msc virtuosa yacht club dress code

WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted.

Evening Wear

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Yacht Club Dress Code

By zjc , December 15, 2016 in MSC Cruises

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Just wondering if anyone can advise what the dress code is like in the Yacht Club on MSC

Does it follow the suggested dress code of the rest of the ship or does it have a separate dress code?

Also, is the dress code on MSC still 'suggested'

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Hey   Just wondering if anyone can advise what the dress code is like in the Yacht Club on MSC   Does it follow the suggested dress code of the rest of the ship or does it have a separate dress code?   Also, is the dress code on MSC still 'suggested'   Thanks

The dress code on all MSC ships is advisory and is published in the daily programme. The dress code is the same throughout the ship.

The YC is not a prison you are allowed to escape and mingle with "steerage". So no worries on the dress code. Do as you want

The dress code follows the rest of the ship, however on Formal Nights the people in YC tend to dress more formally (i.e. tux for men). I felt a bit underdressed the on our first cruise in YC so the next one I took evening wear with me. However this was on European and TA cruises, I suspect that on Divina out of Miami it may be more relaxed. I think evening wear is more of a European thing?? Even so, it's nice to dressed up for these occasions.

See this thread:- http://boards.cruisecritic.co.uk/showthread.php?t=2430722

My experience in the YC on formal nights is somewhat different. We have sailed there three times and I haven't seen much difference in what men wear there compared to the rest of the ship. There were only a couple of tuxes, many suits and ties, some with suits and/sport jackets with open collared shirts and one or two men with jeans.

Yes, as I said, probably a more casual attitude on U.S. based cruises. Maybe the Divina should get it's own forum as it seems to differ from the other MSC ships???????:confused:

Not a bad idea. I would also like to see the Yacht Club get it's own forum. People's thoughts and reviews of the YC often differ greatly than those of the rest of the ship.

Thanks for all your comments it's good to understand. Having sailed with Royal over the last 4 years and not MSC I'm use to the very relaxed dress code on Royal

Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

Your observation of dress 'code' in the Yacht Club tracks right along with ours.

We might have been on the same two Divina cruises this year. :)

Seperate forum for YC sounds like a great idea.

Capricruiser

The dress in the Yacht Club whether on casual or gala evenings is no different from the rest of the ship. Jeans are fine on casual nights and suits or sport jackets the norm for the gala occasions. True formal wear is actually seen less in Yacht Club from what I saw on my two YC cruises.

Just got off the Divina this morning and I would second this post. On our Gala night's, the majority on men were in suits or sports jackets with a couple tux's and a couple of men wearing jeans and a t-shirt.

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

• 3 months later...

I realize I'm reactivating a year-old thread, but I didn't want to start a new one when much of this concern has been addressed. However, a part that doesn't seem to get much attention: What do women and men who book Yacht Club cabins/suites wear during the day while in the Yacht Club? For men, are dress shorts and golf shirts appropriate? Are dress shorts and t-shirts okay? I've seen a number of photos in which men are wearing slacks and button-down shirts. While I certainly don't want to stand out for under-dressing, I'd hate to make myself conspicuous by over-dressing. Plus, I'll be on vacation, so a break from a daytime suit-and-tie will be great!

Also, our cabin is 15021. How will we get up to The One pool deck? Is there an elevator, or will we be taking stairs from the Yacht Club? Is it okay to pass through the Club wearing swim trunks and a t-shirt on the way to the pool?

Really no different from the rest of the ship. Shorts and T shirts are fine for daytime.

From your cabin to the One Pool Deck is easy peasy, walk down the hall and just outside of the Concierge is the elevator up to One Pool (or down to the Spa). Only goes from Deck 14 to Deck 18 for Yacht Club passengers.

It's the same but you don't have to follow it.

• 11 months later...

I wholeheartedly agree. Why take up the time of others looking for info. It should be a sub-category.

CruisingFox27

DH wore sorts and t shirts during the day. If you are sailing from Miami the dress standard is considerably more casual, even in the evenings than on European sailings.

• 1 year later...

NextStopNRT

We have a 7-day cruise on the Seaside leaving next Saturday, 13 April 2019, and we're staying in the YC. I really don't want to pack anything formal (sport coats, ties, etc.) Is it really a necessity on a Caribbean cruise?  We can go to specialty restaurants on formal nights without formal attire I assume. The dress code would apply only to main dining rooms whether in YC on main part of ship. Correct me if I'm wrong. TIA

6 minutes ago, NextStopNRT said: We have a 7-day cruise on the Seaside leaving next Saturday, 13 April 2019, and we're staying in the YC. I really don't want to pack anything formal (sport coats, ties, etc.) Is it really a necessity on a Caribbean cruise?  We can go to specialty restaurants on formal nights without formal attire I assume. The dress code would apply only to main dining rooms whether in YC on main part of ship. Correct me if I'm wrong. TIA

No, you do not need formal clothes in the YC or any place else for that matter. Based on my experience in the YC last December, I did not feel out of place wearing the same type of clothes any of seven nights. I did take a tie just encase we decided to get our picture taken. I wore it the last formal night, at least it did not take much room to pack.

