy an elegant dining experience.

When do formal nights occur?

The number of formal nights varies depending on the length of the cruise:

• 3–6 night cruises: Typically 1 formal night
• 7–9 night cruises: Usually 2 formal nights
• 10–14 night cruises: Approximately 3 formal nights
• 15+ night cruises: 4 or more formal nights

What is the dress code on formal nights?

MSC Cruises encourages guests to dress elegantly on formal nights:

• Men: Dark suit or tuxedo
• Women: Evening gown or cocktail dress

While these are the recommended attire, participation is voluntary, and guests can choose to dress as formally as they wish.

Do I have to participate in formal nights?

Participation in formal nights is optional. If you prefer not to dress formally, you can enjoy dinner at the buffet or in specialty restaurants, where the dress code is more relaxed.

Are there other themed nights?

Yes, MSC Cruises often hosts additional themed nights, such as:

• White Night: Guests dress in white attire
• Tropical Night
• Glow Party
• Flower Glory Party

These themed nights add to the festive atmosphere onboard and provide more opportunities to dress up or participate in fun activities.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on dress codes and themed nights, it's recommended to check the daily program provided onboard or consult the MSC Cruises app during your sailing.