Age Policy
MSC Cruises’ age policies vary depending on whether your itinerary includes a U.S. port. For cruises that touch U.S. soil, the thresholds for drinking, gambling, and sailing unaccompanied are generally higher.
Minimum Age to Sail
- General Policy: There is technically no minimum age for infants on most cruises; however, they must be at least 6 months old to be left at the Baby Club (childcare).
- 11+ Night Cruises: For sailings of 11 nights or longer, infants must be at least 2 years old (24 months) on the day of embarkation.
- Unaccompanied Minors:
- Non-U.S. Itineraries: You must be 18+ to book and stay in a cabin alone.
- U.S. Itineraries: You must be 21+ to travel alone. Guests aged 18–20 can stay in their own cabin only if a guest aged 21+ is on the same booking.
Cabin Policies for Families
MSC typically requires at least one adult (18 or 21, depending on the region) per cabin. However, they offer a Minor Policy Exception for parents traveling with 2–5 children:
- Age Requirement: One minor must be at least 12 years old, or if there are two minors, the eldest must be at least 12 and the youngest at least 8.
- Cabin Type: Minors must be in connecting cabins (with an internal door) or adjacent interior cabins.
- Safety: For balconies in minor-only cabins, the balcony door will be locked for safety.
Alcohol and Gambling
The age limits for adult activities are strictly tied to the ship’s location and itinerary:
| Activity | U.S. / Caribbean / UAE Itineraries | Mediterranean / Northern Europe / Other |
| Legal Drinking Age | 21 years old | 18 years old |
| Casino / Gambling | 21 years old | 18 years old |
| Spa Thermal Area | 18 years old | 18 years old |
Kids’ Clubs by Age Group
MSC categorizes its youth programs into five distinct tiers to ensure age-appropriate activities:
- Baby Club: Under 3 years (specifically 6 months to 2 years for drop-off).
- Mini Club: 3 to 6 years.
- Juniors Club: 7 to 11 years.
- Young Club: 12 to 14 years.
- Teens Club: 15 to 17 years.
Note: For children under 3, MSC offers Baby Time (parents play with their children in the club) and Baby Care (drop-off service), both of which are generally free but require advanced booking on board.
Dining Information
MSC offers a mix of inclusive dining (included in your fare) and specialty restaurants (paid or via packages).
Inclusive Dining (Included in Fare)
- Main Dining Room (MDR): This is a formal, sit-down experience for breakfast, lunch (on sea days), and dinner. Menus rotate daily and feature a mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine.
- Marketplace Buffet: Open roughly 20 hours a day, offering everything from pizza and pasta to salads, meats, and late-night snacks.
- Dining Times:
- Bella & Fantastica Experiences: You are typically assigned a fixed seating time (Early around 5:30/6:00 PM or Late around 8:30/9:00 PM).
- Aurea & Yacht Club Experiences: You enjoy “My Choice” dining, allowing you to walk into the dining room at any time during operating hours.
Specialty Dining (Extra Charge)
Specialty restaurants vary by ship but generally include:
- Butcher’s Cut: A high-end American-style steakhouse.
- Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi: Japanese cuisine with show cooking tables.
- Hola! Tacos & Cantina: Latin American/Mexican street food.
- Ocean Cay / La Pescaderia: Sophisticated seafood venues.
Tip: If you plan to eat at these, buy a Specialty Dining Package before you sail. It can save you up to 20%–40% compared to paying individual cover charges onboard.
Dietary Requirements
MSC is quite proactive with dietary needs, though they require advance notice for some:
- Gluten-Free: Available on most ships in the Main Dining Room. MSC works with national Celiac Associations to provide certified gluten-free menus.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: There is always at least one vegetarian option on the daily MDR menu, and the buffet has clearly labeled plant-based sections.
- Kosher/Halal: Must be requested at least 3 weeks (Kosher) or 2 months (Halal) before departure. Kosher meals are pre-packaged and carry an extra daily fee (approx. $30 per person/day).
Dress Code
- Casual: Most nights. Sundresses, slacks, and nice jeans are fine. Swimwear and tank tops are not permitted in the MDR.
