Before you book, check out our top ten tips to help you get the most for your money.
Choose your experience
MSC have three main types of packages available: Bella, Fantastica and Aurea. The bargain Bella package gives you no choice of cabin location and some cruisers will not get a full sea view, even in a balcony suite. However, they are a great price and if you're not planning to be in your room much, it may not matter to you. In the next two packages, you can choose your cabin, have flexible booking and get a discounted speciality dining pass. The top package also gives access to exclusive areas on the ship, a welcome package and priority boarding.
Become a member
Consider joining the Voyagers Club to get 5% off your MSC booking. A membership of silver or above will also reward you with a 50 Euro gift card to spend onboard. These discounts depend on booking at least 9 months before the date.
Use your cruise loyalty status
If you're a regular cruiser with loyalty status on a different cruise line, MSC will honour it themselves. This also works with some hotel and tour operator schemes. Use MSC Status Match to get the equivalent of your original benefits during their cruise.
Find the best deal
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your MSC cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
NHS and Forces discount
If any of your party work for either of these organisations, they will receive a 10% discount when booking.
Check the location of your cabin
Before you book, scrutinise the deck plans to see what will be near your cabin, including above and below. If you like to be in bed early, you don't want to be near the bars and if you live a lay in, keep away from the gym.
Finding peace
If you're hoping to relax outside during your holiday, we highly recommend getting a cabin room. MSC love to indulge you with entertainment throughout the day and so it can get quite noisy. If you don't have a balcony, loungers at the back of the ships are your best bet, but you'll need to get there early.
Budget for the extras
Be sure to research what is included in your package. With MSC, you will often need to pay separately for WiFi, excursions and drinks, so make sure you factor this in when you book. Also bear in mind that when buying a drinks package, all other adults in your group will also need to have one when dining together.
Get kids their own card to save
You can buy pre-paid Teen Cards to give your children some freedom on board without the risk of handing over your credit card. Best of all, MSC offers up to 10 Euros incentive when buying the card (depending on the prepaid amount).
Include a trip to Ocean Cay
If you're heading to the Caribbean, check the itinerary for a visit to Ocean Cay. Why? Firstly, it's gorgeous. Secondly, many of its activities are free. This includes the pools, beaches and loungers, as well as lunch!
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your MSC cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
