Despite its pummelling by the Luftwaffe and some disastrous postwar urban sprawl, the thousand-year-old city of Southampton has retained some of its medieval charm in parts and reinvented itself as a twenty-first century shopping centre in others, with the giant glass-and-steel West Quay as its focus. Core of the modern town is the Civic Centre, a short walk east of the train station and home to the excellent Southampton City Art Gallery that’s particularly strong on contemporary British artists. The Western Esplanade runs alongside the best remaining bits of the old city walls. Rebuilt after a French attack in 1338, they incorporate God’s House Tower, at the southern end of the old town in Winkle Street, which currently houses the Museum of Archaeology. Best preserved of the city’s seven gates is Bargate, at the opposite end of the old town, at the head of the High Street; it’s an elaborate structure, cluttered with lions, classical figures and defensive apertures. A shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise from Southampton can be the opportunity to discover the capital of England, London. For the visitor, London is a thrilling place. Monuments from the capital’s glorious past are everywhere, from medieval banqueting halls and the great churches of Christopher Wren to the eclectic Victorian architecture of the triumphalist British Empire. You can relax in the city’s quiet Georgian squares, explore the narrow alleyways of the City of London, wander along the riverside walks, and uncover the quirks of what is still identifiably a collection of villages. The capital’s great historical landmarks – Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and so on – draw in millions of tourists every year.
31 Jul 2022
At Sea
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01:00
1 Aug 2022
At Sea
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01:00
2 Aug 2022
Cadiz
08:00
21:00
Cádiz is among the oldest settlements in Spain and one of the country’s principal ports. On an MSC Mediterranean cruise excursion, you can visit its old town, built on a peninsula-island, and remaining much as it must have looked in those days, with grand, open squares, sailors’ alleyways and high, turreted houses. Literally crumbling from the effect of the sea air on its soft limestone, it has a tremendous atmosphere – while slightly seedy, definitely in decline, it is nevertheless full of mystique. The Museo de Cádiz, the province’s most important, overlooks the leafy Plaza de Mina and incorporates the archaeological museum on the ground floor with many important finds and artefacts from the city’s lengthy history. Almost irresistible, even if you don’t normally go for High Baroque, is the attraction of the huge and seriously crumbling eighteenth-century Catedral Nueva. Cádiz is one of Spain’s top holiday cruise destinations for its cathedral, too, decorated entirely in stone, with no gold in sight, and in absolutely perfect proportions. On the edge of the Barrio del Populo, the city’s oldest quarter dating from the Middle Ages, lies the “old” or original cathedral, Santa Cruz. This was one of the buildings severely knocked during the English assault on Cádiz in 1596, causing the thirteenth-century church to be substantially rebuilt. A fine Gothic entry portal survived, and inside there’s a magnificent seventeenth-century retablo with sculptures by Martínez Montañés. A first-century-BC Roman theatre has been excavated behind. Much closer to us in time, instead, is the eighteenth-century mansion, Torre Tavira, with the tallest tower in the city, from where there are great views over the rooftops to the sea beyond. In addition, one of the most impressive Baroque buildings in the city, the chapel of the Hospital de las Mujeres, houses a brilliant El Greco painting.
3 Aug 2022
Malaga
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17:00
The elegant central zone of Málaga – a stop-off on your MSC cruise of the Mediterranean – is largely pedestrianized with the focal point, marble-paved Calle Marqués de Larios, lined with fashionable stores, its most elegant thoroughfare. Plaza de la Constitución, Málaga’s main square, hosts a monumental fountain flanked by slender palms and the terraces of numerous cafés and restaurants. Málaga centre has a number of interesting churches and museums, not to mention the birthplace of Picasso and the Museo Picasso Málaga, housing an important collection of works by Málaga’s most famous son. Perched on the hill above the town are the formidable citadels of the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, magnificent vestiges of the seven centuries that the Moors held sway here. Málaga is also renowned for its fish and seafood, which can be sampled at tapas bars and restaurants throughout the city, as well as at the old fishing villages of El Palo and Pedregalejo, now absorbed into the suburbs, where there’s a seafront paseo lined with some of the best marisquerías and chiringuitos (beachside fish restaurants) in the province. The impressive Alcazaba is the place to make for if you’re joining a shore excursion. Clearly visible from your cruise ship, to the left of its entrance on c/Acazabilla stands the Roman Theatre accidentally discovered in 1951, and – following excavation and restoration – now a venue for various outdoor entertainments. The citadel, too, is Roman in origin, with blocks and columns of marble interspersed among the Moorish brick of the double- and triple-arched gateways. Above the Alcazaba, and connected to it by a long double wall (the coracha), is the Gibralfaro castle. Like the Alcazaba, it has been wonderfully restored and now houses an interesting museum devoted to its history.