- Gala Night: Expect at least one Elegant Night per cruise. While a tuxedo isn’t required, many guests wear suits, cocktail dresses, or gowns.
Fuel Surcharge Policy
MSC Cruises has a specific clause in their booking contract that allows them to reintroduce a fuel surcharge even after you have paid for your cruise in full.
The Trigger Policy
MSC reserves the right to reinstate a fuel supplement if the price of oil (specifically West Texas Intermediate) rises above a certain threshold.
- The Threshold: Typically around $65–$70 per barrel.
- The Charge: If implemented, it is usually capped at $9.00 – $12.00 per person, per day.
- Who pays: This can be applied to all guests in a cabin, though some policies cap it at the first two guests.
Implementation Rules
- Retroactive Charges: MSC’s contract states they can add this charge even if your booking is already paid in full.
- Timing: They generally must notify you or implement the charge at least 20 days prior to embarkation.
- Payment Method: If a surcharge is reinstated while you are already booked, the amount is usually added to your onboard account to be settled at the end of the cruise, rather than being billed as an immediate invoice.
Payments / Refunds
Deposits & Payments
Flat deposits are required per person: $99 for Short Cruises (<=4 nights), with final payment due 75 days prior; $199 for Standard Cruises (5-14 nights), with final payment 90 days prior; $300 for Extended Voyages (>=15 nights), with final payment 110 days prior; and 15% of the total fare for World Cruises/Grand Voyages, with final payment 120 days prior. Promo non-refundable (NR) fares carry non-refundable deposits from booking. Bookings inside final payment deadlines require immediate payment in full. Name changes inside 89 days are subject to a flat fee of $75 USD. Date changes (‘Cruise Move’) are typically free for the first request, then cost €50 per person.
Cancellation & Refunds
Cancellation fees depend heavily on the duration of the booked cruise and selected booking class.
Smoking Policy
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas onboard. Smoking is not permitted in dining venues, theaters, or other indoor public spaces. MSC may levy fees for violations of non-smoking rules.
Travel Protection
MSC Cruises offers travel protection programs partnered with Allianz Global Assistance and Europe Assistance. The premium is calculated as a percentage of the total vacation package cost and is non-refundable. Benefits include Trip Cancellation & Interruption (covering up to 100% of prepaid non-refundable costs including MSC booked flights), Medical & Emergency Evacuation, and a specialized COVID-19 Protection Plan covering quarantine-related expenses. To waive the pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the policy must be paid within 14 to 21 days of initial deposit.
Tipping Policy
A mandatory daily ‘Hotel Service Charge’ is added to accounts of guests aged 2 and older (children under 2 are exempt). Prepaying is recommended to lock in rates. Daily rates vary by region and tier: Caribbean/US routes are charged $17.00 USD per night (Standard) or $23.00 USD per night (MSC Yacht Club); Mediterranean/European/International routes are charged €12.00 EUR per night (Standard, with a 50% discount for ages 2-11) or €21.00 EUR per night (Yacht Club). Hotel Service Charges are mandatory and cannot be adjusted onboard unless unresolved service failures are documented with Guest Relations prior to disembarkation. An automatic service charge applies to optional purchases: 18% gratuity on North American itineraries and 15% on European/International itineraries for bar, beverage, specialty dining, and spa.
Dress Code
Daytime wear is casual (shorts and t-shirts are welcome). Eveningwear in the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants recommends a more polished look (collared shirts, tailored pants or shorts, skirts, and dresses). Swimwear is never allowed in formal dining venues. Shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are prohibited in the dining rooms, specialty venues, or MSC Yacht Club after 6:00 PM.
Formal Nights
- MSC features “Gala Nights” where guests are encouraged to dress to impress (tuxedos, suits, evening gowns, or cocktail dresses). T-shirts are not allowed on Gala Nights.
Excursions
- Enhance your cruise vacation by pre-booking your excursions (recommended for most savings and to guarantee availability) via the cruise line app or book while onboard. Space is limited and popular excursions sell out fast!
Why MSC?
MSC Cruises is one of the fastest-growing cruise lines in the world, offering an elegant blend of European style, global itineraries, and exceptional value. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, romantic escapes, or immersive cultural travel, MSC delivers an unforgettable experience at sea.
