• Boarding of the ship begins around noon in most ports and you should be onboard no later than two hours before ship’s scheduled departure time. 
• For debarkation, you should allow sufficient time from the ships arrival in port to the time local customs and immigration clears the ship for guests to disembark.  This process can sometimes take up to 2 hours depending on the port of call.  

Women up to 28 weeks pregnant within the end of the cruise may cruise with us on presentation of a medical certificate stating their due date and medical fitness to travel.

MSC vessels carry onboard service providers which may include, hairdressers, manicurists, masseuses, photographers, entertainers, fitness instructors, shopkeepers and other service providers who are independent contractors. MSC  has no control over these contractors and is not responsible for the actions of independent contractors that work aboard its vessels or provide services to MSC's guests.

In addition, MSC Cruises acts only as agent for the supplier of other off-ship services such as airlines, transportation carriers, shore excursions, and accommodations. Guests are reminded to keep all receipts and/or tickets issued by such off-ship suppliers, as the guests’ only recourse for injury, death, loss, or damage caused while not on board the vessel will be against such off-ship suppliers.

At this time debarkation by U.S. Citizens at all Libyan ports of call is prohibited by the Libyan government.

Valid Libyan Visa is required for Canadian citizens in order to proceed ashore Libyan ports of call.

To make sure you can use any electrical equipment such as an electric shaver, please note that the MSC Melody, MSC Rhapsody, MSC Armonia, MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Opera and MSC Musica offer 110/220V current in the staterooms (twin flat USA Standard pins are required and are available on board). Guests with pre- or post-cruise hotel packages might want to bring converters and/or adapters for their extended stay.

Cruise tickets will be send after full payment has been received. Electronic cruise tickets (e-tickets) will be issued to all guests booking for their vacation 30 days or fewer prior to sailing.

Any guest under the age of 21 y ears must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult over the age of 21 who expressly agrees to be responsible for the minor and is booked in the same or connecting stateroom/suite.

The "Kids Sail Free" offer applies to children age 17 (at time of departure) and under sailing as third/fourth guests in same stateroom/suite as parent or responsible adult. Offer is subject to availability of third and fourth berth accommodations, is capacity controlled. Additional restrictions may apply. Government fees, taxes and fuel surcharges are additional.

Government fees and taxes may include any and all fees, charges and taxes imposed by U.S. and/or foreign governmental and quasi-governmental authorities, including U.S. customs fees, head taxes, hotel taxes, air taxes, taxes incurred as part of a land tour, inspection fees, immigration and naturalization fees and Internal Revenue Service fees. Government fees and taxes are subject to change and MSC Cruises reserves the right to collect any increases in effect at the time of sailing, even if the fare has already been paid in full. Government fees and taxes are collected for all guests, regardless of age. MSC Cruises reserves the right to pass on any fuel surcharge without prior notice to guests.

NOTICE TO PASSENGER: Attached are your Boarding Coupon, Passenger Ticket and (if contracted) Transfer Voucher. Before accepting them, carefully read all the terms of the following Passenger Contract which contains important conditions and limitations. Clauses 20 to 26 set out some of your rights, limitations of liability, court jurisdiction and time limits to file claims or to bring suit.

PASSENGER CONTRACT

Carefully read all terms and conditions before accepting them. Clauses 20 to 26 set out your rights and limitations to make claims against MSC Crociere S.A., its servants and subcontractors. Please retain this document for future reference.

1. CONSTRUCTION

All references to “Passenger” singular shall include the plural. All references to the masculine shall include the feminine and vice versa. Clause headings are inserted for convenience only and do not form part of the terms and conditions of this Ticket and shall not affect its construction.

2. AGREEMENT

In consideration of the Fare, MSC Crociere S.A. (“MSC Cruises” or “The Company”) agrees by issuing the Passenger Ticket (“the Ticket”) and Passenger Contract (“the Contract”) to transport the person named in the Ticket (“the Passenger”) on the specific Voyage (“the Voyage”) on named or substitute vessels subject to the terms and conditions herein. By accepting the Ticket and Contract, the Passenger agrees to be bound by all its terms, conditions and limitations. All prior oral and/or written agreement is superseded by this Contract. This Ticket and Contract cannot be amended without written and signed consent from MSC Cruises or its authorized representative. The Ticket and Contract cannot be assigned or transferred to any other person. Invalidity of any clause shall not affect the validity of any other clause of this Contract.

