MSC Cruise Line is huge. As the third-largest cruise line in the world and quickly approaching Carnival Cruise Line for the second spot, they offer a wide range of destinations and ports of departure across the globe. Although they might not be the first cruise line that comes to mind - Americans often opt for companies like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Disney - you should definitely keep an eye on MSC, especially if you are looking for a budget vacation.
MSC has cruises that range from South America to South Africa and Dubai. They are especially known for having a significant presence in Europe, where they are likely the largest cruise line operating today.
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Our top destinations with MSC Cruise Line would be:
- Europe
- Mediterranean
- South America
These are the main destinations when it comes to MSC Cruise Line:
- Europe
- Mediterranean
- South America
- Caribbean & Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Asia
- Dubai & Middle East
- Canary Island and Madeira
- South Africa
MSC Cruise Line operates from ports worldwide, including over forty locations in Europe and eleven in South America. In North America, they currently offer itineraries departing from just four ports. They are:
- Miami
- Orlando (Port Canaveral)
- New York City
- Galveston
In Europe, MSC Cruises operates from several major hubs, including Southampton in England, Hamburg in Germany and Lisbon in Portugal. They also have a significant presence in Spain, Italy, and France.
MSC Cruise Line Destinations
Europe & the Mediterranean
Main Destinations: Norway, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Spain
Starting price per guest for a 7-night Northern Europe cruise from Copenhagen aboard the MSC Euribia in October 2024: $750.
MSC Cruises excels in Northern Europe itineraries, visiting destinations like Norway, Germany, and Denmark. They also offer a variety of Mediterranean cruises that include Italy, Spain, Croatia, Greece, Portugal, and more. MSC provides options ranging from short 3-night cruises departing from cities like Paris and Rome to extended 22-night voyages focused exclusively on Northern Europe.
If you’re planning a European trip soon, MSC should definitely be considered. They offer nearly 500 itineraries from now until 2025, and some of their newest ships, such as the MSC World Europa, focus on Mediterranean cruises.
Caribbean & the Bahamas
Main Destinations: Nassau, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Ocho Rios.
Starting price per guest for a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral aboard the MSC Seashore in September 2024: $390.
Almost every major cruise line in the world focuses on the Caribbean and the Bahamas, and MSC is no exception. While they may not be as prominent in the region as major players like Royal Caribbean, Disney, and Carnival, they have been improving their offerings in recent years. In fact, the massive MSC World America is set to debut in 2025 and will focus exclusively on the Caribbean.
One major perk of MSC cruises in the Caribbean is that itineraries tend to be very affordable, sometimes even more so than those of Carnival Cruise Line if you book in advance. This makes MSC a great option for first-time cruisers and passengers looking to explore a cruise ship or enjoy a quick weekend getaway.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Ocean Cay is MSC’s private island in the Bahamas and a major destination for the company. It is primarily geared toward adults, as it does not feature a waterpark, pools or waterslides. Instead, it offers several beaches, including a private one for Yacht Club members.
In total, there are eight beaches, which are the main attractions of the island. Ocean Cay is ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. There are also some activities that you can book there or in advance through the MSC app, like snorkeling and kayaking. All in all, the activities are pretty standard for the most part.
The island features both complimentary and paid restaurants, including one exclusively for Yacht Club members. Additionally, your drink package is valid on the island, which is a nice perk.
South America
Main Destinations: Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Santos, Punta Del Este, Buenos Aires.
Starting price per guest for a 7-night South America cruise from Rio de Janeiro aboard the MSC Orchestra in February 2025: $650.
MSC Cruises is one of the biggest players in South America, offering a variety of cruises departing from Santos and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Montevideo (Uruguay).
Cruises range from 3 to 9 nights. One of my favorites is the 9-night South America cruise that departs from Salvador and visits Buzios and Angra dos Reis in Rio de Janeiro. Angra dos Reis is truly one of the most beautiful places on the planet, with stunning islands and beaches to enjoy.
World Cruises
Ports of departure: Rome and Portofino (italy); Provence (France)
Starting price per guest for a 118-nights World Cruise from Rome aboard the MSC Magnifica in January 2026: $18,000.
Relax, this isn’t a typo: MSC really offers a cruise that lasts 118 nights. This means you would be living on a cruise ship for nearly four months, or a third of a year. Unlike most transatlantic cruises, MSC World Cruises are round trip voyages that circumnavigate the globe. For example, the MSC Magnifica will depart from Rome, visit several countries including Colombia, the United States, New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, Egypt and then return to Italy.
I’ve never tried a cruise like that, but I can only imagine that the experience would be incredible. So many cities to explore! Sure, being on a cruise ship for such a long time could start to feel claustrophobic, and I can’t imagine how much I’d spend on Wi-Fi, but I bet I’d love to take an extended vacation, relax and travel around the globe for months.
These cruises are very rare. In fact, there is only one available so far, starting on January 4, 2026. You can join the cruise from the very beginning on January 4 in Rome, or board when the MSC Magnifica arrives in Portofino on January 5, or when the ship reaches Marseille (Provence), France, on January 7.
Thinking about visiting Rio, Italy, or maybe a private island in the Bahamas? MSC Cruises is ready to take you there! We have several guides about this amazing cruise line, and you can always click the "Request a Quote" button above to start a conversation with us today.
