What Cruise Lines Does MSC Own Discover the Full Fleet

MSC Cruises owns a diverse portfolio of cruise lines, including its flagship brand MSC Cruises, luxury line Explora Journeys, and the recently acquired Hurtigruten Expeditions (now rebranded as HX). This growing fleet caters to everything from family-friendly voyages to high-end expedition travel, solidifying MSC’s global presence in the cruise industry.

Key Takeaways

• MSC Cruises owns 5 brands: Includes MSC, Explora, and 3 others.
• Explora Journeys targets luxury: Focuses on high-end, all-inclusive experiences.
• MSC dominates global markets: Largest privately-owned cruise operator worldwide.
• Expanding fleet rapidly: 20+ ships added by 2030 across brands.
• Family-friendly options: MSC excels with kids’ activities and affordability.
• Luxury and budget coexist: Diverse brands cater to all traveler types.

What Cruise Lines Does MSC Own? Discover the Full Fleet

When it comes to global cruising, few names stand as tall as MSC Cruises. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) has evolved from a cargo shipping giant into one of the world’s most influential cruise operators. With roots in Italy and a vision for global expansion, MSC has strategically diversified its portfolio to include not only its flagship cruise line but also several niche brands that cater to different travel preferences, demographics, and luxury standards. But what cruise lines does MSC own? The answer is more expansive than many realize—and understanding the full fleet offers valuable insight for travelers, industry analysts, and cruise enthusiasts alike.

MSC’s journey into the cruise industry began as an extension of its maritime expertise, leveraging decades of shipping logistics and customer service to build a modern, innovative cruise brand. Over time, the company has acquired, launched, and rebranded multiple cruise lines to serve distinct markets—from budget-conscious families to high-end luxury travelers. Today, MSC’s cruise division operates under several distinct banners, each with its own identity, fleet, and strategic focus. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply curious about the global cruise landscape, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the full spectrum of cruise lines owned by MSC, their unique features, and how they fit into the larger MSC ecosystem.

The Core: MSC Cruises – The Flagship Brand

At the heart of MSC’s cruise empire lies MSC Cruises, the company’s primary and most recognizable brand. As of 2024, MSC Cruises operates a fleet of over 20 ships, with several more under construction, making it the third-largest cruise line in the world by passenger capacity. The brand is known for its European flair, family-friendly amenities, and aggressive global expansion—particularly in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Asia-Pacific markets.

Fleet Overview and Ship Classes

MSC Cruises’ fleet is divided into several innovative ship classes, each designed to enhance guest experience through technology, sustainability, and comfort:

• Lirica Class: The original fleet, including ships like MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia, known for their intimate size and European charm. These ships are often deployed in the Mediterranean and reposition for seasonal cruises.
• Musica Class: Slightly larger, with ships like MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra, offering more dining options and entertainment. Popular for longer itineraries and repositioning voyages.
• Fantasia Class: Introduced with MSC Fantasia, this class features the “MSC Yacht Club,” a private luxury enclave with exclusive access, butler service, and private lounges. Ships like MSC Splendida and MSC Divina fall into this category.
• Meraviglia Class: A game-changer in modern cruising, these ships (e.g., MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima) are among the largest in the world, with features like the Carousel Lounge, a two-deck-high LED dome, and the MSC for Me digital assistant.
• Meraviglia-Plus Class: An enhanced version of the Meraviglia class, with MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa offering more staterooms, expanded wellness areas, and improved sustainability systems.
• World Class: The newest and most advanced class, featuring LNG-powered ships like MSC World Europa and the upcoming MSC World America. These ships are designed with eco-innovation, AI-driven personalization, and a revolutionary “district” layout (e.g., the World Promenade, the Zen Zone).

Key Features and Innovations

MSC Cruises has invested heavily in technology and guest experience. For example:

• The MSC for Me app allows guests to book shore excursions, manage dining reservations, and even unlock their staterooms via smartphone.
• The MSC Yacht Club offers a “ship-within-a-ship” concept with private elevators, a dedicated pool, and 24/7 butler service—perfect for luxury seekers.
• All new ships are LNG-ready or LNG-powered, reducing sulfur oxide emissions by up to 99% and cutting greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
• Family-friendly perks include MSC Kids Free promotions, where children under 17 sail free on select sailings, and partnerships with LEGO and Chicco for onboard activities.

Tip: If you’re traveling with kids or seeking a vibrant onboard atmosphere, opt for a Meraviglia-class ship. For a quieter, more refined experience, consider the Fantasia-class or MSC Yacht Club on any vessel.

MSC Seaview & MSC Seaside: The “Seaside” Revolution

While not standalone cruise lines, MSC Seaview and MSC Seaside represent a pivotal evolution in MSC’s design philosophy—and they’re worth discussing as distinct entities within the MSC Cruises brand. These two ships, launched in 2017 and 2018 respectively, introduced the “Seaside Class,” a new architectural concept that reimagines the cruise ship layout to maximize sea views and outdoor space.

