When you look at MSC Cruises ships by class, everything suddenly feels a lot less confusing. The names, years, and tonnages are nice, but the class is what actually tells you how the ship will feel: how busy, how modern, how many kids’ features, and whether you’re getting a full-blown mega-resort or something more low-key and itinerary-focused.
In this guide I’m staying laser-focused on classes only. No cabin numbers yet, no deck-by-deck nitpicking. Just the architecture of the fleet so that all the “cabins to avoid” posts we do later will have a really solid foundation.
Table of Contents
Big Picture: How MSC Cruises Ships by Class Break Down
MSC’s core fleet is grouped into a handful of main families plus one ultra-luxury offshoot:
- World Class
- New Frontier / Frontier Class (on the way from 2030)
- Meraviglia Class
- Meraviglia Plus Class
- Seaside Class
- Seaside EVO Class
- Fantasia Class
- Musica Class
- Lirica Class
- Explora Journeys (separate luxury brand, but important context)
Each class is built on the same basic hull and layout blueprint with tweaks as you go forward. If you know one Meraviglia Plus ship, you’re 90% of the way to knowing all three. The same goes for the four Seaside / Seaside EVO ships, the four Fantasia sisters, the Musica quartet, and the Lirica quartet.
Think of it like this:
Ship name tells you the personality. Ship class tells you the entire neighborhood.
Once you’re picking and avoiding cabins later, you’ll want to keep these class “neighborhoods” in mind.
World Class: LNG Mega-Resorts & Floating Districts
World Class ships are where MSC goes all-in on “floating destination” energy: huge, loud, packed with venues, and designed to feel like multiple neighborhoods stitched together.
Which ships are World Class?
- MSC World Europa
- MSC World America
- MSC World Asia (on the way)
- MSC World Atlantic (on the way)
- World Class 5 & 6 (ordered but still unnamed)
- World Class 7 & 8 (also ordered; long-term deliveries)
World Europa and World America are sailing; the rest are in the pipeline, but they’ll generally share the same design language and scale.
World Class size & vibe
World Class ships are:
- Among the largest ships in the world by gross tonnage
- Over 200,000 GT, with guest capacity pushing close to 7,000 at max
- Powered by LNG with lots of focus on energy efficiency and emissions reduction
- Built with “districts”: adults-only zones, family zones, and a central promenade
On board, that translates to:
- A split superstructure with a big open space cut through the middle
- A multi-story promenade with LED sky, shops, and entertainment
- Multiple pools and hot tubs, including an aqua park with slides
- A big family district with kids’ clubs, hangouts, and water play
- Lots of specialty dining concepts and bars, often with new concepts debuting first on this class
If you like your ships quiet and cozy, this isn’t your lane. If you want Las Vegas mall + waterpark + resort at sea, World Class is exactly your lane.
What World Class is best for
- Families who want maximum kid infrastructure
- Social cruisers who love buzz, nightlife and variety
- Guests who like the newest, flashiest tech and entertainment
- People who prefer sea days with plenty to do over port-intensive itineraries
If you’re evaluating MSC Cruises ships by class and you love resort-style Royal Caribbean vibes, World Class is your MSC equivalent.
New Frontier / Frontier Class: The Next Wave From 2030
MSC sometimes calls this family New Frontier class, while some fleet lists refer to them simply as Frontier Class. Either way, this is the next “big thing” line of ships arriving from 2030 onward.
Which ships are New Frontier / Frontier Class?
- Frontier Class 1 – delivery planned for 2030
- Frontier Class 2 – around 2031
- Frontier Class 3 – around 2032
- Frontier Class 4 – around 2033
- Options for two more ships in the same class
Names will be assigned later, but from a planning perspective they’re already an important part of how we think about MSC Cruises ships by class through the 2030s.
Frontier Class size & concept
Key points:
- Roughly 180,000 GT, so smaller than World Class but still huge
- Around 5,400 guests at full capacity
- Built with energy efficiency and next-gen propulsion in mind
- Meant to balance:
- Big-ship features and space
- Better itinerary flexibility than the very largest hulls
Think of these as:
“We still want the resort feel, but we want to fit into more ports and build more flexible routes.”
Expect:
- A mix of indoor / outdoor promenades
- Strong family offerings but possibly slightly less extreme than World Class
- A lot of cabins with balconies and newer cabin design language
- Updated versions of MSC staples like the Yacht Club, waterpark, and indoor entertainment districts
We won’t know the exact layout until the first one sails, but as a class they’ll sit in between the current Meraviglia Plus and World Class in scale, skewing more modern than everything below them.
Meraviglia Class: The Original Big-Promenade Giants
When people talk about big, modern MSC Cruises ships by class, this is where the conversation starts.
Which ships are Meraviglia Class?
- MSC Meraviglia
- MSC Bellissima
These two are the “core” Meraviglia design before MSC stretched and enhanced it into Meraviglia Plus.
Meraviglia design highlights
Defining traits:
- A covered interior promenade with an LED “sky” ceiling
- A large central atrium and multiple interior entertainment spaces
- Big waterpark and pool deck, but not quite at World Class scale
- Strong family focus with robust kids’ clubs
- Plenty of bars and specialty dining, but slightly fewer than the Plus sisters
The promenade is the headline: it becomes a “town square” at sea, with:
- Shops and snack spots
- Bars and lounges
- LED-ceiling shows and visual “transformations”
You get that big-ship excitement without moving all the way up to World Class crowd levels.
Who Meraviglia Class suits
- Families and couples who like big-ship energy
- People who enjoy indoor promenades and don’t want everything open-air
- Cruisers who want a modern ship but don’t need the absolute newest hardware
If you’re scanning MSC Cruises ships by class and want something that feels upscale and lively without being the absolute top of the size chart, this is a sweet spot.
Meraviglia Plus Class: Stretched, Fancier Sisters
Meraviglia Plus is exactly what it sounds like: a stretched, enhanced version of the original Meraviglia blueprint.
Which ships are Meraviglia Plus Class?
- MSC Grandiosa
- MSC Virtuosa
- MSC Euribia
How Meraviglia Plus differs from Meraviglia
Compared with Meraviglia and Bellissima, the Plus ships:
- Are slightly longer and heavier
- Add more bars, lounges, and restaurants
- Have a bit more open deck space
- Increase overall passenger capacity
But the DNA is the same:
- Large indoor promenade with a digital sky
- Big pool deck and waterpark
- Strong family programming and kids’ areas
- MSC Yacht Club at the top for guests who want a quasi-ship-within-a-ship experience
If you like the Meraviglia concept, Meraviglia Plus is the “you dialed it up a notch” version: more everything, at the cost of more people.
Who Meraviglia Plus suits
- Travelers who want newer hardware but don’t necessarily need World Class scale
- Families who like a good mix of indoor and outdoor spaces
- People who want plenty of nightlife and dining variety without going to the very largest ship type
For many cruisers trying to compare MSC Cruises ships by class, Meraviglia Plus is often the “default recommendation” when you want modern, flashy, and feature-packed without going full extreme.
Seaside Class: Outdoor-Loving Sun Chasers
Seaside Class ships are all about maximizing outdoor space, especially at lower decks where you feel closer to the sea.
Which ships are Seaside Class?
