85 Highlights 92 Differences 8 Reactions 0 Likes

MSC Seaside vs Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas: 85 Highlights & 92 Differences — So, Which Cruise Ship Actually Works Better

Symphony wows with size and showbiz, while Seaside keeps it intimate and stylish. Choosing between them isn’t as simple as you think. Still not sure which cruise ship is your travel match? Our MSC Seaside vs Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas comparison covers comfort, convenience, and top length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy, dining venues count & show lounge capacity.

Supermod

M. N. Lindasari

690 Products

Moderator

P. Yuanto

0 Products

69 Points

MSC Cruises

MSC Seaside

72 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

162 Facts
4 Guides
0 Reviews
0 Discuss
2 Awards
36 Compare

Highlights ¹⁶²

No extras. Just what matters.

                                
                                                69
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        MSC Seaside
                                    
                                        vs
                                    
                                                72
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Why is MSC Seaside better than Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas ?

General Information Dimensions & Tonnage Capacity Propulsion & Performance Safety & Regulations Dining & Cuisine Recreation & Wellness Entertainment & Excursions Technology & Connectivity Service & Operations

Scroll down for more facts

Recaptor

Summary served fresh by

Andhi E.

MSC Seaside vs Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas: Two Giants of the Modern Cruise Era

When it comes to choosing between the MSC Seaside and the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas, travelers are really looking at two titans in the cruise industry. Both ships represent the pinnacle of innovation and comfort, offering an array of experiences that cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. While they share similarities like advanced safety systems, global itineraries, and top-notch entertainment, their designs, onboard vibes, and space allocation tell two different stories. The Seaside, launched in 2017, is all about sun-drenched outdoor living and Italian design flair, while the Symphony, a 2018 addition to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, stands out as a floating city filled with technology and scale-defying attractions.

These ships share common ground in several areas—each featuring diesel-electric propulsion, comprehensive medical facilities, and full compliance with SOLAS and MARPOL safety standards. But the contrast is most visible in size and passenger experience. The Symphony of the Seas stretches an impressive 1188 feet compared to Seaside’s 1060 feet, hosting over 6,600 guests at maximum capacity versus Seaside’s 5,100. This scale influences everything from entertainment to dining, giving the Symphony a broader, resort-style feel, while the MSC Seaside maintains a more intimate Mediterranean atmosphere.

The MSC Seaside Experience: Sunlight, Style, and Smart Design

The MSC Seaside was built by Fincantieri with a vision focused on connection to the sea. It’s no surprise that passengers immediately notice its sleek profile and outdoor promenades that wrap around the ship. Its 135-foot beam and open-air design make it feel bright and accessible from nearly every deck. MSC’s design ethos prioritizes bringing the ocean closer, whether through the glass-floored catwalks, the expansive Aqua Park, or the outdoor dining terraces.

With 19 decks—one more than its Royal Caribbean rival—the Seaside gives plenty of room for relaxation without feeling overcrowded. It offers six swimming pools and thirteen Jacuzzis, which is remarkable for a ship of its tonnage. While it might not match Symphony’s indoor space or variety, the Seaside leans into outdoor enjoyment. For those seeking tranquility, the Aurea Spa delivers a sanctuary complete with saunas, a thermal suite, and premium beauty treatments. And thanks to celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi, guests enjoy a curated specialty dining experience that rivals land-based fine dining.

From a technical standpoint, MSC Seaside’s 62,400 kW of power generated by Wärtsilä engines enables efficient operation while maintaining a cruising speed of 21.3 knots. Its commitment to sustainability is evident through features like scrubbers, catalytic converters, and even solar panels. This eco-forward stance reflects MSC’s goal to make its fleet more efficient and environmentally friendly. And with pricing starting around $254 at CruiseDirect, it remains one of the most value-oriented choices for travelers looking for an elegant yet affordable escape.

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas: The Floating Mega-Resort

As part of the iconic Oasis Class, the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas redefines what a cruise ship can offer. It’s essentially a small city at sea—equipped with a Central Park filled with real trees, an ice rink, a zip line, and an open-air AquaTheater. It’s the kind of ship where every moment feels like a new discovery. Royal Caribbean’s engineering prowess is clear in its 228,081 gross tonnage, supported by six Wärtsilä engines producing 96,000 kW of power. Despite its size, the Symphony remains surprisingly agile and maintains a steady service speed of 22 knots.

