MSC has been expanding rapidly in recent years. It started as the leader in the Italian market and then began an internationalization process that enabled it to gain a strong foothold in other key markets, including the U.S.
Like other major cruise lines (such as Carnival and Royal Caribbean), MSC has a massive fleet of 23 ships, with MSC World Asia scheduled to debut in December 2026.
In short, MSC is a company that’s growing and expanding fast. But with so many ships to choose from, how do you know which one is the best? Well, here’s a ranking from the worst to the absolute best.
23. MSC Opera
Unfortunately, MSC Opera ranks last among MSC’s ships. Cruisers, therefore, consider it one of the worst ships in the fleet.
The ship is definitely smaller, so there may not be much to do during the day, or the dining options could be more limited.
It can be a good ship if chosen by experienced cruisers who know what they want and what to expect.
It’s certainly not suitable if you’re looking for cutting-edge entertainment or a new ship. In that case, it’s better to consider other options.
22. MSC Orchestra
Launched in 2007, MSC Orchestra offers a good balance of relaxation and entertainment activities.
Although it’s not a very large ship, it still provides a selection of restaurants and bars, along with a well-structured entertainment program. However, don’t expect the same variety you’ll find on the larger and more modern ships.
Among the drawbacks, many passengers find the layout confusing, and in some areas the ship definitely shows its age.
21. MSC Poesia
MSC Poesia was launched in 2008, just one year after MSC Orchestra (which we just covered).
It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a pleasant cruise without stress.
The cabins are comfortable, and there’s a good variety of dining options on board. It can carry a maximum of 3,000 passengers, so it may be a good choice for those who do not like ships with too many people, although its age is still significant.
20. MSC Lirica
MSC Lirica is one of the oldest ships in the company’s fleet. It was launched in 2003 but had a major revamp in 2015.
Despite the refurbishment, its age still shows, according to some guests.
It can be a good choice for travelers who aren’t expecting too much from the ship itself and prefer to focus on the itinerary and the destinations they’ll be visiting.
19. MSC Seashore
MSC Seashore was the first ship of the Seaside EVO class and is essentially an upgraded version of her sister ships, Seaside and Seaview.
Among the positives, many passengers highlight the spacious cabins and well-designed outdoor areas.
The negative aspects, on the other hand, primarily concern the ship’s interior design. Some spaces can be very crowded at certain times of the day, and service can be lacking.
18. MSC Seascape
It’s surprising to see a ship like MSC Seascape so far down in the rankings.
“How is that possible?” you might ask. It’s a brand-new ship, launched only in 2022.
I believe this might be because passengers have incredibly high expectations for new ships. Even minor flaws can leave some feeling disappointed.
Seascape is famous for its revolutionary design, and many passengers have found it extremely beautiful. In addition, numerous guests have praised the ship’s stunning interiors and excellent dining and entertainment options.
17. MSC Musica
Launched in 2006, MSC Musica combines a classic design with modern comforts.
It’s a medium-sized ship, which has earned positive reviews from those looking for relaxation. The atmosphere on board is calm and laid-back, without large crowds.
However, the drawbacks are typical of older ships. Since it’s from 2006, you can notice its age, despite it still being well-maintained.
16. MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida, the sister ship of Fantasia, offers elegance, comfort, and fun. Guests generally enjoy the ship as a whole, with many finding its size just right.
Another very positive aspect of this ship is its entertainment. Many guests say they never get bored.
There are some negative reviews about the food, which may be why the ship ranks in the lower half.
15. MSC Virtuosa
MSC Virtuosa only entered service in 2021, making it one of the newest ships in the fleet.
It stands out for its technological innovations and entertainment options. On board, you’ll find cutting-edge technology and a wide variety of choices to have fun.
Like many other ships, the main downside is overcrowding. Several customers complained about excessively long queues at both the buffet and reception.
PRO TIP: Overcrowding on big cruise ships is quite common. You can easily avoid it by skipping peak travel seasons.
14. MSC Grandiosa
MSC Grandiosa was the first ship of the Meraviglia-Plus class, very similar to the Meraviglia class but with some enhancements and a slightly greater gross tonnage.
The ship is renowned for its impressive size and its wide range of entertainment options.
On board, there are many restaurants and recreational activities. At the same time, its size can make it somewhat challenging to navigate.
13. MSC Armonia
MSC Armonia is the oldest MSC ship, launched in 2001 and refurbished in 2014.
Some might assume the oldest ship would be the worst, but that’s not the case.
MSC Armonia has received positive reviews for offering a more classic, intimate experience. On board, you can enjoy a cozier vibe, ideal for those seeking a quieter cruise.
Naturally, the drawbacks are pretty much what you’d expect. Being the smallest ship, it also has fewer dining and entertainment options.
12. MSC Fantasia
Launched in 2008, MSC Fantasia combines luxury and innovation, and it sits in the middle of our ranking.
Although it has been an excellent ship, many years have passed since its debut, and its flaws are becoming more noticeable.
For this reason, there’s a chance that MSC Fantasia may feel a bit dated compared to newer cruise ships.
