MSC Bellissima

    MSC Cruises

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Cruises

    MSC Splendida

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    Ship Comparison

    MSC Bellissima vs MSC Splendida

    For a modern, tech-forward family adventure in Asia or a classic Mediterranean and South American journey with exclusive luxury, these MSC ships offer distinct yet vibrant experiences.

    The verdict

    Choosing between MSC Bellissima and MSC Splendida truly depends on your preferred cruise style and destination. Bellissima, a newer vessel, shines with its innovative technology, a broader array of specialty dining, and the unique Cirque du Soleil at Sea, making it ideal for families and lively cruisers seeking modern entertainment in Asian waters. Splendida, while an older ship, offers a classic MSC experience with a strong emphasis on inclusive fun and a luxurious 'ship-within-a-ship' Yacht Club, perfectly suited for those exploring the Mediterranean and South America with a keen eye for value and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Both ships deliver a high-energy vacation, but Bellissima edges out in contemporary features and diverse culinary experiences, while Splendida offers a more traditional, yet equally vibrant, MSC journey.

    Choose MSC Bellissima if…

    The MSC Bellissima is ideal for families and groups who thrive in a vibrant, high-energy environment, appreciate modern technology for a seamless experience, and enjoy diverse culinary adventures and spectacular entertainment. It particularly suits those interested in exploring Asian itineraries.

    Best for

    • Families with children seeking extensive kids' club options and water park fun.
    • Travelers who enjoy a lively, energetic atmosphere and late-night entertainment.
    • Guests who appreciate modern technology and a connected cruise experience.
    • Food enthusiasts looking for diverse specialty dining options, including unique Asian and European cuisines.
    • Those seeking high-quality, theatrical productions, including exclusive Cirque du Soleil shows.

    Avoid if

    • Cruisers prioritizing quiet, intimate spaces outside of a premium, exclusive enclave.
    • Budget-conscious travelers, as many premium entertainment and dining options incur additional costs.
    • Guests sensitive to noise or crowds, particularly around the main pool deck and promenade.
    • Travelers looking for traditional, low-key evening entertainment.
    • Those primarily interested in Mediterranean or South American itineraries.

    Choose MSC Splendida if…

    The MSC Splendida appeals to cruisers seeking a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere with an emphasis on inclusive fun, good value, and a more traditional cruise experience. It's well-suited for families and couples exploring the Mediterranean and South America, with the option for exclusive luxury in the Yacht Club.

    Best for

    • Families looking for an inclusive, fun-filled cruise with dedicated children's facilities.
    • Travelers who enjoy a cosmopolitan atmosphere and diverse international crowds.
    • Guests seeking a balance of lively activities and comfortable, classic cruise elegance.
    • Budget-conscious cruisers who appreciate good value in main dining and basic cruise fare.
    • Cruisers interested in exploring Mediterranean and South American destinations.

    Avoid if

    • Guests looking for an extensive array of complimentary specialty dining options.
    • Travelers who prefer a brand-new, cutting-edge ship with the latest in digital entertainment.
    • Those sensitive to smoking, as designated areas can impact the atmosphere in some public spaces.
    • Guests who dislike large, bustling buffets during peak hours.
    • Travelers seeking unique, high-production shows like Cirque du Soleil at Sea.

    Overall Vibe

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima, launched in 2019, is a contemporary mega-ship designed for vibrant, high-energy holidays. Its prominent feature, the two-deck Galleria Bellissima, boasts an 80-meter-long LED dome, creating a dazzling central hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The ship's overall feel is modern and bustling, with a focus on immersive experiences and a lively atmosphere that resonates with a fun-loving, international crowd. It offers a fresh, dynamic cruise experience that blends innovation with classic cruising elements, appealing particularly to those who enjoy a bustling environment.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida, part of the Fantasia-class, exudes a classic, grand cruise ship elegance, promising 'spectacular days' at sea. Though its launch year isn't specified, its design emphasizes comfort, style, and luxury, highlighted by signature Swarovski crystal staircases. As an 'eco-ship,' it incorporates energy-saving and waste management systems, reflecting a commitment to responsible travel. The atmosphere is generally lively and inclusive, offering a blend of traditional cruising with modern amenities, creating a cosmopolitan feel for a diverse range of guests seeking a well-rounded holiday.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima is undeniably a big, fun, and family-friendly ship, often attracting a lively, party-oriented crowd, particularly from Southern Europe. Carrying 4,475 passengers with a crew of 1,536, the ship maintains a bustling energy. While public spaces are thoughtfully designed to manage the crowds, the main pool deck can be quite noisy and energetic, with constant activities and music. It's a ship where guests are encouraged to 'party till midnight and beyond,' making it perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant, social holiday.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida cultivates a lively, exuberant, and informal atmosphere, drawing a friendly, cosmopolitan crowd. With a passenger capacity of 3,959 and a crew of 1,332, it manages to feel inclusive without being overly overwhelming. The ship’s environment is relaxed and family-friendly, accepting of children staying up late, contributing to a genuinely fun-filled holiday. While it offers plenty of activity, it also provides spaces for guests to unwind and enjoy the diverse international ambiance at their own pace.

