msc seashore yacht club experience

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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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MSC Seashore Review: An Ideal Choice for a Multigenerational Family Cruise Experience

The writer was hosted.

A multigenerational cruise was an early surprise Christmas gift for my 88-year-old mother. After booking a direct flight from Virginia to Florida’s Orlando Sanford International Airport, she arrived two days prior to the cruise departure. Her early arrival allowed us to explore some things to do in and around Port Canaveral .

This cruise was my husband’s and my second cruise on the MSC cruise line ; after a Bahamas cruise on the Seashore’s sister ship, the MSC Seaside , in April, we were anxious to sail on the Seashore. Both ships are in MSC’s Seaside class. The Seaside class is designed to cruise in warmer climates, including the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

When planning our multigenerational MSC Seashore cruise, we chose a 4-day, 3-night Bahamas cruise itinerary with stops in Nassau, Bahamas, and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island. This cruise leaves from Port Canaveral, Florida.

MSC Seashore by the Numbers

The Seashore is a gorgeous ship and is part of the Seaside class of ships. She joins sister ships the Seaside, Seaview, and Seascape. Though MSC is a relative newcomer to the North American market, the line offers a good value for the price.

Launched into service in 2021, she is an impressive ship, with a length of 1,112 feet and weighing 169,400 gross tons.

The Seashore boasts

• 1,112 feet long
• Weight of 169,400 Gross Tons
• 2,270 staterooms
• 11 dining venues
• Capacity for 5,179 passengers
• 2-, 3-, and 4-night Bahamas cruises from Port Canaveral
• 7-, 10-, and 11-night Western Caribbean voyages from Port Canaveral
• 7- and 14-night Bahamas and Caribbean trips from Port Canaveral

The Seashore is a massive ship, and with 5,000+ passengers, it can get crowded, especially during peak times such as dinner. However, the deckplan on the Seashore is designed in such a way to use the multiple pools and restaurants to break up the crowds. I also loved that even though this is a huge cruise ship, the spaces were designed to feel intimate.

Although MSC is a relative newcomer to the North American market, the line offers a good value for the price, which is one of the top reasons families of all sizes are flocking to this newcomer to the North American cruise market.

What Families Will Love on MSC Seashore

The decor of the Seashore is a tribute to New York City and represents the heart of MSC – to foster the spirit of discovery and embrace the cultural experiences you’ll find on their ships.

The resiliency of the city inspires all of the venue names, public areas, and design features. You’ll find a 9 ½’ replica of the Statue of Liberty by the casino. The retail and entertainment area is “Times Square” in honor of the iconic NYC Times Square.

In Times Square, you’ll find a 27.5’ LED wall spanning four decks. The wall features a projection of one of the most recognized skylines in the world – Manhattan. But taking that a step further, the skyline changes from morning to night. I cannot tell you how many times we walked past this LED wall, and there were kids just mesmerized by this amazing technology!

Speaking of kids, MSC really puts families at the forefront when designing their ships, and they are an ideal choice for a multigenerational cruise. On the Seashore, more than 7,500 square feet of space is dedicated to kids.

There are five different “clubs” onboard so that kids of all ages can participate, and Mom and Dad can feel safe and secure that their kids are being taken care of and can slip away for some adult fun of their own.

The kids’ club area is colorful, and there are themed spaces. There are clubs for Babies (0-3 years), Minis (3-6 years), Juniors (7-11 years), Youngs (12-14 years), and Teens (15-17 years).

Jump In and Take a Dip

There are over 3 acres of outdoor space for you to explore on the Seashore. Some of the outdoor amenities you’ll find on the Seashore include their “Bridge of Sighs,” a dedicated outdoor spa area where you can soak up the sun in a quiet space, relax on a lounge chair, outdoor dining, outdoor lounges, and of course, water fun.

The Seashore has five pools and various whirlpools. The Aft Infinity Pool is often crowded, but it offers some great views of the aft of the ship and its wake.

The Long Island Pool is on deck 18 and offers a 360-degree water fountain island and the Pirates Cove waterpark with a waterslide and adventure trail. Young children to teens will love this cool waterpark.

The Jungle Pool has a bar area close to the Marketplace Buffet area. There is a balcony-type deck in the Jungle pool area that overlooks the pool and is excellent for an afternoon libation as you can keep an eye on the kids in the pool. We enjoyed spending time as a family sitting in this area, relaxing, chatting, sipping our drinks, and just people-watching.

More Fun At Sea

On MSC’s Seashore , the fun goes from morning to night. From cavorting in the pool during the day to trying your hand at Formula One racing, river rafting in virtual reality, or an immersive cinema experience, there is something for every age on the MSC Seashore.

The Aurea Spa onboard is spectacular! Our stateroom class, Aurea, gave us access to the thermal area, which offers a salt room, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, and snow room. In addition, there are five heated ceramic loungers in the hydrotherapy pool area.

Needless to say, my mom and I spent a significant amount of time in the spa area! She loved the hydrotherapy pool, and I loved the salt room, sauna, and heated ceramic beds.

The only downside is that the thermal area did not have any windows so it can feel claustrophobic.

I’ll admit that I’m a bit skeptical when it comes to spa treatments at sea. However, on our MSC cruises, I opted for a spa treatment and was pleasantly surprised! On board the Seashore, I chose a one-hour hot stone massage. My therapist was polite and exceptionally well-trained in a variety of massage techniques. I left my massage feeling totally relaxed and rested. Jim had a deep tissue massage, and he was also pleased.

The gym space on the Seashore is adjacent to the spa, which is fantastic. You can opt to take classes, work on their machines, power walk the outdoor track, and more.

Staterooms Aboard MSC’s Seashore

When you book your stateroom with MSC you are given options along your booking journey. If there are any special promotions, you will be prompted to choose between the basic cruise-only fare, or the available promotion (this may be a drink package or drink package + wifi; the options will vary).

Once you’ve decided, you will select your stateroom category. You can choose interior, oceanview, balcony, or suite. For our recent cruise, we chose a balcony and a suite. We also had a choice of experience – Fantastica or Aurea.

The Suite Life

We chose Aurea for both our staterooms. Jim and I chose a Grand Suite in the bow of the ship and a midship balcony suite for my mother. One perk of cruising with MSC as a solo traveler is instead of paying the total rate of the stateroom, a solo traveler pays half the cost + 20%, saving 80% of the double occupancy rate.

The experience levels that MSC offers:

•  Bella , which is a no-frills level with a guaranteed stateroom, MSC will assign your stateroom within four days of sailing; you cannot choose the stateroom number. You will also be levied a fee for any changes to your cruise
• Fantasica  allows you to select your stateroom from the best available selection. Other benefits include a free daily in-stateroom breakfast, 24-hour room service (there is a small charge for this), and you are offered a discount on specialty dining several days before sailing. You can also make up to one cruise change without a fee.
• Aurea  was our personal experience level. With Aurea, you get all the benefits of Fantastica, and a welcome aboard gift of Prosecco and chocolate, anytime dining (which we love!), exclusive pre-cruise Balinese massage at a discounted price point, 10% off all spa products and bookings, free access to the spa’s thermal area, and priority boarding.

The Ultimate? Yacht Club Experience

Yacht Club Experience  is MSC cruise line’s ultimate all-inclusive at sea. This experience is designed to make guests feel like VIPs, beginning with embarkation, where Yacht Club guests are welcomed aboard with their own check-in. Yacht Club guests also receive priority disembarkation.Yacht Club Highlights

With the Yacht Club experience, you have 24-hour butler services, and a dedicated concierge is available to help organize private shore excursions, make spa reservations, and deliver a daily newspaper to your stateroom.

The Yacht Club area is located in the front of the ship, offering spectacular ocean views from the Top Sail Lounge, which offers live music and gourmet canapés (available all day through the evening), and a private fine dining restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner and an extensive wine list.

