This new cruise ship will be one of the two largest in MSC Cruises’ fleet, along with her sister ship MSC Grandiosa.
Explore the shipReschedule your booking for free up to 15 days before your sail date for cruise only, and up to 21 days before departure for fly cruises. Applies to bookings made before 30 October 2020 on sailings through 31 December 2021.
Find out moreCivitavecchia is the cruise gateway to Rome. Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.
Valletta, Malta's capital, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-colour limestone. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. Cruise ships dock in the Valletta Waterfront, a short distance from the centre of the city – however, the route is uphill, so bare in mind if you're going to walk from the ship.
Athens is the birthplace of the modern western world, home to magnificent wonders including the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Temples of Olympian Zeus and Athena Nike, and the most impressive collection of ancient artefacts at the Archaeological Museum. Athens effortlessly blends its ancient historic landmarks with a youthful, modern energy with chic rooftop bars, eclectic shopping destinations and a bustling art scene. Piraeus is the gateway to Athens for cruise visitors, which is easily accessible by public transport.
Early travellers described Rhodes as a town of two parts: a castle or high town (Collachium) and a lower city. Today Rhodes town—sometimes referred to as Ródos town—is still a city of two parts: the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that incorporates the high town and lower city, and the modern metropolis, or New Town, spreading away from the walls that encircle the Old Town. The narrow streets of the Old Town are for the most part closed to cars and are lined with Orthodox and Catholic churches, Turkish houses (some of which follow the ancient orthogonal plan), and medieval public buildings with exterior staircases and facades elegantly constructed of well-cut limestone from Lindos. Careful reconstruction in recent years has enhanced the harmonious effect.
The resort town of Aqaba, on the Red Sea at the southern end of Jordan, is a popular spot for divers with some of the best coral reefs in the world. Snorkeling and other water sports are popular, and it's easy to hire a boat for a day or half-day, including lunch.Aqaba has become quite a bustling destination, with several large luxury hotels and a large shopping area. There are many jewelry stores selling pearls, gem stones, and gold and silver jewelry. It's worth noting that although it's an international beach resort, Aqaba is quite conservative—certainly much more so than Amman—and North Americans tend to be more comfortable at the private hotel beaches.
The lush landscape around Salalah is the intriguing result of a quirk of nature. Since it is uniquely situated in the path of the Khareef, or South Western Monsoon, this stretch of the Dhofar Coast is covered in fine mist and frequent rain from mid-June through mid-September. By the time the monsoons cease, the entire coastline is a verdant stretch. Waterfalls, rolling grasslands, and thickly wooded wadis (riverbeds) thrive alongside rapid mountain streams. Unique in this desert region, Salalah attracts many visitors from the surrounding Arabian Gulf countries who are anxious to experience a rare lushness in a region where rain and greenery are in short supply. Once a stop on the ancient trading routes that connected the Levant to India and China, Salalah has a rich history that goes back centuries. Traders from Mesopotamia, the Persian Empire, and beyond passed through Salalah in their search for frankincense, making it a major center for trade in the coveted exotic ingredient. Pre-Islamic tombs and grave sites, some believed to be up to 2,000 years old, are scattered all over the nearby mountainsides and the present-day city, which has an estimated 195,000 inhabitants.
Oman's capital city is hemmed in on one side by spectacular jagged-peaked mountains and on the other by royal blue sea. The architecture is a traditional, sophisticated arabesque blend of white-washed, low-rise buildings surrounded by manicured palms, intricately designed domes set atop the minarets of the mosques, sand-colored villas, a surprising blend of modern art installations, like a giant incense burner that towers over the Corniche, and ancient forts set in the rocky hills. Though tradition abounds, from distinct, local cuisine to the widely worn national dress, the dishdasha, Muscat is a completely modern city, featuring opulent luxury hotels, international restaurants, excellent cellular and data service, sprawling shopping malls, pristine beaches, lively nightlife, world-class performing arts, and a highly educated population, most of whom speak English, Arabic, and often Hindi. Muscat is the ideal base for exploring other areas of the country since many of the most desirable destinations are within a few hours' drive.