3. PARTIES DEFINED

The term “the Company” includes MSC Crociere S.A., MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., their parents, subsidiaries, affiliates and assigns and their collective agents, servants, the carrying vessel (“the Cruise Ship”), its owner, charterer, operator, officers, staff, crew, concessionaries, independent contractors, and any tenders or other means of transport provided by the Company to the Passenger. “Passenger” includes the person or persons named in the Ticket, their heirs and assigns, and the travel agent or other person authorized to receive the Ticket and Contract on behalf of the Passenger. The “Master” is the Captain or person in charge of and commanding of the Cruise Ship.

4. THE FARE

The fare includes cabin accommodation, meals on board and entertainment offered on the Cruise Ship. The Fare does not include alcoholic beverages, cocktails, any soft drinks, mineral water, any medical expenses, any independent contractors' services or products, shore excursions, gratuities, or any fees, charges or taxes imposed by any government agency.

5. CABIN OCCUPANCY

Passenger shall not have the right to exclusive occupancy of a cabin with two (2) or more berths unless he has paid supplement for exclusive occupation. The Company reserves the right to transfer the Passenger from one cabin to another and may adjust the Fare accordingly.

6. TRAVEL INSURANCE

The Company strongly recommends that Passengers obtain travel insurance to protect against loss or damage to baggage and personal effects, trip cancellation, emergency medical disembarkation and/or repatriation expenses, accidental death or injury, illness and medical expenses sustained or incurred in connection with your cruise. Passengers should be aware that some forms of routine health insurance do not protect Passengers when outside of their usual location of residence.

7. CANCELLATIONS, DELAYS AND REFUNDS

(A) The Cruise Ship's operation is subject to weather conditions, mechanical problems, vessel traffic, government intervention, duty to assist other vessels or persons in distress, availability of berth facilities, and other factors beyond the Company's control.

(B) The Company does not guarantee that the Cruise Ship will call at every advertised port or follow any particular route or time schedule. The Master and the Company shall have an absolute right to cancel, change or substitute the advertised schedule, ports, itinerary or route, or substitute other ships, without notice. If a scheduled port of embarkation is substituted, the Company shall determine and arrange transportation to the substituted port at no expense to the Passenger.

(C) No part of the Fare is refundable, except as specifically provided as follows: (i) Before the Voyage begins, the Company has the right to cancel the Voyage for any reason without notice. The Company shall refund the full amount of the Fare received, and the Company shall have no further liability whatsoever. (ii) If the scheduled Voyage embarkation is delayed more than six (6) hours, the Company may arrange at no additional expense to the Passenger, such hotel accommodations as the Company deems appropriate until the Cruise Ship is ready to board. In this event, The Company shall have no further liability or obligation to the Passenger. (iii) After the Voyage begins, the Master may terminate the Voyage at any nearest port or at the next port of the itinerary. In such cases, the Company's sole liability shall be to make a pro-rata refund of the Fare received for any unused cruise days. The pro-rata refund will be calculated based on the number of whole days of twenty-four (24) hours that the Voyage is reduced. No pro-rata refund will be made for part of a day. The Company shall provide substitute transportation of its choice to the point of disembarkation. (iv) If the scheduled duration of the Voyage is extended, the Company shall have no liability to the Passenger, and the Passenger shall not be liable to pay any extra Fare. (v) If the duration of the Voyage is reduced, then the Company's sole liability shall be to make a pro-rata refund based on the number of whole days the Voyage is shortened by more than twenty-four (24) hours.

8. CANCELLATION AND CHANGES BY PASSENGER

The Passenger may cancel the Contract at any time prior to commencement of the Voyage by giving notice in writing to MSC Cruises. Cancellation requests must be received in writing directly to MSC Cruises no less than 76 days prior to sailing date for a full refund. Requests received less than 76 days will be subject to the following charges: Reservations cancelled from 75 to 46 days prior to sailing -- the cancellation charge is equal to the deposit amount. Reservations cancelled from 45 to 16 days prior to sailing - the cancellation charge is equal to 50% of the total fares, excluding taxes. Reservations cancelled 15 days or less prior to sailing - the cancellation charge is equal to 100% of the total fares, excluding taxes. No refund will be permitted if a guest terminates his/her cruise after embarkation or while the cruise is in progress. Cruise contracts are non - transferable. Name changes and cruise date changes are considered reservation cancellations and are subject to the above cancellation fees. Cancellation charges are assessed on the total fares, which include cruise fare, air-add-on, hotel packages, and any other additional service arranged trough MSC Cruises.

