Understanding MSC Cruise Booking Types: Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club

When planning an MSC Cruise, one of the most important choices you’ll make is selecting a booking type. MSC offers four distinct experiences—Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club—each tailored to meet the needs of different travelers. Whether you’re looking for a basic cruise experience or a luxurious all-inclusive getaway, MSC has an option to suit your travel style.

This guide explains the differences between each MSC booking type to help you select the best option for your cruise.

 

Overview of MSC's Booking Types

MSC’s booking types offer different levels of onboard amenities and experiences. Here’s a brief overview of each:

• Bella: The most budget-friendly option, perfect for travelers looking to experience the essential cruise elements without extras.
• Fantastica: An upgraded experience with better stateroom locations and additional perks.
• Aurea: A wellness-focused package that includes spa access, a range of drinks, and other premium services.
• Yacht Club: MSC’s highest-end experience, providing a luxurious, all-inclusive, private ship-within-a-ship experience.

 

1. Bella Experience: The Basics of MSC Cruising

The Bella Experience is MSC's most affordable booking type and is ideal for those seeking an affordable, classic cruise experience. Bella staterooms give you access to all standard onboard amenities, but without the added perks found in higher-tier experiences.

Key Features of Bella:

• No Cabin Selection: Bella staterooms are generally located on the lower decks of the ship, without an option to request a specific cabin number. Available room types include Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony cabins.
• Dining Options: You’ll enjoy a set dining time each evening, but options for changing this time may be limited.
• Onboard Entertainment: Bella guests have access to the same entertainment as all other guests, including shows, pools, lounges, and children’s play areas.
• Room Service (Fees Apply): Room service is available, though it comes with an additional service charge.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, families, and first-time cruisers who prioritize affordability over perks.

 

2. Fantastica Experience: Added Flexibility and Convenience

The Fantastica Experience offers all the essentials of Bella, with additional conveniences and perks to enhance your cruise. This booking type is particularly attractive for families and guests seeking more flexibility with dining and room location.

Key Features of Fantastica:

• Priority Room Selection: Fantastica cabins are located in more desirable areas on the ship, such as mid and upper decks, which are often quieter and closer to amenities.
• Flexible Dining Options: With Fantastica, you’ll have greater flexibility in choosing your dining time, allowing you to adjust based on your plans for each day.
• Free Breakfast in Stateroom: Enjoy complimentary breakfast room service, delivered right to your stateroom each morning.
• Priority Choice of Dining Time: You’ll have more options and priority when selecting a dining time that suits your schedule.
• Enhanced Cabin Service: You’ll have priority for special requests, such as additional bedding and early stateroom availability.

Best for: Families, couples, and cruisers who want extra convenience and a more tailored experience without paying for luxury services.

3. Aurea Experience: A Wellness-Focused Package with Extra Perks

The Aurea Experience is a step up from Fantastica and is designed to provide a more relaxing and all-inclusive cruise experience. Aurea offers wellness-focused perks such as spa privileges, priority boarding, and an all-inclusive drinks package. With the Aurea booking type, you’ll find yourself pampered from embarkation to disembarkation.  Note that the Aurea experience is only available on balcony and higher cabin types.

Key Features of Aurea:

• All-Inclusive Drinks Package: Aurea guests receive an all-inclusive drinks package, covering a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at bars and restaurants.
• Balcony Cabins and Suites: Most Aurea accommodations are Balcony cabins or suites, located in premium locations for stunning sea views.
• Unlimited Access to MSC Aurea Spa: Aurea guests have complimentary access to the thermal areas in the MSC Aurea Spa, including steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation spaces.
• Dedicated Priority Boarding: Skip the lines with priority embarkation, making it easier to start your vacation as soon as you board.
• My Choice Dining: Unlike the Bella and Fantastica options, Aurea guests can enjoy My Choice Dining, meaning they can dine at any time during dinner service.
• Private Sun Deck: Aurea cruisers have access to an exclusive sun deck, offering a quiet space for relaxation and sunbathing.

Best for: Guests seeking a more luxurious, all-inclusive cruise experience with wellness perks, spa access, and premium dining flexibility.

4. Yacht Club Experience: The Ultimate in MSC Luxury

The MSC Yacht Club offers an unparalleled, all-inclusive luxury experience with exclusive privileges and services. Known as the “ship within a ship,” Yacht Club guests enjoy exclusive facilities and service while still having access to all general amenities.

Key Features of Yacht Club:

• Private, All-Inclusive Amenities: Yacht Club guests enjoy a private pool, restaurant, lounge, and sun deck, creating a secluded and luxurious onboard environment.
• 24/7 Butler Service: Every Yacht Club guest is assigned a butler, available around the clock to assist with any needs, from unpacking to personal requests.
• Concierge Service: The dedicated concierge team can assist with booking shore excursions, spa appointments, and other onboard activities.
• Premium, Spacious Suites: Yacht Club suites are some of the most spacious and luxurious on MSC’s ships, located on the upper decks for better views and privacy.
• Unlimited Beverages and Dining: Yacht Club’s all-inclusive drinks package includes premium options, and guests have access to a private restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.
• Exclusive Embarkation and Disembarkation: Yacht Club guests enjoy priority boarding, disembarkation, and priority port access for shore excursions.

Best for: Luxury travelers who want an exclusive, high-end experience with top-tier amenities, private areas, and personal service.

Comparing the MSC Experiences: Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club

Feature	Bella	Fantastica	Aurea	Yacht Club
Dining Flexibility	Set time	Flexible	Anytime Dining	Private dining
Room Selection	Basic	Priority	Premium Location	Luxury suites
Included Drinks	No	No	All-inclusive	Premium all-inclusive
Exclusive Amenities	No	No	Spa access	Private Yacht Club areas
Priority Boarding	No	No	Yes	Yes
Private Pool and Sun Deck	No	No	Yes	Yes
24/7 Butler and Concierge	No	No	No	Yes

 

Summary

MSC’s range of booking options—Bella, Fantastica, Aurea, and Yacht Club—ensures that every traveler can find a package that suits their budget and preferences. From the essentials offered in Bella to the luxury Yacht Club experience, each tier provides a unique way to enjoy your MSC cruise. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a frequent traveler looking for an elevated experience, understanding the differences between these options will help you make the most of your journey with MSC Cruises.