There is also a private sundeck and pool area for Yacht Club guests. In this area, you’ll find cabanas, hot tubs, and a bar and grill.

The Yacht Club area on the Seashore encompasses four decks with approximately 32,000 square feet of space. The Seashore offers 131 upscale luxury suites, which include interior suites, deluxe suites, royal suites, grand suites, and two Owner’s suites (these are the largest suites on the ship at 1,054 square feet of space, outdoor space with a private hot tub, and separate living and dining spaces.

SheBuysTravel Tip: When you book your MSC cruise, be on the lookout for several emails offering the chance to get an upgrade, including an upgrade to Yacht Club for an additional fee.

Dining Venues

Included in your cruise cost is dining. The Marketplace Buffet offers casual dining choices, making it a good choice for families. The Marketplace seats 1100, so there is plenty of room.

I was impressed by the pizza offerings – so many times, the pizza served onboard cruise ships is just run of the mill. Not on MSC! The pizza offerings are quite good, and we found ourselves in the Marketplace for lunch several times. My mom thoroughly enjoyed the offerings at the Marketplace because of all the choices. Another pro of the Marketplace Buffet is the close proximity to the Jungle Bar.

Main Dining Rooms and Anytime Time Dining

Four main dining rooms are onboard the Seashore – Manhattan, Tribeca, 5th Avenue, and Central Park. Central Park and 5th Avenue are the traditional main dining rooms that most ships offer. You eat at an assigned time, at an assigned table.

On the flip side, those with “Anytime Dining” will be assigned to one of the smaller main dining rooms, Manhattan or Tribeca.

The food overall was quite good. There were dishes that we felt could have been improved, but overall, we would rate the food on the MSC Seashore at 4.85 out of 5.0, leaving room for improvement.

One of the top things we appreciate when cruising on MSC are the smaller portions, which are indicative of Italian and Mediterranean dining. You can always order additional dishes to satisfy your hunger.

The dining staff, from the dining room manager to the host to the wait staff, were friendly and helpful and did not rush us to finish our meals. It was so nice to linger over dinner and finish with dessert and coffee or an aperitif.

Speciality Dining Venues

The Seashore offers five specialty restaurants in the Chef’s Court on deck 8 of the ship.

We were intrigued by some of the technology that MSC has embraced, including the new sushi conveyor belt at Kaito Sushi. The sushi conveyor belt allows guests to select dishes ranging from freshly prepared sushi to sashimi, tempura, and other options.

MSC’s signature American Steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut, has gotten an upgrade on the Seashore, offering al fresco dining – nothing beats dining outside with magnificent ocean views! The steakhouse features Linz heritage beef in a range of cuts. The Linz Heritage Beef can also be ordered in all the main restaurants however there is an upcharge. Butcher’s Cut also offers an excellent, well-rounded selection of wines.

HOLA! Tacos & Cantina features some delightful Latin American and Mexican dishes – ideal for family-style dining. This is just a fun dining venue for the entire family! HOLA! also offers an extensive list of tequilas and mescals.

SheBuysTravel Tip: When you book your MSC cruise, you will receive several emails promoting the spa packages, upgrade options, and specialty dining packages. If you are interested in specialty dining, purchase the specialty dining before sailing or embarkation day, so you will receive a small discount.

Bars and Lounges

Wow! There are 14 different bars and lounges aboard the Seashore, making it hard to decide where to go – especially on a short getaway cruise!

Everyone will have their favorite bar/lounge, however, on the Seashore, we found that all three of us loved the Brooklyn Cafe for an after-dinner cocktail and conversation. This venue, located on deck 8, was a bit smaller and significantly quieter than some of the other bar and lounge areas. It offers a view of the multi-deck “Times Square” LED wall and the Statue of Liberty.

The Champagne and Wine bar was also a hit for Jim & me; we enjoyed sitting at the bar, sipping a glass or two of wine before and after dinner, and people-watching. The Champagne and Wine Bar is located on deck 7, and easy to get to from the Manhattan dining venue. However, after dinner, this area can get quite loud and boisterous; for us, that was part of the fun, however, it was a bit loud for my mom.

During the day, we found the Aurea bar on deck 19 ideal for relaxing, catching some rays, and reading.

Entertainment and Shows on the Seaside

In general terms of entertainment, we have found that MSC does a fabulous job with its nightly entertainment. The shows are family-friendly and spectacular productions. We thoroughly enjoyed the high caliber of their “Divas of Rock and Roll” show. The acoustics of the Madison Theatre are incredible, and the singers and dancers are amazing! Truly, one of the best features of any MSC cruise is the caliber of entertainment they offer onboard.

All three shows we saw on the Seashore were music-themed. This stood in stark comparison to our experience on the MSC Seaside, where all the shows were more like shortened Broadway shows that included a storyline, and multiple types of talent – singers, dancers, acrobats, and gymnasts.

A Day at Ocean Cay

Jim and I are huge fans of the Bahamas, so we take it whenever we can to stick our toes into that soft, turquoise water. Ocean Cay is the cruise line’s private island off the coast of Bimini in the Bahamas. It is a man-made island and marine sanctuary. The island offers dining venues, including food trucks, a buffet, and a bar. You’ll find several shops as well to pick up some souvenirs of your time in the Bahamas.

How Does MSC Stack Up Against Other Cruise Lines

Prior to discovering MSC, my husband, Jim, and I almost exclusively cruised on Celebrity or Royal Caribbean. However, when considering the value received to the cost of the cruise, MSC wins hands down when considering everything. If you find a sale on MSC that includes their drink package, the savings are $49 a day (for cruises six days or less) or $61 for cruises 7+ days. We typically do a pre-paid drink package upgrade, so our savings are slightly less.

I have found the balcony stateroom pricing to be a bit less than what we paid for Celebrity or Royal Caribbean, especially when you add in the Aurea experience perks, compared to the Aqua Class category on Celebrity.

Shore Excursion Options for the Bahamas

Two popular excursions on MSC’s Bahamas cruises are the Blue Lagoon Island Experience and Atlantis Resort.

Blue Lagoon Island is private, with a gorgeous secluded beach. For the Balmoral Island experience, choose the VIP Beach cabana …. trust me, you cannot go wrong with either choice! Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is perfect for those who want a full day of non-stop fun! You’ll have access to Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterpark, The Dig, an archaeological site designed to replicate the ruins of the ancient city of Atlantis, and the Predator Lagoon, which is home to lots of sea creatures – sharks, rays, barracudas, and sawfish.

2024 Itineraries for the Seashore

The itineraries for the Seashore in 2024 include Nassau & Ocean Cay, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Costa Maya & Cozumel, Mexico, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Honduras, and Belize.

Where Does MSC Cruise?

MSC offers over 250 cruise destinations across the globe. You can choose from destinations ranging from close to home, Bahamas, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and New England to stunning European destinations, including Northern Europe – the UK, Norway, France, Germany, and Iceland; to the Mediterranean – Greece, Italy, Croatia, Spain, Turkey; to more exotic destinations like Dubai, Middle East, South America, South Africa and Asia.

In the US, for their Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, MSC sails out of New York City, Port Canaveral, and Miami.

All in all, MSC Cruise Line delivers a lovely cruise, with good food and comfortable accommodations, for a good value, and we’ll be cruising with them again.

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Setting Sail on the MSC Seashore: An honest critique of a 7-day journey

Msc cruises gets a lot of negative feedback from cruisers.

However – some people really enjoy the experience MSC Provides. Based on my recent Seashore experience, I can understand why.

But let’s be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of MSC. That’s why I’m quite happy about the experience on the Seashore. Having sailed on the Meraviglia and Lirica (and soon the World Europa), my expectations were low.

