MSC Cruises
MSC Lirica
- Cruises
- 36
- From
- $130
Ship comparison
MSC Lirica vs Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Sun
- Cruises
- 18
- From
- $789
The verdict
Which should you choose?
MSC Lirica is a large MSC Cruises ship carrying 1,984 passengers, in service since 2003. Norwegian Sun is a large Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 1,936 passengers, in service since 2001.
Choose MSC Lirica if you want a lower starting fare, a more active cruise or more cruises to choose from: it outscores Norwegian Sun for active (5.0 vs 4.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores, its cruises start from $130 (vs $789) and it has 36 cruises on sale (vs 18).
Choose Norwegian Sun if you want more adventure and nature, a better-rated spa and gym or better-rated staterooms: it outscores MSC Lirica for adventure & nature (8.0 vs 4.0), spa & fitness (8.0 vs 6.0) and staterooms (8.0 vs 6.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores.
Side by side
Specifications
marks the better figure where more, or less, is plainly better.
| MSC Lirica | Norwegian Sun | |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise line | MSC Cruises | Norwegian Cruise Line |
| Ship size | Large | Large |
| Maiden voyagenewer highlighted | 2003 (better) | 2001 |
| Gross tonnage | 65,591 | 78,309 |
| Passengers | 1,984 | 1,936 |
| Crew | 700 | 953 |
| Passengers per crew memberfewer is better | 2.8 | 2.0 (better) |
| Space per passengergross tons per passenger; more is roomier | 33.1 | 40.4 (better) |
| Decks | 13 | 13 |
| Length | 902 ft | 848 ft |
| Beam | 95 ft | 108 ft |
| Speed | 24 mph | 26 mph |
| Cruiseable ratingout of 10 | 7 / 10 | 7 / 10 |
| Cruises on sale | 36 | 18 |
| Upcoming sailings | 249 | 34 |
| Cruise lengths | 2 to 13 nights | 7 to 21 nights |
| Fares fromlower highlighted | $130 (better) | $789 |
Bliss scores
How they rate, out of 10
Cruiseable rates ships out of 10 on ten parts of a cruise holiday. MSC Lirica leads on 1 of the ten, Norwegian Sun on 6, with 3 level.
- Active
- Adventure & nature
- Cultural
- Dining
- Entertainment
- Family friendly
- Party
- Romantic
- Spa & fitness
- Staterooms
MSC Cruises
MSC Lirica
The MSC Lirica offers cozy comfort in a traditional, elegant setting. Her timeless design and ambiance features gleaming marble, plush fabrics and fine artwork. If you are looking for a more casual resort ambiance, decorated in an opulent yet relaxed style, the MSC Lirica cruise ship is your ideal choice.
Highlights
- Catching a Broadway-style show in the 713-seat Broadway Theatre
- Tasting fresh-baked bread from the boulangerie
- Testing your luck at the onboard casino
Sailing now
36 cruises on sale, from $130.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Sun
The bright orange and yellow sun painted onto the side of this ship is just a glimpse into the bright, fun memories waiting to be made on board. Serving up a variety of dining venues, bars, lounges, entertainment, kid's activities and relaxation opportunities, Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sun is a hotspot for all travelers.
Highlights
- 16 global dining choices to suit your every mood
- Private balconies available in an Owner's Suite or Penthouse if you're looking for luxury
- Great entertainment in the Stardust Theater
Sailing now
18 cruises on sale, from $789.
Questions
MSC Lirica or Norwegian Sun?
Which is bigger, MSC Lirica or Norwegian Sun?
Norwegian Sun is bigger at 78,309 gross tons, against 65,591 gross tons for MSC Lirica. MSC Lirica carries 1,984 passengers and Norwegian Sun carries 1,936.
Which ship is newer, MSC Lirica or Norwegian Sun?
MSC Lirica is newer, with a maiden voyage in 2003 against 2001 for Norwegian Sun.
Which has more space per passenger?
Norwegian Sun, with 40.4 gross tons per passenger against 33.1 on MSC Lirica. The higher the figure, the more ship there is for each guest.
Which has more crew per passenger?
Norwegian Sun, with one crew member for every 2.0 passengers against one for every 2.8 on MSC Lirica.
Which is better for families?
Norwegian Sun scores higher for family friendliness in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores: 7.0 out of 10, against 6.0 for MSC Lirica.
Still deciding?
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