Cruise lines: Virgin Voyages vs. MSC Cruises
Quick Verdict
Virgin Voyages is best for adults seeking an inclusive, modern cruise experience, while MSC Cruises is suited for families looking for a budget-friendly cruise with a variety of activities.
- Virgin Voyages is adults-only with a focus on modern, upscale experiences and included amenities.
- MSC Cruises offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a European influence and lower base fares but additional costs for extras.
- Virgin Voyages emphasizes high-quality dining with Michelin-starred chefs and no extra charges for restaurants.
- MSC Cruises has a wider range of itineraries including South America and South Africa, while Virgin Voyages focuses on Caribbean and Mediterranean.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Virgin Voyages | MSC Cruises |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Adults-only (18+), Millennials and Gen X, Couples, friends, solo travelers | Families, European cruise experience with an Italian influence |
| Dining | 20+ eateries included, no main dining rooms or buffets, Michelin-starred chefs | Main restaurants, buffets, and specialty restaurants; food quality varies |
| Inclusions | Tips, soft drinks, drip coffee, basic Wi-Fi, all dining | Lower base fares, options to add beverage packages, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining experiences |
| Technology | High-Speed Internet (SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO), Virgin Voyages App, Smart Cabins | "MSC for Me" app, interactive touchscreens, virtual assistant ZOE in cabins, "Safe Air" sanitation system |
| Sustainability | Net-zero emissions by 2050, eliminated single-use plastics, food made to order, Climeon technology | Net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, LNG-powered ships, Ocean Cay for marine wildlife preservation |
Overall Comparison
Target: Adults-only vs. Family-friendly; Dining: Inclusive high-end vs. Variable quality; Price: Inclusive vs. Lower base fare with add-ons
Pros and Cons
Virgin Voyages
Pros:
- Wide variety of dining options
- Michelin-starred chefs
- All restaurants included in cruise fare
- Wide array of entertainment options
- High service quality
- Adults-only (18+)
- Inclusions: Tips, soft drinks, drip coffee, basic Wi-Fi
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
MSC Cruises
Pros:
- Diverse dining options
- Wide array of entertainment and activities
- Variety of itineraries and destinations
- Lower base fares
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Innovative onboard technology
- Commitment to sustainability
- Enhanced health and safety measures
- Loyalty program with benefits
Cons:
- Ships can be crowded and noisy
- Inconsistent service quality
- Food quality in main dining room and buffet may be lacking
- Potential for hidden costs or unexpected expenses
User Experiences and Feedback
Virgin Voyages
What Users Love
- Vibrant, modern, upscale, and adult-focused atmosphere
- High praise for dining options
- Wide variety of cuisines
- Wide array of entertainment options
- High service quality
- Variety of destinations in the Caribbean and Mediterranean
- High cleanliness standards
- Effective health and safety measures
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- Dining options receive high praise, with a wide variety of cuisines and Michelin-starred chefs.
- Many reviewers praise the dining options and entertainment.
MSC Cruises
What Users Love
- Variety of activities is satisfying
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols
- Generally well-suited for families
- Beauty of the ships
- Value for money
Common Complaints
- Crowdedness of the ship
- Inconsistency of service
- Quality of food in the buffet
Value Perception
- Important to check what is included in the base fare and what incurs extra costs, such as beverage packages, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi.
User Recommendations
- The atmosphere is often described as international, lively, and family-friendly, with an Italian influence.
- Some find the ships crowded and noisy.