A Look at the MSC Seashore

Having recently concluded a surprisingly delightful seven-day voyage aboard the MSC Seashore, I’m eager to share my insights and experiences. This perspective, while grounded in my personal encounters, also reflects conversations with fellow passengers, offering a well-rounded view of what to expect on this beautiful cruise ship.

MSC Seashore Quick Stats:

• Gross Tonnage: 169,400 GT
• Length: 339 meters
• Decks: 20 total, 15 guest decks
• Passenger capacity: 5,877
• Number of cabins: 2,270
• Crew members: 1,648 
• Launched 2021

The cabins on the MSC Seashore

The MSC Seashore, a testament to modern cruise ship design, offers an array of amenities and experiences. Its accommodations are a standout feature, meriting a solid 10/10. The rooms are not only spacious but also feature contemporary furnishings and all necessary conveniences. Housekeeping services, offered twice daily, ensure a consistently clean and comfortable environment. Storage space is ample, with a sizable closet, a safe, and multiple drawers. The mini-fridge, while it comes with an additional charge for drinks, is convenient. The balcony is equipped with expected basic chairs and a table and provides a nice private outdoor retreat. In-room amenities like a hairdryer, and eco-friendly shampoo and shower gel refills, are basic but suitable. ** Note: there is no conditioner provided! The shower gels aren’t the best – so if you’re a shampoo and conditioner snob, bring your own!

TIP: The stewards are a bit stealthy and aren’t always visible like on other cruise lines – so if you need something like extra hangers, don’t wait too long! The cabin stewards are usually around more on embarkation day.

Like all other modern MSC Ships, there is a selection of Suites available.

Suites on this ship are categorized into MSC Yacht Club suites and Aurea suites.

Aurea suites offer special amenities like welcome gifts, round-the-clock room service, and exclusive access to the Aurea sun deck. Select Aurea suites feature whirlpool baths on their balconies and ample storage space, with some including a bathtub in addition to a standing shower.

The more compact Junior Aurea suites resemble an Aurea balcony cabin, distinguished by their significantly larger balconies. Meanwhile, the MSC Yacht Club represents the epitome of luxury suite options on the MSC Seashore. These suites surpass all others in opulence and come with an array of extensive benefits.

The suites are spacious, and contemporary, and vary from interior suites with additional living space to the extravagant owner’s suite, which boasts a spacious terrace with a balcony and an outdoor dining area.

MSC Yacht Club privileges encompass complimentary WiFi, 24-hour concierge service, priority spa access, round-the-clock butler service, and exclusive access to certain areas not available to regular passengers.

This includes a private panoramic lounge that blends indoor and outdoor spaces, two exclusive restaurants, and two private swimming pools, all reserved solely for MSC Yacht Club guests.

Entertainment options onboard

The shows and entertainment are diverse and cater to a wide range of preferences, rightly deserving a 10/10 rating. The ship has multiple bars and lounges, each with its unique ambiance. Live music is a regular feature in at least three venues every night, offering everything from jazz at the Brooklyn Cafe to piano duels at Times Square. Dance enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of classes, while the nightly dance parties keep the energy high. The 35-minute shows at the theater showcase exceptional talent. The ship also fosters community through various meet-ups, catering to different interests and backgrounds. Morning yoga sessions and an array of day-long activities led by the animation team ensure that there’s never a dull moment.

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The Fitness Facilities, pools and chill out areas of the MSC Seashore are exemplary

The fitness and relaxation facilities are a big surprise. The gym is spacious and well-equipped, and the complimentary sauna is a nice touch. For anyone inspired to workout while on a cruise vacation, my hat is off to you. But those who are looking for top-notch treadmills, weight machines, and exercise space will be very happy with what the Seashore has to offer.

Expert tip!

Many people don’t realize there is a free sauna on the MSC Seashore . There is a completely separate access from the back of the gym where the cables workout is. There you will find locker rooms and a free sauna. (no steam room – that is in the Aurea Spa)

The ship has multiple pools, including the striking Infinity Pool on Deck 8 and the Jungle Pool on Deck 16, surrounded by whirlpools and ample lounging space. The Hall of Games and the sports arena offer active entertainment, while the Aurea spa provides a range of services, including a barber shop.

The Dining on the MSC Seashore

The dining experience onboard MSC Seashore presents a mixed bag. While specialty restaurants like the Sushi Bar and the Butchers Cut Steak House have garnered positive feedback, the main dining options have a lot of room for improvement, particularly in terms of consistency and quality. Food is subjective of course, but it was universally underwhelming in the main dining room. In all fairness, some fellow passengers were commenting that they were just happy to not be at home doing dishes and cooking. So if that is the measure of how good the experience is, you’ll be fine. Just don’t expect anything special and you’ll likely not be disappointed.

The Marketplace Buffet is a more reliable choice for many but it’s always extremely busy and sometimes downright frantic – like a full panic where you’d think it was the end of the world and there was no more food left. Puzzling really. You can’t beat the pizza served, even though it was a bit repetitive.

Included restaurants on the Seashore:

• 5th Avenue Restaurant, one of the three main dining rooms, serving sit-down, classic cruise fare
• Tribeca Restaurant, another main dining room
• Central Park Restaurant, the third and final main dining room
• Manhattan Restaurant, the main dining room only for Aurea guests
• The Yacht Club Restaurant, only open to Yacht Club guests
• The One Pool Grill & Bar, also only open to Yacht Club guests 
• Marketplace Buffet, a classic cruise ship buffet

Room service is available and depending on your cabin type, there may be a fee involved.

Additional cost & specialty restaurants on the Seashore:

• Kaito Teppanaki
• Ocean Cay, seafood focused (menu)
• Butchers Cut, steakhouse experience (menu)
• Kaito Sushi (menu)
• Hola Tacos & Cantina, Mexican Food (menu)
• Venchi 1878 Gelato, for sweets
• Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar

Drinks & Drink Packages

We’ve spent a lot of time trying to explain the MSC Drink Packages. They can be confusing.

• Read : MSC Cruises Drinks Packages Explained

The Easy drinks package, including coffee, bottled water, and a selection of cocktails, offers good value but keep in mind if you plan on making use of the specialty dining restaurants, the Easy package does not work in those. You’ll need to upgrade to the Easy Plus package , which in the end is also a great value given the much larger selection of beverages available.

Bars included on the Seashore:

• Brooklyn Cafe
• The Champagne & Wine Bar
• The Cocktail Bar (basically the lobby bar)
• Jungle Pool Beach Bar
• Le Cabaret Rouge
• MSC Signature Casino Bar
• Seashore Bar
• Shine Bar (dining room-adjacent)
• The Wine Cellar
• Uptown Lounge
• Infinity Bar, one of two poolside bars
• Long Island Pool Bar, poolside outdoor bar
• MSC Aurea Bar, the Aurea-specific sun deck bar

The Service on the Seashore

Service aboard the MSC Seashore, unfortunately, falls short of expectations in some areas. The attentiveness and responsiveness of the bartenders and servers could be enhanced, possibly through additional staffing or improved training. But these guys and girls work hard, it’s obvious. It makes me think they really just need to add staff for a better guest service experience.

It’s worth noting that people who cruise from America often feel that throwing tips at a bartender will get better service, and it often does…. on other cruise lines. However, the culture is slightly different on MSC. While the bartenders appreciate the tips, it doesn’t seem to motivate them like you’d see on other major lines. So it might be best to keep that cash to yourself and reward someone at the end if they provide excellent service. Bottom line: bribing doesn’t work like it used to! 🙂

In summary, the MSC Seashore scores a 7/10 overall in my opinion. It’s an ideal choice for large groups, seasoned travelers, and those who appreciate a multicultural atmosphere. The ship’s design and facilities exude luxury, though there’s potential for improvement in culinary offerings and service. For families, the MSC Seashore represents great value and is recommended for clients who value a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and a touch of luxury at sea.