Just a few decades ago, Abu Dhabi, the island capital of the United Arab Emirates, was a small fishing village with houses made of mud-brick and palm fronds. Today, as a result of revenue from oil, Abu Dhabi is one of the world's richest cities, with wide, tree-lined okulevards, lush green parks, gushing fountains and imposing skyscrapers. Somewhat of a dichotomy, Abu Dhabi is a combination of ultra-modern sophistication and Arab mystique, with friendly and hospitable people offering a warm welcome to visitors. Abu Dhabi's history originated in the 18th century, when, according to legend, a group of tribesmen pursuing a gazelle came upon a freshwater well which they named Abu Dhabi, or "Father of the Gazelle". In the 19th century, the first fort was built over this well by a sheikh of the Al-Nahyan dynasty. The fort's name is Al Husn Palace, also known as Old or White Fort, and it is one of the few buildings in Abu Dhabi that is more than 25 years old. Its whitewashed walls are eye-catching amid the backdrop of today's skyscrapers. Presently, it is home to the Cultural Foundation and serves as a documents centre. Abu Dhabi had little significance until the discovery of vast oil reserves in the late 1950s and early 1960s. In the years following, the city's economy and infrastructure developed rapidly and changed Abu Dhabi beyond recognition.
Dubai sits on a golden sandy coastline in the Arabian Gulf, where the warm azure waves of the sea meet the desert. A high-rise oasis, this city is a pleasure-dome surrounded by dunes; one of the most fashionable on the planet thanks to its ability to satisfy the needs of legions of demanding vacationers. Dubai is about having fun—and it's one big adult playground. Nature plays her part here, with year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, dramatic arid landscapes, and warm waters, but it's the man-made attractions that make Dubai so alluring. You can launch yourself into high-adrenaline desert adventures, diving and water sports, and some of the world's best golf courses. The 5-, 6-, and 7-star hotels offer the ultimate in luxury, and the party scene is hot. Shopping malls are the biggest in the world and are packed full of high-class merchandise. And with hundreds of restaurants with cuisine from around the world, you can munch your way from Mexico to Malaysia. Dubai produces strong reactions in people, but one thing is certain—love it or loathe it—you will not forget it. It is without a doubt, one of the world's true must-see destinations.
Dubai sits on a golden sandy coastline in the Arabian Gulf, where the warm azure waves of the sea meet the desert. A high-rise oasis, this city is a pleasure-dome surrounded by dunes; one of the most fashionable on the planet thanks to its ability to satisfy the needs of legions of demanding vacationers. Dubai is about having fun—and it's one big adult playground. Nature plays her part here, with year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, dramatic arid landscapes, and warm waters, but it's the man-made attractions that make Dubai so alluring. You can launch yourself into high-adrenaline desert adventures, diving and water sports, and some of the world's best golf courses. The 5-, 6-, and 7-star hotels offer the ultimate in luxury, and the party scene is hot. Shopping malls are the biggest in the world and are packed full of high-class merchandise. And with hundreds of restaurants with cuisine from around the world, you can munch your way from Mexico to Malaysia. Dubai produces strong reactions in people, but one thing is certain—love it or loathe it—you will not forget it. It is without a doubt, one of the world's true must-see destinations.
This new cruise ship will be one of the two largest in MSC Cruises’ fleet, along with her sister ship MSC Grandiosa.
More information coming soon.
Enjoy exclusive world-class shows performed in innovative venues like the Carousel Lounge∘ and the multi-purpose karaoke bar, comedy club, TV studio & Bar. Younger guests can take advantage of the super-amusement park and sports centre to play sports and games during the daytime and party and dance in the evening. And the whole family can enjoy hours of fun in one of the most intricate and exciting water parks at sea.
Twice every night, six nights a week, guests on MSC Virtuosa have the unique opportunity to see two original shows by Cirque... Read more
One of the most intricate and exciting water parks at sea, with three twisting slides, a ‘Himalayan Bridge’ and a range of... Read more
This high-tech, multi-purpose space houses a radio broadcast suite and a TV studio broadcasting live games, quizzes, talent contests and other fun... Read more
Party with friends, enjoy a nightcap or simply dance into the small hours at the stylish onboard nightclub.
