MSC Cruises gave the 2,087-guest MSC Sinfonia an ambitious overhaul in 2015, with the midsection expanded by 80 feet. The renovation added more cabins (now with beech-veneered walls, warm terra-cotta accents, and soft-toned furnishings) and larger, reconfigured public spaces, including new children's facilities. That means the ship is often filled to capacity (2,679 guests) during the summer holiday period.
It’s a Family Affair: Sinfonia’s expansion revved up the kid-friendly diversions: a colorful, outdoor water park and an elaborate children's program divided into five different age groups, from babies to teenagers. MSC also has partnerships with Lego and Chicco to provide the latest toys and gear. Items such as strollers and baby carriers are loaned to parents who can leave those cumbersome contraptions at home.
Aurea Spa: The Balinese spa is a sublime hideaway complete with a thermal suite with heated stone-tile beds facing the sea.
Music Theme: Sinfonia’s focus on the symphony plays out all over the ship in the artwork and design. The decks are even named after composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, and Brahms.
Evening Entertainment: Teatro San Carlo is a multi-tiered entertainment space that showcases daring acrobats, as well as dancers, singers, and magicians. In the evenings, live lounge music serves as the backdrop for dancing and merrymaking. Drinking hotspots are numerous, too, including the sophisticated Manhattan Bar, the hip Pasha Club, and the zen-zone Buddha Bar, with an impressive chandelier as a centerpiece.
Value Seekers: With ports of call in Italy, Croatia, Greece, and Turkey, Sinfonia delivers a good bang for the buck with price points that are particularly accessible for these destinations..
Multi-Generational Families: The plentiful mix of entertainment and attractions serves up something for every age group.
Europeans Are the Majority: Vacationers who are more comfortable on an American-centric vessel will feel out of their element. (All bridge announcements are made in five or six languages.) The ship would be more suitable for worldly travelers who relish opportunities to hob nob with European shipmates.
It's Not a Foodie Ship: To appreciate Sinfonia’s cuisine, select the Italian specialties: pastas, pizzas, risottos, pastries, and gelatos. If you’re searching for trendy tasting menus, look elsewhere.