Do you have a comment?

Did we miss something? Have you had a different experience? Did we get it wrong?

Additional Details about the MSC Seashore

Design and Ambiance

• Innovative Design : MSC Seashore, the flagship of MSC Cruises, stands out with its elegant, modern design. The ship is part of the Seaside EVO class, showcasing an enhanced architectural style that blends indoor and outdoor areas seamlessly, allowing guests to enjoy the sea environment to its fullest.
• Spacious Public Areas : The ship features one of the highest ratios of outdoor space per passenger of any cruise ship, providing ample room for relaxation and activities.

Accommodations

• Variety of Cabins : The ship offers a wide range of cabin categories, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and luxurious suites. The MSC Yacht Club suites provide an exclusive, upscale experience with private facilities and personalized services.
• Family-Friendly Options : Families can benefit from modular cabins that can be interconnected to accommodate larger groups.

Dining and Cuisine

• Culinary Choices : MSC Seashore hosts over 10 dining venues, each offering distinct culinary experiences. This includes international buffets, fine dining restaurants, and casual eateries.
• Specialty Restaurants : Enjoy culinary excellence in specialty restaurants such as Butcher’s Cut (American steakhouse), Ocean Cay (seafood), and HOLA! Tacos & Cantina (Mexican cuisine) and Kaito Sushi/Teppanyaki .

Entertainment and Activities

• Broadway-Style Shows : The state-of-the-art theater presents Broadway-style performances, featuring international talents.
• Family Entertainment : With partnerships like LEGO and Chicco, children’s play areas and activities are designed to entertain and engage the younger guests.
• Water Parks and Pools : The ship boasts one of the largest and most interactive water parks at sea, complete with multiple slides, attractions, and pools.

Amenities and Services

• Wellness and Relaxation : The MSC Aurea Spa offers a wide range of treatments, a thermal area, and a beauty salon.
• Shopping and Leisure : Guests can indulge in a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to souvenir shops.

Technology and Sustainability

• Advanced Environmental Technology : MSC Seashore incorporates the latest environmental technology and energy-efficient systems, emphasizing MSC Cruises’ commitment to sustainability.
• The MSC for Me App : This app enhances the guest experience through personalized services, information, and the ability to book activities. It’s a little buggy, but works better than many other cruise line apps.

Itineraries and Destinations

• Diverse Routes : MSC Seashore typically sails in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and to the MSC private island Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas.
• Shore Excursions : The ship offers a vast array of shore excursions, catering to various interests and activity levels. Compared to other major cruise lines, the excursions are relatively inexpensive.

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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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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MSC Cruises

MSC Seashore Review: A Gorgeous Ship for Families, Groups, and Couples [Photos Included]

This article may contain references to some of our advertising partners. Should you click on these links, we may be compensated. For more about our advertising policies, read our  full disclosure statement  here.

If you follow us on Facebook or are a regular reader of this website, you already know that we love MSC Cruises. We’ve sailed with MSC nearly a dozen times – including itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and even the Norwegian fjords . So, when we heard that one of MSC’s newest ships – the MSC Seashore – was sailing the Caribbean out of Miami, we were super stoked to check it out!

As usual, MSC Cruises did not disappoint.

The MSC Seashore is the sixth MSC ship we’ve sailed. (Psst…you can find links to several of our reviews at the end of this piece!) It is an absolutely beautiful ship which delivers the same quality service and European feel you expect from MSC, all while bringing guests closer to the sea than ever before. We’re super excited to share the ship with you, so let’s check it out!

MSC Seashore Review: Cruise Cabins

The MSC Seashore offers several types of staterooms, complete with different amenities and “experiences.” We’ve had the opportunity to tour several of the cabins and have stayed in two of them – the Deluxe Balcony Stateroom and the Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suite.

Both room types are clean, comfortable, and accommodate up to four guests. Additionally, they both come with a King bed (available as two twins upon request) and a separate sofa area with a desk and television. The sofa also converts into a bunkbed, allowing four people to sleep comfortably in the room while saving floor space.

Deluxe Balcony Stateroom

Here’s a look at our Deluxe Balcony cabin:

Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suite

Here is a look at our Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suite:

Comparing the Staterooms

The main differences between the two rooms are size and perks.

Our Deluxe Balcony cabin on Deck 14 measures at roughly 180 square feet with a balcony measuring about 55-65 square feet. Compare that to the 269-463 square foot YC Deluxe Grand Suite (balcony of 86-129 square feet), and you can see that the Yacht Club suite offers a lot more room to move about. For me, this is mainly felt in the floor space, extra closet space, and the bathroom space.

Booking a Yacht Club stateroom means you also get access to the Yacht Club privileges and amenities. This includes things like the Top Sail Lounge, Yacht Club Dining Room, and the Yacht Club pool – which are all exclusive to Yacht Club members.

Additionally, you’ll have a butler who will help you with anything you need – from making dinner reservations, to setting up your excursions, to stocking your mini fridge with the right drinks. Yacht Club members also get priority embarkation and disembarkation which can save you oodles of time waiting in line.

Of course, the Yacht Club experience costs significantly more than the booking a regular stateroom. We love the extra service, amenities, and perks (like free drinks) that YC provides. However, most of our sailings with MSC have been in regular rooms, and we have two future cruises booked in them.

In our opinion, the experience is great either way – although we really do love the larger room, top-notch service, and even better sailing experience in Yacht Club.

Save Big on MSC Cruises – Looking for a great cruise deal? MSC Cruises regularly offers free balcony upgrades, free drink packages, and more! Plus, kids under 18 sail free on many itineraries! Get help finding the best current deals with MSC Cruises here .

MSC Seashore Bars and Common Areas

The MSC Seashore is an absolutely gorgeous ship, and this is especially obvious while enjoying the common areas and bars on board. There are tons of common areas and 19 different bars on the ship, so I’ll just cover a few of our favorites.

Atrium & Seashore Bar

Like its sister ship, the MSC Seaside , the main gathering area is the Atrium in the middle of the ship. The Atrium is a semi-open area spanning four decks (Decks 5-8).

The main feature is the entertainment stage which is backed by several stories of stages and video screens. You’ll also find a variety of bars, gathering areas, and several sets of stunning crystal staircases. It’s a perfect spot to snap some selfies or grab a drink and listen to music after dinner.

(Side Note: I thought the live music on this particular cruise was a notch above other MSC sailings I’ve been on. Bravo!)

Times Square

Just forward of the Atrium, you’ll find the Times Square area of the ship. You’ll know you’ve found it when you see the images of the famous Times Square towers.

This semi-open area of the ship runs from Deck 6 to Deck 8. On Deck 6, you can enjoy drinks while listening to dueling pianos. You’ll also find some shopping and the Venchi Chocolate Bar.

The casino is found on Deck 7 (Times Square area). It boasts a variety of slots and table games where MSC is hapy to take more of your money! The bar is also topped with a pretty cool replica of the Statue of Liberty.

Cheer on your favorite sports teams inside the Sports Bar, located on Deck 8 in the Times Square area. They have some really great screens as well as semi-private tables/screens for sports fans. Deck 8 also features some more shopping.

Top Sail Lounge (Yacht Club)

The Top Sail Lounge is only available to Yacht Club members. This is a quiet spot to chill, grab a snack, and sip on a drink any time of the day.

If you’re lucky, Bartender Alex will whip up some delicious drinks while performing a few magic tricks for you. There is also live easy-listening music during the evening and dinner hours. We love this place!

MSC Seashore Bridge of Sighs

The “Bridge of Sighs” is a unique glass bridge which offers incredible views from the aft portion of the ship. Walk across it for a fun thrill and soak up a bird’s eye view of the Infinity Pool below. Then, soar down the glass elevators behind the bridge for even more fun!