For the young and the young at heart, two Formula 1 virtual-reality racing cars compete head-to-head in a race that will get... Read more
For the first time at sea, a full-size bowling alley where you can challenge friends and family to the last pin!
Enter the zen-like atmosphere of the tranquil spas and your mind will transform∘ to a state of pure relaxation. Don a plush robe and relax on a teak bed in the meditation area, surrounded by glass walls with spectacular views from the top of the ship. Just next door, private spa treatment rooms await. Strewn with delicate flower petals and soft, warm lighting you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments such as a Balinese massage with lava stones, shiatsu and reflexology. Follow-up with the total relaxation of our spa’s sauna, steam room and whirlpool bath.
The large and spacious amusement park provides a large arena where young guests can play sports and games during the daytime... then... Read more
Restore body and soul in the MSC Aurea Spa, a luxurious Balinese spa on board on MSC Virtuosa. Comprising a thermal area,... Read more
As a family-owned company, no one understands families better than MSC. Just look and see!
All the luxury resort leisure facilities on board are included free of charge in your cruise, from the Aqua Park, Swimming Pools and Water Slide to the top games consoles (PS3, Xbox and Wii) forming just part of our club amenities. So kids and teens∘ can do just as they like without a second thought.
Even the high-tech gaming attractions∘ on board like our Virtual World and 4D Cinema attract only a modest charge for a special treat.
Children are always made to feel special, receiving a dedicated welcome from the Kids Corner in the port terminal onwards. Security bracelets are issued when you board, while beepers or DECT phones can be hired for a modest charge so you can keep in touch at all times.
A varied program∘ is provided for the whole-family with supervised activities, entertainment and social events tailor-made for four separate age groups in their own clubs. And they’re all free, too!
MSC Virtuosa offers two teenagers’ clubs, one for 12-14 year olds and another for 15-17 year olds. In addition, a teens-only area... Read more
Kids from 3 to 11 years of age can participate in a whole host of fun activities thanks to our partnership∘ with... Read more
Children from 1 to 3 years old can enjoy activities and games designed in partnership with Chicco.
There's something to suit all tastes. MSC Cruises offers 2000 shore excursion packages, which have been specially created to offer you opportunities to explore the highlights of each area you visit.
Guests with special needs should inform MSC Cruises∘ of their needs, ideally, at the time of booking, or at the very latest,... Read more
The medical facilities and equipment onboard may not be adequate enough to deal with a birth or any pregnancy∘ complications. Therefore, for... Read more
Any guests with food requests and/or allergies are asked to inform MSC Cruises of their requirements through the Special Needs form (available... Read more
Casual wear is advised is advised for life onboard and shore excursions. For informal evenings, summery dresses for women and a lightweight... Read more
To protect the marine ecosystem in which the ship sails, our ships are fitted with a ballast water treatment system that complies... Read more
MSC Cruises is making significant investments into improving air quality. As part of a broader approach to limit sulphur and other emissions... Read more
Voyage planning software
An optimised itinerary means a reduced consumption of energy. We plan our itineraries efficiently and use specialised software to optimise... Read more
From the first line we draw on paper when we design a new ship, to the final light bulb we install, energy... Read more
Fresh water is a finite resource. Our philosophy is to use it sparingly and efficiently. To this end, we take as many... Read more
No black wastewater from our shipboard operations leaves our ships without proper treatment and any discharges from our fleet undergo a comprehensive∘... Read more
Throughout the years, we have taken voluntary steps to equip our ships with state-of-the-art solid waste management and recycling facilities on board.... Read more
Under our Plastics Reduction Programme, MSC Cruises is in the final phase of effectively eliminating an extensive number of plastic items from... Read more
Our environmental efforts are an ongoing journey. We will keep exploring and developing new solutions for our future – and existing –... Read more
We know these are uncertain times, but don't fret. All bookings are covered by our Financial Protection Guarantee and we only work with cruise lines that are members of ATOL and ABTA. For more information about cancellation cover, visit the Coronavirus Cancellation Policies page.