msc upgrade to yacht club

MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program – enhance your cruise

Are you considering an upgrade on your next MSC Cruises vacation? You may land the stateroom of your dreams in just a few simple steps at a fraction of the cost. Let’s dive into MSC Cruises’ upgrade program, a bid-based upgrade system designed to enhance your cruising experience.

The bidding program allows eligible passengers to place bids on stateroom upgrades. From ocean views and balcony staterooms to the most luxurious suites at sea, this program offers the opportunity to score a fantastic upgrade and elevate your cruise experience.

So, how does the MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program work?

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you may receive an invitation to participate in the program. Submit your bid, sit back, and wait for the results. As its name suggests, the program operates on a bidding system—that means the higher your bid, the better your chances of scoring an upgrade.

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Understanding the MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program

The MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program allows you to submit bids to upgrade your existing stateroom.

To participate, you’ll receive an invitation via email from MSC Cruises if your booking is eligible. The email will contain instructions and an invitation to submit an offer. After submitting your bid, you’ll patiently wait to find out if your bid was successful. If your bid wins, you’ll be notified, and your stateroom will be upgraded accordingly.

It’s essential to remember that submitting a bid does not guarantee an upgrade. Upgrades depend on availability, your offer’s competitiveness, and other factors MSC Cruises determines.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all MSC Cruise bookings are eligible for the Upgrade Bid Program. To qualify for the program, your booking must meet specific criteria. Some eligibility factors include:

• Your booking must be made directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner.
• You must have a confirmed reservation and have already paid the total fare.

If you meet these criteria and MSC still hasn’t sent you an email invitation, don’t hesitate to contact MSC directly to inquire about your booking’s eligibility. Not all bookings will be eligible.

How to participate in the MSC Upgrade Bid Program

To participate in the MSC Upgrade Bid Program, you must first book a cruise with MSC Cruises. After booking, you may receive an offer to upgrade your stateroom through the program. If you receive an upgrade offer, follow these steps:

• Review the available upgrade options : MSC Cruises will present various stateroom options for you to bid on. These options may range from Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to more luxurious suites.
• Decide on your bid amount : Each available upgrade will have a minimum bid amount, which you can increase to improve your chances of getting the upgrade. Remember that the bidding range varies depending on the type of stateroom you want to upgrade to.
• Submit your bid : Once you have decided on your bid amount, submit your bid through the Plusgrade Program platform. Make sure to double-check the details of your bid before confirming.

Bid Evaluation and Notification

After submitting your bid, MSC Cruises will evaluate all received bids for the available stateroom upgrades. The evaluation process considers various factors, such as:

• Your bid amount
• The number of bids received for the same stateroom
• The availability of the desired staterooms

While your bid is being evaluated, you may be able to view your bid status, which often indicates your chances of winning the upgrade.

Once the evaluation process is complete, MSC Cruises will notify you via email about the outcome of your bid.

What are the benefits of the Upgrade Bid Program?

Upgrading your cabin can provide several benefits, such as enhanced room features, exclusive amenities, and dining options.

Enhanced Room Features

You’ll enjoy more spacious and well-appointed staterooms when you upgrade your cabin. Upgraded cabins often have better views, larger balconies, and more comfortable seating areas. You may also find bigger bathrooms and additional storage space for your belongings.

Exclusive Amenities

Upgraded cabins often come with exclusive amenities you wouldn’t have access to in a standard cabin. For example, you might gain access to a private pool area, exclusive lounges, or priority embarkation and disembarkation services. Some upgrades include Butler Service or a personalized Concierge Service to help you book reservations and arrange special requests during your cruise.

Dining Options

A cabin upgrade can also provide you with additional dining options. Upgrading to a suite or a cabin that is part of a specific “class” or “experience” might grant you access to exclusive restaurants or dining areas unavailable to all passengers. These dining venues usually offer a more upscale ambiance and a higher cuisine level, making your cruise dining experience even more enjoyable.

Tips for a Successful Upgrade Bid

When participating in the MSC Cruises upgrade bid program, think about the following:

Your bid amount plays an essential role in securing an upgrade. If you bid too low, your chances of being selected will likely be slim, while bidding too high may not be cost-effective and may not be in line with your budget. Remember that all bids are per person, based on double occupancy. Consider how much you are willing to spend, and try to find a middle ground between the minimum and maximum bid.

Be mindful of the bidding range specified by MSC Cruises, and contact them for advice if you are unsure. Check if you are bidding a per-person price or for all cabin occupants.

Although there’s no definitive “best time” to submit your upgrade bid, be aware of the time frame given by MSC Cruises and submit your bid as soon as possible.

Monitor your email for any updates or notifications on the upgrade process. MSC Cruises may provide additional information on available upgrades and specific time frames to submit your bids. Staying informed and actively engaged with the upgrade process will be key to maximizing your chances of success.

Finally, remember that the upgrade program’s primary goal is to enhance your MSC Cruises experience and sell more available cabins in the higher price category. Approach the process with a clear understanding of what you want, your budget, and the potential value of the upgrade.

Common questions about MSC’s bidding program:

How can i participate in the msc cruises bidding program.

Sign up for an MSC account via the cruise line’s web page. You must agree that they can send you MSC offers and marketing promotions to receive an email about possible upgrades and the bidding program.

Can I participate in the bidding program if I have booked through a travel agent?

Yes, you should be able to participate if you have booked directly with the cruise or via a travel agent or supplier. Be sure to confirm this when booking and ask your agent to verify that your email address is in the booking so that you can receive emails directly from MSC Cruises.

You can also sign up to receive emails from MSC Cruises directly on their website and link this to your booking number. You must allow MSC Cruises to send you offers and marketing promotions to be able to receive emails about the bidding program for your particular cruise.

How do I know how much to bid to be in with a chance of an upgrade?

MSC Cruises sets a minimum bid amount for the upgrade you can participate in. You can bid the minimum amount or increase it to an amount you feel comfortable paying should you win the bid.

Can I cancel my bid after I win an upgrade if I change my mind?

If your bid is successful and you win an upgrade based on your bid amount, you must pay the bid amount, and you cannot cancel your bid.

How can I find out if my bid is successful?

MSC Cruises will not contact you if your bid is not successful. Remember that you can receive notification of a successful bid very close to your sailing date, so keep an eye on your email. It may also be possible to find out by clicking on the link in the original email sent to you, and it will tell you if you have a successful bid.

Is there a chance I will receive an offer to make a bid?

The upgrade system and the opportunity to bid on a cabin in a higher price category are based on the availability of your particular sailing date at a given time before the sail date.

Most often, customers who book the Bella or Fantastica experience will receive an offer if cabins are available, and sometimes, if you have booked the Aurea experience, you may be able to bid on an upgrade to the Yacht Club category.

Again, it all depends on the availability of cabins at a given time when MSC decides to send out a bulk email offering upgrades via their bidding system.

What should I look out for when participating in the bidding program?

As with everything you need to pay for, make sure you read all the terms and conditions of the bidding program before you decide to participate and bid. If you are unsure of any information, we recommend contacting MSC Cruises directly and asking them before placing a bid.

Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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10 thoughts on “MSC Cruises Upgrade Bid Program – enhance your cruise”

Can I cancel my upgrade bid before the cruise made a decision ???

Hello David! If your bid is successful and you win an upgrade based on your bid amount, you must pay the bid amount, and you cannot cancel your bid. If you have made a bid but have not received an answer and would like to withdraw, you must contact MSC Cruises and ask them if it’s possible to remove your bid. However, we recommend asking for written confirmation from them if they say they can do this.

We received an invite to bid on our upcoming cruise but when I put info in it says you are unable to bid and to check back.

Hi Linda Thank you for contacting us at CruiseTrail! As you were unable to make the bid, it could be that all available cabins are now filled. However, I recommend contacting MSC Cruises directly to check that there is no technical problem with the upgrade system that prohibits you from placing a bid, so you don’t miss out. If a bid is still possible, request a new offer to be sent to you by email and try again. Good Luck!

How do I bid for a yacht club upgrade I’m in a balcony cabin now with premium drinks package

Hello Diane

Thank you for your enquiry! Be sure to sign up for an MSC account via the cruise line’s web page. You must agree that they can send you MSC offers and marketing promotions to receive an email about possible upgrades and the bidding program. If you do not receive an offer to upgrade your stateroom, I recommend calling the cruise line (or your travel agent if you have booked through a 3rd party) and ask if they know when offers to upgrade are planned to be sent out.

Sarah, we are booked in a lower level category that does not include the drinks package. If I am offered an upgrade to the Yacht Club, would I then have the benefit of free drinks for YC guests?

Thanks Cliff Davidson

Thank you for contacting us. Firstly I must apologize for the very late reply, your enquiry has slipped right by us and I have only just spotted it. The latest information we have from MSC Cruises is that you would NOT get the all the benefits of the Yacht Club category, you would only receive the actual cabin upgrade to Yacht Club category.

We would also add that policy can change at any time, so do double check this information at the time of booking.

We hope you enjoy a wonderful experience with MSC Cruises.

Hi I am trying to find on MSC Website where I say I will receive marketing materials and advertising so I can then register? for a bid for a future upgrade. I do not know where it is to tick the box. What section? Thanks so much

Hi Julie-anne, Thank you for contacting us! Unfortunately, navigating MSC Cruises’ website is not that easy. You should be able to register your email address when booking. Alternatively, I recommend contacting MSC Cruises; your region’s telephone will appear at the top of their website homepage. Give them your booking number, and they can insert your email address. I hope this helps, this is how I used to register my customers when they wanted to participate in the MSC Bid program.

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This Cruise Life

Msc yacht club 2024 on board msc meraviglia.

To say we were pampered is the understatement of the year (although, considering it’s only January, fingers crossed there’s more pampering ahead)! We had the opportunity to sail MSC Meraviglia out of New York earlier this month; we were excited to check out the new-to-us cruise line. But what we didn’t expect: an upgrade to MSC’s exclusive Yacht Club!

What is the Yacht Club?

The Yacht Club is MSC’s “ship within a ship” concept that promises both privacy and exclusivity. The experience includes amenities most could only dream about: white-glove butler service, 24×7 concierge, an exclusive restaurant on the ship and on MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay, unlimited drinks anywhere on the ship, a private pool, hot tub, lounge deck, and so much more.

Upgrade Offer

In early December, just over a month from our sailing date, we received an email inviting us to bid on an upgrade . We were already in a balcony cabin, so it seemed odd bidding on an interior cabin – but that’s just what we did! We maxed out our bid on an interior Yacht Club stateroom in hopes that the upgrade fairies would grant our wish.

On December 13, 2023, that’s exactly what happened!

Thank you Twitterverse!!! You made our MSC Yacht Club dreams come true. Our upgrade was accepted this morning. Full review of the MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite and experience coming January! 💙💙💙 #thankyou #msc #yachtclub pic.twitter.com/ZNDRZcfKKH — This Cruise Life (@thiscruiselife) December 13, 2023

Yacht Club Check-In

Fast-forward a month to January 9, 2024 when we checked in to board MSC Meraviglia. Again, to say this check-in process was different would be a huge understatement. Unlike your typical check-in with long queues, growling stomachs, and throngs of people, we waited in our own lounge with champagne and canapés away from the crowds. We made sure to document the entire experience so that we could share it with you:

First Impressions

So what is it like to sail on a ship within a ship? Is the Butler actually a real person, or is it just a glorified room steward? And what exactly is a canapé? The first 24 hours on board was a whirlwind. There were so many new experiences – and so much food! Considering this was our first-ever MSC cruise, it was a GREAT first impression! You can check out our detailed review of that first 24 hours, along with what we thought about MSC Meraviglia:

Full Review to Come!

Now that we’re back on solid ground, we’re working on our full review of our 9-day sailing on board MSC Meraviglia in the Yacht Club. We’re going to cover the things that we loved, didn’t love, and a couple things that we hated about the ship and experience.

As always, thanks for joining this cruise life of ours and following our adventures! -Mark and Rocky

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TAKE your cruise to the next level

Bid for a cabin upgrade in a few clicks, how does the msc upgrades programme work, 1. find out if you are eligible for a cabin upgrade.

If you already have a booking number and have paid for your cruise, we will contact you by email to propose a cabin upgrade. If you don’t receive our e-mail, you can still check if you are eligible for this offer by filling out the eligibility form, and then making a bid to upgrade your cabin to a higher category. If you booked through a travel agent, they will be able to guide you through the process if necessary.

GO TO THE FORM

2. CHECK THE CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE AND MAKE YOUR BID

If you're eligible, discover the best cabins available for an upgrade and insert the amount you are willing to pay. Each bid is per person and will automatically be replicated for the second guest in the cabin with you (3rd and 4th guests will benefit from the category upgrade free of charge). Remember to provide us with a valid credit card, even though in this phase you will not be charged.

Bidding on multiple rooms will increase your chances of getting an upgrade, but you will only be charged for one upgrade. Remember to provide us with a valid credit card, even though you will not be charged at this point.

3. KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR EMAILS AND ENJOY YOUR CRUISE

We will inform you of the outcome of your bid by e-mail , so keep an eye on it!

If your bid is accepted, your credit card will automatically be charged the corresponding amount. Otherwise, you will keep the cabin you originally booked without paying any additional amount.

How much do I bid through MSC UpGrade if my reservation includes more than two guests?

How will i be charged for msc upgrade if i travel alone.

You will be charged based on double occupancy. For example, if you originally booked a single occupancy cabin and bid £  100 for an MSC UpGrade, you will be charged £   200 should the upgrade be accepted.

How do MSC UpGrade offers work if I’m part of a group or if my bookings is linked with another reservation?

If i’m travelling with another cabin, can i bid only once through msc upgrade and, if accepted, cancel the second reservation and move the guests into the upgraded cabin, can i modify or cancel the msc upgrade offer after it has been submitted.

You may modify or cancel the offer up until 48 hours prior to the closing of the bidding window, as long as the offer has not already been accepted by MSC or your credit card has not already been charged.

Can I cancel the MSC UpGrade offer after it has been accepted?

What will happen with the promotions i already have if i’m upgraded through msc upgrade.

You get to keep the promotions you already have based on the cabin category initially booked. However,  no additional promotions will be added to your reservation.

What will happen with my cabin experience if I win an MSC UpGrade?

If i win an upgrade to an aurea experience or msc yacht club cabin, do i get all the related benefits.

Yes, if a guest wins an upgrade to an Aurea experience or MSC Yacht Club cabin, the originally booked Bella or Fantastica experience will be changed to the new Aurea or MSC Yacht Club cabin experience. We will guarantee all the related benefits associated with the upgraded experience. In case of an upgrade to MSC Yacht Club, there will be no refund for pre-purchased drinks packages.

Can I choose the location or specific features of the cabin?

When will i know if my msc upgrade offer got accepted, why did i or someone “travelling with” me not receive an invite to bid for an msc upgrade, terms & conditions, msc upgrade programme, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Cruises

What is the MSC Yacht Club? Take a look at MSC Cruises’ luxury suite area

MSC Cruises sails nearly two dozen beautiful ships from home ports around the world, but their inviting sun decks can be crowded, and you're likely to encounter queues for dinner, shows and guest services.

The trick to creating a more luxurious experience on this big-ship cruise line is to book a stay in the line's Yacht Club. This upscale enclave within MSC Cruises ' larger ships offers guests more spacious accommodations, butler service and dedicated restaurants and lounges — even coffee delivered to your room each morning, just the way you like it.

Because of the Yacht Club , MSC can offer an inviting experience for cruisers who like big-ship cruising but crave more elevated accommodations, dining and amenities. MSC Cruises was one of the first lines to introduce this ship-within-a-ship concept, along with Norwegian Cruise Line . Now other popular cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean , also have adopted it.