Design Philosophy: “Closer to the Sea”

The Seaside-class ships were designed with a 360-degree ocean experience in mind. Key innovations include:

• A glass-bottomed walkway (the “Ocean View”) extending over the sea.
• An extended promenade deck wrapping around the ship, offering open-air lounging, dining, and bars.
• Floor-to-ceiling windows in public areas and staterooms, with 70% of cabins featuring balconies.
• A central atrium that opens to the sky, flooding interiors with natural light.

This design was a direct response to consumer demand for more outdoor space and connection with the sea—especially in tropical destinations. MSC Seaview is primarily deployed in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, while MSC Seaside sails year-round in the Caribbean, making it a favorite for sun-seekers.

Onboard Experience and Amenities

Both ships feature:

• Over 20 dining options, including a steakhouse by Butcher’s Cut and a tapas bar by Spanish celebrity chef Ramón Freixa.
• The Aurea Spa, a 1,670-square-meter wellness retreat with thermal suites and treatment rooms.
• The Top 18 Exclusive Solarium, an adults-only retreat with a private pool and bar.
• An interactive water park with slides and splash zones for kids and teens.

Practical Example: On a 7-night Caribbean cruise aboard MSC Seaside, guests can enjoy a sunset dinner on the promenade, followed by a live show in the multi-level theater, then unwind in the Top 18 solarium—all without ever leaving the ship’s open-air spaces.

Tip: Book a balcony cabin on the port side (left) of MSC Seaview during a Mediterranean cruise to enjoy unobstructed views of coastal towns as the ship docks.

MSC Yacht Club: The Luxury Enclave Within the Fleet

While not a separate cruise line, the MSC Yacht Club functions as a premium brand within the MSC Cruises fleet, offering a boutique luxury experience across multiple ships. Think of it as MSC’s answer to Regent Seven Seas or Silversea, but with the scale and accessibility of a mainstream cruise line.

What Is the MSC Yacht Club?

The Yacht Club is a private, keycard-access zone on select MSC ships, offering:

• Exclusive staterooms and suites with butler service.
• A private concierge and 24/7 personalized assistance.
• A dedicated lounge with complimentary drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi.
• Private pool, sun deck, and whirlpools.
• Priority embarkation, tendering, and disembarkation.
• Complimentary specialty dining and spa credits.

Currently, the Yacht Club is available on the following ships: MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina, MSC Preziosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, and MSC Virtuosa. The upcoming MSC World America will also feature an expanded Yacht Club with even more space and services.

Who Is the Yacht Club For?

The Yacht Club appeals to travelers who want:

• Luxury without the price tag: Yacht Club suites start at around $1,500 per person for a 7-night cruise—significantly less than all-inclusive luxury lines.
• Exclusivity on a big ship: Guests enjoy the amenities of a large vessel (theater, water park, casino) while retreating to a private oasis.
• Personalized service: Butlers handle everything from unpacking to booking excursions.

Tip: If you’re considering a Yacht Club booking, opt for a Meraviglia-class ship. The Yacht Club on MSC Grandiosa features a two-deck lounge with panoramic views and a private elevator to the spa.

MSC Seascape & MSC Euribia: The New Generation of Eco-Innovation

MSC’s newest additions—MSC Seascape (2022) and MSC Euribia (2023)—represent the next phase of the Seaside-class evolution, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, technology, and guest experience. These ships are part of MSC Cruises’ $10+ billion investment in next-gen vessels, with 11 more under construction or on order.

Green Technology and Sustainability

Both ships are powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the cleanest marine fuel available today. Additional eco-features include:

• Advanced wastewater treatment systems that exceed international standards.
• Heat recovery systems that reuse energy from engines to heat water and spaces.
• Shore-to-ship power connections to reduce emissions while docked.
• Zero single-use plastics in dining and guest areas.

MSC Euribia is named after the Greek goddess of the sea and is the first MSC ship to be net-zero carbon-ready, with the ability to switch to green methanol when the fuel becomes widely available.

Onboard Highlights and Guest Experience

MSC Seascape and Euribia offer:

• The MSC Aurea Spa with over 20 treatment rooms and a thermal suite.
• The Top 18 Exclusive Solarium with a retractable roof.
• An expanded kids’ area with LEGO-themed play zones and a teen lounge.
• The Carousel Lounge with a rotating stage and immersive LED shows.
• 12 dining venues, including a French bistro, a Japanese teppanyaki, and a 24-hour pizzeria.

Data Table: MSC Seascape vs. MSC Euribia

Feature	MSC Seascape	MSC Euribia
Launched	2022	2023
Passenger Capacity	5,877 (double occupancy)	6,334 (double occupancy)
Gross Tonnage	170,412 GT	181,541 GT
LNG-Powered	Yes	Yes (net-zero carbon-ready)
Yacht Club	Yes (1,017 sqm)	Yes (1,150 sqm)
Primary Itineraries	Caribbean, Mediterranean	Northern Europe, Mediterranean

Tip: Book a balcony cabin on MSC Euribia for a Northern Europe cruise to enjoy views of fjords and glaciers—especially during summer months when daylight lasts nearly 24 hours.

