What To Expect

Documents Required: 

• Passport – Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity on the date of disembarkation. Some cruises may not require a passport for travelling, you can double check this with us at any time. An original South African ID document or card is accepted for South African coastal cruises.
• A printed copy of the 2nd page of your cruise ticket(s) (barcoded page), one per person travelling.
• A printed copy of your Health Questionnaire completed a minimum of 6 hours before embarkation.
• Mandatory Travel Insurance: For your protection, an additional charge is included in your cruise fare for Mandatory Travel This insurance is mandatory for all guests and includes cover for certain infectious or contagious disease (e.g. COVID-19) related risks, including cancellation, repatriation and medical expenses.

If you are under 18 years old, you must provide the following:

• Valid Birth Certificate with both parent’s names including their ID’s.
• If travelling without parents, additional documents are required to show consent.

NB: There is more information available here: www.dha.gov.za

TRANSIT MAURITIUS:

Specific visa requirements for transit Mauritius for some countries please check link the following link: https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605

All those required to have a local Visa but not in possession can remain onboard.

TRANSIT REUNION:

Specification “valid for French Overseas Territories” in all cases, even if the Visa Schengen has been issued by the French Embassy/Consulate

TRANSIT MOZAMBIQUE:

All transit guests can purchase onboard the Moz Visa at USD 50,00. However, citizens of the following countries of SADC do not need visa:

Angola, Botswana, Capo Verde, ESwatini (Swaziland), Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

TRANSIT NAMIBIA:

Pre-issued Visa required for Nationalities not exempted – If not provided, can remain onboard.

VISA EXEMPT NATIONALITIES:

Angola, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Cuba, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Macau (Sar), Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Moldova, Mozambique, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Russian Federation, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States Of America, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe

So, you’re ready to set sail on your amazing MSC adventure, but what to pack? Worry not, fellow explorers, I’ve got you covered with some handy tips:

Daytime Chic:

Think relaxed and comfy – shorts, T-shirts, sundresses are all welcome aboard. Remember, sunshine might call for sunblock and swimwear!

Evening Elegance:

As the stars come out, so does the dress code! For fancy dinners and shows, polish it up with collared shirts, pants, skirts, or dresses. Pack a light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned areas or cooler nights.

Gala Night Glitz:

It’s time to shine! Whether you go full formal with a tuxedo or cocktail dress, or rock your best jeans and polo shirt, put on your smile and prepare to impress.

Themed Fun:

Feeling playful? We have theme parties! Pack some bright colors for the Sunshine Party and something white for the White Party. Don’t forget your sense of fun!

Dress Code Deets:

Remember, there are some ground rules. Swimwear doesn’t fly in formal dining areas, ever. Shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are also on the no-go list for special occasions. Check the buffet dress code too.

Active Adventurers:

Hitting the gym or joining yoga/dance classes? Pack your gym shoes and comfy clothes – you’ll be thankful you did!

Shore Exploration Essentials:

Planning shore excursions, especially to religious sites? Pack clothes that cover your knees and shoulders to show respect.

Each guest is limited to checking in:

• Two suitcases per person* (not exceeding 90x75x43 cm in size and 23 kg in weight per bag)
• Two pieces of hand luggage per person* (not exceeding 56x45x25 cm in size and 23 kg in weight per bag).
• If you are travelling to your departure port by air, please check the luggage size and weight limitations with your airline as this may differ from the MSC Cruises policy.
• The maximum amount of luggage in each cabin must not exceed 100 kg and/or 8 pieces total for all passengers in the same cabin.
• Any piece of luggage exceeding the allowance will not be accepted at Check-In.
• Guests exceeding these limits are invited to contact MSC Cruises directly or via your Go Adventure Travel Planner at the time of booking for information on how to ship luggage in excess separately via freight or cargo, at an additional charge.
• On embarkation day luggage will be delivered directly to the cabin. The expected delivery time frame is from late afternoon through early We recommend keeping any items needed for embarkation day and evening in your carry-on bag including clothes for the evening, medications, travel documents and personal identification.

Please check your cruise ticket for more details.

• NB: Objects that are considered to be fragile, personal and/or valuable must be carried as hand luggage only since MSC Cruises cannot accept liability for their damage or loss. Make sure to keep your ID/Passport and all check-in documents Valuable luggage and insurance: please note that luggage travels at your own risk. Insurance can be taken out through MSC Cruises, terms and conditions apply.

Items to keep in hand luggage.

• Travel documents and passport
• Money
• Jewelry and other precious items
• Electronic devices
• Medicines
• Nappies
• Any other items you may need at short

What Not to Pack!