The Yacht Club section on several of MSC Cruises' ships offers gated access to semi-private dining, butler service and more, but it comes at a price. Find out how much you can expect to pay and what you'll get for your money.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What are the MSC Yacht Club perks?

All stays in the Yacht Club include priority check-in and checkout; priority disembarkation and boarding on shore excursions days; free premium alcohol and Wi-Fi packages; a bathrobe and slippers; complimentary access to the Aurea Spa thermal suite; 24-hour concierge and butler services (dining and spa reservations, unpacking and repacking, morning coffee delivery, etc.); a free daily in-cabin newspaper of your choice, delivered; and the ability to change your cruise one time without penalty.

Yacht Club cruisers are also entitled to discounts of 10% on spa treatments, 20% on specialty dining packages and 40% on spa packages.

In addition, passengers booked in the Yacht Club have access to their own dedicated bar, lounge and restaurant, as well as a semi-private outdoor bar, pool and hot tubs, all on an exclusive sun deck. When ships dock at the line's private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve , Yacht Club passengers have private beach and restaurant access .

In their cabins, Yacht Club cruisers will find a pillow menu, memory foam mattresses, high-quality linens, bathrooms with marble floors, a specialty coffee maker, complimentary open minibar access, one gratis bottle of spirits (choose from a list of available options), free one-time snacks, 24-hour room service and nightly turn-down chocolates from Venchi, an Italian chocolatier that partners with the cruise line.

Which MSC cruise ships have the Yacht Club?

Thirteen ships in the MSC Cruises fleet have the Yacht Club on board:

• MSC Bellissima
• MSC Euribia
• MSC Fantasia
• MSC Grandiosa
• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Preziosa
• MSC Seascape.
• MSC Seashore.
• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seaview
• MSC Splendida
• MSC Virtuosa
• MSC World Europa

Upcoming vessel MSC World America (2025) also will have the Yacht Club.

The largest Yacht Club in the fleet is on MSC World Europa, offering 152 suites. The second-largest is found on the line's two Seaside EVO Class ships, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape, which each have 131 suites.

MSC Yacht Club cabins

All accommodations in the Yacht Club are labeled as suites, even though they comprise some standard cabin types. The specific stateroom types offered will vary by ship, but in general, they range from windowless interior cabins and deluxe balcony rooms to Executive and Royal Suites with more space, walk-in closets and bathrooms with both showers and bathtubs.

New to the fleet with the line's World Class are 1,600-square-foot Owner Suites, which include multi-room layouts, walk-in closets, bathtubs and balconies, each with a whirlpool and alfresco dining area.

Also new are Duplex Suites, offering two decks of space, with the bedroom and bathroom upstairs and a dining area, living room and guest bath downstairs. These also include two private sun decks with loungers, one of which boasts a whirlpool.

How much does it cost to stay in the MSC Yacht Club?

As you might expect, the cost to stay in the Yacht Club depends on several factors, including cabin type, the length of the sailing and where you're going and when. However, in line with the rest of the brand's pricing, a stay in the Yacht Club is an excellent value when you compare it to stays in other lines' dedicated suite areas or to luxury cruise prices.

I priced out several sailings departing over the next two years on some of the line's newest and largest ships. This is what was available at press time. (Note: MSC Cruises' website will only allow me to choose a general Yacht Club designation when booking. That means a guaranteed suite within the Yacht Club, but you won't know what type it is until closer to sailing.)

• 7-night Caribbean and Bahamas cruise on MSC Seascape: $6,538 (including taxes) for two adults, round trip from Miami, March 16-23, 2024
• 11-night Bermuda, Canada and New England cruise on MSC Meraviglia: $9,958 (including taxes) for two adults, round trip from Brooklyn, New York, Sept. 25-Oct. 6, 2024
• 7-night Mediterranean cruise on MSC World Europa: $5,118 (including taxes) for two adults, round trip from Barcelona, May 2-9, 2025
• 7-night Mediterranean on MSC Divina: $5,858 (including taxes) for two adults, round trip from Kusadasi, Turkey, June 5-12, 2025

Check out the MSC Cruises website to learn more about the MSC Yacht Club .

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• More banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
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• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

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• Hilton Impresario
• S&T Reserve
• AWARD EXPERT

Unlocking the Best: Your Guide to the MSC Upgrade Bid Program

The article provides an overview of the MSC Upgrade Program, including how it operates on a bidding system, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of participating, along with tips for successfully participating and key considerations for passengers. It also explores the benefits of cabin upgrades, passenger experiences with the program, and tips and recommendations for those looking to upgrade their cabin for a better experience on MSC cruises.

Understanding the MSC Upgrade Program

The MSC upgrade bid program provides passengers with the opportunity to bid for upgrades to higher-category cabins, enhancing their cruise experience. This operates on a bidding system, where higher bids increase the chances of winning an upgrade. Participating in the program can offer passengers exclusive benefits and amenities, making it an appealing option for those seeking an enhanced cruise experience.

Passengers who successfully win an upgrade bid through the program can enjoy a range of benefits such as access to exclusive lounges, priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary specialty dining options, and more spacious and luxurious accommodations. These enhancements can significantly elevate the overall cruise experience, allowing passengers to indulge in added comfort and luxury during their voyage.

Eligibility criteria for participating in the MSC upgrade bid program include booking directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner and having a confirmed reservation with the total fare already paid. This ensures that passengers who have committed to their cruise booking are allowed to potentially elevate their experience through the bid program.

How to Participate in the MSC Upgrade Program

Participating in the MSC upgrade bid program is an exciting opportunity for passengers to enhance their cruise experience. To be eligible, passengers must have a confirmed reservation with the total fare already paid, whether they booked directly through MSC Cruises or an authorized travel partner. Once invited, passengers can review the available upgrade options and decide on a bid amount that aligns with their preferences and budget. The bid is then submitted through the user-friendly Plusgrade Program platform, which simplifies the process and allows passengers to track their bids easily.

For example, let’s consider a scenario where a couple, Guga and Rob, are preparing for their MSC Meraviglia cruise. Initially, they booked an ocean-view cabin for their upcoming trip and were eager to participate in the MSC Bid Upgrade Program to elevate their onboard experience. After receiving an email invitation, they carefully reviewed the available upgrade options and decided to place a bid for a balcony room. Their active engagement with the upgrade process involved considering the timing and availability of cabins, leading them to make a well-informed bid. This proactive approach significantly increased their chances of securing an upgrade, ultimately resulting in an enhanced cruise experience for Guga and Rob.

Passengers are encouraged to actively engage with the program, carefully considering the bid amount and timing to maximize their chances of success. By understanding the process and being proactive, passengers can increase their likelihood of winning an upgrade bid and enjoying an elevated cruise experience.

Key Considerations for Passengers

When participating in the bid program on MSC cruises, passengers may encounter various common issues and challenges that are important to consider. One of the key factors to keep in mind is the minimum bid amounts set by MSC Cruises for cabin upgrades. These minimum bid amounts can vary depending on the specific cruise, cabin category, and other relevant factors. Passengers need to be aware of these minimum bid amounts as they prepare their bids, ensuring that their offers align with the cruise line’s requirements.

Furthermore, understanding the notification process for successful and unsuccessful upgrade bids is vital. Passengers should be aware of how and when they will be notified about the status of their bids. It’s important to note that MSC Cruises will not contact passengers if their bid is unsuccessful, and successful bidders may be notified close to the sailing date. This knowledge can help passengers manage their expectations and make alternative arrangements if their bids are unsuccessful.

In addition, the availability of cabins and timing considerations play a crucial role in the bidding process. The opportunity to bid on a higher price category cabin depends on the availability of cabins at a given time. Passengers should carefully assess the availability of cabins before submitting their bids, considering factors such as the popularity of the cruise, the number of competing bids, and the likelihood of securing an upgrade based on the current bookings. Timing considerations also come into play, as submitting bids earlier or closer to the sailing date can impact the chances of winning an upgrade. Being mindful of these considerations can significantly influence the success of a bid and enhance the overall experience of participating in the MSC upgrade bid program.

Benefits of Cabin Upgrades

Participating in the MSC upgrade bid program and winning an upgrade bid can provide passengers with a range of benefits, including enhanced room features, exclusive amenities, and additional dining options offered with upgraded cabins and even MSC Yacht Club.

For example, passengers who win an upgrade bid may enjoy enhanced room features such as larger living spaces, private balconies, or luxurious bathroom amenities. These upgrades can significantly enhance the overall comfort and experience during the cruise, allowing passengers to relax and indulge in a more spacious and well-appointed cabin environment. Additionally, upgraded cabins often come with exclusive amenities, which may include priority embarkation and disembarkation, access to private lounges or facilities, and personalized concierge services, making the cruise experience even more convenient and enjoyable. Moreover, passengers who secure a cabin upgrade through the bidding program may have access to additional dining options, such as specialty restaurants or exclusive dining venues, providing them with more culinary choices and an opportunity to savor a wider range of delectable dishes and cuisines during their voyage.

In addition to the physical and experiential enhancements, cabin upgrades can also elevate the overall ambiance and luxury of the cruise, allowing passengers to make the most of their time at sea and create lasting memories. Therefore, by participating in the MSC upgrade bid program, passengers have the opportunity to elevate their cruise experience and enjoy a host of exclusive benefits and amenities that come with winning an upgrade bid.

Passenger Experiences with the MSC Upgrade Program

Passengers who have participated in the MSC upgrade bid program have shared diverse experiences that offer valuable insights into the process of upgrading cabins for a better cruise experience. For instance, one passenger shared on a forum how they eagerly anticipated a response regarding a potential upgrade on the new MSC World Europa, hoping for an exciting notification before their upcoming travel in 20 days. This highlights the anticipation and excitement passengers feel when participating in the bid program, adding an element of thrill to the upgrade process.

Additionally, another passenger recounted their experience of being upgraded to a balcony room on an MSC cruise after participating in the bidding program. They initially encountered confusion and frustration with shoreside customer service but were pleasantly surprised by the onboard customer service, which quickly resolved the upgrade issue and even accommodated their dietary needs. This illustrates the importance of effective customer service both shoreside and onboard, showcasing how the cruise line’s handling of upgrade-related issues can significantly impact passenger experiences.

Tips and Recommendations

When considering an upgrade to their cabin on MSC cruises, passengers are advised to thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the bidding program before participating. This includes understanding the minimum bid amounts set by MSC Cruises for cabin upgrades, as well as the notification process for successful and unsuccessful upgrade bids. By being well-informed about these aspects, passengers can make more strategic decisions when submitting their bids, thereby increasing their chances of a successful upgrade.

It’s also crucial for passengers to be proactive and engaged in the bidding process. This means carefully considering the bid amount and timing, as well as actively participating in the upgrade bid program. To enhance their chances of winning an upgrade, passengers should monitor the availability of cabins and carefully evaluate the options before submitting their bids. By paying close attention to these details and being actively involved in the bidding process, passengers can optimize their chances of securing a cabin upgrade for an enhanced cruise experience.

• cruise , luxury , upgrade , yacht club

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MSC CRUISES ELEVATES ITS EXCLUSIVE MSC YACHT CLUB OFFERING ON BOARD NEWEST SHIPS

Msc seashore to feature the largest and most luxurious yacht club in the msc cruises fleet, with more outdoor space as well as new luxurious owner’s suites msc virtuosa to offer an enhanced vip experience to msc yacht club guests.

Geneva, Switzerland (March 10, 2021) — With each new ship, MSC Cruises strives to enrich the guest experience, and with the Company’s two newest ships — MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seashore — MSC Cruises will elevate the exclusive MSC Yacht Club . As extended versions of their sister ships, both ships’ designs have allowed for the expansion of the MSC Yacht Club to include more public space and increased outdoor space. MSC Seashore in particular will feature the largest MSC Yacht Club to-date with approximately 32,000 sq. ft. of private space.

“The MSC Yacht Club has become a compelling and unique offering from MSC Cruises, and we continue to see a positive response from our guests who appreciate having an exclusive, luxurious escape while accessing all of the amenities and entertainment of a larger ship,” says Rubén Rodriguez, President of MSC Cruises USA. “For our guests in North America in particular, MSC Seashore’s arrival this November sets an exciting milestone as we not only introduce our newest ship to the region, but also our most spacious MSC Yacht Club yet.”

MSC YACHT CLUB OVERVIEW

First launched in 2008 and now available on more than half of the MSC Cruises fleet, the “ship-within-a-ship” MSC Yacht Club concept immediately set a new standard for the industry offering a premium cruise experience. Designed to make guests feel like a VIP, the all-inclusive experience is fully personalized with 24-hour butler service to get to know each guest’s personal preferences with warm, friendly and unobtrusive service. Meanwhile, the dedicated concierge is on hand to facilitate any request from organizing private shore excursions and making spa reservations to delivering a daily newspaper to the guest’s stateroom. No request is too big or too small.

Available only by key-card access, the MSC Yacht Club has been appointed with elegant touches to create its stylish backdrop. The sparkling Swarovski staircases greet guests in the atrium, instantly setting the tone for the sophistication and glamour that can be expected throughout, particularly in the spacious and beautifully designed suites.

The MSC Yacht Club is situated at the front of the ship, boasting panoramic sea views throughout, most notably from the chic Top Sail Lounge, where guests can listen to live music, sip complimentary beverages or enjoy gourmet canapés throughout the day and evening, all with a view. Meanwhile, the private fine-dining restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a different daily a la carte menu featuring chef’s specials and a wide choice of gourmet dishes complemented by an extensive wine list served in sublime surroundings with impeccable service.

The private sundeck and pool is spacious with different areas to relax in the sun on a comfortable lounge chair, unwind in a shady cabana or take a break in a hot tub. At the well-stocked bar and grill, guests can refresh with a cocktail or light bite throughout the day.

THE MSC YACHT CLUB ON NEW SHIPS & EXCLUSIVE DESTINATIONS   Introducing the largest and most luxurious MSC Yacht Club in the fleet on board MSC Seashore

Spread over four decks, the MSC Yacht Club on MSC Seashore has been enhanced to become the largest, most luxurious in MSC Cruises’ fleet, with approximately 32,000 sq. ft. of private space.

• The entrance to the Yacht Club will be even more remarkable and glamorous, featuring a three-deck, 495 sq. ft. back-lit Onyx wall and MSC Cruises’ iconic Swarovski staircases, beautifully connecting four decks at the entrance of the Yacht Club.
• The private pool area and sun deck is more spacious than ever, extended to over 21,000 sq. ft. and offering a larger private pool and a new panoramic hot tub with eight seats and individual jets, plus a standard hot tub.
• Guests will be able to choose from 131 glamorous suites with five different types, including the traditional interior, deluxe and royal suites as well as 41 newly introduced deluxe grand suites, with extra space and a walk-in closet, plus two brand new Owner’s Suites.
• The Owner’s Suites are the showpiece of the MSC Yacht Club — the largest suites on the ship with 1,054 sq. ft. of space — with an extended private balcony including a hot tub and outdoor living area, a panoramic glass wall for impressive sea views as well as a separate dining and living room area.

Enhancing the MSC Yacht Club VIP experience on board MSC Virtuosa

• Guests have a choice of 103 exclusive suites including two MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites with a private hot tub on a large balcony as well as eight new MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites.
• The impressive Duplex Suites span two decks — the first has an open living and dining area with a sofa that converts to a double bed, as well as a bathroom with a shower, while the second level holds the master bedroom and a bathroom with a bathtub. For the ultimate in luxurious living, each Duplex Suite offers a large private balcony with its own hot tub. 
• The MSC Yacht Club on MSC Virtuosa offers over 13,000 sq. ft. of outdoor space including a private pool area with a spacious solarium, shady cabanas and hot tubs.