- MSC Seaside
- MSC Seaview
Seashore and Seascape are technically the evolved versions (we’ll hit those in Seaside EVO), but the original Seaside pair sets the template.
Seaside design highlights
Core features:
- A very wide Deck 8 waterfront promenade wrapping around much of the ship
- A Miami Beach–style pool area aft on that lower outdoor deck
- Multiple alfresco bars and dining spaces
- A top-deck pool connected to lower areas with glass elevators
- Long zip lines running from funnel to stern on many deployments
Where Meraviglia and World Class lean heavily into indoor promenades, Seaside is more:
“We’re in the Caribbean, let’s actually be outside.”
You still get:
- A family-friendly waterpark
- Multiple pools and loungers
- Sports courts, kids’ clubs, and evening shows
But the big story is that Deck 8 “wraparound” and the amount of ocean-facing space you get at human scale.
Who Seaside Class suits
- Sun worshippers and pool hoppers
- Cruisers who want to feel the ocean breeze and not just look at screens
- Guests who sail warm-weather heavy routes and want maximum alfresco time
- People choosing among MSC Cruises ships by class with a priority on “outdoor living”
If you do not like wind, sun, or outdoor dining, this is probably not your favorite class.
Seaside EVO Class: Evolved Outdoor Megaships
Now we take the Seaside formula and bulk it up a bit. Seaside EVO ships are larger and more refined, with design tweaks and extra space.
Which ships are Seaside EVO Class?
- MSC Seashore
- MSC Seascape
These are sometimes listed separately as Seaside EVO because they’re a noticeable evolution, not just a carbon copy.
What “EVO” actually changes
Compared to Seaside / Seaview, Seaside EVO ships:
- Are bigger overall, with slightly more tonnage
- Add extra public space and venues
- Tweak the pool and deck layouts for better flow
- Often have updated decor and cabin design
You still get:
- The signature wide Deck 8 promenade
- Outdoor aft pool at a low level
- Strong Caribbean-focused layout with lots of sun space
Think of Seaside EVO as:
“We took Seaside, listened to feedback, and rebuilt her with more space and some clever layout fixes.”
Who Seaside EVO suits
- Anyone who loved the idea of Seaside but wants the newest possible version
- Families who want a sun-forward design and lots of pools
- Guests who want a warm-weather ship that is truly designed around the climate
When comparing MSC Cruises ships by class, Seaside EVO is often the best outdoor-centric choice if you want the freshest hardware.
Fantasia Class: Classic Big-Ship MSC
Fantasia Class marks the older “big ship” era before Meraviglia and Seaside showed up with promenades and wild waterparks.
Which ships are Fantasia Class?
- MSC Fantasia
- MSC Splendida
- MSC Divina
- MSC Preziosa
Fantasia design character
You can picture Fantasia Class as traditional big ships with:
- Multiple pools and whirlpools, including one with a retractable roof
- A more classic lido deck and top-deck layout
- A single waterslide rather than a full-blown waterpark
- Large theatres, lounges and bars, but fewer dining options than newer classes
- A well-established MSC Yacht Club concept on top
These ships were once cutting-edge; now they sit just below the newest classes but still feel large and capable.
Pros of Fantasia Class
- Big enough to offer plenty of venues and decent variety
- Often priced lower than World / Meraviglia / Seaside for a similar route
- Good balance between size and not feeling completely overwhelming
- Layouts that many long-time MSC fans find comfortable and familiar
Cons compared to newer classes
- Fewer specialty dining options
- Less extreme water features and high-tech attractions
- A bit more traditional styling in interiors
If you’re comparing MSC Cruises ships by class and want a big ship with slightly more relaxed expectations and often better pricing, Fantasia is a nice “middle generation.”
Musica Class: Mid-Size, Feature-Rich Workhorses
Musica Class ships are the “bridge” between true big ships and the smallest MSC hardware.
Which ships are Musica Class?
- MSC Musica
- MSC Orchestra
- MSC Poesia
- MSC Magnifica
Musica design & feel
Key elements:
- Mid-size hulls, roughly half the tonnage of the biggest MSC ships
- 2 main dining rooms, one buffet, plus a sushi/Asian venue on most itineraries
- Two main pool areas plus whirlpools and sun space
- A sports court, mini-golf, and standard big-ship staples
- A good number of bars and lounges, but not endless options
The vibe is:
“Big enough that it feels like a proper ship with lots to do, small enough that you can learn it in a day.”
You won’t find:
- Massive waterparks with multiple slides
- Huge multi-zone family districts
- Giant indoor promenades with LED ceilings
But you will find a ship that still feels like a mainstream cruiser, not a boutique yacht.
Who Musica Class suits
- Guests who dislike crowds on 6,000+ passenger ships
- Travelers who still want multiple venues but fewer lines
- People who are more focused on itinerary than on headline attractions
- Anyone comparing MSC Cruises ships by class and thinking, “I want middle-of-the-road size.”
Musica is often where seasoned cruisers land when they want a more relaxed atmosphere but don’t want to go all the way down to the smallest ships.
Lirica Class: Compact, Itinerary-Focused Classics
Lirica Class ships are MSC’s smallest mainstream vessels, built in the early 2000s, and lean much more toward destination-first cruising.
Which ships are Lirica Class?
- MSC Armonia
- MSC Sinfonia
- MSC Lirica
- MSC Opera
Lirica design basics
Expect:
- Around 2,000 guests at double occupancy
- Two main pools and two or more whirlpools
- A main dining room, buffet, and poolside grills
- Limited but functional bars and lounges
- Small-scale kids’ areas, spa, casino, and theater
The top decks are simple: pools, loungers, some shaded areas. No giant waterparks, no skydiving simulators, no roller coasters. If you cruise for the ports, that can be a feature, not a bug.
Where Lirica Class really shines
MSC often uses Lirica ships for:
- South America, South Africa, and Middle East seasons
- Longer Mediterranean itineraries beyond the standard 7 nights
- Port-intensive routes where you’re out exploring most days
In those roles, the ship is your floating hotel, not your primary entertainment.
Who Lirica Class suits
- Cruisers who care most about where they’re going, not what’s on Deck 16
- Travelers who prefer smaller crowds and simpler layouts
- People who like a slightly more traditional cruise feel
- Value-seekers looking at MSC Cruises ships by class and thinking, “I’d rather spend money on excursions than onboard attractions.”
If you want non-stop slides, VR games, and giant promenades, Lirica isn’t it. If you want a quiet base for exploring, it’s a strong candidate.
Explora Journeys: Ultra-Luxury Sister Brand
Explora Journeys technically isn’t part of the MSC Cruises fleet, but it belongs to the same parent group and is often called an ultra-luxury class within the wider MSC universe.
Which ships are Explora Journeys?
- Explora I
- Explora II
- Explora III
- Explora IV
- Explora V
- Explora VI
These are small, all-suite, luxury-biased ships, roughly a third of the size of something like MSC Grandiosa.
How Explora differs from MSC Cruises
Explora is:
- All-suite or suite-heavy, with a much higher space-per-guest ratio
- All-inclusive in a way MSC’s mainstream ships are not
- Focused on longer, more immersive itineraries
- Designed for guests who might have previously chosen Seabourn, Regent or Silversea
From a MSC Cruises ships by class standpoint, Explora sits like a separate branch of the family tree: very different design logic, pricing, and expectations.
