Ship Comparison
MSC Euribia vs MSC Splendida
The MSC Euribia offers a modern, eco-conscious family adventure with diverse dining, while the MSC Splendida provides classic European elegance and a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere for budget-savvy cruisers.
The verdict
Choosing between MSC Euribia and MSC Splendida really comes down to your personal priorities and travel style. Euribia, being the newer vessel, leans into modern technology and a strong environmental ethos, making it a stellar choice for families seeking innovative entertainment and diverse dining experiences. Its sheer size means more options, but also potentially more crowds. Splendida, while an older ship, still delivers a vibrant, classic cruise experience with a focus on value and a charming, cosmopolitan vibe. Its Yacht Club offers a truly refined escape for those who appreciate discreet luxury. Ultimately, Euribia is for the family looking for the latest and greatest, while Splendida offers a more traditional, yet still energetic, MSC holiday.
Choose MSC Euribia if…
The MSC Euribia is perfectly suited for families and multi-generational groups who thrive in an energetic, modern environment, appreciate a wide range of dining choices, and value a cruise line's commitment to sustainability.
Best for
- Families with children of all ages seeking extensive kids' clubs and activities
- Travelers who appreciate modern, high-tech entertainment and interactive experiences
- Guests prioritizing environmental responsibility and sustainable cruising
- Those looking for diverse specialty dining options beyond the main restaurants
- Cruisers who enjoy a lively, bustling international atmosphere
Avoid if
- Guests who prefer quiet, intimate public spaces, especially during peak times
- Those sensitive to crowds and noise in communal areas
- Travelers who dislike numerous à la carte fees for amenities and activities
- Passengers who prefer a more traditional, subdued cruise experience
- Individuals who are prone to seasickness and prefer midship, lower deck cabins
Choose MSC Splendida if…
The MSC Splendida is an excellent fit for budget-conscious cruisers and families who enjoy a lively, international atmosphere with classic cruise amenities and a strong emphasis on value, especially those interested in Mediterranean or South American itineraries.
Best for
- Budget-conscious cruisers seeking good value and inclusive offerings
- Families who enjoy a lively, informal, and multicultural environment
- Guests who appreciate classic European elegance and traditional cruise ship charm
- Travelers interested in Mediterranean or South American itineraries
- Those seeking a premium 'ship-within-a-ship' experience in the Yacht Club
Avoid if
- Travelers desiring a wide array of complimentary specialty dining options
- Guests who prefer modern, high-tech entertainment over traditional shows and lounges
- Individuals sensitive to cigarette smoke in designated casino and bar areas
- Cruisers expecting a very intimate or quiet experience outside of the Yacht Club
- Those who prefer newer ships with the latest design innovations
Overall Vibe
MSC Euribia
Stepping aboard MSC Euribia, you immediately sense a youthful, vibrant energy. Launched in 2023, this Meraviglia Class ship, measuring 43 meters wide across its 14 decks, embodies a contemporary spirit. Its striking hull, adorned with Alex Flämig's #SaveTheSea artwork, signals a commitment to environmental consciousness. The internal spaces are designed for lively interaction, especially along the impressive Galleria Euribia with its LED dome. It's a ship that feels fresh, dynamic, and geared towards creating memorable, modern cruise experiences for all who embark, blending innovative design with a sense of playful discovery.
MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida offers a more classic, elegant MSC experience, defined by its traditional European charm. As a Fantasia-class vessel, its ambiance is one of comfortable sophistication, featuring dazzling Swarovski crystal staircases that add a touch of sparkle. While its launch year isn't specified, its design speaks to a slightly older, yet well-maintained, grand cruise liner feel. At 37 meters wide and spanning 14 decks, it provides ample space for its 3,959 passengers without feeling overwhelmingly large. It’s a ship that balances grandeur with a welcoming, inclusive spirit, appealing to those who appreciate a more traditional cruising aesthetic.
Atmosphere & Crowd
MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia cultivates a lively, international, and decidedly family-friendly atmosphere. Carrying up to 6,327 passengers when fully booked, with a dedicated crew of 1,711, it's a bustling hub of activity. Expect energetic public spaces, especially around the pools and the Galleria Euribia, which often hosts impromptu parties. While there's always something happening, this vibrancy can translate to crowded areas, particularly during peak times or when weather moves activities indoors. It's best suited for those who enjoy a bustling environment and a diverse mix of fellow travelers.
MSC Splendida
The atmosphere on MSC Splendida is notably cosmopolitan, fun-loving, and informal, attracting a diverse international crowd. With a capacity for 3,959 passengers and a crew of 1,332, it feels a touch less overwhelming than its newer counterpart, yet still maintains a lively buzz. Passengers often comment on the friendly and inclusive onboard environment. While public spaces can certainly be active, especially in the Royal Palm Casino or during after-dinner parties, there are also quieter spots like the Library for relaxation. It’s a ship where guests from various backgrounds can easily mingle and enjoy the shared experience.
Dining
MSC Euribia
Dining on MSC Euribia offers a wide and varied culinary journey. Complimentary options include the expansive Marketplace Buffet and several main dining rooms like Aurora Boreale, Green Orchid, and Colorado River, with Il Campo exclusive to Grand Suite Aurea guests. The Marketplace Buffet is particularly large and efficient, even making fresh mozzarella onboard. For those seeking specialty experiences, additional charges apply for diverse choices such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina for Mexican street food, Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi for Japanese cuisine, and Le Grill for a French steakhouse experience. Room service upcharge pizza is also a popular choice.
MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida provides a solid array of dining options, with a focus on quality complimentary choices. Guests can enjoy international and Mediterranean specialties at main dining rooms like La Reggia and Villa Verde, with the latter offering panoramic sea views and a generally quieter ambiance. The Bora Bora and Pago Pago buffets are extensive, featuring a traditional pizza oven and pasta station, though Bora Bora can get quite busy. The ship has a more limited specialty dining landscape compared to Euribia, with Santa Fe Tex Mex as its primary for-fee restaurant, alongside delightful Italian gelato at Bar del Riccio.
Entertainment & Nightlife
MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia offers a dynamic and high-tech entertainment landscape designed to keep all ages engaged. The Delphi Theatre hosts Broadway-style shows with captivating acrobatics, while the Carousel Lounge provides panoramic views and live music in a more intimate setting. For active fun, the Ocean Cay Aquapark features three twisting slides and a Himalayan Bridge. The Amusement Park area boasts virtual reality games, an MSC Formula Racer, an interactive XD Cinema, and bowling, all for an additional fee. Evenings come alive with impromptu parties under the stunning LED dome of the Galleria Euribia and late-night dancing at the Attic Club.
MSC Splendida
On MSC Splendida, entertainment leans into a classic, yet vibrant, cruise experience. The Strand Theatre presents West End-style shows with an international lineup of artists. Nightlife is lively, with venues like The Purple Jazz Bar offering live music and custom drinks, and Club 33 providing a futuristic nightclub atmosphere. The Royal Palm Casino is a popular spot for gaming, though it can get crowded. For family-friendly activities, there's a 4D Cinema, an MSC Formula Racer, and a two-lane bowling alley in the Sports Bar. Themed parties and talent shows like MSC Factor add to the ship's social energy.
Cabins & Suites
MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia's 2,419 cabins are comfortably appointed, with standard options starting around 170 square feet, offering more space than many in the industry. All feature convertible twin/king beds, a vanity, interactive TV, and adequate storage. Studio cabins are available for solo travelers. The MSC Yacht Club elevates the experience with 103 exclusive suites, including Royal Suites with private whirlpools and two-level Duplex Suites, all benefiting from butler service and premium amenities. Guests should note that some balcony cabins on decks 8 and 14 may have obstructed or partial views due to ship structures or lifeboats.
MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida offers 1,682 cabins, including 43 accessible options, maintaining a comfortable and elegant standard. While generally smaller than Euribia's newer cabins, they are well-equipped with convertible double/twin beds, mini-bars, and flat-screen TVs. The décor typically features muted blue and cream tones. For a heightened experience, the 71-suite MSC Yacht Club provides lavish accommodations, including spacious Royal Suites with large balconies, hot tubs, and coffee machines, along with a host of exclusive services. It's worth considering that some balconies might be shaded or have metal walls, affecting views when seated.
Service & Onboard Style
MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia prides itself on a personalized approach, especially within the MSC Yacht Club, which offers 24/7 butler and concierge services, priority embarkation, and premium drink and Wi-Fi packages. The Aurea Experience further enhances guest comfort with perks like complimentary ironing and espresso machines in suites. The overall onboard style is modern and sophisticated, integrating digital connectivity through the MSC and Me app, which aids in managing daily activities. The crew, numbering 1,711, generally provides efficient service, though the sheer volume of passengers can sometimes make the experience feel less intimate.
MSC Splendida
On MSC Splendida, the service embodies a friendly, cosmopolitan style, complementing the ship's elegant European design. The "MSC for Me" digital technology is a key feature, connecting guests with onboard services via interactive touchscreens and in-cabin Smart TVs, enhancing the ease of the holiday. The exclusive Yacht Club provides a "ship within a ship" luxury experience, complete with 24-hour butler service and dedicated dining, ensuring a high level of personalized attention. While the general atmosphere is informal and fun, the crew of 1,332 works diligently to maintain a high standard of hospitality for its diverse passenger base.
Best Itineraries
MSC Euribia
MSC Euribia offers a diverse selection of itineraries, appealing to travelers looking to explore various regions. Its Northern European routes include picturesque journeys to Denmark and Norway, with calls in cities like Copenhagen, Kiel, Hellesylt, Geiranger, Alesund, and Flaam. The ship also sails to the vibrant cultural hubs of the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, and Bahrain. Additionally, it features Western Mediterranean cruises, visiting popular ports such as Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, and La Goulette. This range makes Euribia a flexible choice for those eager to experience different corners of the world.
MSC Splendida
MSC Splendida primarily focuses on captivating Mediterranean and South American itineraries. In the Mediterranean, it explores popular destinations in Italy, Croatia, Greece, and Turkey, with ports like Trieste, Split, Piraeus, Kusadasi, Heraklion, Bari, and Istanbul. Its South American offerings include vibrant voyages to Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, featuring calls in Rio de Janeiro, Ilhabela, Balneario Camboriu, Punta Del Este, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. This ship is particularly well-suited for guests who wish to immerse themselves in the rich history and lively cultures of these regions, offering a blend of scenic beauty and bustling city experiences.
What reviewers say
MSC Euribia
4/5MSC Euribia offers a lot of value, especially for families cruising with children, providing excellent family offerings and pricing for many budgets. However, be prepared for crowded public spaces, particularly when the weather forces guests indoors.
MSC Splendida
4.5/5MSC 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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