4 Aug 2022
Alicante
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22:00
Valencia and Castellón make up the three provinces of the Valencian Community, which covers 23,500 km² and is situated on the eastern coast of the peninsula. The coast is 485 km long and borders with Cataluña in the north and Murcia in the south. Alicante with its beautiful boulevard and pleasant shopping street is one of the most well known towns on the Costa Blanca. The coast of Alicante and the Costa Blanca owe its name to the beaches stretching for several kilometres and attract many sun worshippers and pleasure seekers.
5 Aug 2022
Palma de Mallorca
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01:00
The port city of Palma, an MSC Mediterranean Cruises destination, lies on the south coast of Mallorca. Founded in 124 B.C., Palma is celebrated for its medieval streets, jaw-dropping architecture, and ancient fortified walls. See buildings such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria which features designs by Gaudí and one of the world’s largest stained-glass windows, or the Gothic Bellver castle with its circular centre and eye-catching towers.
Twice every night, six nights a week, guests on MSC Virtuosa have the unique opportunity to see two original shows by Cirque du Soleil, the world leader in live artistic entertainment, and savour a superb culinary experience in the same glamorous venue. The Carousel Lounge is a technology-packed, entertainment and dining venue designed especially to meet the needs of Cirque du Soleil. This custom-built lounge can accommodate up to 450 guests, including more than 100 enjoying the full show-and-dining experience.
Polar Aquapark
One of the most intricate and exciting water parks at sea, with three twisting slides, a ‘Himalayan Bridge’ and a range of pools, features and activities for all ages.
TV Studio & Bar
This high-tech, multi-purpose space houses a radio broadcast suite and a TV studio broadcasting live games, quizzes, talent contests and other fun content across the ship. It also serves as an atmospheric comedy club, karaoke bar and live music venue.
Attic Club
Party with friends, enjoy a nightcap or simply dance into the small hours at the stylish onboard nightclub.
Sportsplex
The large and spacious amusement park provides a large arena where young guests can play sports and games during the daytime… then socialise, party and dance the evenings away.
F1 Simulator
Our amazing on-board F1 Simulator delivers an adrenaline-pumping virtual-reality race, with you in the driver’s seat of an F1 racing car. Go head to head against other racers and thrill to the feel of engines gunning. Huge fun for the young and the young at heart, regardless of who wins the race. Available on MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Divina, MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia and MSC Preziosa Type of service: Charges apply
White Party
It’s all white for a night with dazzling décor and costumes to suit the theme, plus a special performance starring our theatre cast. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
MSC Factor
Think you’ve got what it takes to be a star in our on-board talent competition, The MSC Factor? Then come and showcase what you can do in the most exciting talent show at sea. Whatever your specific talent may be, don’t be shy – come and show the world what it’s been missing. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Sailaway Party
A start-of-the-cruise event celebrating the ship’s departure, led by the Entertainment Team and Dancers in a spectacular Costume Parade. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Beer Festival
Fun-packed festive celebrations with a Bavarian flair – decorations, costumes, games, music and of course beer. There’s even a Master of Beer competition and a 6-metre-tall inflatable beer mug. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Arcade
While away a few enjoyable hours of game play at the Arcade on board the ship. Pit your wits and skill against those of your friends in any number of typical arcade options, including video games, pinball and more. Great fun guaranteed. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
MSC Aurea Spa
MSC Aurea Spa boasts an exotic interior of natural stone, precious woods and rich mosaics, and is equipped with specific and massage treatment suites. Being pampered by a traditional Balinese Massage is a truly unique experience. Thanks to a blend of scented essences and aromatic oils, your body is enveloped in an endlessly peaceful and relaxing aura. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Medi Spa Center
Relaxing on one of our ships will do wonders for you, but we also have a few secrets on board to help you look and feel even better. Make the most of our range of safe and effective Anti-Ageing treatments and return from your cruise visibly rejuvenated. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Thermal Area
Get a lasting sensation of absolute wellbeing that will accompany you well beyond your cruise. All our ships are equipped with a Thermal Area where you can enjoy a soothing sauna, a relaxing steam or an invigorating whirlpool bath. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Beauty Salon
You can enjoy the expertise of highly specialised staff in aesthetic treatments to offer you excellent results and improve the relaxing effects of your cruise. Customize your cruise with the best treatments for your body. Unwind and feel fantastic! Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Jean Louis Hair Salon