Heads up, adventure seekers! Port security takes safety seriously, and they’ll be checking luggage for items that could pose a risk to everyone on board. To avoid any unnecessary hiccups, here’s what won’t be allowed on your MSC cruise:

No-no list:

• Forbidden fruits: Alcohol, firearms, sharp objects (think blades and scissors), anything flammable or explosive (including irons, kettles, candles, incense, and even drones!)
• Illegal substances: If security finds these (explosives, weapons, or drugs), they’ll involve the authorities immediately.
• Food and beverage restrictions: To ensure everyone’s safety and well-being, you can’t bring any beverages or food onboard, except for commercially produced, dry, and packaged items. Think sealed snacks, not picnic baskets! Remember: It’s all about creating a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on board. Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth embarkation and get you on your way to your unforgettable adventure faster!

Items you can leave at home:

• Pool towels or hairdryers (you’ll find these in your cabin); sun cream or beauty products (all available from the onboard shops).
• Prams and wheelchairs; Prams and wheelchairs are always allowed on board but must be declared at the time of booking confirmation. Wheelchairs are available on all ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, for use during embarking and disembarking or in the event of an emergency and can be borrowed on board.

Luggage & Belongings Onboard

While we can’t be responsible for lost or damaged luggage (that’s why travel insurance exists!), here’s some helpful info to know before you go:

Lost & Found:

• MSC Cruises doesn’t assume responsibility for missing belongings, but their Passenger Contract details their
• If something goes missing, let an MSC representative know ASAP – the sooner, the better!
• Consider adding travel insurance for extra peace of It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Pro Tip: Pack smart! Label your luggage clearly, keep valuables close, and consider using luggage locks for added security.

Go Adventure is here to help make your cruise amazing, but remember, personal belongings are ultimately your responsibility.

Embarkation begins at the check-in time shown on your cruise ticket. Check-in closes 1.5 hours before the ship is due to depart in all embarkation ports. Before arriving at the port, please ensure that all personal details shown on the embarkation form in your e-ticket are checked and correct. You will be required to show your embarkation form before boarding.

Embarkation Process: Smooth Sailing Starts Here!

Luggage Check-in:

Drop off your clearly labelled luggage (name, ship, cabin number, departure date & port) with MSC’s dedicated staff at the terminal. They’ll handle everything, delivering it directly to your cabin later in the afternoon or evening. Remember to pack any essentials for embarkation day and evening in your carry-on, including medications and clothes for the first night.

Documentation & Check-in:

Head to the embarkation area with your necessary travel documents and embarkation form (either printed or on the MSC for Me app). MSC’s friendly staff will assist you in obtaining your Cruise Card and MSC wristband (if applicable). MSC Yacht Club guests enjoy a dedicated check-in area with personalised butler service, including luggage assistance and priority boarding.

Security Check:

Please proceed to the security control, where your luggage and belongings may be subject to inspection. Prohibited items will be confiscated to ensure everyone’s safety on board.

Welcome Aboard!

After a quick security photo (unless completed beforehand), you’re ready to board your floating home! Head to your cabin and start exploring the exciting world awaiting you on the ship.

Embarkation: Onboard and Ready for Adventure!

Cabin Access & Services:

Welcome to your home away from home! Use your Cruise Card as your key, and enjoy the convenience of cashless payments for onboard services and purchases. Remember, Yacht Club guests also use it for exclusive area access. Relax if your cabin isn’t quite ready; simply provide your name and number to enjoy bars and restaurants while you wait.

Activating Your Cruise Card:

Ensure your Cruise Card is ready for purchases; details on how to do so will be readily available onboard.

Safety First:

Your safety is our priority. Be sure to participate in the mandatory safety drill to familiarise yourself with procedures and ensure a smooth voyage for everyone.

Essential Information & Fun:

Don’t miss the informative MSC Cruise Guide presentation! Learn everything you need to maximise your experience and savour every moment of your cruise.

All About Gratuities & Service Fees

On your MSC cruise, you’ll be surrounded by amazing staff working tirelessly to create an unforgettable experience. To ensure everyone receives fair compensation, gratuities are automatically included in your cruise fare as a mandatory Hotel Service Charge. It applies to everyone except babes-in-arms (under 2 years old).

This practice helps maintain the high service standards you deserve and ensures all crew members, both seen and unseen, are appropriately compensated. While individual tipping isn’t encouraged by MSC, rest assured your appreciation is reflected in the Hotel Service Charge.

Remember: The amount is fixed and can’t be changed, so relax and focus on enjoying your amazing adventure!

Pro Tip: Download the MSC Cruises app for a handy breakdown of the daily service charge amounts.

Happy sailing!