MSC Opera
By the numbers
65,591 GT
Tonnage
2,579
Guests
2004
Built
9
Decks
1,071
Cabins
824ft
Length · 251 m
More specifications Fewer specifications
721
Crew
4 star
Rating
About MSC Opera
With its impressive array of new features and facilities, MSC Opera is now even better equipped to satisfy the needs of our guests. We’ve added spacious new cabins with balconies offering superb panoramic views and we have enlarged the restaurant and buffet areas to serve up an even greater variety of culinary treats. There is even a new 330 m² music and dance area for guests to show off their moves.
Where MSC Opera sails
Ports MSC Opera visits
Show 9 more ports Show fewer ports
Ship gallery
Deck plans
Scroll to explore · Double-tap to zoom
Sailing soon on MSC Opera
Prices per person · incl. taxes & fees.
Showing 353 MSC Opera sailings
Open in full searchFrequently asked questions
What is MSC Opera?
MSC Opera is a Lirica-class cruise ship built in 2004 by Chantiers de l'Atlantique, originally serving as MSC Cruises' flagship until MSC Musica entered service in 2006. She underwent jumboisation in 2015 under the Renaissance Program, expanding her capacity to 2,679 passengers maximum. She currently operates in South Africa.
Where does MSC Opera sail?
MSC Opera has sailed in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and South Africa. CruiseMapper shows her current operation from Cape Town in April 2026, with upcoming Mediterranean itineraries scheduled from May 2026.
What is the history of MSC Opera?
MSC Opera entered commercial service June 27, 2004 and served as flagship until MSC Musica arrived in 2006. Notable incidents include a 2010 cocaine seizure by UK Border Agency at Dover and an engine failure in the Baltic Sea in May 2011 requiring towing to Nynäshamn. The Renaissance Program jumboisation was completed July 4, 2015 at Fincantieri Palermo, adding a spray park, new child/teen areas, enhanced buffet, new lounge, and extended restaurant. On June 2, 2019, she collided with a river cruise ship at Venice's San Basilio Pier due to engine difficulties under tow.
Which cruise line operates MSC Opera?
MSC Opera is operated by Msc Cruises.
When was MSC Opera built?
MSC Opera was built in 2003.