How to Use MSC Cruises Ships by Class When You’re Planning
Even before we talk about cabins, you can use ship class as your first filter:
- Want maximum bells and whistles and don’t mind crowds?
- Look at World Class, Meraviglia Plus, Meraviglia, Seaside EVO, Seaside.
- Want big-ship feel but a shade calmer and often cheaper?
- Look at Fantasia and Musica.
- Want itinerary-first, smaller, more traditional?
- Look at Lirica.
- Want ultra-luxury with everything included?
- That’s Explora Journeys, not classic MSC Cruises.
When we eventually zoom in on cabins, this class-level knowledge is what helps you say things like:
- “I want a balcony on a Seaside EVO ship in a quiet zone near the elevators.”
- Or: “I’m fine with an inside on a Lirica ship because I’m off the ship all day anyway.”
Both decisions come from understanding MSC Cruises ships by class first, and only then worrying about cabin numbers and decks.
World Class: MSC’s Biggest Floating Districts
When you look at MSC Cruises ships by class, World Class is the “go big or go home” option. These are LNG-powered mega-resorts with multiple “districts,” huge promenades, and that theme-park-at-sea feeling. If you love big Royal-style ships, this is the neighborhood you’re in.
World Class Ships & Status
| Ship / Name | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MSC World Europa | In service | First World Class ship; debuted the whole “districts” concept |
| MSC World America | In service | Built for the North American / Caribbean crowd vibe |
| MSC World Asia | On order | Scheduled to join the fleet mid-decade |
| MSC World Atlantic | On order | Sister to Asia; similar scale/layout |
| World Class 5 | On order | Name TBD, same basic platform |
| World Class 6 | On order | Name TBD, same basic platform |
| World Class 7 | Announced/future | Extends the series into the 2030s |
| World Class 8 | Announced/future | Same class footprint; details to come |
You don’t have to memorize the names. The key is: if it says “World” in the name, it’s one of MSC’s largest ships.
Size & Layout: What World Class Feels Like
World Class ships are:
- Enormous: over 200,000 GT, close to 7,000 guests at max.
- Powered by LNG, with a heavy focus on efficiency and emissions.
- Built around “districts” instead of one big generic ship layout.
You’ll usually find:
- An adults-focused Zen district for quieter sunbathing and chilling.
- A big family district with kids’ clubs and water fun all in one area.
- A central promenade with LED ceilings, bars, restaurants, and shops.
Think of it like a city carved into slices: one slice for kids, one for grown-ups, one for nightlife, one for strolling and shopping.
Key Features of World Class Ships
Here’s a simple features snapshot:
| Area / Feature | What You Get | Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Pools & Waterpark | Multiple pools + large waterpark & slides | Fantastic for sea days & kids |
| Dining | Big main restaurants + lots of specialty | Easy to mix casual & “treat” nights |
| Nightlife & Bars | Pubs, cocktail bars, lounges, late-night spots | Great for social / nightlife cruisers |
| Family Facilities | Large kids’ clubs, family district, family sun deck | One of MSC’s best choices with kids |
| Tech & Design | Digital promenades, modern cabins, LNG power | Newest feel in the fleet |
Is World Class Your Type?
Quick gut-check: how you answer these tells you whether World Class fits you.
| If you… | World Class Fit? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Love big resorts with lots going on | Yes | This is MSC at its most “mega” |
| Hate crowds and long walks across the ship | Probably no | Huge size = more walking, more people |
| Are cruising with kids or teens | Strong yes | So many kid-friendly spaces and activities |
| Prefer quiet lounges and low-key evenings | Mixed | Possible, but you’re sharing space with thousands |
| Want the newest, flashiest hardware in the fleet | Yes | World Class is top tier for “newness” |
How World Class Fits Into MSC Cruises Ships by Class
In the bigger “MSC Cruises ships by class” map, World Class sits at the absolute top of the size and bells-and-whistles pyramid:
- Above Meraviglia / Meraviglia Plus in scale.
- Roughly side-by-side with the future New Frontier class for modernity.
- Much larger and more complex than Seaside, Fantasia, Musica, or Lirica.
So if a deal pops up on MSC World Europa or MSC World America, your brain can immediately file it as:
“Huge, district-style, feature-packed mega-resort, not a quiet little ship.”
Meraviglia & Meraviglia Plus Class: Indoor Promenades & Big-Ship Energy
When people talk about MSC Cruises ships by class, Meraviglia is usually the first “modern MSC” they mean. This is the class that introduced the indoor promenade with a digital sky, the whole “shopping street at sea” vibe, and a more resort-style feel without yet going into full World Class madness.
Meraviglia Plus is the stretched, more extra sister: same idea, more space, more venues, more people.
You can think of it like this:
- Meraviglia = big, modern, lots to do, but still somewhat contained.
- Meraviglia Plus = take that, add a bit more length, capacity and choice.
If someone throws a deal at you for Virtuosa or Euribia, you’re in this neighborhood.
Ships in the Meraviglia Family
Let’s anchor the names first so your brain has somewhere to put all this.
Core Meraviglia Class
- MSC Meraviglia
- MSC Bellissima
Meraviglia Plus Class
- MSC Grandiosa
- MSC Virtuosa
- MSC Euribia
A quick “family card” to keep them straight:
| Ship | Subclass | Vibe in One Line |
|---|---|---|
| MSC Meraviglia | Meraviglia | The original LED-sky promenade ship |
| MSC Bellissima | Meraviglia | Sister to Meraviglia, same core layout |
| MSC Grandiosa | Meraviglia Plus | Stretched version with more everything |
| MSC Virtuosa | Meraviglia Plus | Very similar to Grandiosa, ultra-modern feel |
| MSC Euribia | Meraviglia Plus | Newest of the five, with sustainability branding and tweaks |
Anytime you see those names in a deal, your MSC Cruises ships by class brain can go: “Meraviglia-style promenade, waterpark, big-ship energy.”
Core Layout: The Promenade Is the Star
The defining “party trick” of the Meraviglia family is the indoor promenade running through the middle of the ship, capped with an LED ceiling that changes scenes throughout the day.
This is where a lot of the magic happens:
- Coffee in the morning under a fake blue sky.
- Boutiques and snacks in the afternoon.
- Light shows, music, and crowds in the evening.
It’s not just a corridor. It’s basically the town square.
Because of that, the overall feel is:
- Very indoors-focused compared to Seaside/Seaside EVO.
- Great for cooler-weather routes as well as warm ones, because a lot of the social life lives inside.
- Perfect for people who like to stroll and people-watch without worrying about weather.
If you’re planning across MSC Cruises ships by class, that’s a big differentiator:
- Meraviglia = indoor social spine.
- Seaside = outdoor wraparound spine.
Top Decks: Pools, Waterpark & Open Space
On top, Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus feel very “mainstream mega-ship”:
- A main pool area with lots of loungers.
- Additional pools / splash areas, sometimes with a more adult-leaning feel.
- A waterpark with slides, and a small adventure-y area for kids and teens.
- Standard sports court, jogging track, and sunbathing zones.
Compared to other MSC Cruises ships by class:
- World Class will generally have even more water and play space.
- Seaside / Seaside EVO have more low-level outdoor space and sea-level promenades.
- Fantasia / Musica / Lirica have simpler top decks with fewer “wow” slides.
