MSC Cruise Line, developed in Geneva in 1987, known as an Italian-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), presently ranks second largest Container Company in international shipping. Its subsidiary company, the MSC Cruises, has become well known and competes against the Costa Cruises in the cruise business. Melody and Rhapsody followed the first ship of the MSC Cruise lines, “Starlauro”.

After that, MSC began to commission its own series of MSC Cruise new-builds. Its first ship was the MSC Lirica, weighing 59,058-ton ship with room for 1,445 passengers, christened on April of 2003 by Sophia Loren. In addition, the MSC Cruise ship reviews online gave not only give a brief history, but also listed the different ships and what they have to offer. Past customers also give a MSC Cruises review about their voyage and how they felt about their service and accommodations aboard the ship. The MSC Lirica Cruise reviews by travelers were positive about many things. One of the most highly praised by guests were the one-on-one greeters to escort them to their room, instead of one greeter per group. The ship’s cleanliness was mentioned again and again, with no complaints. The rooms and bathroom were mentioned as being small, but no complaints were stated—the water for showers always stayed the same temperature and in full-force which made guests happy. It was also mentioned that 64% of the cabins had outside views with 132 (mini-suites) of them having balconies with larger bathrooms and a tub also. The 11 am buffet, instead of being the usual limited cold buffets, this had a full buffet with hot and cold items, with red and white wine included. In the MSC Lirica Cruise Line, no freestyle dining was allowed for the guests, but traditional Italian dining with four restaurants with European tastes.

There are many phone numbers for MSC Cruises, and almost every travel agent can be called to book a cruise at any time. In addition, checking online is another way to contact MSC for the cruises and also booking a cruise. To contact MSC Cruises direct, there are a couple of number—for reservations call 1-800-666-9333, and for general information call 1-954-772-6262 for MSC Lirica Cruise specials or for a MSC Cruises discount.. Their second new-build, the MSC Opera, seems to favor adult couples; families with young children, infants and teenagers; or singles. MSC Opera Prices are favorable to this type of clientele as the ship is slightly smaller than the MSC Lirica, even though it is similar top the Lirica structure. Passport rules have changed a lot, so make sure this process is began early enough to accomplish it before sailing, especially the MSC Cruises passenger declaration form.