The Symphony’s biggest strength is its vastness—22 dining venues, 13 bars and lounges, and some of the most impressive specialty restaurants at sea, including partnerships with renowned chefs like Jamie Oliver and Daniel Boulud. For entertainment, it’s unmatched: Broadway-level productions, ice-skating shows, and a theater that seats 1,400 guests. Its passenger capacity of over 5,500 ensures a vibrant, bustling atmosphere that’s ideal for families and social travelers.

Royal Caribbean also brings a premium touch to inclusions that MSC charges separately. WiFi and gratuities come standard, as do several excursion options and loyalty perks through the Crown & Anchor Society. Its recent 2023 refurbishment refreshed cabins, improved energy systems, and expanded digital connectivity. For guests who value variety, connectivity, and world-class entertainment, the Symphony of the Seas delivers one of the most dynamic cruise experiences available today.

Quick Take

The MSC Seaside is perfect for travelers craving sunshine, sea views, and open-air living with European flair. It’s stylish, efficient, and eco-conscious without feeling overcomplicated. Meanwhile, the Symphony of the Seas shines as the ultimate all-in-one resort at sea—huge, high-tech, and overflowing with entertainment options. MSC wins on serenity and outdoor beauty; Royal Caribbean dominates with scale and excitement.

Bottom Line

If you want a more relaxed cruise with an emphasis on ocean views, al fresco dining, and balanced crowd levels, the MSC Seaside is your ship. But if your dream vacation involves cutting-edge entertainment, endless dining variety, and immersive onboard activities, the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas is the clear leader. Both offer exceptional quality, but your ideal pick depends on whether you crave Mediterranean charm or American-style grandeur.

Verdict

Winner: Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas — unbeatable variety, size, and onboard experiences that feel like a resort destination on their own.
Runner-up: MSC Seaside — a sleek, ocean-connected ship that offers fantastic value and serene luxury for travelers who prefer outdoor elegance over megaship bustle.

Comparisons ³⁶

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

MSC Seaside

MSC Seaside – Designed for the Sun and Sea MSC Seaside – Cruise Where the Sea Meets the Sky Book affordable MSC Seaside at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream MSC Seaside with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated MSC Seaside at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book MSC Seaside Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing MSC Seaside offers at iTravel2000 USA

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper MSC Seaside

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Cruises Symphony of the Seas – The Symphony of Adventure Royal Caribbean Cruises Symphony of the Seas – A Masterpiece of Cruise Adventures Royal Caribbean Cruises Symphony of the Seas – Experience the Rhythm of the Ocean Book affordable Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas Trips on Tripadvisor

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

^(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

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Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

Which cruise ship should go on your next itinerary? Our MSC Seaside vs Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas guide dives into specs, usage, and traveler insights so you don’t overpack on regret.

General Information ²²

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Ship Class

What is the ship class?

64 MSC Seaside 0 Votes Seaside Class

67 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes Oasis Class

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Ship Class

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Flag State

The MSC Seaside sails under the Maltese flag, while the Symphony of the Seas is registered in the Bahamas. This difference can affect port taxes and crew regulations, though it doesn’t change passenger experience significantly.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Flag State' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Flag State' on the following:

Legal flag state of the ship.

Keel Laid Date

When was the keel laid?

73 MSC Seaside 0 Votes March 4, 2016

What is the model number?

Who knows? 0 Votes MSC Seaside (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Internal or builder-assigned number.

Cruise Line

Which cruise line operates this ship?

87 MSC Seaside 0 Votes MSC

92 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes Royal Caribbean

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Cruise Line' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Cruise Line' on the following:

Company operating the ship.

Previous Name

What was the previous name?

Who knows? 0 Votes MSC Seaside (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas (Help us out by suggesting one!)

The previous name of the cruise ship before it was rebranded or renamed.

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Country of Manufacture' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Vertical distance between waterline and keel.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Gross Tonnage

How many decks does the ship have?

72 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 19

67 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 18

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Total Decks' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Total Decks' on the following:

Total number of decks on the ship.

Capacity ¹⁴

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Crew Capacity

What is the crew capacity?