    Dining

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima offers an extensive and diverse culinary journey. Complimentary options include the vast Marketplace Buffet, which even features a mozzarella-making area, alongside main dining rooms like Posidonia, The Lighthouse, Il Cilegio, and Le Cerisier. For specialty dining (at an additional cost), guests can savor authentic Mediterranean tapas at HOLA! Tapas Bar, premium steaks at Butcher's Cut, or an entertaining Japanese teppanyaki experience at Kaito Teppanyaki. The ship also features Kaito Sushi Bar, L'Atelier Bistrot, and delightful treats from Jean-Philippe Chocolate & Cafe and Jean-Philippe Crepes & Gelato, ensuring a wide array of choices.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida provides a solid selection of included dining, featuring the expansive Bora Bora & Pago Pago Buffet Restaurants, known for their international cuisine, pizza, and pasta stations. The main dining rooms, La Reggia and Villa Verde, offer exquisite Mediterranean and international specialties with daily changing menus, with Villa Verde boasting panoramic sea views for a more serene experience. The ship has one primary specialty restaurant, Santa Fe Tex Mex, offering a vibrant Mexican experience for an additional fee. L'Olivo is reserved exclusively for Yacht Club guests, providing a fine dining Italian experience with attentive service.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    MSC Bellissima

    Entertainment on MSC Bellissima is a standout, featuring two original Cirque du Soleil at Sea productions, 'Valeria' and 'Syma,' performed in the custom-built Carousel Lounge, offering a breathtaking blend of acrobatics, dance, and music (for an additional charge). The London Theatre hosts six different Broadway-style revue shows nightly. The Galleria Bellissima comes alive with music, parties, and impressive 10-minute visual shows on its 80-meter-long LED ceiling. Beyond the main venues, guests can enjoy F1 Simulators, a 4D Cinema, VR Maze, Bowling Lanes, and the lively Attic Club for late-night dancing.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida offers a diverse range of entertainment, centered around The Strand Theatre, which presents West End-style productions with dancers, bilingual singers, and acrobats designed for multinational appeal. For nightlife, guests can enjoy live jazz music at The Purple Jazz Bar, catch a game and bowl at the Sports Bar, or try their luck at the Royal Palm Casino, which, while crowded, is noted as fun. The Aft Lounge provides another venue for live music and shows, ensuring there's always a lively spot for after-dinner enjoyment and social gatherings.

    Cabins & Suites

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima offers 2,201 cabins, including 46 wheelchair-accessible options. Standard cabins are well-appointed with convertible beds, mini-bars, interactive TVs, and 'Zoe,' MSC's Personalized in-cabin assistant. For those seeking luxury, the exclusive MSC Yacht Club features 94 suites, including the spacious YC Deluxe Suites and the opulent YC Royal Suites with private whirlpool baths and dining tables on their large balconies. Duplex Suites offer two-story living with whirlpools. Aurea Suites also provide generous living spaces and private balconies, with enhanced privileges.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida features 1,682 cabins, with 43 designed for wheelchair accessibility. Standard cabins are decorated in muted blues or oranges, offering convertible beds, mini-bars, and wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. For an elevated experience, the MSC Yacht Club comprises 71 suites, including the lavish Executive & Family Suites, and Grand Suites, all with 24-hour butler service. Royal Suites are particularly notable for their two-room layout and wrap-around balconies with private hot tubs. Guests should be aware that some balconies may have obstructed views or metal walls, and interconnecting cabins might have reduced soundproofing.

    Service & Onboard Style

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima emphasizes a modern, connected onboard experience through its 'MSC for Me' technology and 'Zoe' in-cabin personal assistant, aiming to personalize guest interactions. The service standards in specialty restaurants like Kaito Teppanyaki are noted as outstanding. The ultraluxurious Yacht Club provides an exclusive enclave with 24-hour butler and concierge services, offering an intuitive and highly attentive experience. Despite the ship's size and lively atmosphere, the crew maintains a high level of efficiency and friendliness, particularly in dining and exclusive areas.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida's service is characterized by its friendly, efficient, and welcoming crew, contributing to its inclusive and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The ship's 'MSC for Me' technology is available, enhancing the guest experience. Within the exclusive Yacht Club, service reaches a premium level, with 24-hour butler service, a dedicated concierge, and highly attentive waiters in the private restaurant and Top Sail Lounge. This 'ship-within-a-ship' concept ensures a refined and personalized experience for those seeking an elevated standard of care amidst the general exuberance of the vessel.

    Best Itineraries

    MSC Bellissima

    MSC Bellissima offers a diverse array of itineraries primarily focused on the captivating regions of Asia. Guests can embark on journeys exploring the vibrant cultures and scenic beauty of Japan, with ports like Tokyo, Kagoshima, Kobe, and Naha. The ship also sails to destinations in China (Shanghai) and Korea (Gangjeong, Incheon), and Taiwan (Keelung), providing an immersive experience into East Asian charm and modern cities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to discover this part of the world.

    MSC Splendida

    MSC Splendida is a fantastic choice for exploring the rich histories and beautiful coastlines of the Mediterranean, with itineraries visiting Italy (Trieste, Bari, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, Civitavecchia, Livorno, Cagliari), Greece (Piraeus, Corfu, Heraklion, Katakolon), Turkey (Kusadasi, Istanbul), Croatia (Split), Malta (Valletta), Spain (Barcelona, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Las Palmas), and France (Marseille). Additionally, it offers exciting cruises to South America, including Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, Ilhabela, Salvador, Buzios, Balneario Camboriu, Ilha Grande), Argentina (Buenos Aires), and Uruguay (Punta Del Este, Montevideo).

    What reviewers say

    MSC Bellissima

    5/5

    MSC Bellissima is a large, fun, and family-friendly ship offering a vast array of dining, drinking, and entertainment options. Let yourself get swept up in the exuberance, and you'll soon be partying till midnight and beyond with the best of them.

    MSC Splendida

    4.5/5

    MSC Splendida offers a cosmopolitan, fun-loving cruise experience with great onboard facilities, making it a good choice for budget-conscious cruisers. While it provides an inclusive and lively atmosphere for all ages, the lack of specialty dining options is a notable trade-off.

    Itineraries to compare

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    MSC Bellissima

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