Extending the MSC Yacht Club experience to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

MSC Yacht Club guests cruising in The Bahamas are able to not only relish their experience on board, but also on MSC Cruises’ private Bahamian destination, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve . On the island, Yacht Club guests have access to an exclusive area, complete with butler service, a private beach and clubhouse and all-inclusive food and beverages in addition to everything Ocean Cay has to offer.

Surrounded by 64 square miles of marine reserve, Ocean Cay offers guests a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, discover local marine life and soak up the spirit of Bahamian culture. With ships frequently docked at the island from early morning into the evening — and in many instances overnight — MSC Cruises’ guests can spend a full day enjoying two miles of pristine, white sand beaches and a variety of ocean discovery activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, thrilling wave runner rides and more.

All MSC Cruises ships sailing from the U.S. call at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, including MSC Meraviglia , MSC Armonia, MSC Divina and MSC Seashore , arriving to Miami for the first time in November 2021.

MSC YACHT CLUB BENEFITS

An all-inclusive experience with added privileges:

• Dedicated priority check-in and check-out as well as priority departure and return on excursion days.
• 24-hour butler service and dedicated concierge, providing for an experience tailored to each individual guest’s needs.
• Unlimited dining and drinks within the Yacht Club.
• Inclusion of the Browse Internet package with unlimited data for two devices.
• Complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa.
• Tailormade experiences from shopping to excursions.
• Nespresso coffee machine in each suite and complimentary mini bar, personalized with each guests’ preferences.
• Room service so that guests can enjoy a lazy morning with breakfast in bed.
• Personal touches such as a luggage unpacking and packing service, newspaper delivered to the stateroom daily and special deliveries at turn down each evening, like a different selection of sweet or savory canapés.

Exquisite private facilities:

• A dedicated area of the ship accessible only to MSC Yacht Club guests.
• Between 70 and 103 suites at a premier location, featuring a pillow menu, Egyptian cotton sheets and memory-foam mattresses for the most comfortable night’s sleep.
• The panoramic Top Sail Lounge with bar, afternoon tea service, light bites available day and night and live entertainment in the evening.
• Gourmet dining at a private restaurant, with a la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where guests can dine at the time of their choosing.
• A spacious pool deck with hot tubs, sunbathing areas and an outdoor bar with sea views across the bow of the ship.

The MSC Yacht Club is available on all Fantasia, Meraviglia, and Seaside class ships.

To find out more about the MSC Yacht Club offering visit here .

To find out more about MSC Seashore visit  here .

#MSCSeashore

To find out more about MSC Virtuosa visit  here .

#MSCVirtuosa #MasterpieceAtSea

About MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise brand as well as the leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa with more market share in addition to deployed capacity than any other player. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises one of the two brands that sit within the Cruises Division of MSC Group, the leading privately held Swiss-based shipping and logistics conglomerate with over 300 years of maritime heritage. MSC Cruises — the contemporary brand — has a modern fleet of 18 vessels combined with a sizeable future global investment portfolio of new vessels. The fleet is projected to grow to 23 cruise ships by 2025 with options for six vessel orders in place through 2030.

MSC Cruises offers its guests an enriching, immersive and safe cruise experience inspired by the Company’s European heritage, where they can enjoy international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ itineraries and experience on board its ships please see here .

The Company’s number one priority has always been the health and safety of its guests and crew, as well as the communities at the destinations its ships serve.  In August 2020, MSC Cruises implemented a new comprehensive and robust health and safety protocol to become the first major line to return to sea. To learn more about MSC Cruises’ health & safety protocol please see here .

MSC Cruises has long been committed to environmental stewardship with a long-term goal to achieve zero emissions for its operations. The Company is also a significant investor in next-generation environmental marine technologies, with the objective to support their accelerated development and availability industry wide. To learn more about the Company’s environmental commitment please see here . 

Finally, to learn more about the MSC Foundation, MSC Group’s own vehicle to lead, focus and advance its conservation, humanitarian and cultural commitments please see here .

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I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

The MSC Yacht Club affords travelers a totally different cruising experience, but you’ll have to splurge.

I heard tales of luxury from people about the ritzy MSC Yacht Club , the ship-within-a-ship concept where discerning passengers enjoy their own area of the cruise ship that includes a dedicated restaurant, private lounge, separate pool and sundeck as well as private butlers and concierges to take of any whim while cruising. The elevated Yacht Club boasts priority everything while sailing MSC.

I sailed on a four-night cruise on the new MSC Seashore, a glitzy ship with Italian flair intermingled with references to New York City at every turn. Although the ship was well-appointed and had amazing dining, drinking and entertainment venues, and a bountiful Top Sail main buffet, thousands of passengers made the ship feel crowded at times, elevators were slow, and as I strolled through the general pools, they were boisterous and crowded.

RECOMMENDED: 10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you

Switch gears to MSC Seashore’s Yacht Club, passkey-protected for lucky guests, and is a 180 from the ship’s general spaces. Once you scan your handy Yacht Club wrist badge, or your room key, you’re instantly given entrance to a breathtaking retreat of 131 staterooms and suites. All this luxury does come at a price. Cruise fares will vary based on destination, time of year, and cabin category, but generally speaking you can expect to pay double for the Yacht Club. And from my experience, it’s worth it. Read more about why you should splurge.

You’re fast-tracked through everything

The Yacht Club’s exclusivity and impeccable service standard started from the moment I got dropped off at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. There were hundreds of people waiting to board at 1pm on embarkation day. I saw in the distance a canopy that said MSC Yacht Club. My husband and I wheeled our carry-on luggage to the representative under the canopy. I gave her my name and within two seconds, she gave me a sticker to wear and up we ascended on the escalator to check in. Just five minutes later, I was directed to the dedicated check-in area for Yacht Club guests. To my right, I saw about 1,000 people serpentine through ropes to do general check-in. I felt a sense of relief; who wants to wait in that line? Five minutes later, a butler from the Yacht Club insisted on wheeling my luggage to board the ship and I was in my room in a total on 12 minutes from the time I stepped foot out of the car to my stateroom in the Yacht Club.

Relaxing and streamlined

In addition, Yacht Club guests have the freedom to get off the ship first for excursions. Your butler will happily escort you off the ship with a smile. Guests also can disembark on the last morning first, which is a big convenience. Your butler walks you right to the place you disembark, bypassing crowds and hassles. Port Canaveral is about an hour away from Orlando International Airport, and we took a 10 am flight home. We didn’t have to linger around until the afternoon for our flight home.

Another perk is that there’s a special seating area in the theater for shows. All the shows were excellent during my voyage. All other ship passengers have to make reservations in advance for shows but that’s not the case for the privileged Yacht Club passengers. As long as you arrive about 10 minutes before any show you choose, a crew member from the Club will allow you entry into a special roped-off section. Again, no rushing through dinner—you have the flexibility to plan your evenings your way.

Your Yacht Club package is packed with remarkable value

The price tag may sound daunting, but there’s lots of value there. All Yacht Club cabins and suites include a premium drink package that covers beverages up to $15. You can use this perk both in the Yacht Club and throughout the ship. In addition, your package includes a two-device Wi-Fi package, which worked well during my sailing. Finally, you get access to the thermal spa suite, which is a place to indulge after a day in port or a sea day. Commonly, there’s a taboo regarding mini-bars, but not in the Yacht Club. It’s stocked each day with the beverages you want; just tell your butler and consider it done.

You get perks ashore too

If your sailing includes a call to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, Yacht Club guests get an elevated experience there too. Yacht Club guests enjoy a private area, and a dedicated restaurant called the Ocean House. While other ship guests were hosted to a buffet of predictable fare, I enjoyed a lobster roll, and my husband chose carne asada. In my opinion, one thing that could be improved was the tram service to the Yacht Club’s private area. We were told the last tram back was 3:30pm if we didn’t want to trek a 15-minute walk in the heat. Since we were docked in Ocean Cay for the evening and weren’t sailing, I was a bit dismayed by this logistical quirk. I felt like I was keeping an eye on my phone to make sure I didn’t miss the last tram.

You have private areas with curated food and drink and outdoor spaces

Within the Yacht Club complex, there’s the Yacht Club Restaurant, Top Sail Lounge and the One Pool Buffet, which are all exclusive to Yacht Club guests. Obviously, the food and service are steps above other dining venues of the ship, I can vouch for that. Although the food is delicious, if you don’t want to pay extra to dine at the specialty restaurants or fuss in the main buffet, eating three meals a day in the Yacht Club restaurant can get a bit monotonous. The breakfast is the same daily, and lunch and dinner offer a menu with daily specials plus a few standby selections like a hamburger or pasta each day. Although the Yacht Club Restaurant concept is desirable, I would strongly suggest dining in other venues on board, especially for dinner. I thoroughly enjoyed specialty dining in Ocean Cay Restaurant, Butcher’s Cut, and Kaito Teppanyaki. I also want to mention that late afternoon high tea is offered daily at the Yacht Club Restaurant. It was one of the nicest I have experienced at sea.

Also available exclusively to Yacht Club passengers is the Top Sail Lounge, which offers panoramic water views and has chef-curated selections from morning through late night. We enjoyed popping into the lounge at all hours to try finger foods and sweets. The One Pool Buffet offers a more casual option for breakfast and lunch by the pool. The buffet has grilled fish, sandwiches and lots of delicious options if you want to dine outside.

There’s also an exclusive area with a private pool and two whirlpools for Yacht Club guests only. The sun deck loungers are very comfortable and I never had to worry about finding a lounger, there are ample. One issue I had was that there was almost no shade on the sun deck; there were shaded day beds for Royal Suite and Owners Suite guests, but beyond those, I couldn’t find any shade, which was disappointing.

You can justify the price at the end of your cruise

Overall, the best way to explain my enthusiasm for my MSC Yacht Club experience is this: it’s better to book an interior stateroom in the Yacht Club than a luxe cabin outside the Yacht Club. It’s worth the splurge and you return home feeling truly pampered and it’s money well-spent. And I make this prediction: Once you try a ship-within-a-ship concept like the MSC Yacht Club, you won’t want cruise any other way. Bon Voyage!

• Erica Lamberg

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Yacht club upgrade

By Singleandnotmingling , September 9, 2022 in MSC Cruises

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Singleandnotmingling

I have booked a Bella balcony on Meraviglia for November, and received the email for possible upgrades. Honestly, none of these look appealing to me. Specifically, the yacht club interior. I looked at the perks and it included “free Wi-Fi” which I have already purchased a Wi-Fi package. Also, I always was under the impression that yacht club included free drinks, which I am not seeing as one of the perks listed. So I’m not sure honestly what I would be getting by going from a balcony to an interior aside

from having access to different areas of the ship. I will add the email below.   

also, with the balcony aurora, it does not include the drink package. So what exactly does it get me? A better balcony room and option for breakfast delivery?   

im brand new to this line so if I’m missing something please let me know 😊 I’m thinking I will not place bids for any of these offers.   

oh! And one more question. Are these rates based on double occupancy? I am just one person in the state room, so will my bid be charged twice based on double occupancy?

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An inside YC would knock any other lower class of cabin out the park. Drink is included.

5 minutes ago, philsuarez said: An inside YC would knock any other lower class of cabin out the park. Drink is included.

Even though it is not listed there as one of the perks? Also, which drink package does it include?

could you please tell me the added benefits aside from what is listed there? Thank you 

4 minutes ago, Singleandnotmingling said: Even though it is not listed there as one of the perks? Also, which drink package does it include?   could you please tell me the added benefits aside from what is listed there? Thank you 

Yes, it is the Premium Extra package and good throughout the ship...including non-YC areas.

You have a separate enclave i.e. a ship within a ship, with its own pool deck with padded luxury loungers, its own spacious lounge with full bar service, its own (much better than MDR) dining room. With all of this you have bags more space.

If your bid is successful, then go into the booking and cancel your paid wifi. The YC inside is certainly smallish, but the rest of the YC enclave is your balcony! The Deluxe Suite is much larger than a normal balcony cabin.

Honestly, you ought to jump at this offer.

4 minutes ago, hamrag said: Yes, it is the Premium Extra package and good throughout the ship...including non-YC areas.   You have a separate enclave i.e. a ship within a ship, with its own pool deck with padded luxury loungers, its own spacious lounge with full bar service, its own (much better than MDR) dining room. With all of this you have bags more space.   If your bid is successful, then go into the booking and cancel your paid wifi. The YC inside is certainly smallish, but the rest of the YC enclave is your balcony! The Deluxe Suite is much larger than a normal balcony cabin.   Honestly, you ought to jump at this offer.

You forgot the butler.  

30 minutes ago, philsuarez said: An inside YC would knock any other lower class of cabin out the park. Drink is included.

Also, I was assigned a 3pm embarkation time for my current booking. Would yacht club give me The option to board right at 11am?

So this is my problem. I am only one person in the room, and it is trying to have me bid for two people. That’s just not worth it

36 minutes ago, Singleandnotmingling said: Also, I was assigned a 3pm embarkation time for my current booking. Would yacht club give me The option to board right at 11am?

Yes, the YC embarking area generally opens at 10.30am. Also, at the far end of the cruise you can stay onboard YC until a couple of hours before sailaway with all facilities available..

3 minutes ago, Singleandnotmingling said: So this is my problem. I am only one person in the room, and it is trying to have me bid for two people. That’s just not worth it  

How long is the cruise?

Just now, hamrag said: How long is the cruise?

Just now, Singleandnotmingling said: 4 nights 

OK, it's definitely not worth it at that rate IMHO.

Just now, hamrag said: OK, it's definitely not worth it at that rate IMHO.

Agreed. I wish there was an option to just upgrade for one person, considering that’s what I am. Oh well

9 minutes ago, hamrag said: Yes, the YC embarking area generally opens at 10.30am. Also, at the far end of the cruise you can stay onboard YC until a couple of hours before sailaway with all facilities available..

Staying on that late in the US sailings is not allowed, unfortunately.  Since this sailing is out of Port Canaveral, the ship must be cleared out of all departing passengers before boarding new passengers can begin.

11 minutes ago, JAGR said: Staying on that late in the US sailings is not allowed, unfortunately.  Since this sailing is out of Port Canaveral, the ship must be cleared out of all departing passengers before boarding new passengers can begin.

Yep.  Our experience has been they will kick everyone off somewhere around 9:30 - 9:45!  

HipHipOnAShip

2 hours ago, Singleandnotmingling said: So this is my problem. I am only one person in the room, and it is trying to have me bid for two people. That’s just not worth it

Yes, for the upgrade you will be charged for 2 people.  If you are 4 in a cabin, it's a bargain; if you are 1, not so much.

I  received same email, we have an aft facing cabin, that is what we always book, if I try for an upgrade does anyone know if there are any cabins in the YC Deluxe category that aren't exactly desirable, like obstructed view etc., I've never left cabin selection up to the cruise line.

3 minutes ago, coscab said: I  received same email, we have an aft facing cabin, that is what we always book, if I try for an upgrade does anyone know if there are any cabins in the YC Deluxe category that aren't exactly desirable, like obstructed view etc., I've never left cabin selection up to the cruise line.

1 minute ago, coscab said:  

1 minute ago, coscab said: Sorry, should have mentioned its the meraviglia

6 hours ago, JAGR said: Staying on that late in the US sailings is not allowed, unfortunately.  Since this sailing is out of Port Canaveral, the ship must be cleared out of all departing passengers before boarding new passengers can begin.

I knew that, but totally overlooked it as all ours have been Europe and the Antilles from Barbados!

