MSC Cruises
MSC Magnifica
- Cruises
- 116
- From
- $268
Ship comparison
MSC Magnifica vs Norwegian Dawn
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Dawn
- Cruises
- 49
- From
- $209
The verdict
Which should you choose?
MSC Magnifica is a large MSC Cruises ship carrying 2,518 passengers, in service since 2010. Norwegian Dawn is a large Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 2,340 passengers, in service since 2002.
Choose MSC Magnifica if you want more culture, a newer ship or a more active cruise: it outscores Norwegian Dawn for cultural (6.0 vs 4.0) and active (5.0 vs 4.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores and its maiden voyage was in 2010 (vs 2002).
Choose Norwegian Dawn if you want a better-rated spa and gym or a lower starting fare: it outscores MSC Magnifica for spa & fitness (8.0 vs 7.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores and its cruises start from $209 (vs $268).
Side by side
Specifications
marks the better figure where more, or less, is plainly better.
| MSC Magnifica | Norwegian Dawn | |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise line | MSC Cruises | Norwegian Cruise Line |
| Ship size | Large | Large |
| Maiden voyagenewer highlighted | 2010 (better) | 2002 |
| Gross tonnage | 95,128 | 92,250 |
| Passengers | 2,518 | 2,340 |
| Crew | 1,027 | 1,073 |
| Passengers per crew memberfewer is better | 2.5 | 2.2 (better) |
| Space per passengergross tons per passenger; more is roomier | 37.8 | 39.4 (better) |
| Decks | 13 | 15 |
| Length | 963 ft | 965 ft |
| Beam | 106 ft | 125 ft |
| Speed | 26 mph | 29 mph |
| Cruiseable ratingout of 10 | 8 / 10 (better) | 7 / 10 |
| Cruises on sale | 116 | 49 |
| Upcoming sailings | 283 | 97 |
| Cruise lengths | 1 to 121 nights | 4 to 15 nights |
| Fares fromlower highlighted | $268 | $209 (better) |
Bliss scores
How they rate, out of 10
Cruiseable rates ships out of 10 on ten parts of a cruise holiday. MSC Magnifica leads on 3 of the ten, Norwegian Dawn on 2, with 5 level.
- Active
- Adventure & nature
- Cultural
- Dining
- Entertainment
- Family friendly
- Party
- Romantic
- Spa & fitness
- Staterooms
MSC Cruises
MSC Magnifica
As its name would suggest, MSC Magnifica is a true jewel within the MSC Cruises family — you are welcomed aboard with Italian style, Mediterranean luxury and an atmosphere infused with energy.
Highlights
- One of the most stylish ships within the MSC Cruises fleet
- Ideal family choice
- Drinks package options are available
- Oriental Plaza Chinese and Asian Fusion speciality restaurant
Sailing now
116 cruises on sale, from $268.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Dawn
As part of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, Norwegian Dawn was built with freedom in mind, offering a choice of 14 dining options, 12 bars and lounges, the fitness center and spa, casino, pools and more.
Highlights
- The world-class Mandara Spa with full-service beauty salon
- Spectacular stage shows including The Second City comedy
- The largest suites on the sea for ultimate comfort and privacy
Sailing now
49 cruises on sale, from $209.
Questions
MSC Magnifica or Norwegian Dawn?
Which is bigger, MSC Magnifica or Norwegian Dawn?
MSC Magnifica is bigger at 95,128 gross tons, against 92,250 gross tons for Norwegian Dawn. MSC Magnifica carries 2,518 passengers and Norwegian Dawn carries 2,340.
Which ship is newer, MSC Magnifica or Norwegian Dawn?
MSC Magnifica is newer, with a maiden voyage in 2010 against 2002 for Norwegian Dawn.
Which has more space per passenger?
Norwegian Dawn, with 39.4 gross tons per passenger against 37.8 on MSC Magnifica. The higher the figure, the more ship there is for each guest.
Which has more crew per passenger?
Norwegian Dawn, with one crew member for every 2.2 passengers against one for every 2.5 on MSC Magnifica.
Which is better for families?
They score the same for family friendliness in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores: 8.0 out of 10.
Still deciding?
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