Pools on the MSC Seashore

Speaking of pools, the MSC Seashore features four pools and a waterpark. The Long Island Pool is the ship’s main pool. It features an entertainment stage and a massive video board.

The indoor/outdoor Jungle Pool spans two decks and features several hottubs. The retractable roof makes it a great spot to swim, no matter the weather outside.

Located all the way forward on Deck 20 is the Yacht Club Pool. Again, this area is for Yacht Club members only.

The Infinity Pool is all the way aft. These two whirlpools provide some stunning views of the ship’s wake.

Finally, the waterpark is located on Deck 18 just forward of the Long Island Pool. Here you’ll find a rocking splash pad and some pretty fast waterslides that made this 40-something feel like a kid again!

Book Your Next Vacation with MSC Cruises – Ready to sail the with MSC? We can help. Follow the link to our travel agency for help finding the best deals and booking the perfect itinerary! Get started here.

Onboard Dining

Let’s face it: When it comes to food, everybody’s tastes are different.

Over the years, my palate has become a bit more discerning. With that said, I’ve always found the food on MSC Cruises to land somewhere between mediocre and good. That hasn’t changed on the MSC Seashore.

Keep in mind that, on any given sailing, the clientele is typically at least 50% Europeans. Because of this, food options tend to skew more toward a Mediterranean menu than typical American tastes. Personally, I like that because I can find plenty of healthy food options.

Don’t worry though – no matter your tastes you won’t go hungry. There is plenty of food on board – including pizza, burgers, and more – so you are sure to find something you’ll like.

Marketplace Buffet is the ship’s main buffet and is located midship on Deck 16. Here you’ll find options like pasta, burgers, salads, and much more. You can also grab a delicious slice of MSC pizza almost any time of day!

(Hot tip: Don’t wait around to grab your food at the buffet. Generally speaking, European guests don’t naturally fall into a queue. So, find what you want, step in, and grab it. If not, you’ll be standing “politely” in line while waiting to eat all day!)

The ship’s two main dining rooms serve plated a la carte dinners every evening. These are typically pretty yummy, although some meals don’t always hit the mark. You can also visit one of the restaurants for a nice breakfast and lunch if you like.

Dining in the Yacht Club Restaurant is similar to the main dining rooms – except the food is a bit better. They also have special nights, like lobster night. Yacht Club also comes with “Anytime Dining” which we think is a plus.

Finally, don’t miss out on the Seashore’s five specialty restaurants – four of which are located in Chef’s Court. In my opinion, this is where you’ll find the best food on the ship. If it is in your budget, I highly recommend getting a package and trying at least three of these restaurants.

Ocean Cay caters to seafood lovers while Butcher’s Cut is great for meat and seafood lovers alike. Dinner and a “show” at Kato Teppanyaki makes for a deliciously fun night out while HOLA! Tacos and Cantina will fill your cravings for Mexican food.

If you like sushi, you have to try the Kato Sushi Bar. Here, you’ll get to choose which dishes you want by grabbing them off of a conveyor belt in front of you. It is super fun and the food is simply delicious.

Kids Club and Teen Areas

One of my favorite thing about MSC Cruises is how family-friendly they are. Honestly, they really do make every effort cater to families – especially those with young children and teens. In fact, kids age 17 and younger sail free on many itineraries!

On board the ship, you’ll also find the MSC Kids Club and Teens Club. These facilities are available to all guests, free of charge.

The Kids Club is supervised, making it especially great for families and parents who need a break. Our kids have outgrown the kids club now, but they used to absolutely love it when they were younger. Although we haven’t used the club on this ship, on our past sailings, we’ve given it a massive two thumbs up!

The Teens Club area is a fun spot for older kids to meet, gather, and hang out. They have plenty of places to chill, play video games, and more.

Additionally, the Seashore has a very solid arcade area. This is also where you’ll find the F1 simulator, XD Cinema, and more.

MSC Seashore Review: Final Thoughts

The MSC Seashore is a magnificent ship that is perfect for your next cruising vacation. Whether you’re a couple, family, or group, we think you’ll love this ship!

Like with all MSC Cruises, the staff members on board are simply wonderful. I’ve yet to meet a staff member who won’t bend over backwards to help you.

MSC’s European vibe might feel a bit foreign to some American cruisers, however, we find that it adds to the experience. Once you relax into it, we believe you’ll think so too.

If you’re considering a trip on the MSC Seashore, don’t hesitate. This ship is amazing and we highly recommend that you check it out for yourself.

Feel free to ask any questions or drop any comments below. Until next time, happy traveling!

Book Your Trip on the MSC Seashore – Find great deals, explore itineraries, and book your next vacation on the MSC Seashore! We can help you get started here.

Want to know more? Check out these other MSC Cruise reviews:

• MSC Meraviglia Review
• MSC Seaside Review
• MSC Bellissima Review
• MSC Divina Review

Greg Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty and an expert in personal finance, family travel, and credit card rewards. His work and commentary have been featured in publications like Newsweek , Kiplinger’s Personal Finance , Dough Roller , CreditCardReviews.com , and more. He also works as a freelance personal finance editor at Bankrate.com.

Greg travels the world for about 20 weeks each year and has visited over 40 countries. He holds two bachelor's degrees, is the co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt , and owns his own independent travel agency. Learn more about Greg here.

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How MSC’s private island experience is different for cruisers in suites

Do you enjoy large cruise ships but still want to feel like you're in the lap of luxury? Passengers booked in MSC Cruises' Yacht Club cabins and suites have access to high-end amenities – both on the ship and off.

Butlers, exclusive dining and a private pool delight guests on board, but perks also await on MSC 's private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve , in the Bahamas. You can expect dedicated trams, towel service and a chance to book the nicest cabanas on the island, among other extras.

Read on to find out how the MSC Yacht Club Ocean Cay experience differs from that of the average cruiser.

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

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club beaches vs. regular beaches

MSC's Ocean Cay Marine Reserve private island is home to seven (soon to be eight) beaches, and all are public, except one — Ocean House Beach, which is the Yacht Club's exclusive swath of sand. Beyond its exclusivity, the beach has a few other differences from the island's regular beaches.

There, use of lounge chairs and umbrellas is free. Chairs at the other beaches are also free and available on a first-come, first-served basis; however, umbrellas come with an extra cost.

Passengers must sign out towels on board the ship before heading ashore to Ocean Cay's main beaches. Yacht Club passengers can skip that hassle and ask for towels at the towel tent found on Ocean House Beach.

Interestingly, I found that several of the public beaches were less crowded than Ocean House Beach. At the latter, chairs were positioned much more closely to one another. If you're willing to walk or hitch a ride on one of the island's trams, you'll find fewer crowds on the farther beaches than if you stick close to the ship.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club food vs. regular dining

Free lunch is included for all cruisers who visit Ocean Cay. For Yacht Club travelers, the Ocean House Restaurant — an exclusive waiter-served dining venue where passengers enjoy their meals on a shaded porch — exudes upscale beach vibes.

During my visit, the menu included starters like crab ceviche, charred octopus and a salad with romaine, tomatoes, jicama, a poached egg and candied bacon in a citrus dressing. Mains featured locally sourced blackened mahi-mahi, lobster roll, carne asada, a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich and one of the best burgers I've ever tasted during a cruise — a blend of Angus chuck, short ribs and grilled brisket with red onion jam and Monterey Jack cheese. Desserts consisted of creme caramel, mango cheesecake and chocolate cake with coffee sauce.

The meals at Ocean House are definitely superior to the fare found at the Seakers buffet, which is where cruisers not staying in the Yacht Club can go for a beach barbecue that serves hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, macaroni and cheese, red beans, roasted potatoes and a slew of salads, drinks and desserts.

