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MSC Cruises

MSC Fantasia

Large ship Bliss scored

MSC Fantasia is the largest cruise ship ever built for a European ship owner. Greater in length than the height of the Eiffel Tower, she has 1,637 staterooms, 80% ocean view, many with private balconies. The flagship from MSC Cruises it features advanced…

  • 3,274guests
  • 137,936gross tons
  • 42cruises now
  • $269fares from

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MSC Fantasia sailing the inviting waters of the Mediterranean.

At a glance

MSC Fantasia is a large-size cruise ship operated by MSC Cruises, in service since 2007. It carries 3,274 guests and 1,332 crew (2.5 guests per crew member) at 137,936 gross tons. It ties with 1 other ship as the 14th largest of 23 MSC Cruises ships by guest capacity. On Cruiseable's Bliss scale it scores highest for spa & fitness and staterooms (8/10) and lowest for adventure & nature and cultural (4/10). It is rated 3.5 out of 5 by Cruiseable and 3.5 out of 5 by Berlitz. It has 42 cruises on sale, with lead fares from $269 to $4,895. 15 of its upcoming sailings dropped in price since the previous weekly fare check.

Builder's plate

Specs

Cruiseable
3.5 / 5
Berlitz
3.5 / 5
Guests
3,274
Crew
1,332
Gross tons
137,936
Decks
18
Length
1,092 ft
Beam
125 ft
Maiden voyage
2007
Launched
2008
Space ratio
2.5
Gross tons per guest
Guests per crew
2.5
Speed (mph)
26
IMO
9359791

Bliss scores

What MSC Fantasia is best at

Ten dimensions scored by our editors on a 10-point scale. The Cruiseable app ranks every cruise against the mix you care about.

  1. Active 5.0
  2. Adventure and nature 4.0
  3. Cultural 4.0
  4. Dining 6.9
  5. Entertainment 7.4
  6. Family friendly 6.0
  7. Party 5.0
  8. Romantic 5.0
  9. Spa and fitness 8.0
  10. Staterooms 8.0

Our review

MSC Fantasia: Find your joie de vivre on board

MSC Fantasia is the largest cruise ship ever built for a European ship owner. Greater in length than the height of the Eiffel Tower, it has 1,637 staterooms, 80% of them with an ocean view, many with private balconies. This winning ship from MSC Cruises features advanced technology, elegant furnishings and exclusive services. Built with the environment in mind, the MSC Fantasia cruise liner is constructed in a modern eco-friendly spirit.

For the first time on a ship, guests will walk on Swarovski crystal stairs. A transparent ceiling allows passengers to experience all the magic of sailing as they gaze at the starlit skies. The 290,628 square feet of public space includes the luxury MSC Aurea Spa with a thermal cave for relaxation and rejuvenation, six restaurants, five swimming pools, 12 hydro-massage pools, coffee bars, shops, and a children's and teen area that includes a swimming pool with a waterslide. The Aqua Park features 150 illuminated musical fountains, a Formula 1 simulator and an interactive 4-D cinema.

Who will like sailing on MSC Fantasia

In North America, MSC Cruises is mostly known in for its hybrid Italian-American-style cruises to the Caribbean. MSC is reaching out to North American cruisers and is known as one of Europe's leading cruise lines, particularly popular with Italians, French, Spanish and Germans. An effort to expand facilities and publish and announce in English is clearly targeting Canadians and Americans more and more.

It's important to note that MSC's style is definitely European. English-speaking travelers who love European service and cuisine will find the ship delightful. Those who prefer a more traditional experience — in service, food and activities — may not be keen to cruise on Fantasia.

Where MSC Fantasia sails

Fantasia is a workhorse of the MSC Cruises line, featuring mostly 7-night Mediterranean cruises year round out of Genoa with stops in Naples, Mallorca (Majorca), Barcelona and Marseille.