MSC’s Strategic Acquisitions and Future Expansion

While MSC Cruises is the crown jewel, the company has also made strategic moves beyond its core brand. Most notably, MSC acquired Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2022 through its parent company, MSC Group. This acquisition—valued at over $2 billion—cemented MSC’s position as a multi-brand cruise powerhouse, offering everything from mainstream to ultra-luxury experiences.

Oceania Cruises: The Mid-Luxury Segment

Oceania Cruises, known for its gourmet dining and destination-rich itineraries, operates a fleet of six mid-sized ships (e.g., Insignia, Nautica, Regatta). Key features:

• All-inclusive fares with premium wines and spirits.
• Smaller ships (684–1,250 passengers) for access to intimate ports.
• Partnerships with culinary icons like Jacques Pépin.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive

Regent is the top-tier luxury brand in MSC’s portfolio, with ships like Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Splendor offering:

• All-suite, all-balcony accommodations.
• Free unlimited shore excursions in every port.
• All-inclusive pricing covering airfare, gratuities, and specialty dining.
• Itineraries to remote destinations like Antarctica and the South Pacific.

While Oceania and Regent operate as independent brands under MSC’s ownership, they benefit from shared infrastructure, marketing, and financial backing—without losing their distinct identities.

Future Fleet Growth

MSC has an orderbook of 11 new ships through 2027, including:

• MSC World America (2025): A World-class LNG ship targeting the U.S. market, with a “Miami Vice” design theme and expanded family zones.
• MSC Cruises’ first LNG-powered cruise ferry: A hybrid vessel for short Mediterranean routes, combining cruise amenities with ferry functionality.
• Expansion of the Yacht Club concept to all new ships, with larger lounges and more butler suites.

Tip: If you’re a luxury traveler, consider booking a Regent Seven Seas cruise through MSC’s loyalty program, which offers cross-brand perks like onboard credits and priority booking.

Conclusion: The Full Picture of MSC’s Cruise Empire

So, what cruise lines does MSC own? The answer is a dynamic, multi-tiered portfolio that spans from family-friendly mega-ships to ultra-luxury all-inclusive voyages. At its core is MSC Cruises, with its innovative Seaside and World-class ships, eco-friendly LNG technology, and the exclusive Yacht Club. Complementing this are the Seaside-class revolutionaries—MSC Seaview and MSC Seaside—that redefine the onboard experience with open-air spaces and ocean connectivity.

Beyond its flagship brand, MSC has strategically acquired Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, giving it a dominant presence in the mid-luxury and ultra-luxury segments. These brands retain their independence but benefit from MSC’s global scale, financial strength, and sustainability initiatives. Meanwhile, the upcoming MSC World America and other new builds signal a bold future focused on innovation, environmental responsibility, and personalized guest experiences.

For travelers, this means unprecedented choice. Whether you’re a budget-conscious family looking for a fun Caribbean getaway on MSC Seaside, a couple seeking romance in the Yacht Club on MSC Grandiosa, or a luxury connoisseur planning a once-in-a-lifetime journey with Regent, MSC’s fleet has something for every style, budget, and destination.

As MSC continues to expand—both in fleet size and brand diversity—one thing remains clear: the company is not just building ships; it’s building a global cruise ecosystem designed to connect people with the world, one voyage at a time. So the next time you’re dreaming of the sea, remember: MSC’s full fleet is waiting to take you there.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines does MSC own?

MSC Cruises owns several brands, including its flagship MSC Cruises, luxury line Explora Journeys, and a majority stake in MSC Grandiosa-focused MSC Seaside-class ships. The company also operates cargo-focused MSC Cruises Logistics through affiliated ventures.

Does MSC Cruises own any luxury cruise lines?

Yes, MSC owns Explora Journeys, a luxury lifestyle brand launched in 2023. Explora focuses on high-end ocean experiences with smaller ships and all-inclusive fares, targeting premium travelers.

Is Explora Journeys part of MSC’s fleet?

Explora Journeys is fully owned by MSC Group and operates as its luxury subsidiary. While it shares MSC’s corporate ownership, it maintains a distinct brand identity and onboard experience.

Does MSC Cruises own other mainstream cruise brands?

MSC primarily operates under its own brand but has partnerships and joint ventures, like the MSC Seaside-class ships built for MSC by Fincantieri. It doesn’t own other major mainstream lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean.

What about regional or niche cruise lines under MSC?

MSC owns MSC Yacht Club, a “ship-within-a-ship” concept on its larger vessels, and partners with MSC Bellissima-based river cruise operations in Europe. It also invests in eco-friendly initiatives via MSC Foundation-supported projects.

Are there any non-cruise businesses MSC owns in the travel sector?

Beyond cruising, MSC Group owns MSC Air Cargo and MSC Travel Solutions, offering logistics and travel agency services. These support its core cruise operations and expand its global hospitality footprint.

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