The food is tasty, but lines can be long. An alternative is to head to one of several food trucks throughout the island. Some are free and dole out the same items offered on the buffet but with shorter lines. Others sell entirely different menu items — lobster grilled cheese, fried calamari, shrimp with watermelon, Caribbean ceviche and octopus salad — with the cost charged to cruisers' onboard accounts.

Additionally — and also for an extra fee — a stand near the ship offers specialty coffee and ice cream. (If you're a coffee lover, trust me when I say you won't want to miss the Coco-Nilla Latte.)

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club cabanas vs. regular cabanas

There are three types of cabanas on Ocean Cay: Ocean Cay Beach Cabanas, Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas and Beachfront Yacht Club Cabanas. All three types are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

They can hold up to six people each and include cold water, beach towels and chairs, as well as floating mats for use in the water. As the prices increase, so does the number of inclusions. The last two types are only available for booking by Yacht Club passengers.

Ocean Cay Beach Cabanas, found on South Beach, North Beach and Bimini Beach, are the most affordable on the island at $250 for the day. They've got walls on three sides, and they're outfitted with cushioned couches. They include the basic amenities mentioned above, and anyone can rent them.

Next up are the Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas, which cost $400 for the day and also entitle you to free lunch and drinks, as well as fresh fruit skewers, four sets of snorkel gear and four floating mats. They're found on the Yacht Club's private Ocean House Beach, so they're off-limits to non-Yacht Club guests.

The most expensive, however, are the Beachfront Yacht Club Cabanas, located in a different section of the Ocean House area. They carry a $450 price tag but offer all the same extras as Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas.

The draw? They're closer to the water and, therefore, have better views. Although they aren't on the main part of Ocean House Beach, they are still in the exclusive area, near the restaurant, so you don't have to go far to grab food.

Ultimately, the only thing being in the Yacht Club affords you in this case is the option to book more expensive cabanas.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club trams vs. regular trams

At 95 acres, Ocean Cay is sizable. If you're fit, you can walk from one end to the other in about 15 minutes, but if you don't have great mobility or if you're easily overheated, reaching some of the island's more remote beaches can be difficult on foot. That's why MSC offers tram shuttles.

Passengers in standard cabins will find tram stops with shaded waiting areas throughout the island. However, waits can be long, especially if many other people are also in need of a lift.

Yacht Club cruisers can take advantage of trams exclusively for the Yacht Club. They run between a special tent (with free cold water to sip while you wait) set up just inside the entrance to Ocean Cay and the Ocean House beach and restaurant area.

You can make special requests for stops, which the regular trams usually won't accommodate. For example, you might ask to go straight from the tent to South Beach for a volleyball game without stopping anywhere else first.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club activities vs. regular activities

This is the one category where the island's public spaces beat the Ocean House area by a mile. If you're looking for something to do other than eating, drinking or lazing by the beach, you'll have to head back toward the ship because there's not much going on in the exclusive areas.

Everything from massages, lighthouse tours and water sports equipment rentals to beach parties, volleyball games and shore excursions takes place elsewhere. However, perhaps that's by design. The Yacht Club is generally quiet, even on board, and the line likely prefers to keep the raucousness to other locations.

Bottom line

The MSC Yacht Club experience is more exclusive than the standard one at Ocean Cay, with extras like butler service, dedicated trams, towel service, access to pricier cabanas and a private beach and restaurant with better food and shorter waits.

However, all of the action — shore excursions, pickup volleyball games, beach parties, the lighthouse show — happens in the areas that are accessible to everyone, which significantly levels the playing field.

Additionally, items like specialty coffee, ice cream and for-fee food truck orders cost extra for everyone — even Yacht Club passengers.

Overall, Ocean Cay offers a great day for anyone who enjoys the beach, regardless of cabin type.

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

Ship-within-a-Ship Cruise Options: Luxury Service on Big Cruises

H ow do you get the luxury and guest-to-crew ratio of a small ship experience but on a larger cruise? The answer is simple: a ship-within-a-ship cruise class.

Major cruise lines have jumped onboard this special class, especially within the last decade. It's easy to see why it's attractive. It offers cruisers upgraded service and exclusive access while also enjoying the ship's entertainment, dining,g and amenities with the rest of the ship's passengers.

If you want to feel like a bigger fish in the pond of people onboard, or if you want to experience more privacy and service than the average cruisers onboard, ship-within-a-ship options are for you.

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What is a Ship-within-a-Ship cruise?

There's no denying that large cruise ships (including some “mega-ships,” as some people call them) can offer cruisers things that smaller ships, like river cruise ships or yachts , cannot. However, if you want multiple restaurants to choose from that are each themed to a specific cuisine, or large-scale stage shows, a casino, ice-skating rink, or a rock climbing wall, for instance, you'll have to cruise big.

Large cruise companies created a fantastic offering that means you can have the best of both worlds in cruising in some ways. Big ships have taken the luxurious and intimate ambiance of small-scale cruises and coupled them with their abundance of onboard offerings, deeming it a “ship-within-a-ship” cruise class.

Though mega-ships can never go into smaller ports that small-ship adventures offer, they have created a nice niche on board for a specific clientele.

Each cruise line has named it something unique to their company to help identify the niche brand within their recognizable cruise name — for example, “ Celebrity Cruises The Retreat .”

Which cruise lines offer this special cruise class?

The major brands that offer this ship-within-a-ship cruise class include:

• MSC Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Disney Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line

While Princess Cruises doesn't have something like The Retreat or The Haven, like Celebrity Cruises or Royal Caribbean have, they have their MedallionClass. The device that works with the Princess Medallion class does make it feel like a special experience in its own way.

General perks of Ship-within-a-Ship cruise class

Precise details of each cruise line's ship-within-a-ship offerings differ. However, here are some perks you can generally expect if you choose to book this category:

• Early boarding
• Beverages included
• Included Wifi
• Separate and more private dining areas
• Butler service
• Priority seatings and bookings

Price point for this elevated cruise class

It's nearly impossible to quote exact prices for ship-within-a-ship cruise concepts. This is because each cruise sailing varies, no matter the cruise category you choose. This is affected by the length and location of the sailing, the cruise line, where your stateroom is on the ship, etc.

However, overall, guests can expect to pay a premium for premium service. Below, we've done our best to give you a general idea of what each experience will cost.

MSC Cruises: Yacht Club

MSC's offering is their “Yacht Club.” Guests need to be staying in one of the Yacht Club suites to be part of the ship-within-a-ship cruise with MSC. (In other words, the Yacht Club services are not something that guests can add as an upgrade to a different type of stateroom.)

Suites on the MSC Seashore, for example, which sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Miami, range from 226 square feet to 1,059 square feet in the Owner's Suite. Overall, about 4% of the people onboard MSC Seashore can be a part of the Yacht Club; there are only 122 Yacht Club suites onboard out of 2,270 staterooms.

Of those 122, 107 Yacht Club suites have balconies. About 15 of the suites are interior cabins – the rest have outside views. This variety of interior and exterior cabins makes it possible for MSC to offer various price points to guests desiring a Yacht Club experience.

The suites are all located on the ship's upper decks: 16, 18, and 19. The Yacht Club restaurants and exclusive amenities are nearby on the same decks, also towards the front of the ship.

MSC Yacht Club's included services

• Priority boarding.
• 24-hour butler service.
• Exclusive restaurant and lounge.
• Exclusive pool and hot tubs.
• Complimentary drinks.
• Complementary wifi.
• Complementary access to the Thermal Suite at the Aurea Spa for the duration of the cruise.
• Private shopping experiences onboard, with your butler as your shopping escort .
• Private shore excursions.

MSC Yacht Club Dining

The Yacht Club on MSC ships is both a cruise category and physical area. Within the Yacht Club, there is an indoor Yacht Club Restaurant, an outdoor Yacht Club Grill & Bar, and the Top Sail Lounge, both indoor and outdoor. Those exclusive dining areas are only available to Yacht Club guests and feature sophisticated and unique meals and snack offerings.