If you’re bringing kids or teens and want to avoid the very busiest World Class ships, Meraviglia is a nice compromise: plenty of fun, fewer people than World, but not as low-key as Musica or Lirica.
Dining & Bars: Variety Without Being Overwhelming
Meraviglia ships don’t go as wild as some American lines with 20 specialty options, but you do get a solid mix:
What you can expect:
- Main dining rooms: your classic MDR experience for dinner.
- Buffet restaurant(s): breakfast, lunch, and casual dinners.
- A selection of specialty options like:
- Steakhouse
- Sushi / teppanyaki or pan-Asian concept
- Italian / seafood venues depending on ship
- Promenade bars & cafés: great for people-watching and a drink.
- Lounge-style bars scattered around the ship.
Versus other classes:
- More variety than Fantasia, Musica, or Lirica.
- Slightly less sprawling choice than World Class but close enough that most guests won’t feel deprived.
- Similar range to Seaside / Seaside EVO, just arranged more indoors.
If you’re the type to mentally plan your “food tour” when comparing MSC Cruises ships by class, Meraviglia sits in the “sweet spot” tier for dining variety.
Family & Kids: Strong But Not Over-the-Top
Meraviglia-family ships are very family-forward but still balanced enough that adults without kids won’t feel like they’re in a daycare.
You typically get:
- Dedicated kids’ clubs split by age.
- A teens’ club with its own hangout vibe.
- Family-friendly waterpark and splash zones.
- Evening entertainment that is kid-tolerant even when not specifically for kids.
Compared to:
- World Class: slightly less insane on the kid infrastructure, but still very strong.
- Seaside / EVO: similar overall, but with more emphasis on outdoor living.
- Fantasia / Musica / Lirica: significantly more for kids here than on the older/smaller ships.
If your decision tree for MSC Cruises ships by class starts with “My kids must not be bored,” Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus are safe bets.
Meraviglia vs Meraviglia Plus: What Actually Changes?
The Plus trio (Grandiosa, Virtuosa, Euribia) are stretched versions of Meraviglia and Bellissima. That means:
- A bit more length and tonnage.
- More cabins and therefore more passengers.
- Extra or reconfigured public spaces:
- Additional bars or lounges.
- Extra seating and circulation around popular areas.
- Tweaks in decor, tech, and layout based on feedback.
From the user’s perspective:
- They still feel like the same class.
- If you can navigate Meraviglia, you won’t be lost on Virtuosa.
- Differences show up as “Oh, there’s an extra bar here” or “this lounge is bigger,” not as a totally new layout.
So in your mental MSC Cruises ships by class hierarchy, it’s:
Meraviglia Plus = Meraviglia, but with a gym membership and a promotion.
Who Meraviglia & Meraviglia Plus Are Best For
Let’s bucket the likely winners.
Great fit if you:
- Want a very modern ship but don’t absolutely need the biggest thing afloat.
- Appreciate the idea of an indoor hub so bad weather doesn’t kill the vibe.
- Are traveling as a family or multigenerational group with mixed interests.
- Love the idea of evening promenade strolls, café stops, and people-watching.
- Want a balance between sea days with activities and still enjoying your ports.
Less ideal if you:
- Crave maximum outdoor promenade and low-level deck space (look at Seaside/EVO).
- Hate crowds and prefer a smaller, quieter ship (Musica or Lirica is better).
- Want the absolute newest & biggest with the most tech-forward feel (World Class).
If you plotted MSC Cruises ships by class on a spectrum, Meraviglia sits in the “big, busy, but not ridiculous” middle-to-upper range.
Quick Comparison: Meraviglia vs a Few Other Classes
To keep it interactive, do a quick mental tick-box as you read this table:
| Question in Your Head | If “Yes”… | Class to Look At |
|---|---|---|
| “I want a city-like promenade inside the ship.” | You’re a Meraviglia-type person. | Meraviglia / Plus |
| “I want more outdoor decks and sea-level space.” | You’re a sun deck wanderer. | Seaside / EVO |
| “I want smaller crowds & more intimacy.” | You’re a quieter-ship person. | Musica / Lirica |
| “I want the biggest toy box at sea.” | You’re a mega-resort junkie. | World Class |
If most of your mental checkmarks land in the first row, the next time you see Grandiosa, Virtuosa, Euribia, Meraviglia, or Bellissima on a deal page, you already know roughly how that cruise is going to feel just from understanding MSC Cruises ships by class.
Seaside & Seaside EVO Class: MSC’s Outdoor Sun-Chasing Ships
When you’re looking at MSC Cruises ships by class, the Seaside family is the one that screams “we were born for the Caribbean”. These ships are all about outdoor living, low-level promenades close to the sea, and huge amounts of alfresco space compared with most modern megaships.
If Meraviglia is your indoor shopping street and World Class is your flying city, Seaside is your beach resort that just happens to float.
Which Ships Are Seaside vs Seaside EVO?
Let’s separate the original design from the “evolved” sister pair.
Seaside Class (original blueprint)
- MSC Seaside
- MSC Seaview
Seaside EVO Class (evolved, larger version)
- MSC Seashore
- MSC Seascape
You can mentally file them like this:
- Seaside / Seaview = the first-generation outdoor-focused hull.
- Seashore / Seascape = Seaside 2.0, stretched, refined, and slightly larger.
Whenever one of those four names comes up, your MSC Cruises ships by class radar should immediately flag it as a “sun-chaser” ship.
Design Philosophy: Bring Everyone Outside
The Seaside concept is very different from Meraviglia or World Class. Instead of putting the social spine in the middle under a digital sky, Seaside pushes life outward and downward:
- A very wide, low waterfront promenade (around Deck 8) that wraps much of the ship.
- Tons of seating, bars, and sometimes restaurants right on that promenade.
- A dramatic aft pool area on the lower open deck that feels almost like a beach club.
- Extra alfresco dining and bar options compared to many other MSC ships.
If you sail a Seaside-class ship in the Caribbean, you’ll notice something immediately:
You don’t feel as far above the sea. You feel like you’re in a resort at sea level, rather than on a skyscraper balcony staring down.
That’s the whole design idea.
Outdoor Spaces: The Heart of Seaside & Seaside EVO
Let’s break down where you’ll actually spend time outside.
Waterfront Promenade (Deck 8-ish)
This is the big signature:
- Wraps around most of the ship.
- Lined with loungers, outdoor bar seating, and walking space.
- Includes an aft “Miami Beach”–style pool area, framed by two towers of cabins.
- Makes it easy to get a drink, find a seat, and just stare at the wake.
On a warm itinerary, this becomes a second lido deck, but closer to the water.
Top Deck Pools & Sundecks
Higher up, you still get:
- A main top-deck pool with loungers.
- Additional pools and whirlpools, including adults-leaning areas depending on deployment.
- Access to the waterpark with slides and splash zones.
- Great vantage points for sailaways and sea days.
Compared to other MSC Cruises ships by class:
- More usable low-level outside space than Meraviglia.
- A more “resort on the water” feeling than Fantasia/Musica/Lirica, which tend to keep most action up top.
- Slightly less indoor social space than Meraviglia / World, but that’s deliberate.
If you love sunrise coffee with actual sea air, Seaside is your playground.
Waterparks & “Fun Stuff”
You’ll typically find on both Seaside and Seaside EVO:
- A multi-slide waterpark (not a single slide like Fantasia).