6 hours ago, Singleandnotmingling said: Agreed. I wish there was an option to just upgrade for one person, considering that’s what I am. Oh well

TBH, if you would do it if 245 then what is another 245 to savour the experience? Then you'd know for sure if you wanted to repeat it on a longer cruise in the future! Treat yourself, you deserve to do so and the inside would be perfectly adequate for a single person.   😉

9 minutes ago, coscab said: I  received same email, we have an aft facing cabin, that is what we always book, if I try for an upgrade does anyone know if there are any cabins in the YC Deluxe category that aren't exactly desirable, like obstructed view etc., I've never left cabin selection up to the cruise line.

The forward facing ones.

1 minute ago, hamrag said: The forward facing ones.

Thanks, I will stick with what we have.

1 hour ago, hamrag said: TBH, if you would do it if 245 then what is another 245 to savour the experience? Then you'd know for sure if you wanted to repeat it on a longer cruise in the future! Treat yourself, you deserve to do so and the inside would be perfectly adequate for a single person.   😉

I mean, it would be more than double than what I paid for a balcony. And this was just a “quick inexpensive getaway” for me and that would totally negate that. So yes, going to pass. 

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The MSC Meraviglia Yacht Club Experience Review

Doug Parker

• February 3, 2024

Contents Show

Doug talks with Mark and Rocky of TheCruiseLife this week about their nine-night cruise aboard MSC Meraviglia.

They dive into their bougie MSC Meraviglia Yacht Club experience, from exclusive embarkation to dedicated amenities like a butler, private lounge, dining room, and sun deck. They discuss the superior dining options, including specialty dishes and a unique cheese trolley, and the benefits of their status-matching loyalty program status.

One of MSC Cruises’ larger vessels , Mark and Rocky also touch on the onboard entertainment, the ship’s atmosphere, and ports of call, including a visit to MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay.

Find Rock and Mark’s coverage of MSC Meraviglia :

• ThisCruiseLife YouTube channel features their cruises across all lines.
• The MSC Meraviglia playlist has several videos from their sailing.
• Read the MSC Yacht Club experiences on ThisCruiseLife website .

MSC Meraviglia Review Transcript

Doug (00:01:01) – Mark and Rocky had just returned from a nine-night cruise aboard MSC Maravilla. It was out of New York City, in the Bahamas, Florida area, and staying in the yacht club. They join us on the line right now. Hey, guys, how are you?

Guest (00:01:16) – Good, Doug.

Doug (00:01:17) – I’m excited to talk about this because we haven’t had an MSC Yacht Club experience in a long time. We’ve had the ones that were like three-nighters and were fast, but I’m excited to hear what it’s like spending extended time beyond seven nights in that yacht club. So what we’ll do here before we get started, we’ll get some pre-cruise thoughts. You’re in the Phoenix area. What made you want to take this nine-niner out of New York City.

Guest (00:01:40) – Honestly, it was just the idea of getting to check out a new cruise line. We’ve been looking at MSC for a long time, and the idea that sailing out of New York in the heart of January, when it is very cold outside, uh, the pricing was very lucrative to get ourselves onto that ship, as well as to fly across the country to New York.

Guest (00:02:01) – So all the stars aligned and just made it worthwhile for us.

Doug (00:02:04) – Now, there were some, uh, a little bit of weather going through the country about the time when you all boarded. It might have missed you by a day or two. Did that impact your flights going into Manhattan?

Guest (00:02:14) – It did not impact the flights at all. It did impact sail away a bit. Um, as you can imagine, uh, the storms, uh, it was pretty rocky on the seas. Uh, it was really cool because it was the first time ever.

So we’ve been to Alaska several times, but it was the first time ever we’ve actually seen snow on a cruise ship. And so to see the crew, it was the first time many had seen snow on a cruise ship. And they were out running out, uh, TikTok ING and taking selfies. It was a really special experience, uh, being able to see that snowstorm.

Doug (00:02:48) – That is so cool.

Doug (00:02:49) – So did you any pre cruise time in the city before boarding in Brooklyn?

Guest (00:02:57) – You know, we always suggest that the best way to do it is to fly a day ahead of time. Uh, this time we flew in two days in advance to take some time and explore Brooklyn, because that’s where the cruise terminal is for MSC. And then we also took the subway into Manhattan and just kind of hung around Times Square, went to a couple of bars, a couple of restaurants, and, uh, just kind of got ourselves situated in New York before we set sail. We met up with we met up with one of, uh, the solo’s that I met on board, uh, Norwegian Cruise Line. So I did a Norwegian cruise line earlier in 2023. Uh, we met a bunch of solos in our solo cabins, and we actually met up with them to hang out, and they showed us New York, which was a ton of fun.

Guest (00:03:36) – You see.

Doug (00:03:36) – You never know what connections you’ll make on a ship, right? Right.

Guest (00:03:39) – Exactly.

Doug (00:03:40) – Yeah. It’s it’s so awesome. So you make your way to Brooklyn the following day and you go to embark MSC Maravilla. How was that embarkation process? And, did you get any kind of special treatment embarking since you were in the Yacht Club?

Guest (00:03:54) – Goodness gracious. It was an embark like none that I’ve ever experienced. We’ve all been through embark. We know the lines, we know the queues. We know all of the seating areas. Um, the moment that we got there, immediately there was signage for yacht club. And so the, the, the porter, the luggage porter whisked us over and tagged our bags with yacht club tags and pointed us to his colleague standing at the door with a yacht club sign. They literally escorted us through the terminal to our own dedicated security line for yacht club. Um, they didn’t have a they didn’t have us waiting in the general queue.

Guest (00:04:28) – And so we went through that security queue, uh, very quickly. And another, yet another Yacht Club representative whisked us to our private lounge, where they did one on one check ins with us, um, and then handed us glasses of champagne and canapés and sparkling water. Um, and it was a private area, very quiet, very secluded from the rest of the terminal. And we enjoyed mimosas and, uh, sparkling water, uh, that as we waited to board the ship.

Doug (00:04:57) – How long did it take you from curb to ship, then?

Guest (00:05:00) – It took us about an hour and a half. So unfortunately the the sailing before ours was the New Year’s cruise. And so they had a lot of passengers to disembark from that ship. So they were slightly delayed on clearing the ship down to zero counts for us to start the embark process. So yeah, about an hour and a half from when we arrived. Fortunately, the lounge was great. We had butlers in there waiting on us, so it was a really pleasant experience getting to stand around and wait until the ship was ready.

Guest (00:05:28) – Literally. Butlers, butlers, refilling our champagne glasses, walking around with bottles of champagne, saying, oh, would you like a refill on your champagne? Well, okay. Yes, we would love that.

Doug (00:05:38) – It’s like being stuck in an airport and being able to be in an airline lounge instead of in the regular common area, right? Just kind of, uh. Yeah, yeah, living it up in there. So you make your way on board the ship. You’re mentioning this was your first time on the ship. So what were your first impressions of MSC Meraviglia?

Guest (00:05:54) – So it’s kind of funny you ask that we didn’t actually get to see the whole ship for the first four hours that we were on board when they when the yacht club boards, we get priority boarding service. So they bring us into the main atrium, and that’s about the most of the ship we get to see. From there, we walk down a corridor of rooms to the very forward of the ship, where they have elevators that they can badge in, giving you priority access to the elevator.

Guest (00:06:21) – They loaded us into these elevators and took us up to the 16th deck where the topsail lounges, which is the exclusive lounge space for the top or the yacht club. Uh, and they put us in there with, again, more champagne and more canapés and live music that was being performed for us. So we spent most of the first four hours on board in that topsail lounge. Well, they took us from the Topsail Lounge. Then they opened up the Topsail Restaurant, the exclusive restaurant for yacht clubbers. And so we literally went from canapés and champagne up to the lunch in the Topsail restaurant.

Normally we run around taking pictures and exploring the ship. We literally were just kind of in the lap of luxury those first several hours onboard. Oh, we met our butler as well during that time. And so we didn’t actually leave the yacht club as Rocky mentioned, until about four hours after boarding.

Doug (00:07:12) – So a lot to unpack here. So I want to actually take a step back.

Doug (00:07:15) – And I want to ask, um, we were chatting before we started recording here, and you mentioned you had an upgrade offer. So how much of a premium, um, once you accept that upgrade, is it for the yacht club against just staying in a regular balcony cabin?

Guest (00:07:29) – So that’s exactly what we had booked. We booked a balcony cabin and received an offer to bid on an upgrade. Now, because we had already booked that balcony and paid for a balcony, the upgrade amount was not wildly expensive. I think it was. We we could have started the upgrade process offer at $300 per person. Wow. And Rocky was like, okay, should we just start there? And I was like, how often will we get to stay in the yacht club? We are maxing that bit out. And so I think we each maxed our bid out at about $600. So for another $1,200 or so plus tax and all of that stuff, um, we could move from the balcony we had into.

Guest (00:08:09) – We actually dug and bid for an interior yacht club cabin because we were like, okay, we’re just gonna make sure we get into this thing. Well, they were they must have been sold out because our dreams were answered. We got the upgrade and they put us into a deluxe suite.

Doug (00:08:24) – I love it. Let’s discuss that deluxe suite in the yacht club and give us all the details.

Guest (00:08:30) – As you walk in, the first thing that meets your eye is the size of this cabin. I would say that this cabin is the same depth as your standard balcony cabin that you find on any cruise ship. However, the width is probably equivalent to one and a half to anywhere up to two times the width of a standard balcony cabin. Huge space, um, between the foot of the bed and the credenza and wall units that they had where all of the minibar was located. There was probably a good 4 to 5ft of space between those two areas. Um, inside the bathroom, it was upgraded amenities.

Guest (00:09:05) – You had marble tile throughout, a very large, spacious walk in shower with a rainfall head, uh, or the rain shower head. Um, the balcony was the same width as the room, so it was a pretty sizable balcony. They only put two chairs and one side table out there, but you could have easily had another two. Uh, very large and spacious room.

Doug (00:09:29) – So the question is, how do you use the butler on your cruise? Well.

Guest (00:09:33) – You know, because we often have butlers on our cruises. Uh, I kid, um, it was the first experience. And so literally the butler introduced himself. We were in the room. He he knocked and came in and he said, what questions do you have for me? And we said, well, we don’t even know what questions to ask. And so he’s like, well, let’s start with your pillow selections. Are your pillows up to your liking? And Rocky joked, he’s like, well, we’ll sleep on him tonight and let you know.

Guest (00:09:59) – Um, but but the. Butler took care of our minibar, so he asked us specifically for our preferences in terms of sodas, juices and beers.

He asked for our liquor selection because the yacht club comes with a bottle, comes with bottle service, a single bottle. And so we, uh, we shared our, uh, bottle selection with him, and then he just let us know that he would be the person that would escort us to dinners if we wanted. He would escort us to the theater for shows.

He would arrange our bookings if we wanted to go to any specialty restaurant. And so it was, you know, Rocky and I asked as we were getting ready, we’re like, is this just going to be an upgraded room steward, like a room steward that wears a suit? Um, and no, it was it was significantly more than just a room steward. In fact, we had a junior butler as well and, and a third person who helped service the room.

Guest (00:10:50) – So there were three people servicing the room. But that Butler experience was really unique and new to us. Yes, I love it.

Doug (00:10:58) – So you were on there for nine nights. Was there enough space in your room to put everything?

Guest (00:11:01) – Yeah, there was um, I think one of the challenges that we discovered when we were unpacking our room was the closet space was a little bit smaller than what we’re used to on some of the other balcony rooms that we’ve had in the past. Um, the way it’s set up, you walk in and the, the closet space is your entrance to the bathroom.

And so it’s kind of a strange layout. We discovered that there were some challenges with that. However, there was a three-drawer storage space in the main room area that was part of the main. I don’t know what you call it. Credenza. Yeah. And so that actually made up for some of that lost space. And fortunately, these beds were designed to hold luggage under or suitcases under them.

Guest (00:11:41) – It was easy to unpack our room and get moved in for those nine days. Oh, and don’t forget both of the nightstands next to the bed. So there were additional storage tables next to the bed as well. And so there was plenty of storage. But to Rocky’s point that the closet seemed to be a little bit smaller than than other rooms.

Doug (00:11:59) – ThYacht Club is like Norwegian’s Haven, a ship within a ship concept. So outside of your room, what amenities did you have within your ship?

Guest (00:12:07) – I’m telling you, they design it so you don’t have to leave the yacht club. They tell you when you’re going through the booking process. They say it’s exclusive and it’s private. And that is very true. And so the entrance to the yacht club on each of the floors are glass doors. Truly. They look out into the elevator bank. I think MSC has designed it so that people can see in and you can see out, but you have to badge in and out to get in.

Guest (00:12:33) – And so the spaces are beautiful. They’ve got those crystal staircases. What are those crystals? The Swarovski, Swarovski, uh, staircases, the spiral staircases. So we would leave our room and take the staircase up to the next deck. Uh, the 16th deck, which is where the concierge was at the Topsail lounge. Topsail lounge was windows all at the front of the ship.

The view of of New York, we commented that was probably the best view of New York we’ve ever had in that topsail lounge. Oh yeah, the canopy. Like, there’s just so much to unpack in that, um, the full bar.

And then again, you take up another spiral staircase and you are there at the exclusive restaurant, and then one more spiral staircase up, and you are at deck 19, which is your dedicated, uh, lounging space, pool, and hot tub. There’s a daily buffet that they put up there for, for just yacht club guests, along with a bar.

Doug (00:13:23) – Let’s talk about some of the food on MSC Maravilla.

Doug (00:13:26) – Once you get out of your haven complex and go to the buffet with the common folk, how was the buffet and the food throughout the nine days?

Guest (00:13:34) – So we didn’t discover the buffet area until that first night. It was the second day that we discovered it. Yeah. Uh, now that I think back on the experience, um, we like to refer to those areas as Jen and Pop. And, uh, as we walked in to the buffet, we were we kind of felt like we were in someone else’s place. We didn’t feel like we knew that our way around, because we had spent so much time on the ship before we found the buffet. But once we did find it, I’ll tell you, Doug, we spent a good amount of time there, especially for late-night buffets. Uh, this was the first time that we’d really seen a cruise line dedicate a late-night buffet to its passengers consistently. Every night from midnight until 2 a.m..

Guest (00:14:14) – They served food. And we’re not just talking about just, you know, a quick little grab here and there. They have their pizzas available. They have little small sandwiches that you could grab. They had burgers and hot dogs. They sometimes had nachos. Sometimes, they would do a breakfast with some scrambled eggs and bacon every night. I think I got scrambled eggs and bacon every single night of the cruise.

They had the healthy corner like they had salads. And so it wasn’t even just that fried stuff that you sometimes find on the late night buffet. They had salads in a healthy corner. I mean, it was the largest. So we’ve seen late night buffets right on Carnival. We’ve seen it on, uh, we’ve seen it on the other lines. This was the I mean, it was the size of a regular buffet at from 12 a.m. to 2 a.m.. It brought me back to old days of cruising.

Doug (00:14:57) – Yeah, yeah, yeah. Sounds like it. So for your main. You were mentioning.

Doug (00:15:01) – You had your dining room in the topsail area. So how was the dining in the yacht club, and was there much of a selection like, do they rotate the menus? How does that play out?

Guest (00:15:12) – Very much a dedicated menu for the, uh, those that were in the yacht club. Um, the options that they, they had on the menu, there was some mirroring that happened to the main dining rooms on the ship, but they were elevated to a different level with the offerings and the types of food. Uh, there was a selection of classics that were served every night.

For example, you could get your classic filet mignon, or a salmon would be available. And I think they also had a lobster on that classics menu. On the classics menu, you had lobster and filet mignon. I mean, this is this is next level here. Right. And then uh, for the regular offerings every day they had a rotation of several different items. Usually there was a daily result of that was available.

