How do I book shore excursions with MSC Cruises?

A cruise vacation with MSC Cruises is more than just enjoying luxury on the open seas—it is about the thrilling adventures awaiting you at every port of call. Shore excursions are an essential part of the cruise experience, offering passengers the opportunity to explore destinations, immerse themselves in local cultures, and create lasting memories. Whether you want to walk through historic towns, dive into turquoise waters, or enjoy culinary tours, MSC Cruises provides a wide range of shore excursions designed for different interests, ages, and activity levels.

But the question many travelers ask is: How do you actually book shore excursions with MSC Cruises? This article will guide you step by step through the booking process, explain the different ways to reserve excursions, and share insider tips to make the most of your journey.

1. What Are Shore Excursions?

Before diving into the booking process, it’s important to understand what shore excursions are. Shore excursions are organized tours or activities offered at the destinations where your ship docks. They are planned to give guests enriching experiences beyond the ship, ranging from sightseeing and cultural tours to adventurous activities.

Examples include:

• City sightseeing tours

• Beach and water sports activities

• Cultural and heritage visits

• Culinary and wine-tasting tours

• Hiking, biking, and adventure activities

• Wildlife encounters

• Family-friendly activities

MSC Cruises offers excursions tailored to different traveler preferences, from relaxing options for families to high-energy adventures for thrill seekers.

2. Why Book Shore Excursions with MSC Cruises?

While it is possible to explore a port independently, booking directly with MSC Cruises has many advantages:

• Convenience: MSC arranges transportation, guides, and entry tickets.

• Safety and reliability: Tours are vetted for safety and quality.

• Guaranteed return: The ship will wait for MSC-organized tours in case of delays.

• Expert guides: Professional guides enhance your experience with in-depth knowledge.

• Variety of options: From family activities to luxury tours, there is something for everyone.

• Seamless payment: Costs can be charged to your onboard account.

3. When Can You Book Shore Excursions?

You can book MSC Cruises shore excursions at three stages of your journey:

1. Before your cruise (online or via MSC app) – The most convenient way, as you can secure spots in advance.

2. During the cruise (onboard at the excursions desk or kiosks) – Great for last-minute planners.

3. Through travel agents – Some travel agents can assist with pre-booking excursions.

Booking early is highly recommended because popular excursions often sell out quickly.

4. How to Book Shore Excursions Before Your Cruise

Booking excursions before boarding allows you to carefully plan your trip.

Step 1: Visit the MSC Cruises Website

Log in to the official MSC Cruises website with your booking reference number.

Step 2: Access the "Manage Booking" Section

Once logged in, find your cruise reservation and look for the "Shore Excursions" option.

Step 3: Browse Excursions by Port

You’ll see a list of available excursions organized by port of call. Each excursion includes details such as activity level, duration, inclusions, and pricing.

Step 4: Select and Reserve

Choose your desired excursions and add them to your booking.

Step 5: Payment

You can pay at the time of booking or charge them to your onboard account.

5. How to Book Shore Excursions During Your Cruise

If you didn’t pre-book, don’t worry—you can book once you’re onboard.

a. Excursions Desk

Every MSC ship has a dedicated excursions desk staffed with knowledgeable personnel who can help you choose and book excursions.

b. Interactive Kiosks

Many ships have self-service kiosks where you can browse and book excursions easily.

c. MSC for Me App

MSC’s onboard app also allows you to browse and book excursions seamlessly.

6. Booking Through Travel Agents

If you booked your cruise through a travel agent, they can assist you in pre-reserving shore excursions. This option is especially helpful for first-time cruisers who prefer guidance.

7. Types of Shore Excursions on MSC Cruises

MSC categorizes excursions into different styles to suit various preferences:

a. Family-Friendly Excursions

Kid-oriented activities such as beach days, aquariums, and interactive tours.

b. Cultural and Historical Tours

Visits to museums, UNESCO sites, and historic landmarks.

c. Active and Adventure Excursions

Hiking, zip-lining, snorkeling, or scuba diving.

d. Nature and Wildlife Experiences

Exploring national parks, safaris, or marine life encounters.

e. Culinary Tours

Wine tasting, cooking classes, and local food sampling.

f. Luxury and Exclusive Tours

Private guides, smaller groups, and premium experiences.

8. Tips for Choosing the Right Excursions

• Know your limits: Pay attention to activity levels listed for each excursion.

• Plan with your group in mind: Choose excursions suitable for all ages traveling with you.

• Check duration: Make sure the excursion fits your schedule and energy levels.

• Compare options: Some ports may offer multiple variations of similar tours.

• Book early: Popular excursions often sell out.

9. Costs of Shore Excursions

The cost of MSC excursions varies depending on the activity. Prices can range from affordable walking tours to luxury private experiences.

• Walking tours: Budget-friendly

• Beach transfers: Moderate cost

• Adventure tours (zipline, scuba, ATV): Higher cost

• Private tours: Premium pricing

You can check exact prices while booking online or via the MSC app.

10. What’s Included in MSC Shore Excursions?

Most excursions include:

• Transportation from the ship to the activity site and back

• Entry tickets to attractions

• Professional guides

• Equipment (for adventure activities)

• Safety instructions

Some may also include meals or snacks, depending on the tour.

11. What Happens If Your Excursion Runs Late?

One of the biggest advantages of booking through MSC Cruises is that the ship will wait for you if your excursion runs late. Independent travelers don’t have this guarantee.

12. Cancelling or Modifying Excursions

If your plans change, MSC Cruises typically allows cancellation or modifications up to a certain deadline before the excursion begins. Always check the specific cancellation policy for your cruise.

13. Independent Exploration vs. MSC Excursions

Some passengers prefer exploring ports independently. While this allows more flexibility, it lacks the safety net of MSC-organized excursions. If you choose to go on your own, be mindful of time, local safety conditions, and transportation reliability.

14. Accessibility and Special Needs Excursions

MSC offers excursions designed for guests with limited mobility or specific needs. These include accessible buses, easy walking tours, and assistance options. When booking, make sure to specify any requirements so MSC can accommodate you.

15. Insider Tips for Booking MSC Excursions

• Use the MSC for Me app for easy booking and updates.

• Prioritize must-do excursions and book them early.

• Take advantage of family packages or group discounts.

• If you love adventure, look for limited-capacity activities.

• Consider mixing guided excursions with free exploration days for balance.

16. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I book excursions after my cruise starts?

Yes, you can book onboard at the excursions desk, kiosks, or via the MSC app.

Q2. Are excursions refundable if I change my mind?

They are usually refundable if cancelled before the excursion deadline. Check your ship’s specific terms.

Q3. Do excursions sell out?

Yes, popular tours often sell out quickly. Early booking is highly recommended.

Q4. Are meals included in excursions?

Some excursions include meals, especially longer ones. Details are listed in each tour description.

Q5. Can children join excursions?

Yes, many excursions are family-friendly, though some high-adventure tours may have age restrictions.

Conclusion

Booking shore excursions with MSC Cruises is a straightforward process that allows you to maximize your vacation experience. Whether you book online before your trip, onboard at the excursion desk, or via the MSC app, you’ll find a variety of exciting options tailored to different interests. By booking through MSC Cruises, you gain the convenience, safety, and assurance that your trip will be seamless and enjoyable.

From cultural explorations to adrenaline-packed adventures, every excursion is designed to make your time at port unforgettable. By planning ahead, choosing the right activities, and taking advantage of MSC’s professional organization, you can create a cruise filled with extraordinary memories.

So the next time you step aboard an MSC ship, be ready to not only enjoy life at sea but also the incredible adventures that await you on shore.