2 minutes ago, sptrout said:   No, you do not need formal clothes in the YC or any place else for that matter. Based on my experience in the YC last December, I did not feel out of place wearing the same type of clothes any of seven nights. I did take a tie just encase we decided to get our picture taken. I wore it the last formal night, at least it did not take much room to pack.

Agree,,,, If you dress smart casual... you will blend right in with the majority of YC diners. On our cruise last year...we saw a man walk in on 2 different nights in shorts!!! So literally no dress code enforcement.

3 hours ago, lcpagejr said: Agree,,,, If you dress smart casual... you will blend right in with the majority of YC diners. On our cruise last year...we saw a man walk in on 2 different nights in shorts!!! So literally no dress code enforcement.

Shorts - really? The audacity of some people. I am truly mortified by the thought of seeing someone in shorts in a dining room.

Depends on the ship, the asst m'D and the itinerary - I've seen men turned away when wearing shorts.  DH was refused entry to TSL last year on Splendida when wearing shorts - it was only shortly after 6pm!

4 hours ago, Beamafar said: Depends on the ship, the asst m'D and the itinerary - I've seen men turned away when wearing shorts.  DH was refused entry to TSL last year on Splendida when wearing shorts - it was only shortly after 6pm!

Beam...I'm sure this is more of a European /med cruise which tend to be more formal. Caribbean cruises you can pretty much dictate what you want to wear. . I have found this on all lines I've cruised stateside

20 minutes ago, lcpagejr said: Beam...I'm sure this is more of a European /med cruise which tend to be more formal. Caribbean cruises you can pretty much dictate what you want to wear. . I have found this on all lines I've cruised stateside

Actually, it was a repositioning cruise where temperatures were hotter than average Caribbean ones.

I did advise that it  "depends on itinerary", in fairness, IC.

49 minutes ago, Beamafar said:   Actually, it was a repositioning cruise where temperatures were hotter than average Caribbean ones.   I did advise that it  "depends on itinerary", in fairness, IC.

I'm not disagreeing.... Sadly it is under control of the cruiseline..but most dining room staff tend to ignore and not enforce questionable attire.

1 hour ago, lcpagejr said: Beam...I'm sure this is more of a European /med cruise which tend to be more formal. Caribbean cruises you can pretty much dictate what you want to wear. . I have found this on all lines I've cruised stateside

On our recent Caribbean in Preziosa YC we were very surprised at the formality of dinner dressing on both Elegant nights. Many, probably about 25%, men wore Tuxedos and another 25% were in suits. Most of the remainder, like me, wore long sleeve shirts with dress trousers. The ladies, as ever, at least complemented their partners in level of dressing and often exceeded. Not a single guest in the YC restaurant 'dressed down' on any night....by that I mean the minimum was a collared short sleeve shirt, and chinos or equivalent.

OK, it wasn't 'stateside' as such because the cruise commenced and ended in Barbados and remained in the Caribbean throughout. The mix of passengers was largely European, many British (500 passengers) and a smaller number of Americans.

We were just on and the norm was slacks and shirt for men and dress or slacks for women.  Fancy nights people spruced it up a bit.  Saw one tux and the guy was cranked with pictures of people in shorts at dinner.  Imo shorts not appropriate but I'm not going to get cranked about it.  I was just happy Octomom wasn't on letting her kids run around dining room during dinner.

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Review: How to upgrade your MSC Virtuosa cruise to the MSC Yacht Club

By Qin Xie | 15 Jul 2022

MSC Yacht Club service. Picture: Luc Selvais

Is it worth upgrading to MSC Cruises’ high-end Yacht Club, one of the ship-within-a-ship areas adding a little more luxury to your cruise? We test out the concept on MSC Virtuosa

A jovial group of lads, dressed to impress and each with a cocktail in hand, stumbles out of the mirrored lift as I pile in with a handful of other guests. There’s an air of buzzy exhaustion as we collectively lean back against the glass while the elevator makes its swift and smooth ascent.

“Too much booze, and too much good food,” one guest quips as he rubs his stomach; we all chuckle knowingly. It’s true. After a whirlwind cruise on glitzy MSC Virtuosa – the 19-deck Meraviglia-Plus vessel with room for close to 6,000 guests – we’re a bit overwhelmed.

It’s just as well I’m ending the night with a quiet drink in the Top Sail Lounge. An oasis of calm away from the party atmosphere of the decks below, this low-key bar and lounge has plush armchairs and banquettes from which you can enjoy table service. There’s not much to see besides the other guests when I slip in for a negroni just after midnight, but the view during the day from its front-of-ship vantage point on deck 16 is pretty impressive.