11. MSC Magnifica
MSC Magnifica combines traditional style with modernity. It was launched in 2010 and is part of the Musica class, but it’s slightly larger than its three sister ships (Orchestra, Musica, and Poesia).
One of its strengths is its mix of restaurants and entertainment, making it ideal for all ages.
Naturally, its drawbacks include not having some of the newer features you can find on the latest ships in the fleet. However, it’s still a solid mid-range ship.
10. MSC Preziosa
MSC Preziosa was launched in 2013 and has received mixed reviews over the years.
Many passengers praise the ship’s cleanliness and spacious cabins. Another positive point is also the service, which, according to many, is attentive and friendly.
In contrast, one downside is the food quality in main dining areas, which some have described as mediocre.
PRO TIP: Keep in mind that a review of a ship’s food may become less reliable after a few years. Chefs on cruise ships rotate, and menus are adjusted to seasonal ingredients.
9. MSC Meraviglia
MSC Meraviglia is a cutting-edge ship featuring a spectacular LED promenade and a wide range of entertainment options.
Guests particularly enjoyed the various on-board activities catering to all ages—from an excellent kids’ club to adult-focused entertainment. They also praised the ship’s interior design, which is considered luxurious and tasteful.
Like many larger ships, some negative reviews point to excessive crowding in common areas, but only during peak season.
8. MSC Seaside
MSC Seaside is one of the company’s most highly rated ships. It was launched in 2017, and its philosophy emphasizes its connection to the sea.
Among its strengths is the wonderful outdoor deck offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the ports visited.
At the same time, as a downside, the outdoor areas can be less accessible when the weather is bad or during winter.
For this reason, many cruisers consider it one of the best ships for summer cruises or itineraries in warm destinations.
7. MSC Sinfonia
MSC Sinfonia was lower in the rankings but climbed several spots after modernization work in 2015.
The ship stands out for its cozy atmosphere and more manageable size, making it a favorite among guests who prefer smaller ships.
Reviews highlight how easy it is to get around on board and how the service is more attentive, given the smaller number of passengers. Among its drawbacks are the more limited entertainment options compared to larger ships.
6. MSC Seaview
Launched in 2018, the MSC Seaview offers a similar experience to the Seaside, with a focus on outdoor areas.
Among its advantages are spacious decks, swimming pools, and the opportunity to participate in numerous outdoor activities.
Some passengers found it a bit too crowded, and as with the Seaside, you need good weather during the cruise to fully enjoy all the spaces.
5. MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia was launched in 2023 and is one of MSC Cruises’ newest ships.
It’s lauded for its modern design, extensive amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere. A passenger said that everything on board looked bright, clean, and fresh.
An important point to note is that MSC Euribia stands out as one of the most environmentally advanced ships in MSC Cruises’ fleet.
Euribia introduced several technologies and practices, including the use of Liquefied Natural Gas, Shore Power Connectivity, and an advanced waste management and recycling system.
4. MSC Divina
Fourth place goes to MSC Divina, a ship that sits right in the middle: neither too old nor too new, neither too big nor too small.
It was launched in 2012, and it’s still renowned for its elegance and sophisticated design.
It has earned high marks for its refined atmosphere on board and great selection of restaurants. In short, it is an excellent choice for those who want a safe bet.
3. MSC World America
MSC World America lands near the top of the list thanks to its jaw-dropping size, cutting-edge features, and fresh debut in spring 2025.
With seven distinct zones, a rope course, many water slides, and the first “Eataly at sea” restaurant, there’s really a lot for everyone on board.
On the flip side, some cruisers say its sheer scale makes it feel a bit overwhelming and busy in common areas.
If you’re chasing the newest and most modern ship in the fleet, this is definitely a good choice for you.
But if you prefer something tried-and-true, you might wait and see how it performs over time.
2. MSC World Europa
In second place in the ranking of MSC Cruises’ best and worst ships is the fleet’s flagship, MSC World Europa.
It’s the newest ship by far, having entered service in 2022, and it’s naturally the most innovative, featuring cutting-edge technology.
The main criticism mentioned in reviews concerns getting around on board. Due to its size and layout, some cruisers find it a bit disorienting.
Apart from that, the ship excels in many areas. Given its newness, everything on board is in perfect condition, and there are countless attractions, spaces, and activities for dining, entertainment, and leisure.
Many reviews emphasize that you’ll never get bored on this ship!
1. MSC Bellissima
First place went to MSC Bellissima, launched in 2019, which refined the cruise experience with a focus on technology and comfort.
Most reviews highlight the high quality of the food, both at the buffet and in the restaurants.
However, there are mixed opinions regarding the adoption of solutions that may be too technological, such as the “MSC for Me” app.
Some reviews also point to occasionally slow service and excessive crowding in the ship’s main areas.
Aside from that, MSC Bellissima seems to be excellent in many respects. First among these is cleanliness, rated as perfect both in the cabins and throughout the ship.
Passengers also consider it the best in terms of size: neither too large nor too small.
Do you know the best ships from other major cruise lines? Check out the 2025 rankings:
The ranking is based on an average of ratings from review websites, combined with an editor’s personal score. These reviews are subjective and should be taken as such.