60 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 1413

70 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 2200

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Crew Capacity

The Symphony of the Seas employs 2,200 crew members, significantly more than MSC Seaside’s 1,413. The larger staff ensures faster service and higher guest-to-crew ratio efficiency, enhancing personalized attention despite the ship’s size.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Crew Capacity' on the following:

Maximum number of crew the ship can house.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

What is the passenger-to-crew ratio?

73 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 2.92:1

67 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 2.51:1

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Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

MSC Seaside maintains a 2.92:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, compared to Symphony’s 2.51:1. Symphony offers slightly better service levels per guest, making it the stronger choice for those who value attentive onboard hospitality.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger-to-Crew Ratio' on the following:

Ratio of passengers to crew members.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

What is the passenger capacity at double occupancy?

59 MSC Seaside 1 Votes 4132

67 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 5518

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Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

MSC Seaside accommodates 4,132 passengers, while Symphony of the Seas carries 5,518 guests at double occupancy. That’s roughly 1,400 more people, giving Symphony a livelier, bustling environment better suited for travelers who enjoy social cruising.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

MSC Seaside cabins average 200–250 sq ft (18.6–23.2 m²), larger than Symphony’s 149–182 sq ft (13.8–16.9 m²). Seaside’s extra space makes rooms feel less cramped, perfect for couples or families wanting more comfort.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Average square footage of passenger cabins.

Bruce Ward

122 Reactions

8 months ago

Seaside’s cabins being a bit larger really sells it for me. I like having room to stretch out instead of bumping into everything like on some big ships.

Lifeboat Capacity

What is the lifeboat capacity?

41 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 150

78 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 370

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

This refers to the total number of people that can be safely evacuated using the lifeboats, ensuring compliance with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) standards.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboat Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Lifeboat Capacity' on the following:

Number of passengers that lifeboats can support.

Wheelchair Accessible Cabins

How many wheelchair accessible cabins are available?

37 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 30

47 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 46

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

There are 46 wheelchair-accessible cabins, ensuring that passengers with mobility challenges can enjoy a comfortable and accessible experience.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Wheelchair Accessible Cabins' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Wheelchair Accessible Cabins' on the following:

Cabins designed for accessibility.

Max Occupancy per Cabin

What is the max occupancy per cabin?

97 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 10

87 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 8

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Family suites can host up to eight, ideal for multi-generational groups traveling together.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Max Occupancy per Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Max Occupancy per Cabin' on the following:

Maximum number of people per cabin.

Public Space Ratio

What is the public space ratio?

67 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 10.5:1

66 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 9.66:1

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

This ratio highlights the ample space available for each passenger on the ship, ensuring comfort and an array of amenities for entertainment and leisure.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Propeller Type' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Propeller Type' on the following:

Style of propeller system.

Service Speed

What is the service speed?

21.3 knots 0 Votes

22 knots 0 Votes

MSC Seaside

Equivalent to 24.5 mph (39.4 km/h), this speed is optimal for cruising in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Same as its maximum cruising rate, balancing fuel efficiency with timely travel between ports.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Service Speed' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Service Speed' on the following:

Typical cruising speed.

Stabilizers

Does the ship have stabilizers?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

What is the propulsion type?

97 MSC Seaside 0 Votes Diesel-Electric

97 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 1 Votes Diesel-Electric

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Score History

Type of propulsion system used.

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Propellers Count' on the following:

Number of propellers installed.

Azipod Propulsion

Does the ship use Azipod propulsion?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

Yes 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Azipod Propulsion' on the following:

What is the ice class rating?

Who knows? 0 Votes MSC Seaside (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Ice navigation certification for polar cruising.

Security Screening Facilities

What security screening facilities are present?

62 MSC Seaside 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

62 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Passenger and crew security systems at embarkation.

Dining & Cuisine ¹³

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Dining Venues Count

How many dining venues are there?

24 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 8

72 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 1 Votes 22

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Dining Venues Count

MSC Seaside has 8 dining venues, while Symphony of the Seas features 22. Symphony’s triple count provides broader culinary diversity, with international cuisines and celebrity chef partnerships appealing to food enthusiasts.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Total number of dining venues available onboard.

Cathey Burks

140 Reactions

8 months ago

Honestly, the food options on the Symphony of the Seas sound insane. Twenty-two restaurants? That’s basically a food festival at sea. MSC looks nice, but I’m going with the bigger buffet scene.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Chef Partnerships

Does the ship feature chef partnerships?

