Choosing between MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean can be challenging because there are so many beautiful vacations, gorgeous ships, and exciting itineraries that both cruise lines provide. But what they do differ is providing unique experiences compared to other types of travelers. MSC Cruises is well known for its European signature style, beautiful ships, and great discounts like those compared to Royal Caribbean for thrilling onboard attractions, family vacation entertainment, and mega-ships.
MSC vs Royal Caribbean: Fares
MSC Cruises’ Fares
- Tiered pricing system: Bella, base level; Fantastica adds the cabin selection and more and Aurea build on with spa experiences included; MSC Yacht Club a ship-within-a-ship that offers all-inclusive.
- Includes fare for the main dining and buffet, with specialty restaurants for an additional fee.
Royal Caribbean Fares
- Prices for the line’s newest four ships are far higher than those for its older vessels, and the line’s ship-within-a-ship pricing is higher than ever.
- Royal Caribbean packages all their restaurants and food service together but omits specialty dining, and everything else is included, save for lunch and dinner theater shows like Royal Railway.
MSC vs Royal Caribbean: Cabins
MSC Cruises’ Cabins
- All other accommodations belong to MSC’s experiences Bella, Fantastica, and Aurea, and each level of the three offers more flexibility and onboard privileges.
- Family accommodations (which also work well for parties) available are simple connecting staterooms, Super Family cabins, and multi-bedroom suites on select ships.
- MSC has a few cabins for solo travelers on a limited fleet of ships.
Royal Caribbean Cabins
- A dozen ships have Virtual Balcony inside cabins with large digital screens that simulate floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Multiple vessels offer several studio cabins designed for one traveler. Balcony, oceanview and inside studios are available on many Royal Caribbean ships.
- Royal Caribbean’s take on a ship-within-a-ship tiered system offering a variety of perks to suite passengers depending on which type of suite is booked throughout.
MSC vs Royal Caribbean: Dining Options
MSC Cruises’ Dining
- MSC has a number of free restaurants, including big buffets and several main restaurants, but most other ones are for an additional fee.
- Free pizza at MSC is one of the things you can write home about to make the most of the line’s Mediterranean background and its baking excellence.
- MSs often hold one or more evenings for gala nights each cruise. While not required, guests can dress up for these nights, unless they would prefer to just stroll down to the buffet.
Royal Caribbean Dining
- Royal ships have a plethora of options beyond buffet and casual options but only a select few have free food: the Windjammer Cafe buffet, Sorrento’s pizzeria and Cafe Promenade.
- Celebrity Chef Jamie Oliver has worked with Royal on a number of their ships to produce Jamie’s Italian whilst others are standard Giovanni’s.
- There are also a number of other specialty restaurants including Chops Grille, Izumi, Hooked Seafood and Wonderland, 150 Central Park, The Mason Jar and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade.
MSC vs Royal Caribbean: Nightlife
MSC Cruises Nightlife
- Meraviglia-class Gallerias feature LED-capped ceilings displaying unique vaulted animations.
- Many ships also have a 4D movie theater complete with some fun special effects, amounting to theme park ride simulations enhanced by interactive aiming.
- Exciting White Parties invite guests to don muted colors so chromatic lighting can paint the night and patrons.
Royal Caribbean Nightlife
- Full-scale performances resemble everything from Mamma Mia and Wizard of Oz to Hairspray and Back to the Future remarkably aboard floating vessels.
- Even the line’s skating rinks feature ice capade-like shows with kinetic skaters elevating Olympic acrobatics to new heights.
- Every vessel has some form of a nightclub for even more dancing.
Conclusion
Both Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises are great vacation options, but cooking for you depends on your vacation priorities. For best value, luxury ships, and a French European vibe, MSC Cruises rules for couples & frugal travelers. For world-class entertainment, incredible ship design and fun for the whole family, Royal Caribbean is a vacation wonder for families and entertainment lovers.
FAQ
Q.1 Is MSC Cheaper Than Royal Caribbean?
Ans: Yes. In general, MSC Cruises offers lower base fares and frequent promotional deals, making it a more budget-friendly option than Royal Caribbean.
Q.2 What Cruise Line Is Better for Families?
Ans: Royal Caribbean is often considered the better choice for families because of its extensive kids’ clubs, water parks, adventure attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.
Q.3 Does MSC Include More in the Cruise Fare?
Ans: It depends on the fare type and promotion. Some MSC fares include extras such as drinks, Wi-Fi, or gratuities, while others do not. Always compare what is included before booking.
Q.4 What Cruise Line Has Bigger Ships?
Ans: Royal Caribbean operates some of the largest cruise ships in the world, offering multiple neighborhoods, more onboard activities, and a wide range of entertainment options.
Q.5 Is There a Luxury Option at MSC?
Ans: Yes. MSC Yacht Club is MSC Cruises’ luxury experience, featuring private suites, butler service, exclusive restaurants and lounges, priority boarding, and other premium amenities.
Want to save money onboard? Compare the available cruise drink packages before you book.