Guest (00:15:53) – There was also a different daily lamb that was on the menu. Uh, so definitely a higher caliber of food offerings on the menu. And the way that they were prepared and plated were very beautiful. Uh, you had, of course, your main waiter and then you had your, your waiters’ assistants and they would all work in harmony together to deliver your breads, appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

Speaking of desserts, don’t forget that the maitre d would flambé the dessert. So we had cherries jubilee one night where he flambé and served that, um, they, they did the cheese trolley where they would literally, they literally had a cheese trolley where you could choose the cheeses and, and jams and jellies that you wanted as part of your dessert option. It was it was definitely. Where do you find a risotto on a cruise on the difficulty to actually prepare that correctly for the masses. Um, you can’t do that. But you can in a private small restaurant that’s dedicated to a subset of your passengers.

Doug (00:16:53) – And how were the lines up there?

Guest (00:16:57) – We don’t know what you mean by lines.

Doug (00:17:00) – Fair enough.

Guest (00:17:02) – Yeah, because there was such a small capacity within the yacht club itself on the ship. Right. And because you only have those people that have access to it, our dining times for dinner was available from 6 p.m. until 830.

That was when you could get seated, and it was open to your time. Whenever you wanted to go in, you would show up. There was one knife that I can think of, and I believe it was the second gala night. We had to wait maybe three minutes, maybe get seated. Yeah. Um, overall, the amount of seating that they have both in the lounge and the restaurant are ample for the number of people that are in there, and they know that they’re going to turn over tables throughout the evening from guests that are doing early versus later dining.

Doug (00:17:42) – Did you enjoy any specialty dining on board this one?

Guest (00:17:45) – So this sailing specifically, we chose to stick to the yacht club so that we could capture each of the menus and actually record some reviews each dinner. We actually are right now looking at booking, uh, another MSC cruise, we committed to ourselves that we would do a yacht club and we would do non-Yacht Club. And so that is where that’s sailing, where we plan to actually explore some of those additional, um, upstairs upcharge specialty restaurants. But for this sailing we literally stuck to the Yacht Club restaurant. That exclusive restaurant.

Doug (00:18:16) – I meant to ask you, before you sailed, did you do the status match with them?

Guest (00:18:20) – Yeah, both of us actually ended up doing status match. Um, with Mark having diamond status with Carnival and I have platinum status, we were both able to match into their gold status or gold level with the Voyagers club.

Doug (00:18:33) – So you stepped right into gold. So do you know, like what that gets you compared to just being a first-time MSC cruiser?

Guest (00:18:39) – Great question.

Guest (00:18:40) – Because, uh, MSC is not known for their loyalty program having the strongest perks, but what it did get us is it it got us a welcome back reception where they had cocktails, which when you’re in the yacht club, it doesn’t really have a huge impact. Uh, because we had champagne up and up in our private lounge.

We also got a little gift. It was a little backpack or drawstring backpack that we got. There’s also when you’re part of the when you’re part of the loyalty program, you get a discount on sailings with MSC, and on future sailings with MSC. And so I think it’s a 5% discount that you get as, as a member of that level. And so there are some perks.

They don’t actually do priority. Like many lines have priority boarding and don’t do that until you hit their very top level, which is diamond. And that’s the only group with priority boarding and demarcation. So that’s our goal. My goal is to hit Diamond on Carnival and MSC.

Guest (00:19:36) – We’ll see how long it takes.

Doug (00:19:37) – Double diamond. There you go.

Guest (00:19:39) – I like it I like.

Doug (00:19:40) – That. How about around the ship like you mentioned Carnival. So we’ll stick with that. Uh, they have the guys burger joint, which is complimentary dining. Does MSC have anything like that around the ship? Kind of a grab and go type place. Yeah.

Guest (00:19:52) – So, uh, it was kind of surprised. And that was one of the conversations that we had at Post Cruise is the fact that there really aren’t those. Types of grab and go quick serve restaurants on board. You do have the buffet, which is very well divided. They have their ethnic corner and they have their pastas, and they have a pizza spot and some burgers, but it’s really only confined to that area as well as the main dining restaurant restaurants. Aside from that, everything is upcharge. They have a Mexican place that’s an upcharge. They have, uh, I can’t remember all of them. There’s a there’s a couple other ones.

Guest (00:20:27) – One thing that I would call out that was unique, that I’ve never seen before on any of our sailings, is they had a kid’s buffet, a dedicated buffet for the kids so that they didn’t have to be in the main area of the buffet. And then the only other kind of separate areas that they had were out on the lido deck.

They had that kind of they had like side buffets. It was the same buffet food on the inside of the buffet, but it was just right outside on Lido, so you didn’t have to go in. But there was no you know, I think about even Celebrity Apex had the burger and fries station and Carnival and all of their side restaurants that they have that are included. None of that. It is focused on the buffet and their and their main dining room for the included options.

Doug (00:21:10) – Let’s discuss the entertainment on board Maravilla. I know that MSC gave up the Cirque partnership located at the back of the ship. What’s going on back there now?

Guest (00:21:22) – So I will say that we were pleasantly surprised with the show performances that were put on in the main Broadway theater, which is their main theater in the forward of the ship. We actually attended one of the Meet the cast type of, uh, presentations, if you will, and we had a really great interaction with them.

We found out that all of the shows in that forward lounge were designed specifically for that cast and this ship. So in all, we were very impressed and enjoyed all of the shows we saw in that forward lounge. Now, going to your question about Cirque du Soleil partnership, you can see that there still is some residual, um, design with the shows that they have in that back lounge that does still exist, they still do aerial acts, and we very much enjoyed those performances. But one thing to be aware of is MSC still continues to consider that an upcharge and add-on type of experience.

Guest (00:22:20) – So if you buy it on the ship, it’s $18 a person to get into one of those shows. The nice thing is they sweeten the deal because they throw a drink at you that you can enjoy during the show, but it’s definitely a bit different of an experience than what we’ve seen on most of the other cruise lines.

Doug (00:22:37) – Gotcha. And did you guys, uh, like, what kind of show was you mentioned? It was like an acrobatics thing, but it was just an MSC-branded show.

Guest (00:22:47) – Yeah. So they put on a magic show. Houdini is the name of the show. And so there’s a lot of singing, dancing, acrobats flying through the air, and a little juggling and jumping out into the audience. And so definitely had, I would say Cirque vibes, but just not with the branding. But to Rocky’s point, they’re still charging that upcharge for the Cirque like show.

Doug (00:23:10) – Gotcha. Okay. Historically, MSC Cruise Entertainment is more visual and less like comedians because of the international audience. Is it like this on MSC Meraviglia?

Guest (00:23:22) – Actually, no. I feel like there was a lot, a lot of the presentations that we saw were done primarily in English, surprisingly. Okay. Uh, the one thing that caught us off guard was the overhead announcements.

Anytime the captain would make his announcements, it would always be done by the captain. Again in Italian. Uh, during the safety briefings when we were on the embark day, they were doing announcements in both English and Mandarin. For safety reasons, there were so many Mandarin-speaking passengers on board. But overall, most of the shows were done and performed in English leading up to the show’s start.

They would do a couple of announcements in Mandarin and Italian and English and German. So they did do several pre-calls for those shows. But overall the actual shows themselves were primarily in English, if there was any speaking at all. Yeah, it turns out it turns out those songs are universal. You know, the journey is universal across all languages.

Doug (00:24:19) – Let’s talk about the sea days. As far as crowds and congestion, I know that you were up there in the yacht club for probably most of it, but as you made your way further south, you mentioned the snow on the sail out, but that it eventually warm up once you got around the Carolinas or Florida.

Guest (00:24:36) – Warmed up is relative. Uh, it was warmer than than the snow, but we there weren’t a lot of folks spending time out on deck or making use of of the water slides. Um, it was still pretty chilly until, honestly, the nicest day we had was in Nassau. And so it took us, uh, five days into the cruise before the weather was, was to a point where you would want to actually be out on deck or layout, you know, you could be out. I mean, we were like, jackets and jeans, uh, throughout the sailing. Uh, but but it wasn’t it didn’t get really warm until we got down into the Bahamas.

Doug (00:25:07) – As far as the crowds and congestion around the ship, was there any of that since everyone was inside?

Guest (00:25:16) – Really? Honestly, the only crowds we experienced were in the Meraviglia Galleria Meraviglia, which is a domed area. If you deck six and deck seven, it’s a two-story area. They’ve got a beautiful dome, similar to the Fremont Experience in Las Vegas, where they’ve got that led that runs almost the entirety of the ship. That’s where they would do many of their dance parties and events, because it was too cold up on deck to do it.

We didn’t feel that space was designed to host those parties. And so it’s a throughput for traffic on the ship. And so you’ve got people trying to make their way throughout the ship and people dancing and singing. And that was really the only time we felt like we were crowded, or that we were kind of annoyed a little bit by the traffic flow of the ship. Otherwise I would I would tell you, we didn’t feel crowds, even the buffet, the buffets, were sometimes a little bit busy, but but not to the point where we’ve seen it wear on other lines.

Guest (00:26:12) – What did you think of that promenade area with the ceiling that lights up?

Guest (00:26:15) – Beautiful. Uh, we were stunned by the design and how gorgeous that space was, and they really maximize the usage of those LED screens throughout the sailing, including on Embark day, when they’re showing you where all of the different muster stations are located. But overall, that space was beautiful.

It was definitely wide enough to walk through it when there wasn’t an event happening, you could easily take yourself up onto the next deck up and look down from the mezzanine and really enjoy the sights and the and sounds and even the smells coming from the chocolate factory. As you were sailing along, so it was very enjoyable.

Speaking of speaking of those multi-use screens, remember, even on the welcome back party, they played the Welcome Back video that that that MSC sizzle reel. They played the video thing. Welcome back. I appreciate your loyalty. They played that up on those screens. And so literally everyone at the Welcome Back party headed to the sky watching them talk about what a great experience MSC is.

Doug (00:27:11) – The casino. How was that as far as the smoking situation in and around it?

Guest (00:27:17) – They had a smoke-free casino. It appears that it was an afterthought based on our conversations with the other passengers on board. The smoke-free casino was nice. However, they didn’t have any gaming tables for the smoke-free gamblers.

Now, the exciting thing was the placement of the Cirque theater. You have to walk through the smoking casino to get to the theater, which was kind of a strange setup, but the way the casino was set up. They put the main bar in the center of it. So you’re not diving into the main casino itself. Overall, the casino seemed like a pretty ample size, comparable to what we’re familiar with on some of Carnival’s Vista ships .

Doug (00:27:59) – Okay. Very cool. So, let’s talk about the ports of call you hit on this nine-night cruise. And what we’ll do here is hit the first one, give us a highlight, then we’ll go to the next one and so on.

Guest (00:28:10) – The first cruise port we visited was the exotic location, Port Canaveral in Florida. We had something else arranged. We have some really good friends that we’ve also met through going on cruises who live in the Orlando area, they ended up picking us up, and we had a fun day at SeaWorld for the day. So, it’s definitely a little bit different. We didn’t book anything through MSC because we’ve been to Port Canaveral before, so we wanted to check it out through the locals.

Doug (00:29:01) – So what was after Port Canaveral?

Guest (00:29:04) – Next was Miami and the day was unexpected. Icon of the Seas was scheduled to arrive in Miami the day before.

However, due to the weather, they kept her out for an extra day. And so we literally got to see icon of the seas sail. And we did a live, uh, we did a YouTube live where we streamed her sailing into Port Miami for the first time. We watched her turn around in the basin, return, and dock at the Royal Caribbean Terminal. There.

We got off the ship, and we hiked our excursion that day. We hiked about a mile up to the Royal Caribbean Terminal, climbed up to the very top of the parking garage, Royal Caribbean parking garage, and we just took pictures and filmed a bunch of stuff up there because it was like such a wow moment for for a couple of cruise nerds.

Doug (00:29:53) – Yeah. No, definitely. So after Nassau, you headed over to the Bahamas. Uh, what was the first Bahamas port?

Guest (00:29:59) – We first stopped at MSC’s Private Island, MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. It’s a beautiful private island destination.

You can tell that MSC put a lot of thought and consideration when they were designing this port. It’s huge. It is massive, huge. And it’s nice because the ship can dock directly onto the port there, instead of you having to do a water shuttle taxi service to get in.

It is a very large and sprawling island, with tons of places for people to go out and lounge and layout, grab food, and have a nice relaxing day. Now. Now they don’t have, you know, big water parks and they don’t have hot air balloons that go up in the air like some, you know, private islands do. But but I mean, it had everything that you could want.

Guest (00:30:48) – It had many different beaches. Uh, to Rocky Point food trucks, uh, included food trucks throughout the island, as well as some upcharge food trucks where you could get, you know, seafood, you could get your lobster rolls and some of that fresh seafood.

Doug (00:31:00) – You were in the yacht club, right? So I know they have that yacht club area on the other side of the island, like on the other side from where the ship docks. How was that space, or I guess, did you utilize that space? And would you think of it if you did?

Guest (00:31:12) – Yeah, we actually, uh, as soon as we got off of the ship via escort from our butler. It’s just fun to say that. I’m sorry. Uh, we were escorted over to the yacht club’s meeting point, where they picked us up by golf cart and drove us to that exclusive area. It just made it a little bit easier to get there so we can maximize our time. Uh, the area is referred to as the Ocean House.

And so that’s actually where they serve lunch. And it’s a lovely, large colonial-style building. Uh, the lunch there included amazing bites from a lobster roll to crab ceviche. The ceviche was so good. The beach was delicious. Uh, they also had your standard fare of burgers on the menu, and then a couple of salads and other options.

Overall, it was a great area. As you approached it, there was signage, so you knew it was reserved for the yacht club guests. Uh, there was a private beach. And that’s the one downside that I would say about the exclusive area is the Yacht Club’s Ocean House. The beach is probably the least nice of the beaches that are found on the island.

It’s a little bit rough. Uh, there’s some larger sand bits, if you want to call them that. Uh, so getting in the water makes it a bit tough. And due to the weather that we encountered, we really didn’t even touch the water because we touched the water.

We just didn’t get into the water. It’s it’s rocky, says sand. But I would say sharp rock. So the folks that had been there before had water shoes and were in the water. That was a that’s a great tip. If you’re going to Ocean Cay and in the yacht club, make sure to bring water shoes because. It will make your day better.

Doug: .That’s a good tip. There are a lot of beaches around the island so you get to explore most of them?

We did. We met people on the cruise, as we always do on cruises. And so we went out and we got to explore a little bit with them. In hindsight, I wish we had done the exploration first because it started to pour. Uh, it started to downpour and it was a cold downpour in the Bahamas. And so we we didn’t get to explore as much as we’d like, but we got to see several of the lagoons.

Guest (00:33:15) – We got to see the lighthouse. We got to enjoy one of the food trucks. We did eat at one of the food trucks just so we could say we, you know, ate with our friends. Um, Rocky. Rocky always says we ate with the common people. Um, and so we enjoyed the food on the mainland. And then there’s shops, there’s shops, there’s you can buy ice cream cones and various things on land as well. Before we headed back to the ship. And, and unfortunately, that was the only we were this point spoiled us, Doug. Um, we were looking for our butler escort back onto the ship, but but there was not one on to the ship. And so we had to wait in the rain with the rest of the ship that had all run back to get onto the ship as well.

Doug (00:33:55) – Oh, no. Horrible. Did you get to stay at night to see the lighthouse lit up? Yeah.