Ships to Experience MSC Yacht Club

Book a cruise on the following ships to experience MSC Yacht Club:

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

Pricepoint of MSC Yacht Club

The Yacht Club is a good upgrade if you're looking for a ship-within-a-ship experience that won't break the bank. It can average to be as little as $1,400 for a 7-day sailing (approximately $200 a day). When you couple that with the drinks and wifi, alone, that are included for that investment, never mind the upgraded dining, it seems like a no-brainer!

If you keep an eye on their website and search the cruise options frequently, you may even spot some bargains for MSC Yacht Club. If one presents itself, lock it in!

Holland America Line: Neptune Suites

Enjoy the perks of being in Neptune Suites on one of the longest-running cruise lines, Holland America Line . You'll feel that extra special care as you luxuriate in the suite class's own lounge and cabanas.

Holland America Line: Neptune Suites included services

• Access to the Neptune Lounge
• Dedicated Shore Excursions Desk in the lounge
• Fresh flowers
• In-suite espresso machine
• Premium bathrobes
• Exclusive tote
• Priority check-in and disembarkation
• Priority tendering where applicable

Norwegian Cruise Line: The Haven

The ship-within-a-ship cruise experience aboard Norwegian Cruise Line is called The Haven.

Norwegian's Haven staterooms range in size from 309 square feet for a Deluxe Spa Suite with a Balcony, all the way up to over 6,694 square feet for the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa. (Yes, that's much larger than most people's homes!) The Garden Villa can accommodate up to six guests, and there's even a private hot tub and private dining area.

This is a great way to get that small-ship feeling on a mega-ship with entertainment and amenities far beyond what a small cruise ship can offer.

The Haven suites and its exclusive areas are generally located at the top of the ship.

Norwegian: The Haven included services

Here are just some of the included services you get when you book The Haven category on an NCL ship:

• Priority boarding for embarkation and disembarkation and at ports of call.
• Concierge service for anything from booking exursions to dining.
• Exclusive The Haven restaurant and lounge.
• Exclusive courtyard and sundeck, reserved for guests of The Haven, which includes an area with a private pool, hot tub and fitness area.
• In-room dining with white tablecloth service.
• Evening turndown service and treats delivered to your suite each night.
• Luxury bath products and fine linens.
• Invitation to exclusive cocktail parties.
• Priority restaurant reservations and entertainment seating .
• In-room bathrobes, slippers and oversized towels.

The Haven Dining

Guests of The Haven have the option to dine at an additional restaurant that other guests on the ship cannot go to unless they're part of NCL's ship-within-a-ship category. This special dining option is The Haven Restaurant. On Breakaway and Breakaway Plus class Norwegian ships, there is a special lounge and bar area for The Haven as well.

The Haven Ships

The Haven is offered on Norwegian Cruise Line's newer ships. This includes the following nine vessels:

• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Jade
• Norwegian Jewel
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Pearl

Pricepoint of The Haven

In general, The Haven costs about double or triple what a balcony stateroom or club balcony suite costs for the same sailing. However, exact prices depend on the cruise, which often varies with availability depending on your search.

For example, a 7-day Caribbean cruise that costs $700 for an inside cabin or $935 for a balcony, costs $3,000 for The Haven.

Celebrity Cruises: The Retreat

Celebrity Cruises offer modern ships that appeal to all ages, but particularly adults with a penchant for modernity on a luxury cruise line. The Retreat is a resort-within-a-resort, of sorts, taking the ship-within-a-ship cruise concept to a new level.

After you take a plunge in your private Retreat-only pool you can relax in your Celebrity Suite and call upon your dedicated Personal Retreat Host to deliver champagne. You can also dine in Luminae , The Retreat-only restaurant.

Suites range from 319 square feet with an additional verandah for a Sky Suite, to Iconic Suites with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, which are 1,892 square feet. They also include a verandah that's bigger than most staterooms onboard, at 689 square feet and has a private hot tub.

Read our Extensive Review of The Retreat on Celebrity Apex

Some included benefits of Celebrity Cruises The Retreat

• Priority check-in, departure, and port tendering/boarding
• Upgraded bedding
• Upgraded bath products
• Premium drinks
• Included wifi
• A credit for shore excursions
• Onboard credit to use how you choose (which equates to anywhere from $200 to $400 per person, depending on the length of your cruise)
• Prepaid gratuities
• Pre-cruise concierge, available in days leading up to the cruise before you board
• Reserved theater seating
• Access to The Retreat Sundeck (available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships – unavailable on Celebrity Solstice, Eclipse, Reflection, Constellation, and Infinity), cabanas, and hot tubs
• Entry to The Retreat Lounge (or Michael’s Club, on non-revolutionized ships)
• Access to The Retreat private restaurant,  Luminae
• Complimentary beverages at The Retreat Lounge

The Retreat Ships

The Retreat is available on all Celebrity Cruises ships listed below:

• Celebrity Apex℠
• Celebrity Beyond℠
• Celebrity Constellation®
• Celebrity Edge®
• Celebrity Eclipse®
• Celebrity Equinox®
• Celebrity Infinity ®
• Celebrity Millenium®
• Celebrity Reflection®
• Celebrity Silhouette®
• Celebrity Solstice®
• Celebrity Summit®

It's also available on the following Celebrity Galapagos Expedition Series ships:

• Celebrity Flora®
• Celebrity Xpedition®
• Celebrity Xploration®

Pricepoint of Celebrity Cruises: The Retreat

The entry price for The Retreat with Celebrity Cruises depends on what itinerary and location you're booking. For instance, pricing for a 7-day Caribbean cruise with The Retreat starts at just over $2,200 but for an Alaskan cruise, it's over $6,000. Expect to pay in the thousands, as is typical with any ship-within-a-ship cruise experience.

Check out our extensive review of The Retreat and find out all the reasons why we loved it!

Royal Caribbean: Royal Suite Class

Royal Caribbean has an option for the Royal Caribbean International's Suites Program on their ships. However, the Royal Suite Class is an upgraded option beyond their International Suites Program that is available on 10 of their vessels (they have over 25 ships in their fleet, total).

As the cruise line exclaims on its website, Royal Suite Class “embodies the best in luxury travel.” Guests can choose from three tiers of this ship-within-a-ship cruise option. Their Sea, Sky, and Star Suites will give you elite access to luxurious amenities, services, and areas of the Royal Caribbean cruise ships.

Sea Class gives you the least perks, yet more than a “normal” Royal Caribbean stateroom. Such upgrades include priority boarding at your port of embarkation as well as a dedicated check-in line, luxury bath products, and a robe in your suite. But the ultimate in luxury lies in the Star Class.

AShips to Book Royal Suite Class

Currently, Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is offered on 10 ships:

• Oasis of the Seas®
• Allure of the Seas®
• Harmony of the Seas®
• Symphony of the Seas®
• Wonder of the Seas®
• Quantum of the Seas®
• Anthem of the Seas®
• Ovation of the Seas®
• Spectrum of the Seas®
• Odyssey of the Seas ®

A taste of what Royal Suite Class's Star Class Category includes

To reiterate, there are three Royal Suite Classes aboard Royal Caribbean ships: Sea, Sky, and Star Suites. Sea Suites offer the least perks and Star Suites the most. The associated cost to book increases with each class. It's important to note that while the Sea Class has some added benefits above the usual stateroom booking, only the Sky and Star Classes have access to Royal Caribbean's Suite Sun Deck area.