Top Sail Lounge, MSC Yacht Club, MSC Virtuosa. Picture: Ivan Sarfatti

What is it like in the Yacht Club on MSC Virtuosa?

Just a handful of people get that privilege though, as it’s open only to guests who are staying in the Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ equivalent of first class. Described as a ship within a ship, the Yacht Club is designed to offer all the luxuries of a smaller vessel alongside the entertainment and facilities that you would expect to find only on larger ships.

There are just 95 cabins in a private section located at the front of the ship, between decks 14 and 18 (there’s no deck 17). Within this bubble there’s a separate lift, concierge station and three food and beverage venues for the exclusive use of Yacht Club guests.

Like first-class passengers on flights, there’s also priority boarding, 24-hour butler service, complimentary premium drinks, free internet access and discounts at the speciality restaurants and spa on board.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite, MSC Virtuosa. Picture: Ivan Sarfatti

Food and drink on MSC Virtuosa

During my short sailing, the Top Sail Lounge was a favourite for pre and post-dinner drinks. Everything from Nicolas Feuillatte Brut champagne to Johnnie Walker Black Label came in generous measures and without the extra price tag of other bars on the ship.

The Swarovski crystal-studded staircase spiralling straight up to the MSC Yacht Club Restaurant on deck 18 adds to the effect, so you always arrive and leave in style. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were all served à la carte at the Yacht Club Restaurant, with the daily-changing menu pitched to a fine-dining standard.

I enjoyed dishes such as stuffed tortellini with asparagus and mascarpone cheese, and charred sea bass fillet with crab and rocket salad, all with a glass of something delicious from the wine list. There’s one further exclusive spot for Yacht Club guests – the sun deck on deck 19.

Laid out like a beach club, there are dozens of loungers facing the ocean, flanked by a bar at the back. Drinks and light bites are always available up here, and you barely have to lift a finger to get service. Situated to one side, a small heated pool and whirlpool bath complete the picture, along with a handful of cabana-style loungers that are assigned to specific Yacht Club cabins for exclusive use.

MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar, MSC Virtuosa. Picture: Ivan Sarfatti

What to do on board MSC Virtuosa

You will always find plenty within the Yacht Club to keep you occupied on a short sailing, like my jaunt to Guernsey , but for those who want a longer adventure, the ship within a ship concept is perfect because you can access the variety of dining and entertainment facilities that would be impossible to fit on a smaller vessel, but still escape back to the sanctuary of your bubble afterwards.

On MSC Virtuosa, the entertainment space is split into two areas. Deck seven is home to speciality restaurants that overlook Galleria Virtuosa on deck six, a promenade flanked by bars, more restaurants and the largest shopping area at sea. To the rear of the ship, through the casino, is the Carousel Lounge, where acrobatic-style shows are put on every night, while musical productions take place in the 945-seat Le Grand Théâtre to the front. A second entertainment space starts from deck 15.

MSC Virtuosa. Picture: Ivan Sarfatti

The open-air Atmosphere Pool takes pride of place in the middle of the ship, surrounded by bars, loungers and whirlpool baths, but there are a couple of others dotted around the ship. Dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs are on decks 16 and 18, alongside a basketball court and virtual reality games. The interactive cinema is particularly thrilling.

However, the pièce de résistance is on deck 19, where an aerial obstacle course wraps around a water park . I managed just a fraction of the ship and was completely exhausted. Luckily, the memory foam mattress and Egyptian cotton sheets in the Yacht Club cabins make getting a restful night’s sleep a breeze.

Book the Yacht Club on MSC Virtuosa

A seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise in a Yacht Club balcony cabin on MSC Virtuosa starts from £2,009. For more information or to book now visit msccruises.co.uk , see your local travel agent or call 0203 426 3010.

The Haven sun deck on Norwegian Viva

More luxury ship-within-a-ship areas

MSC Cruises isn’t the only line to offer a more luxurious enclave on board a bigger ship. Here are some of the other places to upgrade your experience

The Haven by Norwegian

NCL introduced The Haven on Norwegian Breakaway and has now rolled it out across nine ships in the fleet, with more to come on new vessels Prima and Viva . Expect a concierge and 24-hour butler; private sun deck, lounge and restaurant; in-room extras and more, with some inclusions varying by ship.

The Retreat by Celebrity Cruises

As part of Celebrity’s move to create a ‘new luxury’ vibe , enjoy private restaurant Luminae with dishes created by Daniel Boulud, complimentary in-suite dining, a sun deck with hot tub and loungers (on selected ships), plus a private lounge, premium drinks, pre-paid tips and onboard credit.

The Retreat, Celebrity Beyond. Picture: Ryan Wicks

Grill Suites by Cunard

Elevate Cunard’s classy cruises even further with its most luxurious cabins, which are not clustered together in a private enclave but rather occupy the most sought-after spots on the ship. Book a Princess Grill or Queens Grill suite to enjoy lavish accommodation, a more intimate lounge and restaurant with open-seated dining, bubbly on arrival, Penhaligon’s toiletries and a host of other in-suite extras.

Royal Suite Class by Royal Caribbean

There are three levels of upgrade in the Royal Suite Class – Sea, Sky and Star – which offer more spacious accommodation, priority boarding and upgraded amenities, plus, in higher tiers, concierge service, tips, speciality dining and a ‘Royal Genie’ butler. Latest ship Wonder of the Seas has even added a dedicated Suite Neighbourhood.

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What to wear on a cruise

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted

Evening Wear

Theme parties, dress restrictions, sport lovers, northern europe cruises, shore excursions, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

Mon - Fri 9 - 19 | Sat 9 - 18 | Sun 10 - 16

WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted.

Evening Wear

Theme parties, sport lovers, northern europe cruises, shore excursions, dress restrictions, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises

What to Wear on an MSC Cruise: A Complete Guide for Beginners

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Embarking on an MSC cruise can be an exciting adventure, filled with breathtaking views, exhilarating activities, and luxurious experiences. But knowing what to pack and wear can be a dilemma, especially for beginners. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the dos and don’ts of dressing for an MSC cruise, ensuring you feel comfortable and stylish throughout your journey.

Understanding the Dress Codes

MSC cruise ships have formal, informal, and casual dress codes that vary based on the time of day and the onboard events. Understanding these dress codes is crucial to packing the right clothing for each occasion.

Formal Wear

During formal nights, MSC cruise lines encourage guests to dress elegantly. Think of it as a special occasion, so bring your fancy outfits! Men should wear a tuxedo, suit, or at least a dress shirt with a tie. Ladies could opt for an evening gown, a sophisticated cocktail dress, or an elegant pantsuit.

Informal Wear

Informal nights are less formal than the formal nights but still call for neat and stylish attire. Men should wear slacks with a button-up shirt and a blazer or sports jacket. Women can opt for a dress or a skirt paired with a blouse, or dressy pants with a nice top.

Casual Wear

For casual nights and daytime activities, informal and comfortable clothing is appropriate. This includes jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and casual skirts. Remember to dress according to the weather and the activities you plan to participate in.

Packing Essentials

When preparing for an MSC cruise, it’s important to pack a variety of clothing options to suit the different dress codes and activities onboard. Here is a list of essential items you should consider adding to your cruise packing checklist:

It’s essential to pack comfortable shoes for both formal and casual occasions, as you may be exploring the ship or going on excursions that require a fair amount of walking.

Tips for Cruise Fashion

Layering is key.

Cruise ship temperatures can vary, so it’s advisable to pack lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove. Bring a light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas on the ship.

Don’t Forget Swimwear

MSC cruises offer various pools and hot tubs for relaxation and fun. Be sure to pack swimwear that fits well and makes you feel comfortable, whether you plan on lounging poolside or taking a dip.

Consider Themed Parties

Many MSC cruises host themed parties, such as the White Party or tropical nights. Pack appropriate attire to fully enjoy these events and participate in the festivities.

Dress Comfortably for Port Excursions

When planning on exploring the ports of call, pack comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, and consider the local cultural norms to ensure you’re appropriately dressed for your excursions.

Packing for an MSC cruise can be a breeze if you understand the dress codes and plan accordingly. Remember to pack a variety of outfits based on the formal, informal, and casual attire requirements. Layer your clothing for comfort, don’t forget swimwear and attire for themed parties, and dress comfortably for port excursions. By following these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a fabulous and well-dressed journey on your MSC cruise!

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MSC Cruises Formal Nights – Everything You Need To Know

If you are thinking about taking an MSC cruise you are probably wondering if MSC have formal nights. I’ve been on 3 MSC cruises to date and I personally love how relaxed the dining atmosphere and dress codes are.

MSC ships are elegant and modern, they provide the perfect backdrop for guests who do want to dress up..

Do MSC Cruises Have Formal Nights?

MSC have formal nights on every cruise. On a 7 night cruise, there will usually one formal night, on cruises longer than 7 nights there will usually be two formal nights. The dress codes are relaxed with 96% of cruisers describing the dress code as relaxed.

There is a dress code for the main dining room on all nights of an MSC cruise. MSC have both ‘gala’ and ‘dress to impress’ nights, the dress codes are the same for both so both will be addressed in this post

In this post we cover:

• On what nights the formal nights happen
• Where the dress code applies
• Dress codes for dining on non-formal nights

How Many Formal Nights Do MSC Cruises Have?

On a 7 night cruise, you will usually have around 2 gala/elegant nights, this is usually one of each.

On cruises 1-6 nights in length, you may only have a single gala-night. 