- Features like hanging bridges and splash zones.
- A sports court, arcade, maybe things like racing simulators depending on the ship.
- Zip lines starting from near the funnel and stretching toward the aft, on certain deployments.
These ships are clearly built with families and active sea days in mind, but they don’t hit quite the “district” complexity of World Class.
On the “MSC Cruises ships by class scale” of chill → thrill:
- Lirica: mostly chill.
- Musica: chill with a bit of fun.
- Fantasia: decent fun, lighter on gadgets.
- Seaside / Seaside EVO: solid fun, lots of water, very outdoorsy.
- Meraviglia / World: fun + more indoor, high-tech vibes.
Indoor Layout: Still a Proper Mega-Ship
Even though the selling point is outdoors, the interiors aren’t an afterthought.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A central atrium with shiny décor, bars, and live music.
- The usual two main dining rooms plus a large buffet.
- A handful of specialty restaurants like:
- Steakhouse
- Sushi / pan-Asian venues
- Other concepts depending on the ship and season
- Multiple bars and lounges, including sports-bar style hangouts and quieter cocktail corners.
- A large theatre for evening shows.
What you won’t see is the big indoor promenade with a full LED ceiling that defines Meraviglia. Social life tends to be more:
- Atrium + lounges
- Top deck and waterfront promenade
- Aft “Miami Beach” pool zone
So when we sort MSC Cruises ships by class by their “main hangout backbone,” you get:
- Meraviglia family → indoor promenade.
- Seaside family → outdoor promenade.
- World Class → split multi-district with both.
Seaside vs Seaside EVO: What Changed in the Evolution
MSC looked at the original Seaside design, took the feedback, and drew Seashore/Seascape as “Seaside 2.0.”
Here’s how they differ in practical terms.
Size & Space
- Seaside EVO ships are larger overall than Seaside/Seaview.
- That extra size becomes:
- More public space.
- Slight tweaks to pool deck layouts.
- Additional or expanded bars / lounges / venues.
You feel the difference most when:
- Walking around the pool decks (more room to breathe).
- Moving through busy chokepoints around popular bars and cafés.
Layout Tweaks
On Seaside EVO ships:
- Some promenade and pool areas are reconfigured for smoother flow.
- Certain popular venues might be repositioned or enlarged.
- Cabin and suite counts are adjusted to match demand patterns (more of what sells best).
From a user angle, the ship still feels like Seaside, but a bit more polished and logically laid out.
Décor & Modern Touches
- EVO ships tend to have newer décor themes, lighting, and perhaps cabin design refinements.
- You’ll often see subtle tech upgrades: signage, lighting, small usability changes.
So if we’re ranking Seaside vs Seaside EVO within MSC Cruises ships by class, it’s:
EVO = “new and refined,” original Seaside = “the prototype that still holds up.”
If price is similar and itinerary works, I usually lean EVO when helping people choose.
Who Seaside & Seaside EVO Are Best For
Time for some practical matching.
Ideal if you:
- Plan to spend a lot of time by the pool or lounging outdoors.
- Are cruising in warm weather regions (Caribbean, Mediterranean in summer, etc).
- Love the idea of walking a low, wide promenade by the ocean with a drink in hand.
- Travel with kids or teens and want waterpark action plus easy outdoor space.
- Prefer the feel of a beach resort stretched across decks instead of a vertical hotel.
Less ideal if you:
- Are cold-natured and dislike wind or being outside much.
- Prefer indoor promenades, shopping, and enclosed spaces to sun decks.
- Are extremely motion-sensitive and want to stay as high and centered as possible (we’ll talk more about that when we get to cabins later).
- Want the very quietest environment; these are lively ships.
If you line up all MSC Cruises ships by class and ask, “Which ones were obviously drawn on a warm day, thinking about the Caribbean?” Seaside and Seaside EVO win that contest.
Quick Comparison: Seaside / EVO vs Meraviglia vs World
Here’s a simple mental tool you can reuse when you’re browsing deals.
Question: Where do I want my “wow” moments?
- If your “wow” is nighttime city vibe under a fake sky, with cafés and shops indoors →
You’re probably a Meraviglia / Meraviglia Plus cruiser. - If your “wow” is a glowing pool deck and wake view at sunset from a low aft pool or promenade →
You’re probably a Seaside / Seaside EVO cruiser. - If your “wow” is being in the biggest, wildest, most district-filled ship MSC has built →
You’re looking at World Class.
Once you know which “wow” you’re chasing, every ship name you see in a search result becomes easier to classify just by understanding MSC Cruises ships by class, not marketing blurbs.
Fantasia Class: Classic Big-Ship MSC
Fantasia class is MSC’s “classic big ship” era. Before the indoor promenades and split mega-hulls arrived, these four ships were the headliners: large, glitzy, and very much built around pools, lounges, and a traditional lido deck. When you’re sorting out MSC Cruises ships by class, Fantasia sits right in the middle: big, but not the newest, and still very capable.
Which Ships Are Fantasia Class?
- MSC Fantasia
- MSC Splendida
- MSC Divina
- MSC Preziosa
You’ll see these names everywhere in Europe, and often in the Caribbean or South America depending on season. If you spot any of those in a deal, your brain can tag them as: “classic MSC big ship, pre-Meraviglia/Seaside era.”
Size & General Feel
Fantasia ships were once giants; now they’re “respectably large” compared with the new mega-ships.
- Big enough for multiple pools and whirlpools.
- Plenty of bars, lounges, and entertainment spaces.
- A more traditional cruise-ship silhouette: long, sleek, not as blocky as the latest mega-hulls.
They’re great if you like the idea of a large resort-style ship, but don’t need every new gimmick or digital gimmick. Think more along the lines of “classic 2010s big ship” than “space-age floating city.”
Deck Layout & Outdoor Spaces
Topside, Fantasia ships are very much about that classic lido deck:
- A main central pool area with lots of loungers and a big screen or bandstand nearby.
- Additional pools and whirlpools, including:
- At least one pool with a retractable roof, great when weather turns.
- One or more waterslides, but not a full modern waterpark.
Compared with newer families:
- Less “wow” factor than Seaside’s low waterfront promenade.
- Less gadget-heavy than Meraviglia or World Class.
- More covered or semi-covered pool space than some of the very outdoor-focused designs.
If you like a traditional sun deck where you can find a lounger, hear the music, and maybe watch a pool game or two, Fantasia feels very comfortable.
Indoor Areas & Dining
Inside, Fantasia ships deliver that slightly glam, slightly classic MSC look:
- A multi-level atrium with plenty of chrome, glass, and a central bar.
- A large theatre hosting nightly production shows.
- Several lounges and bars around the ship, each with its own atmosphere.
On the food side, you can expect:
- Two main dining rooms for early/late or anytime setups depending on itinerary.
- A buffet restaurant for casual meals.
- A smaller selection of specialty restaurants compared with newer ships; often:
- A steakhouse / American-style venue.
- A separate pizza or casual Italian area.
If you’re comparing across MSC Cruises ships by class, Fantasia generally has fewer venues than Meraviglia / Seaside / World, but enough variety that most guests won’t feel boxed in, especially on shorter cruises.
Cabin & Crowd Profile (High Level)
Not going into cabin numbers yet, but in broad strokes:
- Lots of standard interior and ocean view cabins, plus plenty of balconies.
