MSC Poesia
MSC Cruises' 2,550-guest MSC Poesia is a floating version of Italy, complete with great pasta, pizza, gelato, and espresso, all the prosciutto and Parmesan you can eat, a weekly toga party, and euro as the onboard currency. With waterfalls and many plush spaces for lounging, it's a comfortable and sociable ship, too. The name comes from the Italian word for poetry — and is pronounced Po-ee-zee-a.
What We Love
Wine Tastings: At the Il Grappolo d’Oro wine bar, tastings of carefully curated Italian wines come with snacks, including cured meats, olives, and cheeses, just like you'd get at a fine wine bar in Italy.
Dancing: People love to dance on this ship. The pool deck may be full of lounging sun worshippers, but many will get up to learn, say, the bachata at the urging of a member of the entertainment team. The afternoon tango class also attracts a crowd.
Best Known For
The Zebra Bar: MSC takes the black-and-white stripe theme over the top in this cool space, a popular venue for dancing and cocktails.
The Entertainment: Shows deserve several rounds of applause. Taking place in the ship's purple theater, Teatro Carlo Felice, they involve opera singers, top-notch acrobats, and even professional ballerinas.
Who It's Good For
A Diverse International Crowd: Most folks are in their 40s to 60s, and the passenger mix depends on the area you're cruising: Italians and other Europeans in the Mediterranean, South Americans in South America, a variety in the Caribbean. Families are attracted by MSC's Kids Sail Free offers. English speakers are seated together in the dining room.