Incredible Value & Competitive Pricing
MSC Cruises is known for offering high-quality vacations at affordable prices. With frequent promotions, kids-sail-free offers, and flexible fare options, MSC provides one of the best values in modern cruising without compromising comfort or service.
Stylish, European-Inspired Ships
MSC’s fleet features some of the most modern and innovative ships at sea. Their vessels are designed with: Elegant Italian style, Spacious open areas, Cutting-edge entertainment venues, futuristic technology and sustainability features
Family-Friendly Cruises & Kids Sail Free
MSC is one of the most popular cruise lines for families thanks to: Kids Sail Free promotions on many sailings, Free access to youth clubs for babies, kids, and teens, LEGO-themed playrooms, Family entertainment, games, and water parks.
MSC Yacht Club – A Ship-Within-a-Ship Luxury Experience
MSC Yacht Club is a private luxury enclave offering: Spacious suites, 24/7 butler service, Dedicated concierge, Private pool, lounge, and dining, Priority boarding and exclusive shore experiences. It allows guests to enjoy all the perks of a luxury cruise while still experiencing the full MSC ship.
World-Class Dining Inspired by Global Flavors
Indulge in beautifully prepared meals that blend Mediterranean heritage with international cuisine. MSC ships offer: Elegant main dining rooms, Casual buffets with worldwide flavors, Specialty dining like Butcher’s Cut, Kaito Teppanyaki, Hola! Tacos, and Ocean Cay. Fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and global culinary variety make MSC a standout for food lovers.
Immersive Itineraries Across the Globe
MSC Cruises sails to over 100 destinations worldwide, including: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, The Caribbean, South America, The Middle East, South Africa, Asia, World Cruise itineraries. Their routes emphasize cultural immersion, unique ports, and scenic sailing days.
Onboard Event Planning with MSC MICE & Charters
MSC Cruises features a dedicated MICE & Charters division specializing in events, meetings, incentives, and corporate charters. Whether you’re planning a wedding, business conference, or group celebration, MSC’s event team provides expert support to ensure a flawless experience at sea.
A Seamless, Stress-Free Cruise Experience
From easy online booking to organized boarding and disembarkation, MSC focuses on making the entire cruise process as smooth as possible. Their onboard Cruise Card system eliminates the need for cash or credit cards, offering total convenience for purchases and activity registration.
Commitment to Health & Safety
MSC has implemented enhanced health and safety protocols that exceed global standards, ensuring a clean, comfortable, and worry-free onboard environment from embarkation to disembarkation.
A Rich Maritime Heritage Rooted in Centuries of Tradition
With deep European roots and centuries of maritime history, MSC Cruises blends longstanding seafaring tradition with modern innovation. Guests experience a unique blend of heritage, hospitality, and contemporary cruising, something only MSC can deliver.
FAQ
What is included in an MSC Cruises fare?
Your cruise fare typically includes accommodation, main dining, entertainment, kids’ clubs, and many onboard activities. Specialty dining, beverage packages, and shore excursions require extra fees.
Are children’s activities included?
Yes, kids’ clubs and age-group programs are generally included, though some specialized services like Baby Care may carry fees.
Can infants sail on MSC Cruises?
Yes, infants under 1 year are typically allowed onboard, with specific rules for longer voyages.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, MSC offers Wi-Fi packages for purchase during your cruise.
Can I bring alcohol onboard?
Alcohol policies vary by departure port and itinerary; consult the official MSC Cruises policies for exact rules.
How are gratuities handled?
A daily service charge is typically added to the onboard account unless prepaid.
What happens if MSC cancels my cruise?
Refund options, future credits, or alternate arrangements are typically offered based on your booking terms.
Does MSC Cruises require travel insurance?
Travel protection is strongly recommended, but not always mandatory. Policies vary by fare type and booking method.
Can I register kids for youth clubs before boarding?
Yes, registration can often be completed onboard or via the cruise line’s pre-boarding forms.
Are meals included for babies and toddlers?
MSC offers kids menus and baby food options; most meal venues accommodate children of all ages.