Refresh your look with a new hairstyle from our Jean Louis David International Team. There are different packages which include a personalised shampoo & conditioning mask, a haircut and a single process colour treatment. Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening onboard. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Power Walking Track
Enjoying time off on your cruise doesn’t need to mean letting your fitness routine slide, so gear up and rendezvous with the power walking and jogging track on deck to get your daily exercise fix while also savouring outstanding ocean views. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Basketball
Come to the outdoor basketball court at the Sport Center for a chance to hang out with friends, have fun shooting hoops and enjoy a full-body workout at the same time. You may not make the latest line-up of the Harlem Globetrotters, but you’re sure to have a great time. Available on: all MSC Ships except MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Preziosa. Type of service: Included
Tennis Court
Anyone for tennis? Play to your heart’s content at the outdoor tennis court of our on-board Sport Center. Tennis is ideal for getting some healthy activity, honing your hand-to-eye coordination and having loads of fun. Game, set and match to you. Available on: all MSC Ships except MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Preziosa Type of service: Included
Volleyball
Fast-paced, energetic and a ton of fun to play, volleyball is one of the world’s most popular team sports and one you can enjoy at the outdoor volleyball court at the on-board Sport Center. Burn some calories and get a thorough cardio-vascular workout while you land a kill and beat the opposing team. Available on: all MSC Ships except MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Preziosa Type of service: Included
Five-a-Side Football
Fancy a game of footy? Your wish can be granted at the outdoor five-a-side football pitch at the Sport Center. Team up with some friends or family and play a match against another on-board team. A great way to have fun, get active and turn strangers into friends. Available on: all MSC Ships except MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Preziosa Type of service: Included
Gym by TECHNOGYM®
Fitted with authentic TechnoGym® equipment and featuring panoramic ocean views, the on-board gym is the place to be for all those who take their fitness regime seriously. Hone your physique with a full set of TechnoGym® apparatus every day of your cruise to look better than ever before. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Swimming Pools
If a bit of poolside therapy sounds like your idea of heaven, look no further than one of our numerous swimming pools to get your fill of sun and relaxation, while our pool attendants can cater to your every need. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
BABY CLUB 0-2
A dedicated area and a range of facilities for babies and toddlers to enjoy. The clubs include two special services: MSC Baby Time: babies can play with their parents MSC Baby Care: parents can leave their babies with the Youth Staff On several ships* kids under 3 age can play in Chicco Baby Club. Chosen by the Osservatorio Chicco Baby Research Centre, our selection of modern, fun and educational toys and games will entertain our smallest guests for hours. From learning to play in English, to music and rhythm. *available on: MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, and MSC Opera. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
MINI CLUB 3-6
Kids from 3 to 6 years of age will enjoy many fun activities specially catered for their age group. In addition, during the cruise little sailors can hold a special event called: LEGO® Experience On Board. On several MSC Cruise ships* kids can play with a great selection of LEGO® bricks and equipment in our Lego Clubs. And with a range of LEGO toys on sale on board each of our ships, you can give your kids the opportunity to express their creativity whenever and wherever they want! *available on: MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Splendida. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
JUNIOR CLUB 7-11
Every day, kids from 7 to 11 years of age will enjoy experimenting with a vast choice of games and activities specially catered for their needs. Let your kids dive into a world of entertainment with our sport tournaments, hi-tech games and art & craft activities. In addition, during the cruise little sailors can hold a special event called: LEGO® Experience On Board. On several MSC Cruise ships* kids can play with a great selection of LEGO® bricks and equipment in our Lego Clubs. And with a range of LEGO toys on sale on board each of our ships, you can give your kids the opportunity to express their creativity whenever and wherever they want! *available on: MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Splendida. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
YOUNG CLUB 12-14
Youngsters have a place of their own with fantastic supervised facilities where they can meet up and do their own thing. From themed games to sports and competitions, they will have a massive choice of activities to have fun and make new friends . Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
TEEN CLUB 15-17
Teenagers can look forward to having the time of their lives onboard, from sports and competitions, dance contests and social network games to Wii, Xbox and PS3 tournaments. And in the evening, they can enjoy the teen disco, karaoke, White Party, Flashmob and many other themed events. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