Guest (00:34:01) – Back on board wasn’t scheduled until 8:00 that evening. Uh, most of the passengers had embarked on the ship by about 330 or 4 due to the weather, but we stayed docked there, and we were wondering about that lighthouse show because we’d heard about it. And so we went to the concierge, who gave us a great recommendation on where to go to view it, so we could also hear the music playing through the show.

Uh, and so we had the opportunity to watch it and it was impressive. We enjoyed it. And hopefully, we’ll be able to return to Ocean Cay again in the future, where we won’t encounter poor weather. We can be on the beach and see the light show from the ground.

And because of the concierge tip, we know the crew smoking area on MSC Meraviglia. And so it was a great tip and we got to hang out with crew as they watched the light show.

Doug (00:34:54) – He probably know this, but if you’re ever feeling energetic or you want to work out, you can climb that lighthouse. It’s like $15 or 20 maybe, but you got some great views up there and there’s quite a few steps, so, uh, yeah, pack your energy. Yeah.

Guest (00:35:06) – No. And that’s another reason why we want to go back. You know, I don’t think, uh, the weather was really in our favor to be able to do that type of an excursion, but definitely in the books for us to do it again.

Doug (00:35:16) – So your final port of call was Nassau. How was your day there?

Guest (00:35:19) – Nassau was great. Uh, as Mark had mentioned, it was the best weather that we saw on the entire cruise, and we were a little bummed that it was our final port day, but we made the most of it. We were docked in Nassau with four other ships. So a standard busy Nassau day. Uh, nothing unusual there.

Guest (00:35:36) – Uh, we have a tradition whenever we’re in Nassau, where we go visit a rum distillery in a little bit deeper into town. And so we decided to do that at this time. We took the trek and walked around and checked out the updates that they made to the port of Nassau, because that was our first time there since they did all the construction since they finished the construction.

Yeah, we’ve been several times during. Yeah. And then from there we walked up to the distillery and enjoyed a little tasting up there before returning to the port and getting on the ship. It was a pretty quiet day, but we’re looking forward to the opportunity to get to lay out on deck on the cruise ship before sail away took place.

Doug (00:36:12) – Yeah, perfect day for it. So you leave Nassau for a couple of days and you head back to Brooklyn. How were your sea days going up?

Guest (00:36:19) – The weather, I will say, was more cooperative on the way back, but. So it wasn’t as bumpy and rocky, but there were times when you would sleep at night and roll on or you would.

Guest (00:36:31) – You knew you were on a ship. You know, when Rocky and I first boarded, one of the things we commented as we were sitting in, I think it was the topsail restaurant. After spending time in the lounge, we said, we don’t feel like we’re on a cruise ship, but you just felt like you were almost at an all-inclusive resort.

We knew we were on a cruise ship on the sea days out and on the sea days back. The weather was left, the ocean a bit rocky. We had some. You saw some gale-force winds. There were some swells, but they had the magnetic, uh, bags out, the thick bags out in the elevator banks. They had those out for, for all of the passengers. We did talk to several folks who said they might not sail again in January, but but we liked it. But I know the sign us up.

Doug (00:37:18) – So it’s time to get off the ship in Brooklyn.

Doug (00:37:20) – Was the process as smooth and bougie as that embark?

Guest (00:37:25) – I love that you say the bougie because it continued through. Uh, we always go for a very relaxed, dark morning. We try to stay on the ship as long as possible.

We book later flights knowing that there’s always the possibility that a ship could be delayed returning to port. Uh, and fortunately for us, the ship did arrive on time, however. We didn’t end up disembarking from the ship until much later.

We we decided to go down and have breakfast down in the main restaurant, the topsail restaurant, in the yacht club area. And once we were done eating there, we went down to the lounge and enjoyed a quick beverage and a couple of little canapés. You know, just trying to get our last bits in and chatted with the bartenders.

The bartenders were tremendously friendly the entire sailing, and we just hung out with them and enjoyed some coffee and drinks. Yep. And then once we were ready to get off of the ship, we went to the concierge and actually, we ended up seeing our butler at the concierge desk, and he offered to help us get off the ship.

Guest (00:38:26) – And so he took Marc’s two suitcases that he was carrying from his hands and wheeled them to the elevator, took us down to the lower deck, and wheeled us over to where they take you off the ship. Or they scan your card to say you are officially disembarked from the ship. So we continued that experience as long as we could.

And the cool thing about the luggage program, if you decide to put your luggage out the night before the cruise ends, all of the yacht club luggage gets delivered to one specific spot, so you’re not rushing to get off.

You’re not rushing to go find where your luggage was placed. When it’s in that terminal building, it’s very easy to locate and get to pick up your suitcases and you’re on your way. Once again, those yacht club signs. Right this way. Um, a dedicated area, even for your luggage.

Doug (00:39:16) – Awesome. Very cool. Does Brooklyn have facial recognition for the dark?

Guest (00:39:21) – Yes they did. We were very excited when we saw that we’re getting off the ship.

Doug (00:39:25) – Yeah. It sure makes a difference. Looking back here as first-time MSC cruisers and in the yacht Club, do you have any first-time tips to offer anyone sailing MSC or sailing out of Manhattan?

Guest (00:39:39) – Uh, goodness gracious. If you get that upgrade offer and it’s within your means, you bid that upgrade offer up. Suppose you can get into the yacht club from a balcony. That would be my biggest tip because not only does it include all of those amenities that we’ve talked about. They grant you into the premium drinks package as well.

So the premium drinks package on this sailing would have been 790 a person, a person. We paid less for the entire yacht club experience, including those premium drinks. It included Wi-Fi on each of our devices, and it included all of those exclusive amenities that we’ve talked about.

And so that would be my number one tip is if you get that offer to upgrade to the yacht club, really look at what it would cost you to have that experience and just individually and take that for serious take.

Guest (00:40:29) – Be serious about that. And if you can get that upgrade and it’s in your means, do it. Yeah, absolutely. And then I would also say the other thing is that this cruise ship departs out of the Brooklyn terminal.

So instead of paying the 60 plus dollars that it would cost to get an Uber or a lift, you could take the subway, and the train system, all of which will be super easy to get over there. And there’s a water taxi or ferry. Ferry, I guess it is, uh, that takes you from Wall Street.

If you were to go into Manhattan and stay the night out there, you can quickly get onto the ferry from Wall Street over to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Easy. And it’s quite cost-effective.

Doug (00:41:09) – Yeah, that’s one thing I’ve heard over the years is that a lot of people who are doing cruises out of either Brooklyn or Manhattan, they kind of get taken by surprise how much it actually cost to get from the airport to the cruise port.

Doug (00:41:20) – But a little extra research can save you quite a few bucks, and it’s not that bad. I think it’s.

Guest (00:41:25) – Scarier being in New York traffic. Quite honestly. When we the Uber, we took an Uber from the hotel to the cruise terminal. I think that was scarier than the subway was, you know, the night before when we had flown in. And so, yes, I think it’s great.

Doug (00:41:41) – Well, looking back, what was your biggest highlight of this cruise?

Guest (00:41:56) – I would say the biggest highlight was probably being in the yacht club. What a treat it was for us to be able to experience that. Um, it was so exciting walking into the Topsail Lounge in that exclusive yacht Club area, no matter how many times a day we walked in there, we always discovered new canopies that were waiting for us to try.

Guest (00:42:17) – The bartenders and servers in the topsail lounge were all very friendly. They started to get to know us, what drinks we enjoyed the most, and they would start making recommendations based on the spirits we were drinking to make our journey that much more enjoyable. I think for me, um, one of the best bites of food I’ve had on a cruise ship was, uh, in the Eden restaurant onboard Celebrity Apex.

And I would say fast forward. That was a couple of years back now for Thanksgiving. But fast forward to this. To have that daily rotating risotto to me was a surprise and delight that menu in Topsail restaurant. You just don’t see food like that on a cruise ship. And it was fantastic.

And it was included in that experience. It wasn’t we weren’t, you know, dropping 150 for the meal. It was included in that yacht club experience. That, to me was a surprise and delight.

Guest (00:43:10) – I did not expect how good and high-quality that food would be.

Doug (00:43:22) – Well, uh, in closing here, your final thoughts of MSC Maravilla.

Guest (00:43:27) – the MSC Meraviglia is a gorgeous ship. MSC did a great job in designing and developing this class of ship. The size of it was great. We did have a lower capacity on the ship during our sailing, but we still managed to have a great time. We met a lot of great friends.

We found places to call our own that maybe we’re not in the yacht club specifically. Still, we discovered the Sky lounge as a great place to meet people and to be able to enjoy the company of others that were not a part of the yacht club, and really just kind of put ourselves with the rest of the population that was sailing. Very good. The Champagne Bar was another one of my favorites. That the Edge bar.

Guest (00:44:09) – The champagne bar, you know, that looked out over the water as the ship was sailing. That was great. Those champagne cocktails were excellent. And that’s the beauty, right? When you have. We would flash our yacht club bracelets and I will tell you, I joke. I’ve made this joke now lines would disappear and people would just randomly appear.

Servers would appear, you flash that yacht club bracelet and it didn’t matter what bar we were at, if we were at the horizon bar, after the champagne bar, or at the Sky lounge, they just showed up and took such great care of us. You can tell that even the rest of the ship is trained to pay attention to yacht club guests, because it was just such a fantastic experience.

I’m excited to go back on MSC Meraviglia in in the in the standard amenities in the non-yacht club amenities to be able to experience it truly and compare and contrast to be able to talk about what does that value look like and how it feels to sit down in the main dining room each night for dinner versus in your dedicated restaurant? And so I am excited to get back on the ship.

Guest (00:45:10) – We’ve looked we’ve booked on the inaugural on MSC World America, World America. And so it was it was a great experience and great sailing. And so MSC gets a lot of bad rap out there. There’s a lot of negativity about people who love or hate it. And I will tell you from our experience where we’re looking at booking two more already. So it was it was in it was in a really good category for us.

Doug (00:46:34) – Awesome. We’ll link to it also in the show notes at Cruise Radio dot net. Mark Rocky, thank you all so much.

Guest (00:46:40) – Thank you so much, Doug.

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Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

A relative newcomer in the North American market, MSC Cruises is equal parts elegant and kitschy. The line tends to appeal to a wide swath of cruisers, from Europeans who like to party into the wee hours of the morning to American families who book because of affordable fares and "kids sail free" pricing.

To satisfy its diverse passenger base, MSC offers accommodations to fit all types of travelers. Rooms include inexpensive inside cabins that sleep two people, midlevel staterooms with windows and balconies, and high-end suites that offer cruisers with larger budgets a private oasis in the form of the MSC Yacht Club .

A variety of connecting rooms and cabins with extra bunks accommodate larger groups and families who wish to share space.

Because your cruise cabin will be your home away from home for several days, it's important to book one that fits your needs. That's especially true if you're sharing it with several people.

Whether you're looking at an inside cabin for a cruise with friends, balcony accommodations for you and your significant other or a suite for your family, here TPG breaks down what you can expect when you book a room on one of MSC's ships.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

MSC Cruises cabin primer

MSC Cruises has become one of the fastest-growing lines in the cruise industry, with about two dozen ships in its fleet. The vessels fall into six classes : Lirica, Musica, Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World.

Although cabin offerings can vary from ship to ship and class to class, the standard types remain the same: inside, outside, balcony and suite.

Additionally, you'll find the same basic amenities in each room, unless otherwise noted below. They include two twin beds that can be joined to form a queen- or king-size bed; an in-cabin bathroom with a shower, a sink, a toilet and basic soap, shower gel and shampoo; a couple of nightstands; a chair or sofa; a desk/vanity; a closet; a safe; a hair dryer; a minifridge; a phone; USB outlets and a selection of both North American and European outlets.

On all ships except MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia, you'll also find an interactive TV that allows you to view the daily schedule, check your onboard account and choose from a selection of live TV programs and movies.

Twice-daily room tidying is provided by a room steward assigned to each cabin, and room service is available throughout the day for an added fee.

One confusing aspect of MSC's bookings is that you'll have to select an experience package in addition to a cabin type. Package tiers determine things like your ability to choose a specific cabin and preferred dining time and whether you'll receive welcome amenities in your room. Certain cabin types are only available in conjunction with certain package experiences and vice versa. Those are noted in each respective section below.

Accessible cabins , including accommodations for wheelchair users, are available on every ship in MSC's fleet. In addition to more space, they feature wider doorways and lowered sinks and toilets in the bathrooms, as well as grab bars.

MSC Cruises' experience packages

Here's what you get when you book each of MSC's three experience packages, which determine the perks you'll receive on your sailing.

• Accommodations
• Complimentary food in the dining room and buffet
• Broadway-style theater entertainment
• Access to the onboard gym, pool and kids club
• MSC Voyagers Club points
• One for-fee change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Drink package discount at time of booking
• All Bella perks
• Choice of specific cabin and location
• One free change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Ability to choose between early and late seating for dinner
• Room service (complimentary for breakfast, but fees apply for other meals)
• Discount on pre-cruise specialty dining package
• All Fantastica and Bella perks
• Flexible My Choice dining, which lets you eat at any time you choose between set hours
• Free 24-hour room service delivery
• Pillow menu
• A welcome package, including Prosecco and chocolates
• Complimentary access to your ship's solarium and thermal area
• A 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board
• Special Balinese massage offer when booked pre-cruise
• Complimentary use of bathrobe and slippers
• Priority boarding and luggage drop-off

Inside cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Inside cabins — rooms with no windows — are available on all ships in the MSC fleet. Ranging from 140 to 301 square feet (depending on the ship), they make for great sleeping because they're so dark. They're also ideal for passengers who are on a budget.

In addition to the standard amenities mentioned above, they provide room for anywhere from two to four passengers to sleep. (Rooms that sleep more than two feature bunks that pull down from the ceiling.)

These cabins are available with the line's Bella and Fantastica experiences.

If you're sailing solo, some MSC vessels offer cabins for one outfitted with a twin bed that converts into a couch. These interior studio accommodations are only available with the Bella package on MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima and the line's World Class ships.

Ocean-view cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Ocean-view rooms are similar to insides in that they provide basic amenities — but with a view.

Offering 129 to 269 square feet of space (depending on the specific ship and ocean-view category), these staterooms allow you to see outside through a porthole or a window that doesn't open.

MSC's outside cabins are available to passengers who book Bella and Fantastica packages.

Additionally, if you're traveling with your family or another group, several of MSC Cruises' ships — particularly those in the Meraviglia and Seaside classes — feature space for as many as 10 passengers via a series of connecting rooms. Options are available at the ocean-view and balcony levels.

Balcony cabins on MSC Cruises ships

You might be surprised to discover that most of MSC Cruises' balcony cabins provide less interior square footage than what's available in inside or ocean-view staterooms.

Balcony rooms run anywhere from 129 to 205 square feet, but their key feature is, of course, a private balcony, which does add an extra 32 to 129 square feet, depending on the vessel and specific type of balcony room booked. These cabins are bookable in conjunction with MSC's Bella, Fantastica and Aurea experiences.

Although balcony cabins offer upgraded amenities, including MSC's brand of hand lotion and toiletries, they are largely the same as inside and ocean-view accommodations.

MSC's newest ships — including those in the Meraviglia, Seaside and World Classes — house connecting balcony rooms that can sleep up to 10 in the same group traveling together.

Additionally, on its World Class ships, the line has introduced inward-facing balconies, similar to the ones Royal Caribbean pioneered in 2009 with the debut of its Oasis Class vessels . On World Europa, for example, they overlook the ship's promenade, offering views of the activity below, rather than the ocean.

MSC Cruises suites

All ships in MSC's fleet have suites that can be booked as part of the Fantastica and Aurea packages, but it's Aurea that offers the largest number of perks, as outlined above.