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The soaring atrium of MSC Fantasia features staircases studded with Swarovski crystals.
The soaring atrium of MSC Fantasia features staircases studded with Swarovski crystals. Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dining

  • Red Velvet Restaurant. Distinguished by the attention paid to the details of its furnishings, from red velvet cushions to Murano glass chandeliers, refined porcelain to crystal glasses and silver flatware. Every evening, Red Velvet offers a different menu to celebrate an Italian region with its typical cuisine and most renowned wines.
  • Il Cerchio d'Oro Restaurant. On the ship's stern, features a breathtaking panorama which inspired the theme of transparency and light used in the restaurant design. This restaurant offers an assorted Mediterranean menu, including light choices and options that are always available for those days you want to eat less.
  • L'Etoile Restaurant. This private restaurant at the exclusive service of MSC Yacht Club members, provides guests with a gourmet dining experience principally inspired by the Italian and French culinary traditions. Refined ingredients such as foie gras, truffles and scallops combine with delicacies such as quail eggs, guinea fowl and pigeon breast to create dishes that are both sophisticated and minimalistic. The restaurant offers a connoisseur wine list of some 50 superb Italian, French and Spanish wines. With the assistance of the expert Head Wine Waiter who is always in attendance, MSC Yacht Club guests can choose the ideal accompaniment to the chef's creations, exploring some of the finest wines in the world.
  • Tex Mex El Sombrero Restaurant.For lovers of spicy food, Tex Mex El Sombrero is the right choice. Sample all the tastes of Mexican cuisine: from Texas steaks to enchiladas, fajitas to burritos and tacos, guacamole to tortillas, all accompanied by Mexican beer, Tequila and Margaritas. The full-view kitchen completes the traditional atmosphere of this restaurant.

Bars & lounges

  • La Cantina Toscana. True connoisseurs can find the most renowned Italian wines at La Cantina Toscana, a wine bar inspired by the peaceful Tuscany hills and Chianti vineyards. Every day, special wine tastings are accompanied by tasty morsels, such as fried polenta with cream cheese, bruschetta and other specialties.
  • Sports Bar. A sports-inspired menu, featuring international dishes and imaginative snacks, such as grilled Yorkshire ham delicacies or Greek shrimp kebabs. It also serves a wide selection of the most popular international long drinks and beers.
  • Manhattan Bar.  The jazz music inspired drinks list of the Manhattan Bar includes: rare whiskies, cognac, aged grappa, the best brands of vodka and gin, and aged tequila.
  • Piazza San Giorgio.  Sample the delights of Piazza San Giorgio. With its bar ice-cream parlor, pastry and chocolate shop, a world reminiscent of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory awaits guests. Dishes include creme bavaroise with almonds and berries, chocolate semifreddo, vanilla and rose macaron cream, cannoli, baba and meringues.

Activities

The MSC Aurea Spa offers ultra-modern treatments such as therapeutic mud packs, perfumed vapors, aesthetic massages and much more.

MSC Fantasia boasts an exclusive area: privileged passengers can sojourn in the MSC Yacht Club, amenities include 71 suites,a bar, solarium, 2 hydro-massage pools, 1 sky dome swimming pool, concierge service and glass-walled Observation Lounge where guests can enjoy amazing ocean views. A butler service will offer assistance at check-in, transport luggage, unpack, and serve traditional English afternoon tea as well as arranging cigars and beverages, booking tables at restaurants, treatments in the MSC Aurea Spa, ad hoc excursions and even arranging a private party!

Want to sunbathe in peace and privacy? Soak up the sun in style in the adults-only sanctuary of serenity. Top 18 boasts premium deck space and stunning sea views, as well as its own dedicated spa service, bar menu and complimentary fruit skewers. For groups of friends, couples looking for a romantic hideaway or parents looking for some quiet time, Top 18 is the perfect place to relax, unwind and watch the waves go by.

Entertainment

MSC Cruises offers a wide array of entertainment programs and facilities, with its state-of-the-art 1,600-seat L'Avanguardia Theatre, futuristic Liquid Disco, the Casino delle Palme with more than 1000 square meters (more than 3000sq. feet) of casino gaming and Virtual World, video games room.

An ode to jazz, the Manhattan Bar on MSC Fantasia is a stylish lounge where guests can listen to live music and sip fine whiskies, cognac and top-shelf liquors.
An ode to jazz, the Manhattan Bar on MSC Fantasia is a stylish lounge where guests can listen to live music and sip fine whiskies, cognac and top-shelf liquors. Courtesy of MSC Cruises

The fun is never-ending by day or night. Italians are known for l'arte di vivere — or joie de vivre in French, the art of living and enjoying life. 

Begin, perhaps with an invigorating yoga class, volleyball game, tennis or miniature golf. Stop by the Internet Cafe or international library while the kids enjoy the fun of the complimentary youth program that includes art, dancing and games for kids of all ages. Enjoy shopping in the onboard boutiques, or enrich your mind with an Italian lesson.

