MSC Splendida

As the newest vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet, the MSC Splendida is just what its name would imply - splendid. Along with its sister ship, the Fantasia, the liner is an enlargement of the previous Musica class and includes a variety of additional features, restaurants and amenities.

Launched in 2009 and christened in Barcelona by Sophia Loren, the Splendida is designed to cater to a European passenger base and the on-board currency is the euro. Most guests on the ship are couples and young families. The dress code is generally casual, although formal and gala nights are held regularly throughout each voyage.

The Splendida sails exclusively to destinations in the Mediterraneanan, between Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, although some cruises depart from Genoa or Rome. Popular ports of call include Malta, Tunis, Marseille. Gibraltar and Casablanca.

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Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 3,900
Year entered service: 2009
Beam (ship width): 124.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 27.2 feet
Length: 1,093.5 feet
Tonnage: 133,500
Crew: 1,313
Maximum speed: 21 knots
Number of passenger decks: 13
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 4
Number of cabins: 1,650

Food, cuisine and dining

When travelling on the Splendida, passengers have a number of different restaurant options to choose from, so there's sure to be something to quell any culinary cravings you may have.

There are two main dining rooms: La Reggia is the larger one, spanning two decks and offering a lively atmosphere, meanwhile, Villa Verde features massive windows that afford beautiful ocean views and make the room feel very spacious indeed.

Bora Bora and Pago Pago are two buffets located on the lido deck and they are popular choices for breakfast and lunch. The former is transformed into a pizzeria in the evenings.

There are also four specialty restaurants, which are priced on an a la carte basis. These are:
• L'Olivio - for Italian and Mediterranean fare
• L'Enoteca - a tapas bar
• The Sports Bar - serves pub food and has a small bowling alley
• Santa Fe - for Tex-Mex

Room service is available 24 hours a day, although menu items are fairly basic and will incur an extra charge.

On-board entertainment and activities

While lounging on a sun bed and working on your tan is one of the most popular activities on the Splendida, there are plenty of other activities to keep passengers occupied.

Large-scale production shows are offered every night in the Strand Theatre. This two-deck venue has seating for 1,600 guests and offers state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems for a Broadway-quality performance at sea.

Other options include a 3D cinema and an F1 simulator. There's a casino, a number of shops for those seeking a bit of retail therapy and Club 33 is a disco with panoramic views for those who want to dance the night away.

Of course, there are also several bars and lounges throughout the vessel, where you can order a delicious cocktail and relax in style.

Spas and fitness facilities

For those who like to unwind with a bit of exercise, the Splendida offers plenty of opportunities. There are four swimming pools, a squash court, shuffleboard, a jogging track and a multi-sports court for games like basketball and tennis.

If you prefer to exercise in a gym setting, the Splendida Wellbeing Centre has a range of cardio and resistance equipment, and even some space for classes. You can also learn more about health, nutrition and weight loss with a session from a personal trainer or consultant.

And for some real indulgence, you can be pampered in the large spa. It features a thermal suite, as well as several treatment rooms and a relaxation area.

Spas and fitness facilities

For those who like to unwind with a bit of exercise, the Splendida offers plenty of opportunities. There are four swimming pools, a squash court, shuffleboard, a jogging track and a multi-sports court for games like basketball and tennis.

If you prefer to exercise in a gym setting, the Splendida Wellbeing Centre has a range of cardio and resistance equipment, and even some space for classes. You can also learn more about health, nutrition and weight loss with a session from a personal trainer or consultant.

And for some real indulgence, you can be pampered in the large spa. It features a thermal suite, as well as several treatment rooms and a relaxation area.

Spas and fitness facilities

For those who like to unwind with a bit of exercise, the Splendida offers plenty of opportunities. There are four swimming pools, a squash court, shuffleboard, a jogging track and a multi-sports court for games like basketball and tennis.

If you prefer to exercise in a gym setting, the Splendida Wellbeing Centre has a range of cardio and resistance equipment, and even some space for classes. You can also learn more about health, nutrition and weight loss with a session from a personal trainer or consultant.

And for some real indulgence, you can be pampered in the large spa. It features a thermal suite, as well as several treatment rooms and a relaxation area.

Cabins

The Splendida is one of the MSC vessels to incorporate the Yacht Club in its accommodation options. This is an exclusive part of the ship that includes nearly 100 lavish suites and a private swimming pool and sun deck. Plus, there's a 24-hour butler service.

Of course, if you're looking for cruise deals, options are also available to suit your needs. Even the most basic rooms - the interior cabins - are spacious and comfortable.