This number of gala nights does vary and MSC is able to change this as and when they see fit. On longer cruises, the number of gala or elegant nights will increase proportionally, on a 14-night cruise you may expect 4 gala or elegant nights.

What is The Difference Between Gala and Elegant Nights on MSC Cruises?

Gala nights are when a special menu is served in the main dining room, created by a Michelin starred chef. On gala nights guests have the opportunity to have photos taken with the captain and these nights tend to be when guests wear their favourite outfits.

Elegant nights are similar to Gala nights but there is no special menu and no captains photos.

The dress code is the same for both.

On longer cruises, you will find more elegant nights but there is usually only one gala-night.

On Which Day Do MSC Have ‘Formal Nights’?

If your cruise has sea days:.

If you are taking a cruise which has sea days MSC will usually try and put the gala night on the sea day. This is because guests have the most time to get ready and the formal night becomes the event of the day.

If your cruise doesn’t have sea days:

If your cruise doesn’t have sea days there are a number of days where it could be. MSC very rarely put the gala night on the first night because guests may not have their bags and are tired from travelling.

Similarly, the gala night will rarely be on the last night because the passengers have already packed their bags and it isn’t practical to dress in formal wear at this stage. I personally always avoid gala nights if they are at the end of the cruise, I’ve usually worn all of my favourite clothes and am feeling more like relaxing.

What is MSC’s Formal (Gala/Elegant) Night Dress Code?

Gala or elegant nights:.

MSC’s gala night dress code is more of a suggestion than an enforced set of guidelines.

I’ve cruised on 13 major ocean cruise lines to date and MSC are one of the most relaxed when it comes to dress codes. If you have cruised with Royal Caribbean or any other big American cruise line make sure you check out this post which highlights the differences between the lines: 10 differences between MSC and NCL/Royal Caribbean.

MSC’s official dress code, as stated on their website is as follows:

For Gala evenings, the dress code is more formal. We suggest a tuxedo, dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie for men and a dressy outfit, formal gown, or cocktail dress for women. – source.

What to Wear on MSC’s Formal (Gala) Nights:

Men – According to MSC’s guidelines men are encouraged to wear a tuxedo, suit or dinner jacket to dinner. Although a few guests do this, it is far from the majority. The majority of male guests on an MSC cruise will wear a shirt with chinos/trousers, many will also wear polo shirts and this always seems to be okay.

Women – Women have the option to either wear a skirt, dress or trousers. A simple skirt/trousers paired with a nice blouse would be more than acceptable. Women are encouraged to wear evening gowns but the majority do not, almost any dress would be suitcase for MSC’s formal (gala) nights as long as they weren’t too revealing or completely impractical.

Children – For children the relaxed dress code is relaxed even further. Around 1/3 of MSC’s passengers are families so this is a big percent of guests onboard. If you do have children travelling with you and they would like to dress formally they definitely wouldn’t look out of place but I wouldn’t worry too much about what children should wear. You certainly won’t be turned away from the main dining room because of the way your child is dressed (providing they are dressed of course)!

What Not To Wear:

There are only a few items of clothing that aren’t allowed on MSC’s formal (gala) nights :

• Jeans (You could get away with smart black jeans if worn with a shirt but I wouldn’t try to wear blue denim)
• Swimwear, this one is pretty self explanatory

Will I Look Out of Place if I do Dress Formally?

No! Absolutely not. Lots of MSC cruisers love the elegance of formal nights and embrace it wholeheartedly. You’ll see lots of passengers in long gowns or tuxedos. I would definitely not worry about being overdressed, I don’t really think that is possible. On cruises I’ve seen lots of people wearing their prom dresses and some even wearing their wedding dresses again!

One of my favourite phrases is ‘It’s impossible to be overdressed, people will either think you’ve come from somewhere exciting or are going somewhere exciting’.

Where Does The Formal Night Dress Code Apply?

Unlike some other cruise lines where the dress code is enforced ship wide, this isn’t the case on MSC cruises.

The dress code for formal (gala/elegant) nights is enforced only in the main dining room. If you don’t want to take part in formal nights there are other places where you can eat.

Other Places To Eat:

If you do want to avoid the formal (gala) dress codes you can do this by eating in another restaurant onboard. The restaurants onboard do vary by cruise ship but generally speaking your options are a buffet, room service ($$$) or a speciality restaurant ($$$).

• Most guests who don’t want to take part in formal nights instead eat in the buffet. It’s by far the easiest place to go to grab a bite to eat and the dress codes in the buffet are very relaxed. You are not allowed to wear swimwear and shoes must be worn but these are the only requirements.
• Room service is available on MSC cruises but there is a charge per item so I personally haven’t ever tried this. It’s much easier just to take food from the buffet back to your room. Walking is one of the main ways that I keep fit when I cruise, to learn more about how I do this, check out this post:  Avoid Cruise Ship Weight Gain – 7 Easy Things You Can Do
• All MSC cruise ships have a number of speciality restaurants which cost extra. Some speciality restaurants have a flat fee to dine in the restaurant and others are charged by item. Examples of speciality restaurants on MSC include Butchers Cut (steak), Eataly (Italian), Teppankayi (Sushi).