- A decent range of suites, especially in the MSC Yacht Club area on top.
- Passenger load is solid but not as intense as the very newest mega-ships.
Crowd-wise, Fantasia ships often draw:
- Families, especially in school holidays, but not quite as kid-heavy as the very newest hardware.
- Couples and groups who like a festive atmosphere but don’t need the latest toys.
- A strong European mix on many sailings, with multiple languages onboard.
Who Fantasia Class Is Best For
Fantasia class is a sweet spot if you:
- Want a big-ship experience but are happy to skip some of the newest bells and whistles.
- Prefer a traditional pool deck & theatre setup.
- Like the idea of MSC Yacht Club on a more classic hull.
- Appreciate having good space per passenger relative to the biggest 6,000+ guest ships.
It’s less ideal if you’re craving:
- A big indoor LED promenade (Meraviglia territory).
- A huge waterpark and ultra-modern kids’ zones (World / Meraviglia / Seaside EVO).
- Extensive specialty dining choice night after night.
If you’re scanning itineraries and see Fantasia, Splendida, Divina, or Preziosa, you can safely file them under: “big, classic MSC with a slightly calmer, more traditional feel.”
Musica Class: Mid-Size Workhorses With Just Enough Flash
Musica class is where things step down a notch in size, but stay very much in “proper cruise ship” territory. When ranking MSC Cruises ships by class, these four are your mid-size multitaskers: big enough to have options, small enough not to feel like a floating city.
Which Ships Are Musica Class?
- MSC Musica
- MSC Orchestra
- MSC Poesia
- MSC Magnifica
These ships are incredibly flexible for MSC. You’ll see them across Europe, South America, sometimes repositioning for longer trips. They’re often used on itineraries where the ports matter just as much as the ship.
Size & Atmosphere
Musica ships are roughly about half the volume of the biggest MSC ships:
- Fewer guests than Meraviglia, Seaside, or World.
- Easier to learn the layout in a day or two.
- Corridors and public areas feel less overwhelming in peak times.
Atmosphere-wise, they often feel:
- Lively but not chaotic.
- Social, with plenty of bars and lounges.
- More intimate than the largest classes, but not “small ship” quiet.
If you’ve ever felt like a modern mega-ship was just too much, Musica might be the compromise you wanted.
Outdoor Decks & Pools
Top deck features usually include:
- Two main pool areas (or one main plus one secondary) with whirlpools.
- A sunbathing area with loungers and some shaded spots.
- A sports court and mini-golf or similar simple attractions.
You do not get:
- Huge waterparks with multiple twisting slides.
- Big structural gadgets like zip lines or skywalks.
These are ships where your outside time is more about:
- Relaxed sunbathing and swimming.
- Enjoying sailaway views.
- A quieter, more classic top-deck vibe.
Compared to other MSC Cruises ships by class, Musica is definitely on the “less flash, more relax” side of the spectrum.
Indoor Layout, Dining & Bars
Inside, Musica ships are laid out in a very straightforward way:
- A central atrium with a bar and live music.
- A main theatre forward for shows.
- Lounges and bars arranged along the lower public decks.
For dining, expect:
- Two main dining rooms for your core dinners.
- A buffet restaurant doing buffet staples.
- Usually at least one additional specialty option, often Asian/sushi or a similar concept, but fewer than the newest ships.
It’s very much “classic big-ship dining with a light sprinkle of modern variety,” instead of the heavy specialty focus you’ll see on newer hardware.
Crowds, Itineraries & Use Cases
Musica ships are workhorses because MSC can fit them into a lot of places:
- Mid-sized ports that don’t always handle mega-hulls comfortably.
- Itineraries that mix popular big ports with smaller, more niche stops.
- Regions where the focus is more on seeing destinations than building the wildest waterpark.
They tend to attract:
- Couples and friends who like moderate crowds, not extremes.
- Repeat cruisers who have “been there, done that” with the newest ships.
- Value-focused travelers who want a good price per night but still decent amenities.
If you’re comparing MSC Cruises ships by class and thinking “I want to avoid elbow-to-elbow crowds, but I also don’t want a bare-bones ship,” Musica is the sweet spot.
Fantasia vs Musica: Which Fits You Better?
Here’s a simple way to think about these two neighboring classes without overcomplicating it.
Choose Fantasia if you:
- Want a larger ship with more venues and pool space.
- Prefer a bit more flash and spectacle in the design.
- Don’t mind a bit more walking and a slightly bigger crowd.
Choose Musica if you:
- Prefer a ship that feels easier to navigate and less overwhelming.
- Are focused on a port-heavy itinerary where the ship is “home base,” not the main show.
- Like the idea of moderate-size crowds and simpler top decks.
You can treat it like a volume knob in your head:
- Fantasia = volume on 7.
- Musica = volume on 5.
Both are comfortably in the mainstream, but one is tuned louder than the other.
Lirica Class: Compact, Destination-Focused Classics
Lirica class is the smallest mainstream family in the MSC fleet. When you sort out MSC Cruises ships by class from biggest to smallest, these four are the ones at the “intimate, itinerary-first” end of the spectrum.
They’re older, simpler, and way less in-your-face than the mega-resort ships. For some people, that’s a drawback. For others, it’s exactly why they book them.
Which Ships Are Lirica Class?
- MSC Armonia
- MSC Sinfonia
- MSC Lirica
- MSC Opera
If you see any of those names on an itinerary, mentally tag them as: compact, traditional, port-heavy ships, not floating theme parks.
Size & Atmosphere
Compared to the giants higher up the fleet:
- Guest capacity is roughly a third of the newest mega-ships.
- Public spaces are more cozy than cavernous.
- The vibe tends to be quieter and more relaxed, especially outside school holidays.
You won’t get that overwhelming “mall at sea” feel. Instead, you get something closer to a classic 2000s cruise experience: lounges, a theatre, a couple of pools, and a slower onboard rhythm.
If you’ve ever looked at the huge newer ships and thought, “That’s too much,” Lirica is where you breathe out.
Deck Layout & Outdoor Spaces
Topside, Lirica ships are simple on purpose:
- Two main pools on the open decks.
- At least two whirlpools.
- Plenty of sun loungers, some shaded spots, and basic sports areas.
Missing on purpose:
- No towering, multi-slide waterparks.
- No giant adventure structures or zip lines.
- No massive split superstructure or neighborhood “districts.”
This makes them perfect if your outdoor goals are:
- Find a lounger.
- Read a book.
- Take a dip.
- Watch sailaway with a drink.
They’re not perfect if your kids expect something resembling a full-on waterpark every sea day.
Indoor Spaces & Dining
Inside, Lirica ships follow the classic layout template:
- A central atrium with a bar and some seating.
- A theatre for nightly shows.
- A selection of lounges and bars spread along the main public decks.
For dining, expect:
- A main dining room (sometimes split into different named spaces but functionally similar).
- A buffet restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and casual dinners.
- Poolside grill / pizza style options.
- Maybe a small extra venue like a specialty corner, but not the full spread you’ll see on newer classes.
If you’re comparing MSC Cruises ships by class and you like simple, predictable dining patterns, Lirica fits nicely. If you want to eat in a different specialty restaurant every night, you’ll be happier on Meraviglia, Seaside, or World.
