. MSC Musica is an extension and evolution of the slightly smaller MSC Lirica and MSC Opera. The blue funnel is quite sleek, with a swept-back design and carries the MSC logo in gold lettering, and forward of the mast, additional decks provide a more balanced profile. The hull features large circular porthole-style windows instead of square or rectangular windows. From a technical viewpoint, the ship is powered by diesel motors driving electric generators to provide power to two conventional propellers.
The interior layout and passenger flow is quite good with the exception of a couple of points of congestion, typically when the first seating exits the two main dining rooms and passengers on the second seating are waiting to enter. The musically-themed decor has many Italian influences, including clean lines, minimalism in furniture design, and a collection of colors, soft furnishings and fabrics that work well together, although it’s a little more garish than one would expect.
Real wood and marble have been used extensively in the interiors, and the high quality reflects the commitment that MSC Cruises has in the vessel’s future.
The focal point of the ship is the main three-deck high lobby, with a water-feature backdrop and a crystal piano on a small stage that appears to float on a pond. Other facilities include a large main show lounge, a nightclub, discotheque, numerous lounges and bars (including a wine bar), library, card room, an internet center, virtual reality center, children’s club, and cigar lounge. A shopping gallery, which includes an electronics store, has an integrated bar and entertainment area that flows through the main lobby so that shopping becomes a city-like environment where you can shop, drink, and be entertained all in one convenient area. Gamblers will like the expansive San Remo Casino (with blackjack, poker and roulette games, together with an array of slot machines).
Drinking places include a pub-like venue as well as several comfortable lounges with live music. A mini-golf course is on the port side of the funnel, while a walking/jogging track encircles an upper level above the two swimming pools. The ship is designed to accommodate families with children, who have their own play center, video games room, youth counselors, and activity programs.
Some of the artwork is whimsical, but fishermen will appreciate the stuffed head from a blue marlin caught by Pierfrancesco Vago, president of MSC Cruises in 2004 – weighing 588 pounds (266.7 kg), it stands at the Blue Marlin Bar on the pool deck. And do check out the “restroom with a view” – the men’s/ladies toilets adjacent to the Blue Marlin pool deck bar have a great ocean view (you can even watch the passing scenery while sitting on the toilet if you leave the door open).
The on-board currency is the euro. Gratuities are charged to your onboard account, at e6 per person, per day, but bar drink prices include a service charge.
Although access throughout most of the interior of the ship is very good, anyone who is wheelchair-bound should note that the passenger hallways are a little narrow on some decks for you to pass when housekeeping carts are in place. Sadly, there is no walk-around open promenade deck.
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008