To learn more about the included food options on MSC cruises, and which things aren’t included, check out this post:  Do MSC Cruises Include Meals? Your Guide To Whats Included

Do MSC Cruises Include Meals? (Firsthand Experience) – Your Guide To What is Included

What is The Dress Code on Non Formal Nights?

On nonformal (gala/elegant) nights the dress code on board is very relaxed.  Based on my experiences of cruising with MSC I really believe you could wear almost anything.

I love how relaxed the dress codes are on MSC cruises, technically speaking the only restrictions are that guests shouldn’t wear tank tops, bikinis, bathrobes, or have bare feet in any restaurant at any time.

Can You Wear Shorts in the Main Dining Room on an MSC Cruise?

Technically speaking no. That said, I saw PLENTY of people in the main dining room wearing shorts during my MSC cruises. This definitely wouldn’t be allowed on formal nights but on most casual nights I doubt in reality this would be a problem. I’m sure I’ve done it on occasion…

I constantly recommend MSC to families and young cruisers, to find out why, check out the recommended cruise lines page here:  Best Cruise Lines For Families (Tried & Tested, Pros & Cons!)

A MASSIVE thank you to all members of our Facebook group who shared photos for this post. We are a gorgeous bunch if I do say so myself! If you’re not already in our Facebook group, join us here: Emma Cruises Facebook Group. 

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MSC Virtuosa Deck Plans & Reviews

MSC Virtuosa

Activities & entertainment

• Arts Classes
• Dance Classes
• Deck Parties
• MSC Aurea Spa *
• MSC Gym by Technogym
• Power Walking Track
• Sports Tournaments
• Doremi Studio
• Juniors Club Lego
• Comedy Performances
• Infinity Bar - Atrium Bar *
• Marketplace Buffet - Casual
• Champagne Bar - Champagne *
• Edge Cocktail Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Meraviglia Bar & Lounge - Cocktail Bar *
• Main Dining - International
• Atmosphere Bar North - Pool Bar *
• Bamboo Bar - Pool Bar *
• MSC Yacht Club Grill - Suite Guests
• Top Sail Lounge - Suite Guests

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MSC Virtuosa

launched 2021

tonnage 181,541

length 331 m

capacity 6,334

MSC Virtuosa’s namesake comes from the word virtuoso, meaning someone highly skilled in any field of activity, and so MSC Virtuosa was named to pay homage to the skill and expertise of the MSC Cruises architects and shipyard partners at Les Chantiers de l’Atlantique who designed and built this innovative class of ships. This new cruise ship is one of the two largest in MSC Cruises’ fleet, along with her sister ship MSC Grandiosa, boasting an impressive array of guest features all coming together in perfect harmony to deliver the ultimate cruise holiday experience.

MSC Starship Club This futuristic venue is much more than just a bar. It’s an immersive entertainment experience. Featuring Rob, the first ever humanoid robotic bartender at sea, the MSC Starship Club will transport our guests to a different world.

As you sip your cosmic cocktail and gaze out of the portholes across the space, Rob and his human colleagues will take you to an exciting journey to discover new galactic destinations.

• accommodation

MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite

• Surface 58 sqm, balcony 70 sqm, Deck 15
• Balcony with private whirlpool bath and dining table
• Separate living area and dining room
• Walk-in wardrobes
• Bathroom with tub and shower, vanity area with hairdryer
• Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
• Wifi connection included
• Interactive TV, telephone,safe and minibar
• ZOE – in-cabin Bluetooth speaker

Discover a world of privileges with MSC Yacht Club including:

• 24-Hour Butler service and dedicated concierge
• Premium Extra Drink and Premium Internet packages included
• Complimentary Access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea SPA
• Discounts: 20% on a dedicated Specialty Restaurant prepaid package; 40% on a dedicated SPA prepaid package and 10% on all SPA treatments on board.
• 1 Free cruise change

The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same cabin category).

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suite with Whirlpool

• Surface 59 sqm with a balcony 23 sqm, deck 9-12, with dining table and private whirlpool bath
• Two-deck-high cabin
• Easy access to the Yacht Club areas

Main level:

• Open living/dining room with sofa that converts to double bed
• Bathroom with shower

Second level

• Master bedroom with double bed which can be converted into two single beds (on request)
• Two walk in wardrobes
• Bathroom with tub
• Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite

• Surface 29 sqm, balcony approx 5 sqm, deck 14-18

Sitting area with sofa

• Spacious wardrobe
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer

MSC Yacht Club Interior

• Surface 17 sqm, deck 14-16

Grand Suite Aurea with Terrace and Whirlpool

• Surface 39 sqm, large balcony approx 36 sqm with its own private whirlpool bath, deck 12
• Walk-in Wardrobe. Setting Area with double sofa bed.
• Bathroom with shower vanity area with hairdryers.
• Double bed can be converted into two single beds (on request).
• Interactive TV, telephone and safe.
• Wifi connection available (for a fee).
• Mini bar. Air conditioning.