Itineraries & How MSC Uses Lirica Ships
This is where Lirica really earns its keep.
MSC often deploys these ships on routes that are:
- Port-intensive (lots of stops, fewer sea days).
- In regions like South America, South Africa, and the Middle East.
- Longer Mediterranean itineraries outside the standard 7-night loop.
Because of their size, they can access:
- Some smaller or more awkward ports that big ships either skip or tender at less often.
- Routes where the selling point is “look at all these destinations,” not “look at this water coaster.”
So if you’re choosing between MSC Cruises ships by class and the itinerary is the star of the show, Lirica is often ideal.
Who Lirica Class Is Best For
You’re a good match for Lirica class if:
- You want a floating hotel that follows you around the map, not an amusement park.
- You’re more excited about sightseeing days than sea days.
- You prefer smaller crowds and an easy-to-learn layout.
- You’re happy with classic cruise amenities rather than the latest headline attractions.
You might want to skip Lirica if:
- Your kids or teens are expecting huge waterparks and cutting-edge kids’ complexes.
- You love the buzz of having dozens of bars and restaurants.
- You want the newest possible ship with all the newest tech.
In the overall ranking of MSC Cruises ships by class, Lirica is the quiet, older cousin who’s great company when you want conversation and scenery, not fireworks.
New Frontier Class: The Next-Gen Giants From 2030
Now let’s zoom into the future a bit.
From 2030, MSC starts rolling out a totally new generation of large ships, often referred to in fleet tables as Frontier class or New Frontier class. These will sit just under World Class in size, but they’re still huge.
Think of them as: “We learned from World Class, and now we’re building a slightly leaner, more flexible version for the next decade.”
What We Know About the New Frontier Ships
Names aren’t final yet, but fleet lists usually call them:
- Frontier Class 1
- Frontier Class 2
- Frontier Class 3
- Frontier Class 4
Plus options for two more.
Headline numbers (approximate):
- Around 180,000 gross tons.
- Roughly 5,400 guests at max occupancy.
- Built with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and emissions reduction.
So in the MSC Cruises ships by class lineup:
- Bigger than Meraviglia / Meraviglia Plus.
- Smaller than World Class.
- Newer than everything else once they start arriving.
Design Direction (Even If Details Shift)
We don’t have every deck named yet, but the direction is clear:
- Large enough for multiple pools, waterparks, and varied entertainment districts.
- Likely to have a strong mix of indoor and outdoor social spaces.
- Designed to be flexible enough to operate in more ports than the absolute largest hulls.
That flexibility matters:
- World Class ships are incredible but can be limiting on some routes.
- Frontier ships should be able to offer similar big-ship energy on a wider variety of itineraries.
So if you’re looking ahead a few years and thinking about MSC Cruises ships by class:
Frontier class will be the new, modern “workhorse giants”, sitting between Meraviglia Plus and World in scale but at the top in freshness.
Who Frontier Class Will Likely Suit
Once they’re sailing, they’ll probably best fit:
- Guests who want huge, modern ships but don’t necessarily need the absolute biggest.
- Families who want big pools and kids’ areas, but are sailing itineraries that World Class can’t always serve.
- Repeat MSC cruisers who have done Meraviglia, Seaside, and maybe World, and now want the latest toy.
They’re not going to be “small and cozy.” They’re going to be modern megaships. But they might be a touch more versatile than the very biggest platforms.
Explora Journeys: Ultra-Luxury Sibling, Different Universe
To round out the map, we need to talk briefly about Explora Journeys. These ships are technically part of the wider MSC universe, but they’re not part of the main MSC Cruises fleet and sit in their own ultra-luxury category.
Still, when people research MSC Cruises ships by class, they often stumble into Explora and wonder how it fits. So let’s place it properly.
Explora Ships
Planned and built ships include:
- Explora I
- Explora II
- Explora III
- Explora IV
- Explora V
- Explora VI
All are small, high-end ships, roughly around a third the size of a big MSC vessel like Grandiosa.
How Explora Differs From Mainline MSC
Key differences:
- All-suite or suite-heavy accommodation.
- Much higher space-per-guest ratio.
- Pricing that typically includes more extras (drinks, some excursions, tips, etc., depending on package).
- A focus on longer, more immersive itineraries, often with slightly more off-the-beaten-path stops.
Atmosphere:
- Feels more like luxury hotel meets yacht, not like a mainstream mega-ship.
- Fewer kids and families; more well-heeled couples and experienced cruisers.
- Entertainment is more about good food, good wine, and good conversation than giant water slides.
So while Explora sits under the same parent company umbrella, if you’re organizing MSC Cruises ships by class for mainstream vacation planning, Explora is really:
A separate branch of the tree, not just another MSC class.
When Explora Belongs in Your Decision Tree
You’d consider Explora if:
- Your priority is luxury, space, and service, not shipboard “stuff.”
- You like inclusive pricing and fewer add-ons.
- You’re happy to pay more for fewer people and more calm.
You’d ignore Explora (for now) if:
- You’re browsing deals specifically on the main MSC brand.
- You’re traveling with kids who want waterparks.
- You want the full big-ship entertainment package.
In a visual map of MSC Cruises ships by class, Explora is the satellite orbiting the main fleet: important to know about, but not the same ecosystem.
Putting It All Together: Comparing Every MSC Class Side by Side
Now that we’ve walked through each family, let’s zoom out and look at all the MSC ship classes in one place. This is where it gets truly useful, because you can start matching your personal cruising style to the right class before you ever worry about deck plans or cabin numbers.
Think of this section as your class-level cheat sheet. When you’re browsing deals later, you should be able to glance at the ship name, remember its class, and instantly know the kind of vacation you’re signing up for.
1. Big Picture: Size & “Energy Level” by Class
First, let’s rank the families from “small and calm” to “huge and buzzing.”
| Class / Family | Size Tier | Typical Energy Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lirica | Smallest | Quiet–moderate |
| Musica | Mid-size | Moderate |
| Fantasia | Large (classic) | Moderate–lively |
| Seaside | Large | Lively |
| Seaside EVO | Large+ | Lively–very lively |
| Meraviglia | Very large | Lively–busy |
| Meraviglia Plus | Very large+ | Busy–very busy |
| New Frontier | Mega (future) | Busy–very busy |
| World | Largest | Very busy, “mega-resort” |
You can almost use this as a noise / people meter:
- If you want quiet and fewer people, your eyes drift to Lirica and Musica.
- If you want big-ship excitement without max chaos, you’re in Fantasia, Seaside, Meraviglia territory.
- If you want “I could get lost for days” energy, you’re looking at Meraviglia Plus, New Frontier, World.
2. Indoor vs Outdoor Personality
Next up: where does each class really shine, indoors or out?
| Class | Indoor Focus | Outdoor Focus |
|---|---|---|
| World | Strong (districts, promenade, lounges) | Strong (multiple pools, sun decks, family zones) |
| New Frontier | Likely strong at both | Very strong; designed as next-gen megaships |
| Meraviglia | Very strong (indoor promenade) | Good but less promenade-focused |
| Meraviglia Plus | Very strong (bigger indoor footprint) | Good, similar to Meraviglia |
| Seaside | Moderate indoors | Very strong (waterfront promenade, aft pool) |
| Seaside EVO | Moderate–strong indoors | Very strong + more refined layout |
| Fantasia | Moderate | Moderate–strong (classic pools, some covered) |
| Musica | Moderate | Moderate |
| Lirica | Simple but adequate | Simple, more about sun & views than features |
A simple way to use this:
- If you’re sailing somewhere that might be cool or windy, indoor-heavy classes like Meraviglia or World feel great.