9. NON-USE OR PART-USE OF TICKET

If the Passenger fails to board the Cruise Ship before departure, or joins the Cruise Ship at another port, or leaves the Voyage while in progress, the Passenger shall not be entitled to any refund of the Fare unless circumstances in clause 7 and 8 above apply.

10. NOTICES AND PAYMENTS

If the Ticket has been purchased through any travel agent, tour company, group, organizer or booking representative (“the Agent”), the Passenger authorizes the Company to give any notices and to pay any refund owed to the Passenger to the Agent on his behalf. The failure of the Agent to pay the full Fare to the Company is considered a breach of Contract by the Passenger when the Ticket has been purchased through an Agent. Such Agent shall be deemed to be the Agent of the Passenger and not of the Company.

11. EXTRA CHARGES

The Passenger shall pay in full all charges for goods and services incurred, or incurred by the Company on his behalf, before the end of the Voyage.

12. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

The Passenger shall comply with any governmental travel requirements, laws or regulations for all ports of call on the Cruise Ship's itinerary for both Immigration and Vessel Security purposes. All Passengers must present for inspection the Ticket and Contract, a valid Passport and any visa, entry or exit permit, required by any port on the Cruise Ship's itinerary. Passenger is responsible for checking with the embassy or consulate for every country to be visited on the planned itinerary to determine what visas or other travel documentation are necessary. The Company reserves the right to deny boarding to any Passenger who lacks the necessary proof of citizenship or other required travel documentation. Guest who fails to have the required documents will be denied boarding and such guests shall not be entitled to any refund nor shall MSC Cruises have any further liability to such guests. For your safety and convenience, Passengers are advised to check with the U.S. Department of State or their local government to review any travel advisories which may have been issued for any ports on the cruise itinerary.

13. SECURITY

The Passenger shall present himself for boarding at least two (2) hours before scheduled departure to complete any pre-boarding procedures and security inspections. For security reasons, the Passenger agrees that agents of the Company may search the Passenger, his cabin, his luggage, and any accompanying property. The Company shall have the right to confiscate any articles carried or contained in any luggage which the Company, in its sole discretion, considers dangerous or pose risk or inconvenience to the security of the Cruise Ship or persons on board. Passengers are prohibited from bringing on board any articles that can be used as a weapon, explosives, illegal or dangerous goods. The Company reserves the right to search any cabin, berth or other part of the Cruise Ship for security reasons at any time.

14. HEALTH AND FITNESS TO TRAVEL

The Passenger warrants that he is fit to travel by sea and that his conduct or condition will not impair the safety of the Cruise Ship or inconvenience the other Passengers. Any passenger with a condition that may affect his fitness to travel is strongly encouraged to check with their personal physician regarding their ability to travel and to obtain a written physician's certificate of Passenger's fitness for an international sea voyage. If it appears to the Company, the Master or the Cruise Ship's Doctor in their sole discretion that a Passenger is for any reason unfit to travel, likely to endanger health or safety, or likely to be refused permission to land at any port, or likely to render the Company liable for Passenger maintenance, support or repatriation, then the Company or the Master shall have the right to take any of the following courses and the Company shall have no further liability to Passenger: (i) Refuse to embark the Passenger at any port; (ii) Disembark the Passenger at any port; (iii) Transfer the Passenger to another berth or cabin; (iv) If the Cruise Ship doctor considers it advisable, to place and confine the Passenger in the Cruise Ship's Infirmary, to Passenger's cabin or any other cabin, or to transfer the Passenger to a health facility at any port, all at the Passenger's expense. Passenger acknowledges that travel by sea involves certain risks and hazards including motion of the vessel by sea conditions and the delay and/or impossibility of immediate evacuation from the vessel in the event of a medical emergency depending on the vessel's location and prevailing sea and weather conditions. The Company shall have no liability and shall owe no full or partial refund in the event the Passenger is refused passage, disembarked, confined to the infirmary or their cabin, or transferred to another berth or cabin pursuant to this section.