The several types of suites vary by ship in terms of size and amenities. Some come with balconies, while others only offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.

Junior Suites

Although this room type is listed as a suite, it's essentially a balcony cabin with a bit more space — 183 square feet of interior accommodation with a balcony that ranges from 140 to 183 square feet.

Standard suites include rooms with huge balconies larger than the cabin's interior space and ones with private whirlpool tubs. They run from 269 to 355 square feet, with balconies measuring 32 to 409 square feet.

Grand Suites

Coming in between 377 and 420 square feet, with balconies spanning from 32 to 495 square feet, Grand Suites — found on Seaside and World Class ships — come in two types. They include standard one-bedroom Grand Suites, as well as two-bedroom varieties.

The latter has one bedroom with a queen-size bed and another with two twins. It sleeps up to five passengers and offers two bathrooms — one with a shower and the other with a bathtub.

While most suites are designed for double occupancy, some suite accommodations on MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Magnifica can sleep up to five people.

MSC Yacht Club suites on MSC ships

All cabins located in the MSC Yacht Club — an exclusive, gated area on select ships — are called suites, even the smallest and least expensive, which don't have windows or balconies.

Yacht Club suite types range from insides to two-deck duplexes, all of which come with butler and concierge services, luxuriously appointed furnishings (such as real marble finishes, memory foam mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets) and access to members-only restaurants, bars (alcohol is free there), lounges, pools and sun decks.

The Yacht Club features seven different types of rooms. Ships that have the MSC Yacht Club on board include MSC Bellissima, MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, MSC Splendida, MSC Virtuosa and MSC World Europa.

Note: Not all Yacht Clubs have the same suite types available.

MSC Yacht Club Interior Suites

Although these 161- to 226-square-foot cabins don't offer a view or fresh air, they are elegantly decorated and include all the Yacht Club benefits mentioned above.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suites

These Yacht Club digs are the equivalent of a balcony cabin — but in a dedicated area that includes all the exclusive perks. They run 236 to 366 square feet and have balconies ranging from 54 to 86 square feet, so they also come with a bit more space, both inside and outdoors.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suites

Similarly, Deluxe Grand Suites are like the Yacht Club equivalent of booking a Grand Suite with more perks. Depending on the ship, they offer anywhere from 269 to 463 square feet of space, plus 65- to 129-square-foot balconies. Some Grand Suites also have two bedrooms instead of one. Further, these rooms on Seaside Class ships include bathrooms with bathtubs, as well as separate living areas.

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites

Rising two decks, MSC's duplex staterooms measure 495 to 635 square feet and come with 65- to 334-square-foot balconies. They feature living rooms with two-person sofa beds downstairs and master bedrooms upstairs, which also sleep two passengers.

Each of these accommodations comes complete with two walk-in closets and two bathrooms — one with a bathtub and one with a shower. Most duplexes on Meraviglia and World Class ships also have their own private whirlpool tubs.

MSC Yacht Club Executive and Family Suites

The line's Executive and Family Suites, available only on Fantasia Class vessels, are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay in the Yacht Club with a family or other group of more than two people.

This option, which is one type of suite (despite its confusing name), has space for up to five cruisers via a combination of bunk beds, sofa beds and beds that pull down from the ceiling, depending on the ship. The suites clock in at around 431 to 549 square feet, depending on the vessel.

The only drawback is that these staterooms have no balconies and no in-room dining areas, but they do include all the perks you'd find in Yacht Club cabins.

MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites

Although they only occupy one level, at 388 to 667 square feet, MSC's Yacht Club Royal Suites are right up there with the Duplex Suites in terms of space. They offer the second-largest amount of square footage after the Owner's Suites. They come with huge balconies comprising 355 to 753 square feet of outdoor area.

Additionally, bathrooms in these suites offer bathtubs on Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World Class ships, and the latter three have private whirlpool tubs, as well. All four classes' Royal Suites also include separate living room areas.

MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suites

The largest and most impressive of all MSC's cabins are the Owner's Suites found in the Yacht Club. Offering an impressive 840 to 1,119 square feet — larger than some land-based apartments — plus 269- to 670-square-foot balconies, they're some of the most luxurious rooms afloat.

Specific amenities vary by ship, but as an example, Owner's Suites on MSC World Europa offer floor-to-ceiling windows and walk-in closets. These accommodations on both the line's Seaside and World Class vessels also feature bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs, as well as private whirlpool tubs and separate living room areas.

Bottom line

Although MSC Cruises' cabin types are straightforward, the line's add-on experiences can complicate things a bit.

Overall, what's key to remember is that MSC Cruises offers a wide variety of rooms and pricing to meet just about any budget or style of cruising. Each ship will offer accommodation choices from the least expensive, bare-bones interior rooms to the priciest suites, which come with butler and concierge services.

When you sail with MSC Cruises, you can expect function, style and comfort, regardless of the cabin type you book.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

10 episodes

Dedicated to the exploration of MSC Cruises... the beauty, the adventure, the exotic, the tasty, the good and the bad... all that MSC offers. From the Yacht Club to Ocean Cay... from all the new ships to the MSC Foundation... this podcast exists to discover, discuss, and experience the MSC Cruise Line.

MSC Cruise Cast Taste Try Travel

• Society & Culture
• MAR 21, 2024

The MSC Upgrade Program

Did you know you can bid on a better room package on your next MSC Cruise? Maybe you're not sure how MSC's upgrade system works. It's not as hard as you think. In fact, let's take a look at exactly what you need to know in order to score a better experience.  For all our cruise video visit our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• MAR 19, 2024

Cruising Back To Back On MSC

We did it... and now you can too. Back to back on MSC... is it a nightmare or can it be done without any pain? We've got an entire episode with all the info you'll need. All our cruise adventures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• MAR 12, 2024

MSC's Yacht Club - All The Info

It's the Yacht Club episode! We're going to go over quite a bit of Yacht Club information in this one... What is MSC's Yacht Club? What can you expect when sailing in the Yacht Club? What does the Yacht Club include? We got your answers! For all our cruise video visit our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• MAR 7, 2024

MSC Voyager Club & Status Match

MSC has it's own very unique loyalty program... The Voyager Club. You'll not only receive points for booking a cruise, but for so many other things. MSC also offers "status matching" from many other loyalty programs. What are they and how does it all work? We've got the answers. All our cruise adventures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• MAR 5, 2024

Booking Options on MSC

The options offered by MSC when booking your cabin onboard one of their ships can be a little overwhelming. Let's try to break down those choice, what they include, and how each will effect your experience on an MSC cruise. Check out all our cruise videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• MAR 4, 2024

The Secret to a Great MSC Cruise

Yes, there is definitely a secret to making the MOST out your MSC cruise... and it may not be what you think it is. MSC has a unique vibe onboard their ships and there is a way to make sure you get your best cruise. After all, you paid for it... so make the most out of it. We also answer a few other questions sent to us by listeners including what to do when you find that absolutely perfect sausage on the buffet! All our cruise adventures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@Taste-Try-Travel

• © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.

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MSC World Europa Decks and Cabins

• 11 Stockholm
• 12 Copenhagen
• 15 Brussels
• 21 Valletta
• 22 Amsterdam
• Click here for ALL
• Infinite Ocean View
• Promenade Balcony
• Suite with Sundeck
• Family Suite
• Promenade View Suite
• Grand Suite
• Whirlpool Bath Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Interior
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe
• MSC Yacht Club Duplex
• MSC Yacht Club Whirlpool Duplex
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Owners Suite
• Ship info and tracking
• Cabins Check

MSC World Europa cruise ship weighs 216k tons and has 2631 staterooms for up to 6314 passengers served by 1413 crew . There are 20 passenger decks, 12 with cabins. You can expect a space ratio of 34 tons per passenger on this ship. On this page are the current deck plans for MSC World Europa showing deck plan layouts, public venues and all types of cabins including pictures and videos.

MSC World Europa

LIVE SHIP TRACKING

STATEROOM CABINS COMPLETE LIST BELOW

MSC YACHT CLUB OWNERS SUITE

Floor Diagram YC Owners Suite Cabin 18001

Sleeps up to: 4 2 Cabins Cabin: 839 sqft (79 m 2 ) Balcony: 699 sqft (66 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

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Deck locations, stateroom cabin features, important size information, stateroom cabin perks, more diagrams of this cabin type.

MSC YACHT CLUB ROYAL SUITE

Floor Diagram Yacht Club Royal Suite YC3

Sleeps up to: 4 4 Cabins Cabin: 548 sqft (52 m 2 ) Balcony: 452 sqft (42 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

MSC YACHT CLUB WHIRLPOOL DUPLEX

Floor Diagram Yacht Club Duplex Whirlpool YJD

Sleeps up to: 4 6 Cabins Cabin: 495 sqft (47 m 2 ) Balcony: 322 sqft (30 m 2 )

MSC YACHT CLUB DUPLEX

Floor Diagram Yacht Club Deluxe Starboard Suite YCD

Sleeps up to: 4 3 Cabins Cabin: 495 sqft (47 m 2 ) Balcony: 64 sqft (6 m 2 )

MSC YACHT CLUB DELUXE

Floor Diagram Yacht Club Deluxe Suite YC1

Sleeps up to: 4 130 Cabins Cabin: 269 sqft (25 m 2 ) Balcony: 53 sqft (5 m 2 )

MSC YACHT CLUB INTERIOR

Floor Diagram Yacht Club Interior YIN

Sleeps up to: 2 7 Cabins Cabin: 161 sqft (15 m 2 )

WHIRLPOOL BATH SUITE

Floor Diagram Grand Whirlpool Suite SJ3

Sleeps up to: 4 4 Cabins Cabin: 376 sqft (35 m 2 ) Balcony: 398 sqft (37 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

GRAND SUITE

Floor Diagram Grand Suite SE3

Sleeps up to: 4 10 Cabins Cabin: 376 sqft (35 m 2 ) Balcony: 96 sqft (9 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

PROMENADE VIEW SUITE

Floor Diagram Promenade Suite 4 passengers

Sleeps up to: 4 4 Cabins Cabin: 226 sqft (21 m 2 ) Balcony: 75 sqft (7 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

FAMILY SUITE

Floor Diagram Family Suite S3

Sleeps up to: 6 40 Cabins Cabin: 269 sqft (25 m 2 ) Balcony: 43 sqft (4 m 2 )

SUITE WITH SUNDECK

Floor Diagram Seat with Private Sundeck S2

Sleeps up to: 4 46 Cabins Cabin: 182 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 161 sqft (15 m 2 )

 Accessible Info [+/-]

Floor Diagram Balcony B1, B2, B3

Sleeps up to: 4 1092 Cabins Cabin: 182 sqft (17 m 2 ) Balcony: 32 sqft (3 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

PROMENADE BALCONY

Floor Diagram Balcony Promenade View BC1

Sleeps up to: 2 196 Cabins Cabin: 172 sqft (16 m 2 ) Balcony: 53 sqft (5 m 2 )

INFINITE OCEAN VIEW

Floor Diagram Infinite Oceanview OV2, OV3

Sleeps up to: 4 170 Cabins Cabin: 215 sqft (20 m 2 )

Floor Diagram Oceanview O1, O2

Sleeps up to: 4 77 Cabins Cabin: 172 sqft (16 m 2 )

Floor Diagram Interior I1, I2

Sleeps up to: 4 818 Cabins Cabin: 161 sqft (15 m 2 )

Floor Diagram Studio Oceanview

Sleeps up to: 1 22 Cabins Cabin: 118 sqft (11 m 2 ) * Size may vary, see details below.

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More From Forbes

The top 50 most exclusive yacht clubs in the world honored with platinum status.

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Royal Yacht Squadron in England

The rich and famous are not merely looking for the best place to anchor their yachts; they are also seeking out exclusive memberships in stunning destinations, all offering luxury amenities and, of course, bragging rights. These exclusive yachting clubs with often outrageous initiation fees, provide luxurious clubhouses, and provide accommodations for yachties who want to get their land legs. Most of them provide high-end concierge service to its members as well as Michelin-star quality restaurants and more.

Yacht Clubs have been recognized in the Platinum Clubs of America elections for more than 20 years. According to the Platinum Club, “Recognition in the following categories is important in the selection of Platinum status; Tradition, history, and heritage, a respected membership, excellence in amenities, exceptional service, adapting to changing times, and overall experience.

I spoke with the President of Club Leaders Forum, David V. Smith, about the selection, and he says, “we created an alphabetical selection this time as opposed to by rank because we felt that it was challenging to compare a yacht club in Ireland with a yacht club in Singapore, as amenities, location and facilities do vary quite a lot. The yachting and boating world is a different and unique culture, typically a little more relaxed and not as formal as country clubs and golf clubs. However, many of the world’s finest yacht clubs have wonderful history and traditions, with a great sense of camaraderie among their members. Certain yacht clubs were selected by the Panel not necessarily for their facilities and amenities but in their recognition of hosting world class sailing regattas and events.”  

Here are the top 50 most exclusive yacht clubs worldwide being awarded the ultimate Platinum Status for 2021.

Annapolis Yacht Club

Surrounding the Spa Creek Bridge in Annapolis, the Club boasts over 75 wet slips and dry dockage. The club began in 1886 as an informal canoe club, and today has 1600 regular members active in social, racing, and cruising programs.

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Aerial view of Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club is a member-owned, family-oriented private club. The elegant and spacious clubhouse was built in the 1890s by an industrialist as a private home. In 1925 the property was purchased by the founding members with the purpose of establishing a club on the water. The club now has more than 600 members with a full service marina.

Chicago Yacht Club

Founded in 1875, Chicago Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most respected yacht clubs in the world. The Club is home to more than 1,400 members, including a winning America’s Cup skipper, and Olympic medalists.

The stunning Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe offers a 261-slip certified Clean Marina, state-of-the-art Marine Activity Center, newly renovated Bowling Recreation Center and Family Recreation Center, new Fitness Center, and Olympic-sized pool. The 75,000-square-foot Clubhouse features Italian Renaissance architecture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2015. Initiation fees can go as high as $12,500 with $650 monthly dues

Larchmont Yacht Club

Located in Westchester County, New York, the Club has been in existence since 1880 when it was purchased by Benjamin A. Carver, a railroad magnate. The original Carver residence was much smaller than the present clubhouse – the east and west wings were added following the purchase. The Junior Clubhouse was the Carver stable: the basement was the cow barn, while the first floor housed the horses.

Lauderdale Yacht Club

Founded in 1938, Lauderdale Yacht Club is invitation only and host to 65 dock slips that wrap around the marina. The club is also home to one of the most elite junior sailing programs in the nation.

Naples Yacht Club

Founded in 1947 and situated on Naples Bay, the Club has the proud distinction of being the city’s first and oldest private club and its marina has 75 concrete floating docks. Membership has grown from three founding yachtsmen to over 530.

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

Established in 1916, the club is located on the Balboa peninsula in Southern California. A newly remodeled clubhouse was also created to replace the original building. Initiation fees range upwards of $20,000

Palm Beach Yacht Club

Palm Bea ch Yacht Club

Founded in 1890, the marina has 45 slips to accommodate boats up to 150 feet. All annual dockage contracts (from $1 per foot per day), include a membership to the prestigious Yacht Club.

Pelican Isle Y acht Club

With 190 wet slips and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, the club can accommodate vessels up to 55 feet. Equity social membership is by invitation only with an initiation fee as high as $15,000, and annual dues at $5,500.

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1959, the club has been part of the Boca Raton landscape for over 50 years with membership by invitation only. The state-of-the-art Marina boasts a TimberTech floating dock system, accommodating vessels up to 130 feet. 

