MSC Splendida is a stylish cruise ship from MSC Cruises, combining contemporary design, lively entertainment and a wide choice of facilities for days at sea. Built in 2009, the 137,936-ton ship features 18 decks, 1,637 cabins and space for approximately 3,274 to 4,363 guests.

With its elegant public areas, restaurants, lounges and outdoor spaces, MSC Splendida is designed to make the ship itself part of the holiday. The atmosphere suits couples looking for a Mediterranean escape, families wanting plenty of activities and first-time cruisers who appreciate having many dining, entertainment and relaxation options in one place.

Whether you are planning a Mediterranean cruise, a Greek islands cruise or a longer voyage, MSC Splendida offers a varied onboard experience with the lively, international character associated with MSC Cruises. The ship also incorporates energy-saving systems and environmental protection measures as part of its eco-ship design.

Cabins and suites on MSC Splendida

MSC Splendida cabins are available in several accommodation categories, making it possible to choose between practical interiors, rooms with a sea view and more spacious options with private balconies. The main MSC Cruises experience levels include Bella, Fantastica and Aurea, with benefits and services varying by category.

• Interior cabins: a comfortable choice for guests who expect to spend most of their time enjoying the ship and shore destinations.
• Ocean-view cabins: offer a window or porthole for natural light and views of the sea.
• Balcony cabins: provide a private outdoor space that is ideal for morning coffee, scenic sailing and quiet moments.
• Suites: offer additional space and a more premium accommodation experience.
• MSC Yacht Club: selected suite accommodation with an exclusive, more private atmosphere and dedicated services.

When choosing a cabin, consider its location as well as its category. A midship cabin can be convenient for guests who prefer to minimise movement, while a cabin away from major nightlife venues may suit light sleepers. Travellers requiring accessible accommodation should check the available facilities before booking.

Dining and bars on board

On-board dining on MSC Splendida includes main restaurants, a buffet and self-service dining area, a pizzeria and a selection of speciality venues. Menus draw on Mediterranean traditions alongside international favourites, giving guests plenty of flexibility throughout the day.

The main restaurants are suitable for relaxed sit-down meals, while the buffet is convenient for breakfast, lunch and informal dining between activities. A Tex-Mex restaurant adds a more casual, flavourful alternative, and the pizzeria is a natural choice for a quick meal or family-friendly dinner.

MSC Splendida also has an extensive collection of bars and lounges. Guests can choose from a coffee bar, ice cream bar, English pub, jazz bar, piano and show bar, sports bar, wine bar, cigar room, pool bar and outdoor lounges. The Top Sail Lounge offers an elegant setting for a drink, while pre-dinner bars are ideal for starting the evening before a show.

Guests staying in the MSC Yacht Club can enjoy dedicated dining facilities and a more exclusive service style. Dining times and speciality restaurant availability may vary, so it is worth checking the onboard schedule soon after embarkation.

Entertainment and activities on MSC Splendida

There is a strong choice of entertainment on MSC Splendida, from live music and theatre performances to late-night venues. The Strand Theatre hosts large-scale shows, while the casino, poker room and Club 33 disco add variety after dark. A teens’ disco, video games and an art arcade help keep younger guests entertained.

• 4D cinema and outdoor cinema
• Formula 1 simulator
• Bowling and a dedicated games area
• Library, card room and Internet Point
• Shopping area, duty-free stores, photo gallery and candy shop
• Casino, poker room and nightclub
• Live music in piano, jazz and show venues

During the day, guests can swim in the main pool complex or covered pool, use the teens’ water slide and enjoy outdoor deck areas. Sports facilities include a jogging and power-walking track, basketball, tennis, squash, shuffleboard and a sports centre. Shore excursions arranged through MSC Cruises provide opportunities to explore the ports included in your itinerary.

Wellness and relaxation

The MSC Aurea Spa is the ship’s main destination for wellness and relaxation. Its facilities include a Balinese massage area, beauty treatments, a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, solarium and relaxation spaces. Thalassotherapy and thermal experiences are also available, creating a peaceful contrast to the ship’s lively entertainment programme.

Guests who prefer an active approach to wellbeing can use the fitness facilities, sports areas, jogging route and outdoor decks. The pool areas and sun decks are well suited to relaxed sea days, while the Zen Area offers a calmer setting for reading, sunbathing or simply watching the horizon.

Spa treatments and selected wellness services usually require an additional reservation or charge. Booking early is recommended, particularly on sea days when demand is highest.

Families and kids

MSC Splendida is a family-friendly cruise ship with facilities and activities for children and teenagers. The children’s area provides a dedicated place for younger guests, while the teens’ disco, video games, water slide and sports facilities offer options for older children.

Families can also enjoy the pool complex, 4D cinema, bowling, outdoor cinema and casual dining venues together. Parents should review the current children’s programme and age ranges on embarkation, as supervised activities and entertainment schedules can change during the cruise.

Tips for passengers

• Reserve popular activities early: spa appointments, speciality dining and selected entertainment can be in demand, especially on sea days.
• Explore the ship on the first day: MSC Splendida is large, so locating the theatre, restaurants, pools, spa and children’s facilities early will make the cruise easier to navigate.
• Choose your cabin carefully: compare the benefits of Bella, Fantastica and Aurea, and consider whether a balcony or suite would enhance your sailing experience.
• Plan dining around entertainment: check showtimes and restaurant schedules so you can enjoy dinner without missing the evening programme.
• Pack suitable sportswear: comfortable clothing and closed shoes are useful for the gym, jogging track, squash, tennis and other active facilities.
• Use sea days wisely: combine the pool deck or sports facilities with time at the MSC Aurea Spa for a balanced day at sea.
• Book shore excursions in advance: popular excursions can fill quickly, particularly on sought-after Mediterranean and Greek islands cruise itineraries.
• Allow time for the ship itself: with its bars, restaurants, shows, pools and leisure facilities, MSC Splendida is more than transportation between ports—it is a destination throughout the cruise.