15. YOUNG PASSENGERS

Adult Passengers traveling with person under age 21 shall be fully responsible for that person's conduct and behavior. Passengers under age 21 may not order or consume alcoholic beverages or participate in gambling. Parents and guardians are responsible for monitoring the actions of their minor passenger at all times.

16. MEDICAL SERVICES BY INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

Medical services are available on board the Cruise Ship as a convenience to the Passenger. The Cruise Ship's doctor and medical personnel are independent contractors and are entitled to charge Passengers for any medical services and medicines provided. The Cruise Ship's doctor and medical personnel are not under the Company's or Master's control for treating Passengers, and the Company shall not be liable in any way for medical services or medicines provided or not provided. Medical facilities onboard and in the various ports of call may be limited. The Company shall not be liable in any way for referring guests ashore for medical services or for the actual medical services rendered ashore.

17. OTHER INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

The Cruise Ship carries on board service providers who operate as independent contractors. Their services and products are not included in the Fare, and the Company is not responsible for their performance or products. These contractors may include, hairdresser, manicurist, masseuse, photographer, entertainer, fitness instructors, shopkeepers, auctioneers, and others providing services. The limitations referred to in clauses 23 to 26 shall apply to all independent contractors and their employers, all of whom are considered beneficiaries under this contract.

18. TRAVEL PACKAGES AND SHORE EXCURSIONS

Hotel accommodation and all transport (other than the Company's Cruise Ship) included in Package Tours or Shore Excursions, are operated by independent contractors even if sold by Agents or Organizers on board the Cruise Ship. “Package” and/or “Organizer” shall have the same meaning as contained in the European Union and Council directive of 13 June 1990 on Package Holidays and Package Tours (90/314/EEC). The Company shall not be responsible in any way for the conduct, products or services provided by such independent contractors.

19. PASSENGER'S LUGGAGE AND PERSONAL PROPERTY

Each Passenger is permitted to carry on board two (2) suitcases and two (2) pieces of hand luggage. The Passenger agrees to pay the Company's current rate for any excess luggage. (i) Passenger's luggage and property shall include only personal belongings, and any commercial property shall be subject to an additional charge. (ii) The Company shall not be responsible for any fragile or perishable property carried by the Passenger. (iii) No animals or birds are permitted on board, except specially trained assistance dogs or animals licensed to Passengers with disabilities providing the Company has given its separate consent at the time the Ticket was purchased. The Company shall not be responsible for such dogs or animals and Passengers should check with all jurisdictions to be visited on the ship's itinerary to ensure such animals are allowed ashore in such jurisdictions and are not subject to quarantine. The Passenger shall have full responsibility for such dogs or animals and shall indemnify the Company for any damages or liability caused by such dogs or animals. (iv) The Company shall not be responsible to provide wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Passengers who require such devices must supply their own or make arrangements to have one delivered onboard prior to their embarkation. Passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility assistance devices are responsible to check that suitable accommodations are available at the time of booking and should verify with the Company the particular dimensions of the requested stateroom, including but not limited to door widths, and other vessel accessibility features. The Company supports the right of persons with disabilities to travel onboard its vessels. Guests with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Company to obtain detailed information regarding the facilities onboard. The Company recommends but does not require that guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a traveling companion who can provide such assistance during the voyage. (v) All luggage must be securely packed and distinctly labeled. The Company shall not be liable for loss, damage or delay in delivery of any luggage. (vi). The Company shall not be liable for loss or damage to Passenger's luggage or property while in the custody or control of airlines, stevedores or other independent shore side contractors. (vii) All luggage must be claimed upon arrival of the Cruise Ship at final port or it will be stored at Passenger risk and expense. (viii) The Passenger shall not be liable to pay or receive any General Average contribution in respect of baggage or personal effects or property. (ix) The Company shall not be liable for loss of or damage to suitcases or other luggage containers including but not limited to loss of or damage to protruding parts such as wheels, feet, external pockets, pull handles, hanger hooks, external locks, pull straps and security straps.

20. APPLICABLE LAW

The applicable law to this Contract shall be Italian law, except that for Voyages that include port(s) in the U.S.A., in which case the general maritime law of the United States shall apply.

21. JURISDICTION

(A) For Voyages that do not include a port in U.S.A., all claims arising out of this Contract shall be brought in and be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of Naples, Italy.

