MSC Splendida

MSC Splendida, the second ship in MSC Cruises’ prestigious Fantasia class, was launched in 2009. As her name suggests, this ship offers a “splendid” cruise experience, characterized by classic elegance and MSC’s signature Mediterranean style. Highlights include glamorous Swarovski crystal staircases in the atrium, a wide variety of bars and restaurants, quality entertainment, and modern leisure facilities. Although belonging to an earlier generation than the newest vessels, MSC Splendida remains a popular choice, offering a balance of size, comfort, and the exclusive service of the MSC Yacht Club.

Attractions

MSC Splendida combines relaxation with diverse entertainment options:

1. Swarovski Staircases: The dazzling focal point of the central atrium, these crystal-embedded staircases are an icon of the Fantasia class.
2. The Strand Theatre: The main theatre, seating 1,650 guests, presenting large-scale production shows and varied performances nightly.
3. La Piazzetta: A charming indoor piazza recreating the atmosphere of an Italian village square, complete with a gelateria, pastry shop, and bar.
4. Pools: Features 4 pools, including the “Aqua Park” (the main pool deck with fountains and whirlpools), “L’Equatore” (an indoor pool with a retractable glass roof – magrodome), and an aft pool.
5. Leisure & Sports: F1 Simulator, 4D Cinema, bowling alley (mini-bowling), multi-use sports court (tennis, basketball), fitness center, and the MSC Aurea Spa.
6. Other Entertainment: Casino (Royal Palm Casino), Disco (Club 33 Disco), various lounges with live music (like the Aft Lounge or the Purple Jazz Bar), and clubs for kids and teens.

Capacity (Technical Features)

MSC Splendida is a representative ship of the Fantasia class:

• Class: Fantasia
• Gross Tonnage: Approximately $137,936$ GT
• Length: $333.3$ meters ($1,094$ ft)
• Beam (Width): $37.92$ meters ($124$ ft)
• Height: $66.8$ meters ($219$ ft)
• Decks: $18$ total (14 passenger-accessible)
• Passenger Capacity: Approximately $3,274$ (double occupancy) up to $4,363$ (maximum)
• Crew: Approximately $1,370$ members
• Environmental Technologies: Equipped with energy-saving and waste treatment systems from her era. (Not LNG-powered).

Food & Drink Venues

The dining offer is varied, from casual buffets to elegant dinners and specialty options:

• Main Restaurants: Two main dining rooms, La Reggia (split over two decks) and Villa Verde (with panoramic aft views).
• Buffet: The Bora Bora and Pago Pago buffets, open for long hours, offering a vast selection of international dishes.
• Specialty Restaurants: Paid options typically include (offerings may vary):
  • Butcher’s Cut: (Or equivalent Steakhouse) American-style steakhouse.
  • Santa Fe Tex Mex: Casual Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Bars and Lounges: Around 19 bars and lounges, including:
  • Splendida Bar: In the central atrium.
  • L’Aperitivo Bar: Near the atrium.
  • The Aft Lounge: Large lounge aft with a dance floor.
  • L’Enoteca: Wine bar with a selection of wines.
  • Purple Jazz Bar: Intimate bar with jazz music.
  • La Piazzetta Bar: Adjacent to the Italian square.
  • The Cigar Lounge: For cigar smokers.
  • Poolside bars.

Accommodation

MSC Splendida offers a wide range of cabins and suites:

• Interior Cabins.
• Ocean View Cabins.
• Balcony Cabins.
• Suites: Different categories with more space and services.
• Family Options: Possibility of connecting cabins.
• MSC Yacht Club: The exclusive and luxurious area of the ship, located on the forward decks, featuring high-end suites, 24-hour butler service, concierge, private restaurant (L’Olivo), panoramic lounge (Top Sail Lounge), and private sundeck (The One Pool, Bar & Grill).

In summary, MSC Splendida lives up to her name by providing an elegant and comprehensive cruise experience, featuring the hallmark Italian design of MSC, a wide range of leisure and dining options, and the added value of the exclusive MSC Yacht Club.