68 MSC Seaside 0 Votes Roy Yamaguchi

79 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 1 Votes Jamie Oliver, Daniel Boulud, Michael Schwartz

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Chef Partnerships

Seaside partners with Roy Yamaguchi, emphasizing Asian fusion dining, while Symphony collaborates with Jamie Oliver, Daniel Boulud, and Michael Schwartz. Symphony’s trio of world-renowned chefs elevates the culinary experience for fine dining seekers.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Chef Partnerships' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Chef Partnerships' on the following:

Partnerships with celebrity or Michelin-star chefs.

Agnes Leon

131 Reactions

8 months ago

I love that Symphony features chefs like Jamie Oliver and Daniel Boulud. Those names alone make the dining feel more special and premium.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Bars & Lounges Count

How many bars and lounges are there?

87 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 19

57 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 13

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Bars & Lounges Count

MSC Seaside includes 19 bars and lounges, whereas Symphony offers 13. Seaside surprisingly leads here, catering to guests seeking a relaxed social experience with more options for casual drinks and evening ambiance.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Bars & Lounges Count' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Bars & Lounges Count' on the following:

Number of bars and lounges onboard.

Restaurants Count

How many restaurants are included?

21 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 8

61 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 20

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

With 20 restaurants, Symphony of the Seas offers a variety of dining options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Restaurants Count' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Restaurants Count' on the following:

Total number of restaurants available on the cruise ship.

Dietary Options

What dietary options are available?

34 MSC Seaside 0 Votes Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Show Lounge Capacity

What is the show lounge capacity?

55 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 400

59 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 1 Votes 1400

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Show Lounge Capacity

Symphony’s show lounge seats 1,400 people, while Seaside’s fits 400. The larger theater supports Broadway-scale productions and immersive performances, enhancing the entertainment appeal of Symphony.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Show Lounge Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Show Lounge Capacity' on the following:

Capacity of the show lounge on the cruise ship for guests.

Rita Golden

128 Reactions

8 months ago

The theater on Symphony fits 1,400 people, which means bigger shows and better production value. That’s the kind of entertainment I want on vacation.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Swimming Pools

How many swimming pools are there?

83 MSC Seaside 1 Votes 6

40 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 3

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Swimming Pools

MSC Seaside features six pools compared to Symphony’s three. Seaside’s greater number suits travelers who prefer open-space swimming and less crowding during sea days.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Swimming Pools' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Swimming Pools' on the following:

Total number of swimming pools onboard.

Elizabeth Pendleton

147 Reactions

8 months ago

More pools means more space to relax, and Seaside offering six of them sounds perfect for sea days. Definitely leaning toward that one.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Jacuzzis

How many jacuzzis are there?

79 MSC Seaside 1 Votes 13

8 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 2

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Jacuzzis

With 13 Jacuzzis versus Symphony’s two, MSC Seaside offers more relaxation spaces, giving passengers easier access to spa-like comfort without waiting times. Ideal for guests seeking tranquility over thrill.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Jacuzzis' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

Symphony of the Seas features a rock-climbing wall, missing on Seaside. This signature Royal Caribbean attraction adds a sense of adventure and physical challenge, ideal for thrill-seekers.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Rock Climbing Wall' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Rock Climbing Wall' on the following:

Presence of a rock climbing wall facility.

Fitness Center

Is there a fitness center?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

Yes 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

MSC Seaside

The MSC Seaside's fitness center is equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training machines for onboard workouts.

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

The fitness center is equipped with modern equipment and offers fitness classes to help guests stay active while cruising.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Fitness Center' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Fitness Center' on the following:

Availability of a passenger fitness center.

Kids & Teens Facilities

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Adult-Only Areas' on the following:

Areas restricted to adults for relaxation.

Entertainment & Excursions ¹⁴

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Ice Rink

Is there an ice rink onboard?

No 0 Votes ~~MSC Seaside~~

Yes 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

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Ice Rink

Symphony offers an ice rink unavailable on Seaside. This rare onboard feature delivers year-round skating shows and family fun, making it unique in the cruise industry.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Ice Rink' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Ice Rink' on the following:

Whether there is an ice skating rink.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Expedition Gear Storage

Is there expedition gear storage?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

No 0 Votes ~~Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas~~

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Expedition Gear Storage

MSC Seaside includes gear storage facilities, which Symphony lacks. This benefits adventure travelers bringing equipment like snorkel gear or dive sets, making Seaside more practical for active excursions.