(B) For Voyages that include a port in U.S.A., all claims arising out of this contract shall be brought in, and be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. It is expressly agreed that all disputes shall be tried by a Judge without a Jury as an Admiralty and Maritime claim pursuant to Rule 9H of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Any suit shall be filed in the venue of Ft. Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida to the exclusion of any other venue or location where suit may otherwise be brought.

22. FORCE MAJEURE & EVENTS BEYOND THE COMPANY'S CONTROL

The Company shall not be liable for any loss, injury, damage, or inability to perform the Voyage arising from any Force Majeure circumstances including, but not limited to: war, terrorism, fire, natural disasters, Acts of God, labor strikes, bankruptcy, inability to procure fuel, Acts of State, failure of subcontractors to perform, or any other events beyond the Company's reasonable control.

23. NO LIABILITY FOR EMOTIONAL DISTRESS

The Company shall not be liable to the Passenger for any emotional distress, mental anguish or psychological injury of any kind except where said emotional distress, mental anguish or psychological injury was the result of either (A) physical injury to the claimant caused by the negligence or fault of the Company, (B) the claimant having been at actual risk of physical injury and such risk was caused by the negligence or fault of the Company, or (C) was intentionally inflicted by a crewmember or the Company as provided under 46 U.S.C. § 30509.

24. LIABILITY

The liability (if any) of the Company for damages suffered as a result of death, personal injury, emotional distress to the Passenger, or loss or damage to luggage shall be subject to the following limitations and shall be determined in accordance with the following:

(A) Voyages not including a U.S.A. port: The International Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Baggage by Sea, adopted in Athens on 13 December 1974 and its 1976 Protocol, (the “Athens Convention”) shall apply. (i)The Company shall be entitled to the benefit of all the limitations, rights and immunities provided by the Athens Convention including the full deductible under Article 8(4) of the Athens Convention. (ii)The liability of the Company for death, personal injury or illness to the Passenger shall not exceed 46,666 Special Drawing Rights (“SDR”) as provided and defined in the Athens Convention 1976 Protocol. (iii) Liability of the Company for loss of or damage to Passenger's luggage or other property shall not exceed 833 SDR per Passenger. It is agreed that such liability of the Company shall be subject to a deductible of 13 SDR per Passenger, such sum to be deducted from the loss or damage to luggage or other property. The Passenger understands that the conversion rate of SDR's fluctuates daily and may be obtained from a bank or from the International Monetary Fund Website (www.imf.org). As of November 2007, 46,666 SDR's was approximately equal to US$74,187 and 833 SDR was approximately equal to US$1,324. (iv)If any provision of this Contract is rendered null and void by the Athens Convention, such invalidity shall be limited to the particular clause and not to the whole contract. (B) Voyages including a U.S.A. port: (i) Where U.S.A. law applies under this contract, the liability for death, personal injury and emotional distress to a Passenger shall not exceed the limitations set out in all applicable provisions of Title 46 of the United States Code, including but not limited to 46 U.S.C. § 30509, the Limitation of Liability Act, 46 U.S.C. § 30501 et. seq., and the Death on the High Seas Act, 46 U.S.C. § 30301 et. seq.. (ii)The Company's liability for loss or damage to Passenger's luggage or other property shall not exceed US $100 per Passenger, unless a higher limit is agreed upon in writing before departure and an extra charge for declared value protection is paid as set out below in 24C(ii). (C) All Voyages: (i) The Company shall not be liable for loss or damage to any valuables such as monies, negotiable securities, precious metal items, jewelry, art, cameras, computers, electronic equipment, or any other valuables unless they are deposited with the Company for safe-keeping, and a higher limit is agreed expressly and in writing at the time of deposit, and an extra charge is paid by the Passenger for declared value protection. (ii) Extra charges are: 1% of declared value for a Voyage 1 to 7 days; 2% of declared value for a Voyage 8 to 21 days; 3% of declared value for a Voyage 22 days and over. If the value of any luggage or property is misrepresented, the Company's liability for loss or damage to the property shall not exceed U.S. $100. (iii) The Company and Passenger agree not to demand any security from the other in connection with a claim of any kind. The Passenger waives the right to arrest the Cruise Ship or any other ships owner, operated or chartered by the Company, or to attach any other asset owned, chartered or operated by the Company. If the Cruise Ship is arrested or attached, then the ship and the Company shall have the right to any limitation and all defenses available herein and the Passenger causing such arrest shall be liable to the Company for all lost revenue and other losses or claims that arise from, relate to, or are incident to such arrest.