Size, layout and furniture may vary from that shown (within the same cabin category).

The image is representative only.

Premium Suite Aurea With Terrace and Whirlpool

• Surface . 27 sqm, with balcony (approx 26-30 sqm) with its own private whirlpool bath, deck 9-13
• Spacious Wardrobe.
• Sitting Area with double sofa bed.

Premium Suite Aurea

• Surface 25 sqm, balcony approx 3-14 sqm, deck 9-14
• Bathroom with bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), and minibar
• Can accomodate up to 6 people

• Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar

Choose the cabin type that best suits you:

• Deluxe Balcony Aurea, (best ship position, surface approx 17 sqm, balcony 6 sqm, deck 11-13)
• Deluxe Balcony (surface approx 17 sqm, deck 8-14)
• Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (surface approx 17 sqm, deck 8, 14)
• Studio Balcony (single use, surface approx 12 sqm, deck 13-14)

Size, layout and furniture may vary from that shown (within the same cabin category)

The image is representative only

Balcony Bella

More information coming soon

Bingo Balcony

• Surface approx. 12-25 sqm
• Window with sea view
• Relaxing armchair
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer
• Can accommodate up to 6 people
• Premium Ocean View, can accommodate up to 6 people (surface approx 25 sqm, deck 9-11)
• Deluxe Ocean View (surface approx 16 sqm, deck 5)
• Junior Ocean View (surface approx 12 sqm, deck 8)
• Junior Ocean View with obstructed view (surface approx 12 sqm, Deck 8)

Ocean View Bella

Bingo Outside

• Surface approx 12-17 sqm
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• Deluxe Interior (surface approx 17 sqm, deck 5-10)
• Premium Ocean View (surface approx 12 sqm, deck 5-14)

Interior Bella

Bingo Inside

Deck 19 – Mendelssohn

Deck 18 – Schumann

Deck 16 – Debussy

Deck 15 – Morricone

Deck 14 – Tchaikovsky

Deck 13 – Bizet

Deck 12 – Paganini

Deck 11 – Puccini

Deck 10 – Gershwin

Deck 9 – Strauss

Deck 8 – Wagner

Deck 7 – Verdi

Deck 6 – Beethoven

Deck 5 – Mozart

Other details.

Adults Only: Kids allowed

Childrens Facilities: Available

Nursery: Nursery

Smoking: Some

Gratuities: SERVICE CHARGES / GRATUITIES Service Charge / Gratuities are included in the cruise fare. Tips MSC Cruises does not recommend tipping individual members of staff.

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WHAT TO WEAR ON A CRUISE

Daytime attire.

Casual wear is recommended for daytime attire. Shorts and T-shirts are permitted.

Evening Wear

Theme parties.

We organise various daytime and evening Theme Parties on board. You may wish to bring bright fun clothes for the Sunshine Party and something white for the White Party.

Dress Restrictions

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• Eddie Merlot's

Eddie Merlot's Questions & Answers

Smart casual

What they call Business Casual. Expect to see sport coats and some suits, with the ladies dressed in cocktail type fashion. So if you ware old jeans and flip flops, you will not exactly fit in.

Dressy casual

"Up-casual" is my preference, but about anything is fine. Wouldn't do denim except for nice upscale denim.

This is Loudoun County, you will see people in suits & dresses and the next table leggings & jeans. The atmosphere is dressy casual.

Business Casual would be fine.

Business casual (whatever that is) would be acceptable.

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Director’s Home

National league of junior cotillions loudoun county chapter.

Welcome to Loudoun Cotillion!

Our home base is the beautiful Belmont Country Club in Ashburn.

Join us for our wonderful upcoming 2024-25 Cotillion season!

Registration is now OPEN!

Reserve your spot today!

Here is the dress code for Cotillion classes--

Dressy Casual/Cotillion-style Attire

Young Ladies : 

· Conservative dress

· Skirt and dressy top

· Dress shoes (low heels for dancing) or flats

· Wrist length white gloves (optional)

· Navy or dark blazer and slacks or khakis

· Dress shirt

· Dressy leather-type shoes and dark dress socks

You can find class schedules anytime at loudouncotillion.com or here—

https://nljc.com/n/index.php/chapters/loudouncounty/chapter/classes#4060.

Please check the website periodically, as class dates and times may need to be adjusted. 

