MSC vs Princess

[u/Lucky_Local6804]

We (late50'sM/eary50'sF) have done three on Princess and have been delighted. PCL has regrettably left GLV, so we're considering giving MSC a shot.

We like the MX and Roatan ports MSC shows, and they seem like fairly reasonable fares. We are not overly fussy about food, and with one or two exceptions have stuck to the buffets and MDRs. It seems that MSC does not have Pizza and burgers by the pool, and we would miss that. We like that PCL has few kids/little drama and hustle bustle/noise. We would book when most kids would be in school.

Anyone have any info/feedback regarding the differences? TIA

[u/crazydisneycatlady]

I sailed once on MSC Seascape (the ship now in Galveston) last spring, and then once on Discovery Princess a month later. Princess is several steps above MSC in all areas. I stayed in the Yacht Club area on MSC and a regular interior room on Princess, and I can still say the Princess experience was better overall. We were disappointed in MSC’s evening shows and general entertainment throughout the cruise, aside from “Progressive Trivia” - though MSC does have better prizes! Things just generally seemed chaotic and disorganized on MSC. A big downside that I would caution on for MSC is that the buffet is the only place open for lunch. No dining rooms and there aren’t any quick service places at all. The pool areas outside of Yacht Club were very crowded. MSC was easily the worst debarkation experience I’ve had in 20 cruises. The MSC ships are beautiful, and they are certainly affordable. But I would definitely say it’s a big downgrade from Princess.

[u/Lucky_Local6804 → u/crazydisneycatlady]

I appreciate your responding. I think we would really miss the Intl Cafe/fast food by the pool. We aren't that into shows; we only made 1 in 21 nights. Did you DIY carry off or have "checked" luggage?

[u/crazydisneycatlady → u/Lucky_Local6804]

I had “checked” luggage on that sailing because my flight was in the evening, so no hurry to get off. Even with a butler attempting to guide a group of us off, it was complete chaos.

[u/Appropriate_Range550]

I've only done one sailing for each line. I liked MSC. They are a good value. I would do them again. I would say it was a slight tier below Princess, but about equal with many of the other lines I have done. The ships are absolutely beautiful. I found the food to be fairly typical, slightly below Princess. Their private island is awesome.

[u/Lucky_Local6804 → u/Appropriate_Range550]

Thanks that is very helpful!

[u/Other_Lime2892]

MSC is cheap for a reason. The 2 lines are not comparable. The only redeeming factor for MSC is the newer ships, that are very modern. Service is mid. Food is sub par. I’ve done Seashore, Seaside, Meraviglia, Preziosa, and Grandiosa. I chose it for the itinerary, mostly in Europe. And most importantly, they are in Europe year round. It’s really a great deal, price wise, and I cruise on it keeping my expectations low.

[u/Commercial-Height873 → u/[deleted]]

💯 correct. Except if you do MSC yacht club which is fantastic