MSC Fantasia

As the largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, and one of the ten biggest cruise ships in the world, the MSC Fantasia is the perfect choice for anyone seeking relaxing and fun-filled voyage, with all the amenities of a world-class resort.

The Fantasia is the flagship of MSC Cruises and, like its sister ship, the Splendida, is a Fantasia class vessel that was built by STX Europe in Oslo. It was completed in 2008 and was named in Naples by Sophia Loren.

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Perfect for young couples and families with small kids or teenagers, the Fantasia is a stylish and comfortable ship that boasts plenty of modern amenities and luxuries to leave you feeling completely rejuvenated by the end of your voyage.

The vessel regularly departs on voyages around the Mediterranean, with popular destinations including Palermo, Tunis, Barcelona, Marseille, Malaga and Rome. Trips to the Canaries are also offered, with stops in Madeira and Casablanca on the way.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 3,959
Year entered service: 2008
Beam (ship width): 124.3 feet
Draught (ship depth): 27.72 feet
Length: 1,093 feet
Tonnage: 135,000
Crew: 1,325
Maximum speed: 23 knots
Number of passenger decks: 13
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 4
Number of cabins: 1,354

Food, cuisine and dining

Going hungry on the Fantasia should never be much of a problem, as it offers a broad range of dining venues for passengers to choose from.

Il Cherchio d'Oro is the main restaurant. Located in the aft section, it spans two decks, plenty of space and provides a traditional cruise dining experience. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering Mediterranean-style cuisine, while snacks and lighter meals are available throughout the day as well.

Another option is Red Velvet, an Italian eatery that's sumptuously decorated in - of course - red velvet. It provides a more intimate venue than the main dining room and it offers a fabulous wine list to go with its mouth-watering meals.

If you prefer a more casual option for mealtimes, then there are two buffets also on the ship, which offer a delicious variety of hot and cold items. Meanwhile, the Piazza San Giorgio is an ice-cream and dessert bar that's sure to have a sweet treat or two that will tickle your taste buds.

Other options include L'Etoile, which offers French-inspired service and fare, as well as El Sombrero for those desiring Tex Mex. And if you're in the mood for a delicious coffee with a pastry on the side, then Il Cappuccino - a coffee bar- is the place to go.

On-board entertainment and activities

Passengers of every age are well catered for on the Fantasia. There's an Interactive 4D cinema, which includes not just an amazing audio-visual experience, but the chairs actually move to add to the effect, making guests feel like they're part of the movie.

There's also a Formula 1 simulator, which car and racing enthusiasts are sure to enjoy. You'll feel like you're behind the wheel in one of these high-octane vehicles, navigating each turn and twist to try to win a race.

Other options include the L'Avanguardia show lounge, where productions like cabaret acts, concerts and comedy are held on a nightly basis. There are also a number of bars and lounges where you can enjoy live music in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Passengers who have chosen suite accommodation will also have access to the MSC Yacht Club - a VIP area featuring a complimentary bar, 24-hour butler services and private swimming pool and sun loungers. Guests to this part of the ship will also be amazed by the breathtakingly beautiful Swarovski crystal floor, while the glass ceiling offers stunning views to the starry skies.

Spas and fitness facilities

Passengers in need of some proper rest and relaxation during their cruise should head off the Aurea Spa for some pampering and tranquillity.

This large section of the ship includes a peaceful thermal suite with a Turkish bath and aromatherapy steam rooms. Alternatively, why not book a treatment session? Options range from facials, body wraps and massages.

A thalassotherapy pool is also available for guests who want to enjoy the health-giving benefits of sea water. Meanwhile, healthy snacks, juices and herbal teas are also available.

There's modern gym with large windows looking out to sea. It's fitted with exercise machines and includes a space specifically for yoga and aerobics classes. Elsewhere on the ship, you can find a tennis court, squash court, mini golf and a jogging track.

Cabins

The Fantasia has more than 1,600 rooms for guests to choose from and an astonishing 80 per cent have an outside view - most of which also include balconies.

For those wishing to be spoiled by the best amenities and service, then booking one of the 99 suites in the MSC Yacht Club is the best option. These rooms offer not just access to the VIP area and a number of specialist services, but the staterooms are also enormous, with stylish furnishings and a separate bedroom.

Alternatively, if you're a bit more budget-conscious, then lower-priced cruise deals can be found elsewhere on the ship.

No matter which type of room you select, you'll enjoy a private bathroom and plenty of storage space. Each room is equipped with an interactive television, a mini bar and a safe.