MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises are two of Europe's largest and most popular cruise lines. Both excel in the Mediterranean, but offer different experiences. MSC leads with modern ships and value pricing, while Costa brings authentic Italian flair on board. We compare them across 10 key dimensions.
Cruise Line Comparison
| MSC Cruises | Costa Cruises | |
|---|---|---|
| Food & Dining | Excellent | Excellent |
| Entertainment & Activities | ⭐ Outstanding | Excellent |
| Cabins & Facilities | ⭐ Outstanding | Very Good |
| Service | Excellent | Excellent |
| Value for Money | ⭐ Phenomenal | Very Good |
| Itineraries & Destinations | ⭐ Phenomenal | Excellent |
| Family-Friendliness | Outstanding | Outstanding |
| Nightlife & Adult Experience | Excellent | Excellent |
| Wellness & Spa | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ship Modernity & Design | ⭐ Phenomenal | Very Good |
Food & Dining
Costa Cruises traditionally excels in dining, thanks to authentic Italian cuisine and Italian chefs on board. MSC offers a varied international menu, but when it comes to Italian flavors, Costa is hard to beat.
Entertainment & Activities
Both cruise lines offer plenty of entertainment including theater shows, water parks and kids' programs. MSC's newer ships feature impressive technological innovations and immersive experiences.
Cabins & Facilities
MSC Cruises has a newer fleet overall, so cabins tend to be more modern and well-equipped. Costa ships feature distinctive Italian design, though the average fleet age is higher.
Service
Both lines provide friendly Mediterranean-style service. Staff warmth is a hallmark of both, though on MSC's larger ships personal attention can sometimes vary.
Value for Money
MSC Cruises typically offers more competitive pricing, especially for family packages and early booking deals. Costa also represents good value, particularly when departing from Italian ports.
Itineraries & Destinations
MSC offers a wider range of itineraries including the Caribbean, Dubai and Northern Europe. Costa focuses primarily on the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
Family-Friendliness
Both lines are excellent for families. MSC stands out with its LEGO partnership and DOREMI Family program, while Costa attracts families with the Peppa Pig program and Italian family atmosphere.
Nightlife & Adult Experience
Both cruise lines offer bars and evening entertainment. MSC ships feature evening shows and deck parties, while Costa shines with its Italian ambiance and social programs.
Wellness & Spa
Both lines offer spa and wellness facilities, typically at extra cost. The level of equipment and variety is comparable across both.
Ship Modernity & Design
MSC Cruises clearly leads here: their fleet average age is much lower, and new ships feature world-class innovations. Costa's fleet is older but characterized by classic Italian elegance.
MSC Cruises
MSC Meraviglia6 days Caribbean
Miami, United States
10 Jan 2027 - 16 Jan 2027
MSC Meraviglia8 days Caribbean
Miami, United States
5 Dec 2026 - 13 Dec 2026
MSC Grandiosa7 days Caribbean
Port Canaveral (Orlando), United States
5 Dec 2026 - 12 Dec 2026
Costa Cruises
Costa Smeralda7 days Canaries
Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands), Spain
13 Dec 2026 - 20 Dec 2026
Costa Smeralda7 days Canaries
Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands), Spain
14 Dec 2026 - 21 Dec 2026
Costa Smeralda7 days Canaries
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Canary Islands), Spain
10 Dec 2026 - 17 Dec 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are excellent choices but shine in different areas. MSC has a newer fleet and wider route network, while Costa stands out for its authentic Italian experience and cuisine. If value for money is your priority, both are highly competitive.
Both cruise lines are great for families. MSC offers LEGO partnerships and the DOREMI Family program, while Costa features Peppa Pig programs. The offerings are similar, so it's worth choosing based on itinerary and price.
Both cruise lines compete in the value segment. A Mediterranean cruise typically starts from 200-500 EUR per person, depending on the season and cabin type. MSC often offers early booking discounts, while Costa provides all-inclusive packages.