- If you’re doing a hot, sunny itinerary and lives-on-deck is your style, Seaside and Seaside EVO are perfect.
3. How Kid- and Family-Friendly Each Class Is
Most MSC ships welcome families, but some are much more kid-centric than others.
| Class | Kid / Family Intensity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| World | Maximum | Huge family districts, slides, pools, activities |
| New Frontier | High (expected) | Large, modern, likely strong family offering |
| Meraviglia | High | Waterpark + big kids’ areas + promenade “buzz” |
| Meraviglia Plus | High–maximum | More people, more venues, lots for families |
| Seaside | High | Great for pool-and-beach style family trips |
| Seaside EVO | High | Newer, refined version of Seaside for families |
| Fantasia | Medium–high | Good facilities but less gadget-focused |
| Musica | Medium | Decent kids’ setups, fewer over-the-top features |
| Lirica | Low–medium | Some kids’ areas, but ship is not built around them |
If you’re traveling with kids or teens, your best bets are:
- World
- Meraviglia / Meraviglia Plus
- Seaside / Seaside EVO
If you’re traveling without kids and want to minimize that vibe, you might lean toward:
- Musica
- Lirica
- Some Fantasia itineraries outside school holidays
4. How “Itinerary-Focused” Each Class Tends To Be
Some ships are destinations in themselves. Others are platforms for seeing ports. Here’s how the classes usually shake out.
| Class | Ship As Destination? | Ship As “Floating Hotel”? |
|---|---|---|
| World | Very much yes | Secondary |
| New Frontier | Strong yes | Medium |
| Meraviglia | Strong yes | Medium |
| Meraviglia Plus | Strong yes | Medium |
| Seaside / EVO | Yes, especially for sun & pool days | Medium |
| Fantasia | Balanced | Balanced |
| Musica | Medium | Strong |
| Lirica | Lower | Very strong |
If you mainly cruise to enjoy the ship, you’re going to feel at home on:
- World
- Meraviglia / Meraviglia Plus
- Seaside / Seaside EVO
If you mainly cruise to see ports and sleep on the ship, you’re better off on:
- Musica
- Lirica
- Many Fantasia itineraries
5. Quick “Which Class Should I Choose?” Quiz
Pick one answer per row and see which class family appears most often on your side.
Q1: What crowd level feels right to you?
- A: Small and calm, I hate huge crowds → Lirica / Musica
- B: Lively, but not over-the-top → Fantasia / Seaside / Meraviglia
- C: Give me the biggest, busiest ships → Meraviglia Plus / World / New Frontier
Q2: Where do you imagine spending most of your time?
- A: On deck with a book, watching the sea → Musica / Lirica / Fantasia
- B: By outdoor pools and promenades, in the sun → Seaside / Seaside EVO
- C: Everywhere: indoors, outdoors, districts, promenades → Meraviglia / World / New Frontier
Q3: How important is a huge waterpark and kid infrastructure?
- A: Not very; I’m fine with simple pools → Lirica / Musica / some Fantasia
- B: Nice to have but not essential → Fantasia / Seaside / Meraviglia
- C: Absolutely essential → Meraviglia Plus / World / Seaside EVO
Q4: When you think about your cruise, what excites you most?
- A: Ports, culture, excursions → Lirica / Musica
- B: Balanced: ship and ports equally → Fantasia / Seaside / Meraviglia
- C: Sea days, shipboard fun, and exploring the ship → Meraviglia Plus / World / New Frontier
If you got mostly:
- A’s → You’re a Lirica / Musica (and maybe Fantasia) cruiser.
- B’s → You’re a Fantasia, Seaside, or Meraviglia cruiser.
- C’s → You’re a Meraviglia Plus, World, or future New Frontier cruiser.
6. Class-by-Class “One-Line Pitch”
Here’s a super-condensed sales pitch for each family you can reuse when skimming offers.
- World Class
“The biggest, most complex ships in the fleet; a full-on floating district city for people who want everything.” - New Frontier Class
“Next-generation giants, slightly smaller than World but ultra-modern, designed for big-ship fun plus flexible itineraries.” - Meraviglia Class
“Indoor LED promenade ships: strong family options, lots of venues, big but not insane.” - Meraviglia Plus Class
“Stretched Meraviglia with more capacity and options; perfect if you want ‘very big’ but not quite World.” - Seaside Class
“Designed to live outdoors, with a low promenade and beach-club aft pool; best for warm-weather outdoor people.” - Seaside EVO Class
“The upgraded Seaside, with more space and smarter layout; same sun-chaser personality but fresher.” - Fantasia Class
“Classic big MSC ships: lots of room, fewer gimmicks, a good bridge between older and newer designs.” - Musica Class
“Mid-size workhorses: just enough features to feel like a proper ship, without overwhelming crowds or complexity.” - Lirica Class
“Compact, older, and destination-focused; perfect when you care more about port days than water slides.”
7. How This Class Knowledge Helps With Future Cabin Choices
Even though this article has stuck strictly to classes, this all feeds directly into how you’ll think about cabins later. On this kind of project, I’d use the class map to drive all the cabin advice, like this:
- On World / Meraviglia / Seaside, I’m thinking hard about:
- How far cabins are from noisy districts, late-night venues, or big pool decks.
- Whether the cabin is under waterparks, promenades, or theatres.
- How much foot traffic will pass by your door.
- On Fantasia / Musica, I’m thinking more about:
- Classic issues like above/below lounges, theatres, or buffets.
- Avoiding cabins near crew work areas or event spaces that still get noisy.
- On Lirica, I’m mainly concerned with:
- Motion sensitivity (smaller ships can feel rougher forward/aft, high decks).
- Avoiding older areas that are next to nightclubs or show lounges.
Having the MSC Cruises ships by class framework in your head lets you make smarter, faster decisions later like:
- “OK, this is a Seaside ship, so I care a lot about what’s above and below that big waterfront promenade.”
- Or: “This is a Lirica; I don’t need to worry about water slides overhead, but I do care about motion and theatre noise.”
8. Final Wrap-Up: How to Use This in Real Life
Here’s how I’d actually use all of this, step by step, when you’re hunting for a cruise:
- Spot the ship name in the offer.
- Translate it to its class (Meraviglia, Seaside, etc.).
- Ask:
- “Is this the right size and energy level for me?”
- “Is this the right indoor vs outdoor balance for the itinerary?”
- “Is this the right family / kid intensity for my group?”
- If it passes those tests, then get into deck plans and cabin selection.
The big mindset shift is this:
Don’t start with the price and a random balcony. Start with the class, then zoom in.
That’s exactly why understanding MSC Cruises ships by class is so valuable. It turns a messy list of 20+ ship names into a manageable handful of personalities, and from there every choice you make gets easier and smarter.
For the latest official fleet overview, including photos and basic facts for every ship, check the ship profiles on the MSC Cruises website. It’s a handy way to cross-check names, classes and current deployment while you compare MSC Cruises ships by class in more detail here.
