Carnival Cruise Line vs MSC Cruises — a head-to-head on the specs, the amenities, and what each ship is genuinely better at.
MSC Virtuosa (2021) is the newer ship by 1 year versus Carnival Mardi Gras (2020). MSC Virtuosa is the larger hull at 181,541 GT (~1% bigger). MSC Virtuosa sails with fewer guests at double occupancy (4,842 vs 5,282).
| Spec | Carnival Mardi Gras | MSC Virtuosa |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 2020 | 2021 |
| Tonnage | 180,000 GT | 181,541 GT |
| Guests (double occupancy) | 5,282 | 4,842 |
| Guests (max) | 6,500 | 6,334 |
Trophy marks the ship that wins each row. Smaller capacity = more space per guest.
Carnival Mardi Gras has one thing the other doesn't: Self-service laundry.
Distinct ports each ship visits in the next 12 months.
No ports in common in the next 12 months.