25. NOTICES OF CLAIMS

(A) Notices of claim for death, illness, emotional stress or personal injury, with full particulars in writing must be given to the Company and the Cruise Ship within six (6) months (185 days) after the date such death, injury, or illness occurring in accordance with 46 U.S.C. § 30509. Such notice shall be sent by registered mail to: CLAIMS DEPARTMENT MSC Crociere Via A. Depretis 31-80133, Naples, Italy (B)Notices of Claim for all other claims, including but not limited to claims for loss or damage to luggage or other property, shall be given to the Company in writing before or at the time of disembarkation, or if not apparent, within fifteen (15) days from the date of disembarkation. Notice shall be sent by registered mail to the address in Clause 25 (A) above.

26. TIME LIMITS FOR FILING SUIT

(A) All claims against the Company or the Cruise Ship shall be time barred as follows: (i) For Voyages not including a U.S.A. port, claims shall be time barred after two (2) years from the date of disembarkation as provided by Article 16 of the Athens Convention.(ii) For Voyages including a U.S.A. port, claims for personal injury, illness, or death shall be time barred unless commenced not later than one (1) year from the date of injury or death. (iii) For claims involving a Passenger under age 18 or an incompetent person, time shall be calculated from the date of the appointment of a legal representative. Such appointment must be made within three (3) years after such injury, onset of illness or death. (B) All other actions not involving personal injury, illness or death, including but not limited to claims for other torts or breach of contract against the Company and the Cruise Ship, shall be time barred if not commenced not later than six (6) months (185 days), from the date of Passenger's disembarkation.

27. ADDITIONS TO FARE, AND SURCHARGES

: a) The fare that you paid was determined far in advance of Initial Departure on the basis of then-existing projections of costs, including but not limited to fuel costs. The Company reserves the right to impose or pass through fuel surcharges, security surcharges or similar incidental surcharges at any time prior to departure. In the event of an increase in costs above amounts projected, the Company further reserves the right to increase the fare or impose surcharges at any time up to Initial Departure and to require payment of the additional fare or surcharges prior to Initial Departure. The Company has the right to refuse to transport you unless the additional fare or surcharges are paid. In the event the Company imposes such fare increase or surcharges within less than 76 days of departure, You may within seven (7) days after you are notified of the additional fare or surcharges (but no later than Initial Departure), elect to surrender this contract to us for cancellation, whereupon you will receive a full refund of all monies paid to the Company. Cancellation fees do not apply to this type of refund. In the event you do not surrender this Contract within said seven (7) day period you will be deemed to have accepted the surcharge. No right of cancellation except for those otherwise provided herein exists under any of these circumstances provided The Company provides notice of such fare increase or surcharges at least 76 days prior to departure. MSC-2008 sa-3

In order to ensure our health and security standards, starting November 1^st 2008, it will be strictly forbidden to bring food and beverage onboard the vessels of our fleet.

In compliance with this regulation and in order to guarantee the above standards, during embarkation a careful check control will be carried out through all passengers luggage.

In order to facilitate the embarkation process, we ask that you please avoid bringing any food and beverage or transporting any food and beverage as part of your luggage.

Please note below a list of the items that are allowed:

1. Personal hygiene products: toothpaste, cleansing products, lotions.
2. Fluid medications for therapeutic use.
3. Baby gear and baby food items.  
4. Dietary items: prescribed by a physician.

Any local or “ typical “ food item purchased during the cruise in any port of call will be collected and returned at the end of the cruise.

MSC Cruises, its employees and agents do not accept responsibility for loss, damage, or theft of guests’ luggage or other personal effects. MSC Cruises’ responsibility with respect to lost, damaged, or undelivered luggage is strictly limited as stated in the Passenger Contract. In the event of a loss or damage to luggage or personal effects, immediate notification should be made to a representative of MSC Cruises.

Contact MSC at 800-666-9333 for Baggage and Personal Effects Insurance Protection.

Cancellation requests must be received in writing by MSC Cruises no less than 76 days prior to sailing date for a full refund.