When evening arrives, la notte magica — the night is magical. Inspired entertainment brings standing ovations. Different shows are offered in the theater each night, such as passionate flamenco dancers from Spain.

Your enchanted evening continues with dancing in the disco and live performances throughout the ship, from a classical string quartet to jazz and piano. Or have fun singing along to your favorite Italian songs. And in the European gaming tradition,  try your luck in the casino. Then end your evening with a romantic stroll on the pool deck where le stelle brilliano luminose — the stars shine bright.

Staterooms

All staterooms are provided with an innovative digital television system that gives you access to several onboard services. The service uses the most technologically advanced interactive system in the cruise market. Using your remote control you can follow the daily program, watch first-run movies (pay-per-view), purchase shore excursions, order room service, preview our ports of call, or buy items from the onboard shops — and  you can also check onboard account. The new service delivers great media from the comfort of your stateroom and also delivers extremely high video and audio quality.

Your take

Did you find your love of life on the MSC Fantasia? Please share a story, tip or discovery. What was the highlight?

Interested in a cruise on this ship?

If you're interested in a cruise on MSC Fantasia, contact a Cruiseable travel advocate at 1-877-322-3773 or by email. We can usually offer a better deal than you can get by contacting the cruise line directly.

SEE ALL MSC FANTASIA SAILINGS

On board highlights

Photos

Inside and out

On board 3

  • MSC Fantasia's I Tropici pool is an all-weather oasis with its sliding roof.
    MSC Fantasia's I Tropici pool is an all-weather oasis with its sliding roof.
  • An ode to jazz, the Manhattan Bar on MSC Fantasia is a stylish lounge where guests can listen to live music and sip fine whiskies, cognac and top-shelf liquors.
    An ode to jazz, the Manhattan Bar on MSC Fantasia is a stylish lounge where guests can listen to live music and sip fine whiskies, cognac and top-shelf liquors.
  • MSC cruise ships are family friendly, with pools and entertainment areas dedicated to children and teens.
    MSC cruise ships are family friendly, with pools and entertainment areas dedicated to children and teens.

Staterooms 1

  • All staterooms on MSC Fantasia include an innovative television system on which guests can watch first-run movies, order room service, preview ports of call and more.
    All staterooms on MSC Fantasia include an innovative television system on which guests can watch first-run movies, order room service, preview ports of call and more.

More photos 6

  • MSC Fantasia sailing the inviting waters of the Mediterranean.
    MSC Fantasia sailing the inviting waters of the Mediterranean.
  • The soaring atrium of MSC Fantasia features staircases studded with Swarovski crystals.
    The soaring atrium of MSC Fantasia features staircases studded with Swarovski crystals.
  • The ultimate in luxury and personal service, MSC Fantasia's Yacht Club is a very private ship within a ship.
    The ultimate in luxury and personal service, MSC Fantasia's Yacht Club is a very private ship within a ship.
  • Melding traditional elegance and sophisticated technology, MSC Fantasia celebrates European style and design.
    Melding traditional elegance and sophisticated technology, MSC Fantasia celebrates European style and design.
  • European-designed and luxury oriented, MSC Fantasia is at home sailing in the Mediterranean.
    European-designed and luxury oriented, MSC Fantasia is at home sailing in the Mediterranean.
  • Top Sail Lounge on Deck 15, with its sweeping views and elegant interior, is part of MSC Fantasia's exclusive Yacht Club.
    Top Sail Lounge on Deck 15, with its sweeping views and elegant interior, is part of MSC Fantasia's exclusive Yacht Club.