KELLY & KLOE
Kelly & Kloe Onboard is a web series that follows the story of two young girls – Kelly and Kloe – who spend time on board an MSC Cruises ship alongside their father – the Master. The full day of kids’ entertainment, designed around the “Kelly & Kloe” story, will allow children on board to explore the ship and play like “Kelly & Kloe” themselves, bringing to life the magic of the story. Kids will be able to learn the theme song and dance routine from the web series, take part in a selfie contest dressed up as characters from the story as well as have the chance to get creative by writing their very own episode to of the adventure story. Click here to find out more and watch all episodes. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
LEGO EXPERIENCE
Once during every cruise we hold a special entertainment event called the LEGO® Experience On Board: an entire day dedicated to fun LEGO activities for the whole family to enjoy. Thanks to this special activity your kids can spend hours building and creating whatever they want! Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Included
Photoshop
Smile! Our professional team of photographers constantly roam the ship, capturing wonderful memories every day. Be sure to stroll through the Photo Gallery daily, so you don’t miss one of their great shots of you and your loved ones enjoying your cruise. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Photo Portrait
A dedicated Studio Photographer will provide you with a unique photo opportunity to capture the special moments of your cruise. During a private consultation you will be presented with the best locations around the ship so you can choose where your photoshoot will take place. Every photo will be taken with top of the line equipment by our highly-skilled, studio photographer using creative lighting techniques. Pictures will be re-touched and edited, and printed on premium photo paper. After your session choose from our different packages and take home lasting memories. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
MSC Logo Shop
Infuse your cruise with gifts that spark magical memories of your voyage across the waves! Navigate the MSC Logo Shop for everything from gadgets to books and novelty gifts! You’ll also find MSC’s very own DOREMI Mascot right here in the MSC Shop. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Jewellery
A wonderland of all that sparkles; showcasing designs in gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones and watches. You’ll love the wide choice of jewellery, perfect as a special gift or to treat yourself, and at prices that will put an extra sparkle in your eye. Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Duty Free
Discover everything the Duty Free shop has to offer, all at tax and duty-free prices*. You can choose between top-flight international tobacco products, technology products, fine wines, chocolate, make up and travel essentials. Our expert staff can provide you with all the help you need to make the perfect choice. * We always give you the lowest tax and duty-free prices applicable in accordance with local legislation Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Fashion Boutique
Browse the latest collections for men, women and children, plus an array of accessories for all tastes. Enjoy the expert guidance of our staff, here to help you find something for the special people in your life, whatever their age and taste! Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Accessories
Top Italian brands such as Armani, Coccinelle, Furla and Fusaro feature alongside international names like Radley London, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. Here you are sure to find serious sartorial inspiration for bags and accessories! Available on: all MSC Ships Type of service: Charges apply
Special Requirement
Any guest with a condition that may affect fitness to travel, or any other special need, is asked to provide full details by filling in the appropriate form at the time of booking, and may be asked to submit a doctor’s certificate. The Company can refuse the booking or the carriage of any guest who is deemed to be unfit for travel or whose condition may constitute a danger to themselves, the vessel, aircraft and/ or other Guest on the grounds of safety.
Any specific transport and/on lodging and/or assistance needs must be communicated at the time the reservation.
Our guests who are pregnant and have exceeded their 24th week are also not invited to sail. This is due to the lack of medical equipment needed to accommodate their needs.
Disabled Facilities
On board have accessible cabins for all our guests. We also have wheelchair availability, hearing and visual aids. Guests with hearing impairments can opt for TDD systems kits to be in their cabins. Guests with visual impairments are advised to travel with a Carer – we also allow healthy and travel-safe guide dogs on board.
We ask our guests with specific requirements to inform travel agents before booking so we can prepare accommodations.
Special Diets
Most special diets can be catered for on board if requested when booking your cruise. Kosher meals (pre-packaged) and Halal products (beef, lamb and poultry) are available if requested at least two months before departure. MSC Cruise is certified by Bureau Veritas to provide gluten free menus worldwide in the main restaurants on board. Pre-packaged gluten-free snacks, biscuits, croissants, sponge cakes and muffins are also available on board.
