MSC Cruises is part of the MSC Group (Mediterranean Shipping Company), which was originally founded in 1970 as a cargo shipping company by Gianluigi Aponte in Naples, Italy. Over time, the company expanded its operations to become one of the largest container shipping lines in the world. Building on this success, the Aponte family decided to diversify into passenger travel, and MSC Cruises was officially founded in 1988.

Here is an overview of MSC Cruises' key milestones and history:

Early Years (1988–2000s):

• 1988: MSC Cruises started with just a few modest cruise ships, focusing initially on the Mediterranean market. The company aimed to bring the same level of service and efficiency they had achieved in the cargo shipping sector to passenger travel.

• 1990s: MSC Cruises expanded its fleet with the addition of several second-hand vessels. They primarily served European travelers during this period, gaining popularity for their Mediterranean routes.

Growth and Expansion (2000s):

• 2003: The company began investing heavily in new ships and entered into its first phase of massive fleet expansion. It marked the introduction of the MSC Lirica class, which represented MSC’s move towards modern, mid-sized cruise ships.

• 2004: MSC purchased the luxury brand Silversea Cruises, marking an entry into the premium cruise market. Although MSC later sold its shares in Silversea, this acquisition demonstrated the company’s ambitions.

The Fantasia Class and Industry Impact (2008–2010s):

• 2008: MSC introduced the MSC Fantasia, which was at that time the largest and most luxurious ship in the fleet. This class of ships brought new innovations, such as the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive area offering a luxury "ship within a ship" experience.

• 2010s: The company launched the MSC Divina and MSC Preziosa, expanding its presence in the North American and Caribbean markets.

Recent Developments and Sustainability Focus:

• 2017: MSC Cruises introduced the MSC Meraviglia, a new generation of large ships with enhanced features like a two-story indoor promenade, a digital sky screen, and onboard Cirque du Soleil performances.

• 2019: MSC introduced the MSC Grandiosa, one of the largest ships in their fleet, which incorporates advanced environmental technologies, including reducing CO2 emissions.

• 2020s: MSC continues to invest in new, environmentally friendly ships as part of its commitment to sustainability. They are aiming for a net-zero carbon emissions fleet by 2050. The new MSC World Europa, launched in 2022, is a symbol of this eco-focused future with its LNG-powered engine and sustainable practices.

Global Reach and Future:

Today, MSC Cruises is the world’s third-largest cruise line and operates globally with a fleet of over 20 ships, serving millions of passengers annually. The company continues to focus on fleet expansion with a mix of new ships and sustainability initiatives, aiming to maintain its growth in both traditional markets like Europe and newer regions such as North America and Asia.

MSC Cruises remains a family-owned business, with the Aponte family at the helm, preserving its tradition of Mediterranean hospitality.

Dining Options:

• Complimentary Dining: Many of the dining venues on MSC Cruises are included in the fare, providing diverse and high-quality cuisine:

  • Main Dining Room: Serving a mix of Mediterranean and international dishes, with multi-course meals that change daily. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available in the main dining rooms.

  • Marketplace Buffet: An extensive buffet with a wide selection of dishes, including pasta, pizza, salads, and desserts, available throughout the day.

  • Pizzeria: Some ships offer complimentary pizza options that are popular for a quick bite.

  • Ocean Cay Restaurant (on certain ships): A seafood-centric complimentary dining venue, typically available for Yacht Club passengers.

• Specialty Restaurants (Premium): For a more upscale or unique dining experience, MSC offers several specialty restaurants that come with an extra charge:

  • Butcher’s Cut: A premium American-style steakhouse featuring prime cuts of meat, paired with fine wines and signature cocktails.

  • Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar: This Japanese-themed restaurant offers both a sushi bar and a teppanyaki experience, where chefs cook on a hot grill in front of guests.

  • Ocean Cay: A seafood restaurant with an à la carte menu offering fresh seafood, fish dishes, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

  • Eataly: Found on select ships, this Italian restaurant is part of a collaboration with the famous Eataly brand, offering gourmet Italian food like pasta, pizza, and wine.

  • Hola! Tacos & Cantina: A casual Mexican-inspired restaurant offering tacos, nachos, and margaritas.

  • Chef’s Table: An intimate, multi-course dining experience led by the ship’s executive chef, paired with wine and hosted in a private setting.

  • Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café: A specialty dessert café offering gourmet chocolates, crepes, and pastries, designed by master chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury (available on select ships).

Onboard Entertainment:

• Theater Shows: MSC offers impressive production shows in its main theaters, with nightly performances that feature everything from acrobatics and singing to Broadway-style musicals. Their Cirque du Soleil at Sea (on select ships) delivers world-class entertainment with stunning aerial acts and acrobatics.

• Live Music and Dancing: MSC ships feature live music across multiple venues, including jazz bands, classical music performances, and Latin-themed dance parties. You’ll also find pianists playing in lounges and bars.

• Theme Nights and Deck Parties: MSC hosts popular themed parties like the White Party, Flower Glory Party, and other vibrant deck parties with live DJs, dancing, and games.

• Movies and 4D Cinema: Select ships offer a 4D cinema experience, where guests can enjoy immersive short films with special effects like motion, wind, and water.

Activities Onboard:

• Pools and Water Fun:

  • Aqua Park: MSC’s large water parks feature slides, splash zones, and fountains for families and kids.

  • Infinity Pool: Found on newer ships, these pools provide stunning views of the ocean, perfect for relaxing.

  • Horizon Pool: On some ships, this adults-only area offers a peaceful space to lounge by the water.

• Family Fun:

  • Doremiland Kids Club: MSC offers excellent children’s programming for different age groups, with activities like treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and sports. The kids’ clubs are divided by age (Baby Club, Mini Club, Juniors Club, etc.).

  • LEGO® Experience: MSC has a partnership with LEGO, offering dedicated play areas and activities for kids using the iconic building blocks.

  • F1 Simulators and Virtual Reality: Thrill-seeking kids and adults alike can race on Formula 1 simulators or try out virtual reality experiences in the game arcades.

  • Bowling: Select MSC ships feature full-sized bowling alleys for family-friendly fun.

• Thrill-seekers:

  • Zip Line: Some ships, like the MSC Seaside, offer a thrilling zip line experience that lets you soar across the ship.

  • Ropes Course: The MSC Seashore and other ships have an adventure ropes course with high-flying obstacles.

  • Waterslides: The waterparks on select ships feature high-speed waterslides and even “slideboarding,” a combination of video gaming and watersliding.

• Relaxation and Wellness:

  • MSC Aurea Spa: MSC’s spa offers a full range of services, including massages, facials, body treatments, and access to a thermal suite with saunas and whirlpools.

  • Solarium: Adult-only relaxation areas are available on many ships for a peaceful retreat.

  • Fitness Center: Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, MSC’s fitness centers offer group classes such as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and Zumba.