Sailing now

Cruises on MSC Fantasia

Plan my cruise
  1. 9 Night Trieste to Trieste 9 nights · from Trieste Next Sep 15, 2026 6 dates from $1,333
  2. 9 Night Piraeus to Piraeus 9 nights · from Athens (Piraeus) Next Sep 18, 2026 4 dates from $1,247
  3. 9 Night Istanbul to Istanbul 9 nights · from Istanbul Next Sep 20, 2026 from $2,027
  4. 9 Night Bari to Bari 9 nights · from Bari Next Sep 23, 2026 from $1,606
  5. 9 Night Trieste to Trieste 9 nights · from Trieste Next Sep 24, 2026 from $1,389
  6. 9 Night Piraeus to Piraeus 9 nights · from Athens (Piraeus) Next Sep 27, 2026 from $4,895
  7. 9 Night Bari to Bari 9 nights · from Bari Next Oct 2, 2026 5 dates from $1,503
  8. 9 Night Istanbul to Istanbul 9 nights · from Istanbul Next Oct 8, 2026 4 dates from $1,595
  9. 6 Night Piraeus to Trieste 6 nights · from Athens (Piraeus) Next Nov 11, 2026 from $824
  10. 4 Night Istanbul to Trieste 4 nights · from Istanbul Next Nov 13, 2026 from $416
  11. 10 Night Civitavecchia to Arrecife de Lanzarote 10 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Dec 7, 2026 from $907
  12. 11 Night Civitavecchia to Las Palmas 11 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Dec 7, 2026 from $1,025
Show 30 more
  1. 6 Night Civitavecchia to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 6 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Dec 7, 2026 from $469
  2. 8 Night Civitavecchia to Funchal 8 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Dec 7, 2026 from $691
  3. 7 Night Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 7 nights · from Santa Cruz De Tenerife Next Dec 13, 2026 33 dates from $724
  4. 7 Night Funchal to Funchal 7 nights · from Madeira Next Dec 15, 2026 30 dates from $751
  5. 7 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 7 nights · from Arrecife Next Dec 17, 2026 28 dates from $741
  6. 7 Night Las Palmas to Las Palmas 7 nights · from Las Palmas Next Dec 18, 2026 30 dates from $747
  7. 7 Night Funchal to Funchal 7 nights · from Madeira Next Dec 22, 2026 from $1,011
  8. 7 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 7 nights · from Arrecife Next Dec 24, 2026 from $1,226
  9. 7 Night Las Palmas to Las Palmas 7 nights · from Las Palmas Next Dec 25, 2026 from $1,099
  10. 7 Night Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 7 nights · from Santa Cruz De Tenerife Next Dec 27, 2026 from $1,587
  11. 7 Night Funchal to Funchal 7 nights · from Madeira Next Dec 29, 2026 from $1,131
  12. 7 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 7 nights · from Arrecife Next Dec 31, 2026 from $1,421
  13. 7 Night Las Palmas to Las Palmas 7 nights · from Las Palmas Next Jan 1, 2027 from $907
  14. 6 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 6 nights · from Arrecife Next Feb 11, 2027 from $696
  15. 13 Night Funchal to Civitavecchia 13 nights · from Madeira Next Mar 30, 2027 from $1,534
  16. 4 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 4 nights · from Arrecife Next Apr 1, 2027 2 dates from $510
  17. 10 Night Las Palmas to Civitavecchia 10 nights · from Las Palmas Next Apr 2, 2027 from $1,290
  18. 8 Night Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Civitavecchia 8 nights · from Santa Cruz De Tenerife Next Apr 4, 2027 2 dates from $861
  19. 7 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Civitavecchia 7 nights · from Arrecife Next Apr 5, 2027 2 dates from $639
  20. 3 Night Civitavecchia to Barcelona 3 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Apr 12, 2027 from $269
  21. 7 Night Civitavecchia to Civitavecchia 7 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Apr 12, 2027 62 dates from $693
  22. 7 Night Livorno to Livorno 7 nights · from Livorno Next Apr 13, 2027 60 dates from $807
  23. 7 Night Cannes to Cannes 7 nights · from Cannes Next Apr 14, 2027 60 dates from $822
  24. 7 Night Barcelona to Barcelona 7 nights · from Barcelona Next Apr 15, 2027 60 dates from $796
  25. 7 Night Cagliari to Cagliari 7 nights · from Cagliari Next Apr 18, 2027 60 dates from $950
  26. 10 Night Barcelona to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 10 nights · from Barcelona Next Nov 11, 2027 from $949
  27. 6 Night Civitavecchia to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 6 nights · from Civitavecchia Next Nov 15, 2027 from $579
  28. 7 Night Las Palmas to Las Palmas 7 nights · from Las Palmas Next Nov 19, 2027 from $925
  29. 5 Night Arrecife de Lanzarote to Arrecife de Lanzarote 5 nights · from Arrecife Next Nov 20, 2027 Fare on request
  30. 5 Night Funchal to Santa Cruz de Tenerife 5 nights · from Madeira Next Mar 21, 2028 from $469

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