MSC or Mein Schiff: Battle of the cruise giants in comparison!

MSC or Mein Schiff: Battle of the cruise giants in comparison!

Cruises are becoming increasingly popular, and two of the best-known providers are MSC Cruises and TUI Cruises with their Mein Schiff fleet. While MSC Cruises was founded in Italy in 1960 and today has a 10% market share, TUI Cruises ranks tenth among the largest cruise lines worldwide with around 2.4%. MSC currently offers 22 ships and plans to build another by 2025, while TUI Cruises has eight ships, including Mein Schiff 7, which entered service in June 2025.

MSC's main destinations are diverse, ranging from the Mediterranean to Northern Europe and the Caribbean, while TUI Cruises operates in regions such as the Baltic Sea, Norway and the United Kingdom. Both providers are aimed at a broad audience, but have different priorities in their offerings. MSC is characterized by a fresh and international atmosphere, while TUI Cruises offers its guests a calm and stylish environment.

Services and inclusive offers

MSC Cruises attaches great importance to an extensive entertainment offering with daily Broadway shows, fitness studios and a diverse pool area. For your physical well-being, the shipping company offers three daily meals, drinks are not included in the price, but an all-inclusive drinks package is available. In comparison, TUI Cruises includes a lot of food and drinks in its prices and scores points with an additional double cabin service as well as a wide range of wellness and leisure options.

Another striking difference is the handling of tips. While MSC charges a mandatory hotel service fee of 10 euros per night, TUI Cruises includes tips in the price of the trip, so guests don't have to worry about additional fees.

Prices and target groups

There is a clear difference in terms of pricing. For example, a 7-day Canary Islands cruise costs 949 euros per person for an inside cabin with TUI Cruises, while the same cabin costs just 709 euros with MSC Cruises, plus drinks costs. This makes MSC particularly attractive to budget travelers and families, as it offers a wider range of child-friendly activities and more ships and routes.

The target groups of both providers are similar and include couples, families and single travelers, but with different focuses: MSC primarily appeals to families and international guests, while TUI Cruises particularly appeals to couples and vacationers seeking peace and quiet.

Different atmospheres

The atmosphere on board is another crucial aspect. MSC is often described as relaxed, while TUI Cruises offers a calmer environment. With attractive children's programs and a wide range of leisure activities, MSC aims to attract families, while TUI Cruises scores with a stylish ambience and a special focus on wellness and relaxation.

Overall, it can be said that both MSC Cruises and TUI Cruises offer interesting options for different travelers: MSC moves with an international and lively atmosphere, while TUI Cruises promises a premium and quiet experience. Ultimately, the choice of provider depends on the individual preferences and expectations of travelers.