MSC Divina, the third ship in MSC Cruises’ sophisticated Fantasia class, was christened in 2012 in honor of film legend and MSC fleet godmother, Sophia Loren. This ship exudes classic elegance and Mediterranean glamour, evident in details like its dazzling Swarovski crystal staircases. It offers a comprehensive cruise experience with a wide range of modern facilities, varied entertainment, dining options, and the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, which includes a suite designed by Sophia Loren herself. While lacking some of the newest attractions of later ships, she maintains a timeless charm.
Attractions
MSC Divina offers a blend of elegance, relaxation, and entertainment:
- Swarovski Staircases: Like her sister ships, Divina features the iconic staircases adorned with Swarovski crystals in the main atrium, a perfect photo spot.
- Pantheon Theatre: A large-scale theatre (1,603 seats) presenting Broadway-style production shows and varied performances each evening.
- Galaxy Lounge Disco & Restaurant: A panoramic club/restaurant on Deck 16 with stunning views, serving fusion dinner and transforming into a nightclub later on.
- Pools: Includes “The Garden Pool” (an adults-only infinity-style pool aft with a tranquil atmosphere), the main “Aqua Park” area with pools, whirlpools, and activities, and “Le Sirene” (indoor pool with a retractable roof).
- Other Activities: F1 Simulator, 4D Cinema, bowling alley (mini-bowling), video arcade, MSC Aurea Spa with an extensive thermal area, fitness center, casino (Casino Veneziano), disco, and clubs for kids and teens.
Capacity (Technical Features)
MSC Divina shares the main specifications of the Fantasia class:
- Class: Fantasia
- Gross Tonnage: Approximately GT
- Length: meters ( ft)
- Beam (Width): meters ( ft)
- Height: meters ( ft)
- Decks: total (14 passenger-accessible)
- Passenger Capacity: Approximately (double occupancy) up to (maximum)
- Crew: Approximately members
- Environmental Technologies: Features systems for energy efficiency and waste management appropriate for her build year. (Not LNG-powered).
Food & Drink Venues
The dining offer combines Mediterranean tradition with international options:
- Main Restaurants: Two elegant main dining rooms, The Black Crab and Villa Rossa, serving multi-course menus.
- Buffet: The Calumet & Manitou buffets, offering a huge variety of dishes in a more casual setting for most of the day.
- Specialty Restaurants: Paid options which have included (offerings can vary over time and by itinerary):
- Butcher’s Cut: (Or equivalent Steakhouse) American-style steakhouse.
- Restaurants associated with Eataly: Originally featured spaces from the Italian brand (may have changed).
- Galaxy Restaurant: Offers a Mediterranean fusion dinner experience in the evenings.
- Bars and Lounges: Around 20 bars and lounges, including:
- Divina Bar: In the central atrium, near the Swarovski stairs.
- Golden Jazz Bar: With live jazz music.
- Black & White Lounge: A large lounge for shows and dancing.
- La Cantina Di Bacco: Wine bar and pizzeria (often associated with Eataly).
- Piazza del Doge: Venetian-style coffee bar and gelateria.
- Sports Bar: Themed venue.
Accommodation
MSC Divina offers a variety of comfortable cabins and suites:
- Interior Cabins.
- Ocean View Cabins.
- Balcony Cabins.
- Suites: Including Aurea suites with spa access.
- Family Options.
- MSC Yacht Club: The luxurious “ship within a ship” area featuring:
- Luxury suites (DeLuxe, Executive, Royal).
- The unique Sophia Loren Royal Suite (16007), designed with the actress’s input, featuring photographs and memorabilia.
- 24-hour butler service, dedicated concierge, private restaurant (Le Muse), panoramic lounge (Top Sail Lounge), and private sundeck (The One Pool & Bar).
In summary, MSC Divina is a floating tribute to elegance and glamour, offering a classic MSC cruise experience enriched by its special dedication to Sophia Loren and the modern amenities of the Fantasia class.