Reservation cancellation requests received less than 76 days prior to sailing will be subject to the following charges:

No refund will be issued if a guest voluntarily or involuntarily fails to show up for their cruise; is denied boarding for any reason including failure to possess required travel documents, passport or visa; or terminates his/her cruise in progress. Cruise contracts are non-transferable.

Name changes and cruise date changes are considered reservation cancellations and are subject to the above cancellation charges. Cancellation charges are assessed on total fares, which include cruise fare, air add-ons, hotel packages, and any other additional services arranged through MSC Cruises.

For Trip Cancellation Protection contact MSC at 800-666-9333

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, it is advisable to take an extra pair in case of any loss or damage. Similarly, if you use any prescription medicines or special cosmetics, bring enough to last for the duration of your holiday, as these may not be available in the countries you are visiting. It is best to carry these items and VALUABLES in your hand luggage. If you are carrying expensive camera or video equipment, it helps to carry your receipts and thus avoid unnecessary delays in clearing customs.

Sunglasses, sun hats and high factor sun tan lotions should be used at all times and passengers should spend no more than twenty minutes daily in the direct sun during the early part of the holiday.

Starting July 13^th, 2009, MSC Cruises will support an innovative UNICEF program to combat poverty and inequality by helping ensure disadvantaged children in Rio de Janeiro and São Paolo gain quality education.

Guests are also invited to “get on board for children” and make a difference by offering a small donation. This can be as little as €1 (or $1.50), which will be added to the bill at the end of the cruise. However this small donation, valid on all ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, is of course optional. Therefore, passengers may freely decide whether to increase, decrease or cancel it, communicating their decision to the Accounting Office before 22.00 of the last day of the cruise. This Office is at guests’ disposal for further information. For your convenience, should you give no indication to change the amount, the sum of € 1(or.$1.50)  will be automatically debited to your final account.

For more information please read the informational brochure left in every cabin or go to www.msc-unicef.org

Yes, the fee for the 4D cinema onboard the MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida is €6 per admission.

No, the Wii Nintendo onboard the MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida can be used free of charge.

We will make every effort to meet special dietary requests for vegetarian, diabetic, low fat, low-sodium, or low-cholesterol diets.   Please request at the time of making your vacation reservation and confirm with the Maitre D' on the day of embarkation.

MSC Cruises works closely  the AIC - Associazione Italiana Celiachia (Italian Celiac Association) to provide gluten-free menus in the restaurants of MSC Fantasia, MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra ed MSC Poesia cruising in the Mediterranean and in Northern Europe.

On MSC Splendida, MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia, MSC Melody guests can find pre-packaged gluten-free products like snacks, biscuits, croissants, plumcakes and muffins.

For cruises in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, as well as transatlantic cruises departing from Europe, the onboard currency is the Euro (€).

For cruises in the Caribbean, North America, South America and South Africa, as well as transatlantic cruises going to Europe, the onboard currency is the US Dollar ($).

For your convenience, we provide a cashless system on our ship’s that allow you to sign for all of your onboard purchases (with the exception of the casino).  At check-in, you will be asked to provide a credit card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) or cash deposit for onboard purchases.  

Small amounts of European currencies and US dollars, and Travelers Checks can be changed onboard at the Purser’s Office - commission charges may apply.

Personal checks and Eurocheques are NOT accepted.

Important Note: All accounts are settled the morning before the cruise finishes. Thereafter any drinks or items of a personal nature must be paid for in cash.  Please ensure you have sufficient cash to pay for these during the last day.

Cruise prices listed are in U.S. dollars, cruise-only per person, based on double occupancy, capacity controlled, and valid for residents of the U.S. and Canada only. Single occupancy rates for all categories are available upon request.

CRUISE PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE: Government fees and taxes, fuel surcharges, transportation to/from ship, shore excursions, sightseeing or meals ashore, meals in specialty and à la carte restaurants, laundry, wine, beer, liquors, cocktails, soda, mineral water, medical expenses, spa, beauty salon, casino gaming, onboard shopping, onboard Service Charge.

All cruise prices include selected category accommodations, ocean transportation, all meals aboard ship (except specialty and à la carte restaurants) and entertainment offered by the cruise vessel.