Sailfish Club of Florida

The Sailfish Club of Florida was built in the early 1900s. It is the oldest continuously operating private club in the town of Palm Beach.

San Diego Yacht Club

In June of 1886 a group of local boating enthusiasts joined together to found what has become this cornerstone yacht club. The racing history of SDYC is as significant as the history of its location. Several members were winning races all over the country in the early to mid-20th century, however, SDYC reached a turning point starting in the 1980s when Dennis Conner won the America’s Cup. In the early 1980s, Dennis Conner won the cup once and then lost it the next time to New York Yacht Club. In 1987, Dennis won again on behalf of San Diego Yacht Club. The America’s Cup was won a third time by SDYC in 1992 by Bill Koch on the yacht,  America .

With 600 wet slips and 100 dry slips, initiation fee is upwards of $24,000 plus $200 monthly dues.

Aerial view of the San Francisco Yacht Club

San Francisco Yacht Club

In the summer of 1869, a group of active, local yachtsmen formed the San Francisco Yacht Club. The oldest yacht club on the Pacific Coast, it’s one of the most elegant and exclusive yacht clubs in the U.S. The harbor consists of 190 berths and 50 dry-storage spaces, as well as a large youth sailing dock. Membership is by sponsor referral only.

Sarasota Yacht Club

Saraso ta Yacht Club

Sarasota Yacht Club was organized in the summer of 1907 and located on the north end of Siesta Key. Facilities include a 110-slip marina, fitness center, heated pool, two indoor bars, a pool bar, multiple meeting rooms, a grand dining room, waterside terrace, and lunch dock. Membership is by invitation only.

Savannah Yacht Club

The Savannah Yacht Club was originally organized on June 14, 1869. The private, members only club is by invitation only with only 1,000 members. Amenities include a figure 8 pool, an Olympic size swimming pool, as well as floating docks.

St. Francis Yacht Club

This club was founded in 1927 when the members of the San Francisco Yacht Club decided to move their clubhouse out of San Francisco to Belvedere, California. The 2,300 member club is considered to be the most prestigious yacht club in the western U.S. and has hosted over 40 regattas on San Francisco Bay. The Mediterranean Revival-style clubhouse is in close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoys views from the Bridge to Alcatraz Island and beyond.

Tampa Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1904 as a place to race sailboats, ride and show horses, the marina now holds 31 covered slips and 50 open slips. Membership is sponsored and by invitation only.

Yacht Club Costa Smeralda

Circolo Canottieri Aniene

Circolo degli Esteri

Compagnia della Vela

Playing host to 10 prestigious regattas this year, including the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the Yacht Club Costa Smerelda has been tied to the Italian Sailing Federation since the 1960s. Offering a wellness center and spa, the clubhouse overlooks the Marina and the Italian coast. The club has a panoramic pool terrace, al fresco dining, and a member’s lounge and bar. There are also 24 residential suites, including the popular Presidential suite that opened in 2016.

Yacht Club Italiano

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club

Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

Royal Perth Yacht Club

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Raffles Marina

Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

Real Club Nautico de Vigo

Royal Bermuda Yacht Club

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club has its marina close to the bustling Front Street at the heart of the historic city of Hamilton. It began as a meeting place for British military officers and Bermudian sailing enthusiasts.

Membership in the club extends to over 850 resident and non-resident members. The 130 berth marina has a full-service staff and can accommodate vessels of up to 150 feet in length.

Nassau Yacht Club

Royal Bombay Yacht Club

Royal Canadian Yacht Club

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club

Royal Victoria Yacht Club

Royal Cork Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club in the world.

Royal Cork Yacht Club

Sometime in the early 1600s, sailing for private pleasure started to to become popular in the Netherlands. Later that century, during the Cromwellian years, King Charles II of England was in exile in the Netherlands and while there he became aware of this new and exciting pastime. According to Royal Cork Yacht Club, “By 1720, interest in the sport had progressed so much that his great-grandson, the 26 year old William O’Brien, the 9th Lord Inchiquin, and five of his friends got together to formalize their activities and in so doing established ” The Water Club of the Harbour of Cork.”

This club is known today as the Royal Cork Yacht Club and it is the oldest yacht club in the world. It was originally located on Haulbowline Island before moving to the town of Cobh and finally establisged in it's current location in Crosshaven.

Royal Irish Yacht Club

NEW ZEALAND

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Royal Southern Yacht Club

Royal Thames Yacht Club

The Royal Thames Yacht Club is one of the oldest yacht clubs in the world, founded in 1775. The exclusive Knightsbridge Clubhouse has two bars, an acclaimed restaurant, and accommodations for those staying overnight. Anyone looking to join must be recommended by current members.

The Royal Western Yacht Club of England

Royal Yacht Squadron

Royal Yacht Club Moscow

Société des Régates du Havre

Monaco Yacht Club

Yacht Club de Monaco

Founded by Prince Rainier III in 1953, the Yacht Club De Monaco is a prestigious club that holds a unique position on the international yachting scene with more than 1600 members drawn from 66 nationalities.

The reigning Club President since 1984 has been His Royal Highness, Prince Sovereign Albert II, and a suitably formal dress code for day and evening wear is enforced at all times. Membership is limited and very, very exclusive: prospective candidates must submit an application form to the club committee and be introduced by two sponsors, both of whom must be existing members. The successful applicant will be welcomed with an ice-breaking cocktail party and gala dinner in their honor.

The futuristic clubhouse was redesigned in 2013 and overlooks Port Hercules, it offers up very popular cocktail bar and Mediterranean restaurant.

Yacht Club Santo Amaro

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All is for sake of golf

Pestovo Golf club is built in accordance with international standards and it doesn’t have any analogs in Moscow and Moscow Region. The championship course is prepared for games at the highest level — it can host prestigious major tournaments. Professional coaches of the Golf academy can teach a beginner or give valuable advice to already experienced golfers and children Academy will develop the potential of the youngest golfers.

Membership in the private closed club «Pestovo» is a lifetime privilege opening multifaceted opportunities of sports and cultural life of modern golf community.

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Away from the bustle

Pestovo golf club is situated in a picturesque place on the shore of Pestovo reservoir. Here is no city noise but only fresh air, landscapes and cozy country houses. Its nature and developed infrastructure turn Pestovo into a quiet corner for family vacation.

Moscow region

City district Mitishi Village Rumiancevo, Nikolskaya st., private demesne 1, building 1

With care of your recreation

There are all the necessary things in our country complex for comfortable rest of your entire family. This is not only a championship golf course but it’s also a club house, restaurant, fitness club and yacht club. Qualified staff puts the life in the country club on a new level.

The restaurant «Pestovo»

Yacht club «Pestovo»

Winter Golf

One of the most memorable events of the winter season took place.

I originally booked a Fantastica Balcony room on the Seaside in August. I then got an email later about a MSC Upgrade program. So I bid on a Yacht Club inside room assuming it came with the Yacht Club experience.  Well, I got an email saying the offer was accepted. I called to verify that it came with the Yacht Club experience and was told it didn't come with anything. So for others looking at this program beware, we "upgraded" from a balcony room to an inside cabin for more money. They did say I could go back to my original cabin but would lose the upgrade money.

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They would have to allow you to be fed in the YC dining room at a minimum.

What drinks package did you have?  Can you post a screenshot of the emails you received?  Also can you tell us basic pricing for what you paid for the balcony and what the accepted bid for the YC inside was?

3 hours ago, Até said: What drinks package did you have?  Can you post a screenshot of the emails you received?  Also can you tell us basic pricing for what you paid for the balcony and what the accepted bid for the YC inside was?

We didn't have a drink package.

Thank you very much for this information.

Here's the Plusgrade MSC FAQ for anyone interested:

https://upg.stage.plusgrade.com/faq/partner/9Ck2Ks4MSC

So, if you have YC access and they don't ask you for your card/wristband in the TS lounge - how will they know you don't get the bennies?

4 minutes ago, Beachin2 said: So, if you have YC access and they don't ask you for your card/wristband in the TS lounge - how will they know you don't get the bennies?

Q. What happens with the promotions I already have if I am upgraded through MSC UpGrade? A. You get to keep the promotions you already have based on the stateroom category originally booked. However, no additional promotions will be added to your reservation.

That will definitely be interesting.  FAQ clearly states you don't get any additional "promotions".  I assume that also means perks of the cabin.  Otherwise that would be one heck of a deal at $115pp to get the YC cabin plus the YC drinks package.

No one ever asked for our card in yacht club...im not sure how any butler's (besides your cabin butler) would know that info. Now, when you leave YC that may be a different story as they need to scan for drinks. Outside yc you may have no drinks included....

Yet others who have had a free upgrade to YC got the whole package!

kodesthemoose

I cannot imagine how this practically speaking would work when you bid up to a YC room.  I could see if you bid up to Aurea, but they don't give you the Aurea perks of a free massage for example.  But in YC everyone needs the wristband, or at a minimum, the card, to open the door.  After that, are they really going to tell you that you have to go the MDRs, and please get out of the top sail lounge?  That would be crazy!  I would venture to guess you'll still get the YC perks.  

Modes ... Those in YC cannot eat in the MDR due to the numbers of the other cabins that are divided between them.

I wonder if the concierge and butler will refuse their services?  What about priority embarkation, tendering and disembarkation?  Will her card work for priority elevator service?  If not, considering the loss of space and a balcony it seems barely worth even that small sum just for the possible YC dining room and maybe Access to the One pool deck.  It sure leaves a lot of unanswered questions.

YC interiors commonly sell for $2500 to $3000 per week with all the benefits.  If you take away it's main perks like drink package $868 (used Premium) and thermal spa access $200? for two I'd say the upgrade cabin is worth like $1500 to $2000.  With the $115pp minimum bid and already being in an "Escape" rate Fantastica balcony of currently about $1730 that seems way overpriced vs. just booking the cabin outright to get the perks.

The YC Deluxe at $2120 + $1730 = $3950 (minimum) without the valuable benefits is equally bad.

8 minutes ago, sidari said: Those in YC cannot eat in the MDR due to the numbers of the other cabins that are divided between them.

Personal experience, it can be done.  We're also not talking about a lot of people here so even though I don't think MSC would do that, it wouldn't surprise me if MSC did.

18 minutes ago, Até said: I wonder if the concierge and butler will refuse their services?  What about priority embarkation, tendering and disembarkation?  Will her card work for priority elevator service?  If not, considering the loss of space and a balcony it seems barely worth even that small sum just for the possible YC dining room and maybe Access to the One pool deck.  It sure leaves a lot of unanswered questions.   YC interiors commonly sell for $2500 to $3000 per week with all the benefits.  If you take away it's main perks like drink package $868 (used Premium) and thermal spa access $200? for two I'd say the upgrade cabin is worth like $1500 to $2000.  With the $115pp minimum bid and already being in an "Escape" rate Fantastica balcony of currently about $1730 that seems way overpriced vs. just booking the cabin outright to get the perks.   The YC Deluxe at $2120 + $1730 = $3950 (minimum) without the valuable benefits is equally bad.

They also told me no butler and no priority embarkation. We are black card. The room is on the same deck as topsail, right down the hall.

I am hopeful that this is a situation of MSC shoreside having no practical idea of what happens once you are on board, or even checking in. (not unheard of.)  I could be wrong, for sure.  But there would be zero reason to consider it an upgrade to go from a fantastica balcony to an inside room with no amenities.  The only reason that inside room is an upgrade is b/c it's in YC.  I suppose it's a few decks higher, but it's an inside room.  I would probably feign total ignorance, show up at the YC tent, get my YC luggage tags on, and enjoy the ride from there.  If someone said to me "Oh i'm sorry you don't get the perks" I would simply remind them that I  paid   to   upgrade, not to downgrade my cruise.

Best of luck!! 

16 minutes ago, Valkyrie said: They also told me no butler and no priority embarkation. We are black card. The room is on the same deck as topsail, right down the hall.

Thanks again for providing valuable information about this new program.  I was wondering if you did the minimum bid or more, I'm kind of surprised they would let go one of the coveted YC insides a month and a half before sailing.  Please keep us informed as to how this all works out and I hope they at least give you some of the YC perks.

37 minutes ago, Até said: Thanks again for providing valuable information about this new program.  I was wondering if you did the minimum bid or more, I'm kind of surprised they would let go one of the coveted YC insides a month and a half before sailing.  Please keep us informed as to how this all works out and I hope they at least give you some of the YC perks.

We bid $250 per person.

50 minutes ago, kodesthemoose said: I am hopeful that this is a situation of MSC shoreside having no practical idea of what happens once you are on board, or even checking in. (not unheard of.)  I could be wrong, for sure.  But there would be zero reason to consider it an upgrade to go from a fantastica balcony to an inside room with no amenities.  The only reason that inside room is an upgrade is b/c it's in YC.  I suppose it's a few decks higher, but it's an inside room.  I would probably feign total ignorance, show up at the YC tent, get my YC luggage tags on, and enjoy the ride from there.  If someone said to me "Oh i'm sorry you don't get the perks" I would simply remind them that I  paid   to   upgrade, not to downgrade my cruise.   Best of luck!! 

Thanks, I hope shoreside didn't know either. But the agent ask her supervisor 2 times and said no. We will just have to make the best of it and have a good time.

CGTNORMANDIE

3 hours ago, Valkyrie said: I originally booked a Fantastica Balcony room on the Seaside in August. I then got an email later about a MSC Upgrade program. So I bid on a Yacht Club inside room assuming it came with the Yacht Club experience.  Well, I got an email saying the offer was accepted. I called to verify that it came with the Yacht Club experience and was told it didn't come with anything. So for others looking at this program beware, we "upgraded" from a balcony room to an inside cabin for more money. They did say I could go back to my original cabin but would lose the upgrade money.

Evidently you got some bad information.  If you were to receive an inside Yacht Club cabin then you would be in the YC and you would receive all the benefits...period.

Don't believe everything you are told by an MSC rep.  You received bad information.

20 minutes ago, CGTNORMANDIE said: Evidently you got some bad information.  If you were to receive an inside Yacht Club cabin then you would be in the YC and you would receive all the benefits...period. Don't believe everything you are told by an MSC rep.  You received bad information.

Thank you, I hope you are right. We have been in the Yacht Club before and really enjoyed it. 

Something else I found interesting is if they bid on the "Suite" for minimum of $390 per person I wonder what they would get.  It could be at best an aft facing condo suite, highly unlikely as they sell out fast, or at worst a Fantastica suite which is basically the same as what they started with.  Even if they got an Aurea suite it would probably be a deck nine and basically would just get a larger balcony.  No Aurea or suite perks, well maybe My Choice dining.

Happy Cruiser 6143

Once you are in Yacht Club with a Yacht Club card or wristband, you will get all the perks that come with being in the YC.  No way they can differentiate.  No one ever gets asked for their card once in the YC.  The fact that you're in, means you are entitled to the benefits thereof.  Shoreside hasn't a clue how it works.  Congrats on your upgrade!  Please come back and tell us how it was.

sverigecruiser

I do believe that you will get all YC benefits and that "shoreside" doesn't know what they are talking about but I'm not necessary correct.

I have heared about people being upgraded who didn't got the benefits, for example access to the Top Sail Lounge. (I think that was a free upgrade and that's not the same thing but it can be done.)

If they have upgraded passengers without access to the Top Sail Lounge they can ask for the cards the first day and they can probably also see the photo taken at embarkation if some people can get Into the YC but don't have all the benefits.

Don’t forget I got all the benefits on Divina last month.

1 hour ago, nikkiw60 said: Don’t forget I got all the benefits on Divina last month.

You are one of the reasons why the OP can hope that "shoreside" doesn't know what they are talking about.

I really hope that they will get everything but I'm not very happy that it can be so cheap to upgrade to the YC. 

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