Classes Available:

Pre-Cotillion Ashburn

Pre-cotillion brambleton, pre-cotillion middleburg, pre-cotillion purcellville, pre-cotillion waterford, junior cotillion year i belmont--5th and 6th grade, junior cotillion year i middleburg 5th and 6th grade, junior cotillion year ii belmont 6th & 7th, junior cotillion year ii middleburg--6th-8th, junior cotillion premiere 8th & 9th grades, high school club.

The 2024-25 Pre-Cotillion season consists of three, 90-minute classes (about 1 per month) plus a 3-course Instructional Dinner to be held at the Belmont Country Club .

Tuition for the 2024-25 Season is $225

Registration for the 2024-25 season is now OPEN! Reserve your spot today!

Class schedules are out now--dates and times are subject to change.

Our Pre-Cotillion Programs are conveniently located throughout Loudoun County and are designed for grades K-4. We offer instruction in courtesies including greetings, table manners, thank-you cards, and proper dress and appearance. We also teach proper behavior at birthday parties, sporting events, and restaurants, as well as the overarching values of honor, respect, dignity, honesty and responsibility. We provide hands-on practice through skits and storytelling in a peer group setting. The students will also learn a short group dance comprised of social dance steps that they will perform for their families at the Graduation class. Young ladies and gentlemen are expected to leave the program with the beginnings of confidence and poise that come from having guidelines for behavior in many real-life situations.

The 2024-25 Pre-Cotillion season consists of three, 90-minute classes (about 1 per month) plus a 3-course Instructional Dinner to be held at the Belmont Country Club.

JUNIOR COTILLION YEAR I (5TH AND 6TH GRADES)

Jr. Cotillion Year I consists of five classes (about 1 per month) and a Grand Spring Ball.   

Tuition for the 2024-25 season is $375

Etiquette training will cover topics such as proper seating and escort position, introductions, giving and receiving compliments, thank you notes, basic table manners, cell phone etiquette, and responding to invitations, and conversation skills.

Dance instruction includes Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Swing, and Waltz, in addition to line dances. Parents join us for the last half hour of the final class in preparation for our parent-child dance at the end of the Spring Ball. Additional information will be emailed to parents before classes start. The Grand Spring Ball provides students with an opportunity to practice the skills, etiquette, and dance steps that they have been learning in a unique and exciting social situation.

Children in 6th grade can join either the Year 1 or the Year 2 class. Different material will be covered in each. 

If you have any questions about Junior Cotillion, please contact Mrs. Hale at 703-814-3496 or email her at  [email protected] .

JUNIOR COTILLION YEAR II (6TH-8TH GRADES)

Jr. Cotillion Year II consists of five classes (about one per month) and a Grand Spring Ball with instructional dinner in the Spring.

T uition for the 2024-25 Season is $395

Etiquette training will cover topics such as how to respectfully interact with parents, friends, and others, formal table manners, social media etiquette, manners in public places, becoming a person of noble character, being a good guest and a host, interview etiquette and skills, dress codes, and conversation skills.

Dance instruction includes new steps for the Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Swing, and Salsa, in addition to fun line dances. Parents join us for the last half hour of the final class in preparation for our parent-child dance at the end of the Spring Ball. Additional information will be emailed to parents a month before classes start. The Grand Spring Ball (with Instructional Dinner) provides students with an opportunity to practice the skills, etiquette, and dance steps that they have learned in a unique and exciting social situation.

If you have any questions about Junior Cotillion, please contact us at 703-814-3496 or email the director at  [email protected] .

JUNIOR COTILLION PREMIERE CLASS--YEAR III (GRADES 8 & 9)

Tuition for the 2024-25 season is $400

The Premiere Program is open to 8th grade students and to 9th grade students who may have missed a season.  This program will meet for three classes and three social events.  We will be building upon the etiquette skills taught in Junior Cotillion classes. New students are welcome as well--we will be doing some review at the first of the year. The program gives the students the opportunity to learn new skills and then go out into the community to practice!

The Premiere  season will be made up of classes and social events. Social events will be  activities such as a restaurant outing to practice ordering from a menu and dining-out etiquette, classroom time with international and business etiquette guidelines, and a Grand Spring Ball with a 5-course dinner. We are looking forward to an incredible season!

HIGH SCHOOL COTILLION CLUB

Tuition is $425 for the season

The High School Cotillion Club will consist of 6 events, including classes, a business luncheon, a cultural outing, and culminating with a formal Ball and 5-Course dinner at the end of the year. This program provides a diverse selection of events planned to give the students experience in dealing with challenging social situations, such as job interviews, networking, public speaking, and formal introductions. Before our Cotillion students head out to begin adult life in college and/or the business world, our goal is to help them be prepared to interact with others in a way that leaves a positive impression. Our events change from year to year, however we consistently teach important skills, such as, formal dining, positive social interactions, and polite conversation skills. We also focus on what it means to be a person of noble character, demonstrating honor, dignity, and respect for others. The Loudoun Cotillion 2024-25 season will be amazing! Join us!