Tipping is a personal matter and your own judgment is the best guide. For your convenience MSC Cruises will automatically add a modest service charge to your onboard account. It will be based on the number of days in which services are actually rendered and vary by itinerary:

• Caribbean and Eastbound Transatlantic sailings: $12.00 USD per adult per day.  
• Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Westbound Transatlantic sailings: €uro 7.00 per adult per day.

Per person per day service charge for children under the age of 18 will be 50% less. Service charges are subject to change and may vary based on the ship’s onboard currency.

Should you wish to make adjustments you may do so by contacting the Guest Relation Manager at any point during your cruise.  MSC Cruises does not recommend tipping individually any member of the personnel on board as this is already included in the service charge.

For your convenience a 15% service charge is automatically added to beverage purchases.

Valuable Insurance Protection

Download Insurance Form

Even the best-planned travel can be impacted by the unexpected illness, medical emergencies, severe weather, delayed flights, lost passports or luggage, etc.  Troubles can occur when you least anticipate them, forcing you to cancel or interrupt your trip, lose your vacation investment, and incur unplanned expenses. And when you’re away from home, things like medical emergencies and illness are even more difficult to manage.

CSA Travel Protection plans provide important insurance coverage, benefits and 24-hour emergency assistance services to take care of you while traveling and protect your hard-earned investment. We anticipate the unexpected so you don’t have to.

* Please note: Benefits and services are described on a general basis.  Certain restrictions, exclusions, and limitations apply to all coverages and services.  Please contact CSA Travel Protection for a sample certificate/policy.  This plan applies to only those arrangements booked directly through MSC Cruises.

Kids Under 17 Included at no Additional Cost!!

INSURANCE COVERAGES

Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption

Provides reimbursement for unused, non-refundable pre-paid expenses if you are prevented from taking your trip due to a covered reason. Trip Interruption also provides reimbursement for additional transportation costs if your trip is interrupted or your arrival on your trip is delayed due to a covered reason.

Trip Delay

Provides for reasonable expenses incurred such as accommodations, meals, and local transportation if you are delayed 12 hours or more during your trip due to a covered reason.

Baggage Delay

Provides reimbursement for the emergency purchase of necessary personal effects if your baggage is delayed for more than 24 hours during your trip.

Baggage & Personal Effects

Provides reimbursement for baggage or other personal effects that are lost, damaged or

stolen while on your trip.

Accident and Sickness Medical Expense

Provides coverage for the necessary medical, surgical and emergency dental care costs if you become sick or accidentally injured while on a trip.

Emergency Medical Transportation

If you become sick or injured on a trip, Emergency Medical Transportation will provide benefits such as: arrange transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility; help the guest return Home, if medically necessary; provide round-trip economy air fare for a companion to visit if you are traveling alone and hospitalized for more than 7 days.

SAMPLE OF BENEFIT LIMITS:

24-Hour Emergency Assistance Services

Through CSA’s Designated Provider

~ Medical Referral

~ Worldwide Medical Information                               

~ Embassy and Consular Services

~ Traveling Companion Assistance         

~ Emergency Cash Transfer                   

~ Interpretation/Translation

~ Legal Referral                                    

~ Emergency Message Relay

~ Locating Lost or Stolen Items             

~ Pet Return

~ Replacement of Medication and Eyeglasses               

~ Concierge Services           

Pre-Existing Conditions

Please note that there are no benefits payable for losses caused by or resulting from Pre-existing Conditions, unless you meet the requirements to waive this exclusion. 

Pre-existing Condition means an illness, disease, or other condition during the 60-day period immediately prior to your effective date for which you or your Traveling Companion or Family Member is scheduled or booked to travel with you:

1. received, or received a recommendation for, a diagnostic test, examination, or medical treatment; or

2. took or received a prescription for drugs or medicine.

Item 2 of this definition does not apply to a condition which is treated or controlled solely

through the taking of prescription drugs or medicine and remains treated or controlled without any adjustment or change in the required prescription throughout the 60-day period before coverage is effective under this Policy.

Waiver of the Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion

The Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion is waived provided you meet all of the following

requirements:

1. the plan is purchased prior to or within 24 hours of the final payment.

2. you are not disabled from travel at the time you make your plan payment; and

3. Client is insured for the full non-refundable cost of trip.

Questions: Call toll-free at 800-661-7024 and reference Plan Code A450.