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Score History

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Radar Systems

What radar systems are installed?

62 MSC Seaside 0 Votes X-band, S-band

57 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes X-band, S-band, ARPA

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Radar Systems

MSC Seaside uses X-band and S-band radar systems, while Symphony adds ARPA radar. The extra ARPA capability enhances navigational safety, giving Symphony a slight technological edge.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Radar Systems' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Radar Systems' on the following:

Radar technologies available.

WiFi Availability

Is WiFi available onboard?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

Yes 0 Votes Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

MSC Seaside

WiFi is available for those who need to stay connected while onboard, though it's often offered as an extra.

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

WiFi is available throughout the ship, allowing passengers to stay connected during their voyage.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'WiFi Availability' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'WiFi Availability' on the following:

Whether WiFi is available onboard.

Smart Cabin Controls

Are smart cabin controls provided?

Yes 0 Votes MSC Seaside

62 MSC Seaside 0 Votes 6-7 Hours

62 Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas 0 Votes 6-8 Hours

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

About a workday’s length, reflecting the time needed to unload, reload, and prepare for the next sailing.

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Score History

Score info for MSC Seaside:

We base our scoring on 'Turnaround Time at Port' on the following:

Score info for Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas:

We base our scoring on 'Turnaround Time at Port' on the following:

Average time required for disembarkationembarkation at port.

Dry Dock Schedule

What is the dry dock schedule?

59 MSC Seaside 0 Votes April 2026

Crazy expensive

0 Votes

Guides ⁴

Videos ¹

MSC Seaside Ship Visit

youtube.com

9 months ago

Files ¹

Your MSC Seaside Assistance Guide

co.il

9 months ago

Videos ¹

Royal Caribbean Cruises Symphony of the Seas Visit

youtube.com

9 months ago

Files ¹

Royal Caribbean Cruises Symphony of the Seas Deck Plan

oasisoftheseasallureoftheseas.com

9 months ago

Reviews ⁰

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

MSC Cruises

MSC Seaside

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions ⁰

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards ²

Only the best made it here.

Best Cruise Ship for Family of 5

10 Champs & 10 Wannabes — Which Ships Balance Space, Safety, and Fun?

Best Cruise Ships for Families

10 Champs & 10 Wannabes — Why are these ships perfect for family vacations?

Collections ⁰

Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

More Cruise Ships ⁰

Unlock more awesome finds.

Other MSC Cruises Cruise Ships ²³

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Other Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships ²⁹

62 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas

68 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

66 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas

61 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas

55 Points

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas

MSC Cruises

MSC Seaside

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Highlights 162

Why is MSC Seaside better than Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Dining & Cuisine

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Technology & Connectivity

Service & Operations

Why is Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas better than MSC Seaside ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Dining & Cuisine

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Service & Operations

Pricing & Value-Add

MSC Seaside vs Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas: Two Giants of the Modern Cruise Era

The MSC Seaside Experience: Sunlight, Style, and Smart Design

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas: The Floating Mega-Resort

Quick Take

Bottom Line

Verdict

Comparisons 36

Price comparisons

MSC Seaside

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

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Comparisons & Facts 162

General Information 22

Ship Class

vs Ship Class

vs Score History

Shipbuilder

vs Shipbuilder

vs Score History

Release Year

vs Release Year

vs Score History

Flag State

vs Flag State

vs Score History

Keel Laid Date

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

vs Score History

Ship Type

vs Score History

Model Name

vs Score History

Model Number

Cruise Line

vs Score History

Previous Name

Former Operator

IMO Number

vs Score History

Service Status

vs Score History

Call Sign

vs Score History

MMSI Number

vs Score History

Yard Number

vs Score History

Refurbishment Year

vs Score History

Christened Date

vs Score History

Highlights ¹⁶²

Comparisons ³⁶

Related comparisons ³⁶

Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

General Information ²²

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Ship Class

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Score History

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Shipbuilder

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Score History

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Release Year

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Score History

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Flag State

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

Dimensions & Tonnage ¹⁵

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Length Overall

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Score History

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Beam

vs

Score History

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Draft Depth

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Score History

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Gross Tonnage

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

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Score History

Capacity ¹⁴

vs

Crew Capacity

vs

Score History

vs

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

vs

Score History

vs

Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

vs

Score History