Here is some of what the Star Class includes, above and beyond the usual ship-within-a-ship cruise upgrades like luxury linens and priority boarding:

• Royal Genie service (a dedicated team member who truly makes the guests of the Star Class feel like celebrities – only available for Star Class, not Sea or Sky).
• Complimentary deluxe beverage package.
• Included gratuities.
• Complimentary mini bar stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Pricepoint of Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class

There are so many cruise options with Royal Caribbean that it's nearly impossible to put a number on these cruises without looking up a specific sailing. But if you are looking for a Royal Suite Class experience, be sure you're looking for a cruise on one of their ships that offers it. (The 10 ships that offer it are listed above.)

We did a few searches and saw prices anywhere from $2,000 to $12,000 for a 7-night Caribbean cruise, with a starting price that was approximately $1,500 more than an inside stateroom and about $1,300 more than a balcony stateroom.

Cunard Queens and Princess Grill Suites

Cunard rolls out the red carpet for its Grill Suites guests. This company (which mostly sails in the United Kingdom) sends a clear message of luxury and elevated service. For instance, Grills Suites guests are served champagne and chocolates upon arrival and have exclusive access to special areas throughout the cruise.

The Princess Grill Suites are a step below the Queens Grill Suites but still a step above the usual staterooms onboard Cunard ships.

Included services with Cunard Queens Grill Suites

• Priority disembarkation in ports.
• Butler service.
• Pre-dinner canapés.
• Complimentary in-room bar.
• In-room dining from the Queens Grill menu or Princess Grill menu, corresponding to the class you book
• Access to Grills Lounge and Terrace (on applicable Cunard ships).
• Included drinks package (for cruises 7-nights or longer, and drinks $12 or below).
• Included hotel and dining service charges.
• Personalized stationery.
• Velour robes and slippers.

Cunard Ships offering Queens and Princess Grill Suites

The Grills Suites are offered on all three of their current ships and their fourth planned ship:

• Queen Mary 2
• Queen Victoria
• Queen Elizabeth
• Queen Anne (first sailings will be in early 2024)

Pricepoint of Cunard's Ship-within-a-Ship class

You can pay as low as $650 for a Grill Suite for a sailing that's just a few days, to upwards of $14,700 for a Grill Suite on a 32-day cruise.

For example, a 4-night cruise from Southampton (UK) to Hamburg (Germany) is $749 for an inside cabin and $1,599 for a Queens Grill Suite.

Grill Suites on a 7-night cruise off the Atlantic Coast and Iberia start at $2,369 per person, while an inside cabin on the same cruise is $755 per person. A balcony room is $971 per person on the same cruise. All that is to say that a Grill Suite, whether Princess or Queen category, will run at least $1,000 more per person.

Disney Cruise Line: Concierge

Disney Cruise Line's Concierge level gives guests special services and early access to the ship, bookings, and more aboard their beautiful cruise ships. Whether you're traveling on DCL as adults-only or as a whole family, you'll enjoy the best Disney has to offer and then some.

Their “ship-within-a-ship” concept doesn't necessarily equate to many private areas beyond the concierge lounge and a sun deck. Still, it does provide a white-glove service in other areas that are valuable to those desiring special treatment attached to the Disney name.

If you book a suite at their concierge level, the DCL world opens up to you for even more luxury and priority services beyond the minimum of what Disney is well known for.

Concierge suites are on Decks 11 or 12 on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream and Decks 8 and 10 on the Disney Magic and Wonder. On the Disney Wish , Concierge suites are found on Decks 10, 11, 12, and 13, with limited 2-level suites, including the incredible Concierge Wish Tower Suite.

Overall, Disney Cruise Line's concierge-level suites provide more square footage than their regular staterooms. They have custom finishings like teak wood details, crown molding, custom fabrics, and more aboard Disney Magic.

Disney Cruise Line's Concierge suites are offered on all of their Disney Cruise Line ships (but not aboard Adventures by Disney river cruises .)

What's Included with DCL's Concierge Level

• Requests for onboard activities and services start 125 days out (whereas other guests are usually only able to book 90 days out, depending on the length of their cruise).
• Dedicated Concierge Services Specialist, available Monday through Saturday for pre-trip planning before you board.
• Priority boarding when you check-in to embark .
• Upgraded pillow options (choose from hypoallergenic, feather, or therapeutic memory foam).
• Feather duvet covers in the main bedroom.
• Custom robe and slippers for onboard use.
• Complimentary wifi up to 100MB.
• The Concierge Lounge has complimentary food and nonalcoholic beverages throughout the day.
• Sun deck, which is accessible for Concierge guests via a private entrance where there are cooling water misters, cushioned lounge chairs, and a bar stocked with water and refreshments.

Pricepoint of Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Level

Generally speaking, Concierge suites start at double what a verandah stateroom costs on a Disney Cruise Line sailing. For example, an Oceanview cabin on a 5-Night West Caribbean cruise from the Port of Miami, Florida is $2,525, and a verandah stateroom is $3,125, for two guests.

But concierge suites for the same cruise start around $6,600. Often concierge-level costs more than that, depending on the cruise dates and itinerary. (We've seen upwards of 3xs the cost of a verandah room.)

Going on a cruise? Also check out:

• Awesome Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Fans & People Going on a Cruise
• River Cruise vs Ocean Cruise: What’s the Difference?
• Helpful Info about Luminae in The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

An Insider's Guide to Moscow Nightlife

As a city that never sleeps, Moscow is known for its vibrant nightlife as much as for its stunning architecture. Having a plethora of choice, you may need someone to guide guide you through the club scene of Russia’s capital. Read on for the best places to take you through the night.

One of Moscow’s oldest nightclubs, Propaganda is an iconic spot that’s been around since the 1990s. Featuring deliberately shabby interiors, Propaganda, affectionately called “ propka ” by regulars, still gathers crowds even on weekdays. The club is particularly favored for scoring world-class DJs, hosting gay parties on Sundays and offering tasty and inexpensive food .

7 Bolshoy Zlatoustinsky Pereulok, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 624 5732

Another legendary spot, frequented by the cool crowd, this bar was founded by celebrated Russian designer Denis Simachev. Fancier and pricier than Propaganda, it’s worth a visit if only for eclectic interiors and salmon pizza.

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12 Stoleshnikov Pereulok, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 629 80 85

Nauka i Iskusstvo

Tiny and nondescript, Nauka i Iskusstvo (‘Science and Art’) is all about the music . Although there are no fancy cocktails, glitzy interiors or bohemian entourage, the club hosts some of the best electronic parties, hip music gigs and cool designer shows.

13/15 Nastavnichesky Pereulok, bld.3, Moscow, Russia

One of Moscow’s quirkiest nightclubs, Squat ¾ occupies the basement of the former Central Baths building. Instagrammed by Moscow’s it-girls, the club is famous for gothic techno-balls and bohemian raves. Apart from the club and a bar, it is also home to a Greek cafe, barber shop and fashion store.

3 Teatralny Proyezd, Bld. 4, Moscow, Russia , +7 967 162 6062

The newest venue on the list, Pluton is located on the premises of the hip design center Artplay. Despite the high ceilings of a former industrial building and tiled walls, Pluton feels strangely homely and comforting. Opened in 2017, this is not a nightclub in the traditional sense. Pluton promotes all kinds of events: from cathartic ambient, to jazz music to art-performances.

8A Nizhnyaya Syromyatnicheskaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia , +7 903 254 2669

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc17o50FqNO/?taken-by=plutonplace

Another Artplay resident, Rodnya is a rooftop club that hosts resident DJ sets and international bands on tour. In summer you can dance until sunrise on the club’s rooftop terrace.

5/7 Nizhnyaya Syromyatnicheskaya Ulitsa, bld.7, Moscow, Russia , +7 925 003 559

Aglomerat is a multi-purpose art space, housed in the former Mars factory. With a spectacularly dystopian interiors, it plays host to all kinds of events – from movie screenings and art exhibitions , to metal band shows and rave nights.

3 Kostomarovsky Pereulok, Bldg. 12, Moscow, Russia , +7 968 450 8760

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