Five things we love about MSC—and five things we don’t.

Affordable Prices: One of the main reasons MSC cruises are often priced lower than many competing cruise lines is the company’s business model and large-scale operations. MSC operates some of the largest ships in the industry, allowing it to spread operating costs across thousands of passengers. The cruise line also focuses on offering a more streamlined base fare, with many optional services, specialty dining experiences, drink packages, and onboard extras available for an additional cost. Furthermore, MSC’s strong presence in the European market creates significant competition, encouraging the company to maintain attractive pricing to fill ships year-round. By emphasizing value and affordability, MSC is able to offer cruise vacations at lower prices while still providing modern ships, entertainment, and a wide range of destinations.

Food taste and quality: One of MSC’s strongest features is the quality of its food, both in the complimentary dining venues and the specialty restaurants. The main dining rooms and buffet offer a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and cultural preferences, with fresh ingredients and menus that change throughout the cruise. Guests can enjoy everything from classic comfort foods to international cuisine, ensuring there is always something appealing available. MSC’s specialty restaurants elevate the dining experience even further, offering high-quality steaks, seafood, sushi, and authentic Italian dishes in a more intimate setting. The attention to presentation, flavor, and service makes these venues feel comparable to upscale land-based restaurants. Overall, MSC delivers an excellent culinary experience that exceeds expectations, especially considering the cruise line’s affordable pricing.

The Ships: Another standout feature of MSC is the beautiful design and upscale atmosphere found throughout its ships. Drawing heavily from its European heritage, MSC creates elegant and modern spaces that often feel more like luxury resorts than traditional cruise ships. Guests are greeted by grand atriums, stunning crystal staircases, stylish lounges, and sophisticated décor that give the ships a premium appearance. The public areas are thoughtfully designed with attention to detail, creating a refined and welcoming environment. Even on ships that are priced lower than many competitors, MSC manages to deliver a level of visual appeal and elegance that rivals some higher-end cruise lines. The combination of contemporary architecture, luxurious finishes, and impressive onboard spaces makes simply exploring the ship an enjoyable part of the vacation experience.

Wide variety of destinations: MSC’s large and growing fleet gives travelers access to an incredible variety of destinations around the world. With ships sailing in regions such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, passengers have countless options when choosing their next vacation. Whether guests are looking for tropical beaches, historic European cities, breathtaking fjords, or exotic cultural experiences, MSC offers itineraries to suit nearly every travel preference. The cruise line’s extensive global presence also means that travelers can often find departures from multiple homeports, making cruises more accessible and convenient. With so many ships operating across different continents, MSC provides an impressive range of destinations and experiences that few cruise lines can match.

Lots of entertainment venues for adults and children : MSC offers an impressive variety of entertainment options that cater to guests of all ages, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Adults can enjoy Broadway-style theater productions, live music performances, themed parties, comedy shows, casinos, lounges, and vibrant nightlife throughout the ship. At the same time, children and teenagers have access to dedicated kids’ clubs, water parks, sports activities, video game areas, and age-appropriate programs designed to keep them engaged and entertained throughout the cruise. Many MSC ships also feature exciting attractions such as waterslides, ropes courses, and immersive entertainment experiences that appeal to the entire family. With activities available from morning until late at night, there is always something happening onboard, ensuring that guests never run out of ways to have fun during their vacation.

Smoking: Another concern for some guests on MSC cruises is the allowance of smoking in certain designated outdoor areas, including spots that may otherwise be considered prime viewing locations. While MSC does provide clearly marked smoking zones in order to accommodate different preferences, these areas are sometimes positioned in places where guests would naturally gather to enjoy ocean views, fresh air, or outdoor relaxation. As a result, non-smoking passengers may occasionally find themselves sharing or passing through spaces where smoke is present, which can detract from the overall comfort of the experience. Although the cruise line follows standard industry policies and attempts to balance the needs of all guests, the placement of smoking areas in visually appealing outdoor sections can be an inconvenience for those seeking a completely smoke-free environment.

Upselling everywhere: A frequent complaint among guests on MSC cruises is the constant presence of upselling throughout the ship. While the base fare covers accommodation, dining in main venues, and select entertainment, passengers are regularly presented with additional purchase opportunities almost everywhere they go. This can include drink packages, specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, photos, onboard shopping, and premium experiences being promoted by staff in public areas. Although these offerings provide flexibility for guests who want to enhance their vacation, the persistent nature of the sales approach can sometimes feel overwhelming or intrusive. For travelers who prefer a more relaxed environment without frequent commercial prompts, the ongoing upselling can take away from an otherwise enjoyable cruise experience.

Party Vibe and Loud Music: Another aspect of MSC that may not appeal to every traveler is the constant party-like atmosphere found throughout many of its ships. Music is often playing in public areas, around the pool decks, in atriums, and at various onboard events throughout the day and evening. While many guests enjoy the lively energy and festive environment, others may find the noise level overwhelming, especially when looking for a quiet place to relax or enjoy the ocean views. The cruise line places a strong emphasis on entertainment, dancing, and social activities, which can sometimes make the ship feel busy and loud from morning until late at night. For travelers seeking a more peaceful and tranquil cruise experience, the nonstop music and energetic atmosphere can occasionally feel excessive.

Walking and sitting areas are limited: One common criticism of MSC ships is the limited amount of outdoor walking and seating space, particularly in areas that offer unobstructed ocean views. While MSC vessels are beautifully designed and feature numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, some ships dedicate less space to traditional promenade decks and quiet observation areas than other cruise lines. As a result, guests who enjoy leisurely walks around the ship or relaxing by the rail while watching the sea may find their options somewhat restricted. During busy sailings, the most desirable seating areas with waterfront views can become crowded, making it difficult to find a peaceful spot to unwind. For travelers who value open deck space and easy access to scenic ocean vistas, this can be a noticeable drawback of the MSC experience.

Passenger Mix: One potential downside of MSC’s low pricing is the wide range of guests it attracts. Because MSC cruises are often among the most affordable options in the market, they appeal to budget-conscious travelers, large family groups, first-time cruisers, and guests looking for a value-focused vacation. While this creates a diverse and lively atmosphere onboard, it can also result in ships feeling more crowded, resulting in guests being more inconsiderate in shared spaces, particularly during school holidays and peak travel seasons.  Guests seeking a quieter or more upscale cruise experience may find that the onboard environment is not always as refined as that of premium or luxury cruise lines. The affordability is a major advantage for many travelers, but it can contribute to a busier and more energetic atmosphere that may not suit everyone’s preferences.