MSC Bellissima Cruise Reviews

MSC’s new flagship, MSC Bellissima, debuted in March 2019 and boasts innovations befitting the cruise line’s modern fleet. Some of these include its state-of-the-art Technogym, a promenade with a giant LED screen dome displaying a changing virtual sky, and passenger cabins featuring Zoe, the first-ever voice-enabled digital assistant at sea. Plus, in an exclusive partnership between MSC and Cirque du Soleil, passengers can visit the high-tech Carousel Lounge to enjoy the visual artistry of two brand new shows designed exclusively for MSC Bellissima. And with 12 restaurants and a whopping 20 bars, the ship has something for everyone.

For onboard fun, the Grand Canyon-inspired Arizona Aquapark promises thrills with three twisting waterslides. Bellissima's two virtual Formula 1 race car simulators offer direct person-on-person competition. The ship also has two full-size bowling lanes and a sprawling Sportsplex athletic arena, which transforms into a party zone after dark. For additional interactive fun, MSC Bellissima’s multi-purpose TV Studio and Bar broadcasts game shows, talent contests, and trivia throughout the ship, and sometimes functions as a live music venue or comedy club. When it comes to relaxation, sun worshippers can catch some rays in the spacious lounge areas of the Atmosphere or Horizon pools or you can be pampered at the luxurious Aurea Spa.

Bellissima also offers kid-friendly programs, including its Baby Club for children 1 to 3 and the LEGO-themed Mini and Juniors Clubs, which provide supervised fun for kids 3 to 11. The ship also has two teen groups, one for ages 12 to 14 and another for ages 15 to 17. Bellissima’s dedicated teen space changes between a cinema, disco, and game room throughout the day.

MSC Bellissima itineraries and departure ports

In the ship's initial season, MSC Bellissima cruises the Mediterranean with stops in Naples, Capri, Pompeii, Barcelona, Genoa, and the hillside city of Messina. In December 2019, the ship will move to the Persian Gulf, offering Middle Eastern cruises to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island. In 2020, the ship will relocate again to China, which will serve as its home base. 

Before you book

This ship is best for: On most of MSC’s Mediterranean cruises, the majority of passengers are Europeans, giving the ship a distinct old-world flavor. Cruisers looking to escape the traditional American cruise ship experience will appreciate the ambiance and amenities on this Italian vessel. Since kids ages 3-11 sail for free and kids ages 12-17 sail at reduced rates, Bellissima also has significant family appeal.

You should know: Despite having 20 onboard bars and lounges, this is not a party ship and likely won't appeal to younger cruisers or singles seeking a vibrant nightlife. Travelers considering a cruise on Bellissima should also note that the ship’s European pedigree may create a language barrier for English-only speakers.

Activities on MSC Bellissima

From two exclusive Cirque du Soleil productions to the Sportsplex athletic arena, passengers will find plenty to do onboard MSC Bellissima. With its three intricate waterslides, the ship’s Arizona Aquapark provides wet and wild fun for all ages, while passengers looking to slow things down can enjoy a rejuvenating treatment in the ship’s authentic Balinese spa. The ship even boasts its own radio and TV studio, which broadcasts game shows, talent contests, and trivia throughout the vessel. For after-dark fun, the stylish Attic Club stays open until the early hours of the morning for dancing, cocktails, and partying with friends and family.

MSC Bellissima ship highlights

TV Studio and Bar Arizona Aquapark featuring three waterslides Aurea Balinese spa Exclusive Cirque du Soleil shows Attic Club nightclub Atmosphere and Horizon pools Sportsplex athletic arena Formula 1 virtual reality race cars Baby Club for ages 1 through 3 Mini and Juniors Clubs for ages 3 through 11 Teen clubs for ages 12 through 17 Technogym

MSC Bellissima cabins

Travelers booking a Bellissima cruise may choose an interior, oceanview, or balcony stateroom. Connecting family cabins are available and comfortably accommodate up to 10 individuals. Singles can choose a studio stateroom with an oversized single bed. All of Bellissima's staterooms include an interactive television and ZOE, a voice-activated personal cruise assistant. For passengers who crave luxury, suites are also available, including duplex units that have private whirlpool tubs.

MSC Bellissima dining

From a tapas bar to a French bistro, international flavors define dining onboard MSC Bellissima. While the ship’s main restaurants serve elegant Mediterranean and international cuisine with menus that change daily, there is also a variety of specialty eateries, including Kaito Teppanyaki Restaurant & Sushi Bar, which features authentic Asian cuisine with a modern flair; L'Atelier Bistrot, where cruisers can try specialties such as ribeye steak fries with blue cheese sauce; and Butcher’s Cut, a traditional American steakhouse. Marketplace Buffet may appeal to families with varied tastes, and passengers can choose from numerous ethnic specialties while enjoying the view through the venue’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows.